Ever feel like stress has a tight grip on you, no matter how hard you try to shake it off? Somatic therapy might just be the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s about reconnecting with your body to release what’s holding you back. In this guide, we’ll explore how somatic therapy works and how it can bring calm and clarity into your life—starting right now.
What Is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic therapy is a holistic healing approach focussing on the connection between body and mind. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which primarily addresses thoughts and emotions, somatic modalities incorporate physical movements, breathing exercises, and body awareness techniques.
By tuning into bodily sensations, a somatic therapist helps individuals process trauma, release stored tension, and regain a sense of balance. Many people use it to address PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder), anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.
How Does Somatic Therapy Work?
Our bodies naturally store memories and emotions—especially traumatic ones. When something stressful happens, we might tense up, hold our breath, or experience stomach discomfort. Over time, these unresolved tensions can lead to emotional distress and even physical symptoms.
Somatic therapy works by:
- Helping you identify bodily sensations linked to emotions
- Using gentle movement and breathwork to release tension
- Teaching you to stay present and regulate emotions
- Encouraging self-awareness and self-compassion
What are the Different Types of Somatic Therapy?
There are 3 types of somatic therapy, each with a unique approach to healing. Here are three of the most well-known:
1. Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing focuses on releasing trauma stored in the nervous system. It helps individuals gradually process distress without becoming overwhelmed, using small, controlled steps.
2. Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
This method combines body awareness with cognitive therapy to address trauma and emotional struggles. It helps individuals explore somatic modalities and how their body responds to stress and teaches them new movement patterns to promote healing.
3. Bioenergetic Analysis
This approach blends talk therapy with physical exercises like stretching, deep breathing, and expressive movements. The goal is to release suppressed emotions that are stored in the muscles and body.
🔹Fact: A randomized controlled study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that Somatic Experiencing (SE) significantly reduced post-traumatic symptoms and depression, indicating SE may be an effective therapy method for PTSD.
Want to explore these 3 types of somatic exercise in-depth? Connect with SoulBot to learn more or get started with a session that fits your needs.
Which Somatic Therapy Techniques Help Release Trauma?
A therapist may use a variety of somatic excersise techniques to help clients reconnect with their bodies. Some common ones include:
- Grounding exercises (like feeling your feet on the floor to stay present)
- Breathwork (deep, intentional breathing to release tension)
- Body scanning (paying attention to physical sensations)
- Somatic stretching (gentle movements to release built-up stress)
- Tension release exercises (shaking or movement-based techniques to let go of stored trauma)
These somatic healing exercises can be powerful tools for emotional regulation and stress relief.
Who Can Benefit from Somatic Therapy?
Somatic healing workout is helpful for anyone looking to recover from past experiences, reduce stress, or improve emotional well-being. It’s especially beneficial for individuals dealing with:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic stress and burnout
- Unexplained physical pain or tension
- Emotional blocks or difficulty expressing emotions
Identifying Signs You Might Need Somatic Therapy
Not sure if somatic therapy is right for you? Here are a few signs it might be worth exploring:
- You experience frequent tension, headaches, or body pain
- You often feel disconnected from your emotions
- You struggle with unprocessed trauma or stress
- You feel stuck in negative thought patterns
- You have trouble relaxing or sleeping
🔹Fact: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3.9% of the global population has experienced PTSD at some point in their lives.
For guidance on starting this healing process, consider reaching out to SoulBot for a personalized session that fits your needs.
What is Somatic Therapy Exercises to Try on Your Own?
Even if you’re not ready to see a therapist, you can start with these somatic exercises to release trauma and stress:
- Shake It Out – Stand up and gently shake your arms, legs, and torso for a few minutes. This helps release built-up tension.
- Butterfly Hug – Cross your arms over your chest and gently tap your shoulders back and forth. This can help calm the nervous system.
- Somatic Stretching – Try slow, intentional stretching while focusing on how your body feels.
- Belly Breathing – Place one hand on your stomach and breathe deeply, expanding your belly as you inhale. Exhale slowly.
💡Note: These somatic exercises for trauma can help you tune into your body and start releasing emotional stress, but for more personalized guidance, working with a somatic therapist can make a big difference.
Closing Thoughts
Somatic therapy is more than just a trend—it is just what you need to heal from the inside out. It’s a gentle, effective method to process emotions, release stress, and heal from trauma—both mentally and physically. Whether you’re dealing with lingering tension, past trauma, or just want to feel more connected to yourself, somatic therapy offers a refreshing approach to emotional and physical well-being.
Ready to give it somatic therapist a try? Take the first step toward healing and connect with SoulBot today. We’re here to help guide you on this powerful journey of self-discovery and healing.
FAQ’s
1. How does Somatic Therapy differ from traditional therapy?
While traditional therapy focuses on the mind, somatic therapy incorporates physical exercises to release emotional tension.
2. What is Somatic Experiencing (SE)?
SE is a type of somatic therapy that helps release trauma stored in the body. Ready to heal? SoulBot helps guide you toward inner harmony!
3. What is the Hakomi Method?
A gentle, body-centred therapy combining psychology, spirituality, and mindfulness to treat emotional issues and trauma.
4. Is Somatic Therapy good for chronic pain?
Yes, it can reduce chronic pain by releasing tension and emotions stored in the body.
