The Somatic Approach: What Happens When We Heal Through the Body?
Healing from trauma is often seen as a mental journey, but what if the body holds the key to recovery? Somatic Psychology suggests that to truly heal, we need to pay attention to the body’s role in processing trauma. But what does this actually mean? How can focusing on bodily sensations lead to lasting change?
Why the Body Matters in Healing
When we experience trauma, our body remembers. Even when our mind tries to move on, the physical sensations of stress, fear, or pain can get trapped within us. This can happen because, in the moment of trauma, we might have been overwhelmed—unable to fully process the experience. The body holds onto these unprocessed sensations, creating a kind of “stuckness” that can affect us long after the event is over.
What Happens When We Don't Heal?
When these traumatic experiences aren't processed, they don’t just go away. Instead, they manifest in our daily lives. Maybe you find yourself feeling anxious in certain situations or avoiding certain places or people. Perhaps you struggle to connect with others or feel a general sense of unease that you can't quite explain. These are signs that your body might be holding onto unprocessed trauma.
How Somatic Therapy Helps
Somatic therapy is different from traditional talk therapy because it involves working with the body’s sensations as a way to process and release trauma. This might mean focusing on the way your body feels in the moment, gently exploring areas where you hold tension or pain, or learning how to reconnect with yourself in a safe, supportive environment.
The goal of somatic therapy is not to relive the trauma but to help your body realize that the threat is over. By carefully and safely accessing these sensations, you can begin to unlock the “stuck” feelings and allow your body to finally let go. This process can lead to profound healing, not just in the mind, but throughout the entire body.
Why It Works
When your body understands that it’s safe, it can begin to process those trapped sensations, leading to a greater sense of peace and freedom. This isn’t about ignoring the past but acknowledging and releasing the physical memories of trauma so they no longer control your present.
Finding the Right Support
If you’re considering somatic therapy, it’s important to work with someone who understands the delicate nature of this approach. Healing trauma is not just about “getting over it”—it’s about providing your body with the resources and support it needs to truly move forward.
If you're ready to explore how somatic therapy can help you, reach out for a consultation. Your body has been holding onto these stories for too long—it’s time to let them go and step into a future free from the past.
