In our fast-paced world, many of us become disconnected from our bodies, leading to unprocessed emotions and unresolved traumas manifesting as physical symptoms. Somatics offers a holistic approach to healing that bridges the gap between the mind and body.
What is Somatics? The Mind-Body Connection
Somatics focuses on the connection between our mind and body, recognizing that our bodies hold onto experiences, emotions, and traumas. By addressing physical sensations and encouraging body awareness, somatics promotes healing and well-being.
At its core, somatics operates on the principle that emotional and psychological experiences can lead to physical manifestations such as tension, pain, or chronic health issues. By addressing both the mind and body, somatics offers a comprehensive healing process.
How Does Somatics Work?
Somatic sessions typically involve a combination of talk therapy and physical techniques. Here’s what you can expect:
Body Awareness
We will tune into our body sensations, noticing areas of tension, pain, or discomfort, as well as spaciousness, ease, and pleasure
Movement
Gentle movements can help release stored tension and promote relaxation. Yes! Get ready to move, albeit very gently.
Breathwork
We will practice focused breathing techniques to help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance body awareness.
Mindfulness
We will engage in mindfulness practices to help you stay present, grounded, and attuned to your body.
Processing Emotions
As physical sensations are explored, emotions and memories may surface. We will support you in processing these experiences, helping you understand and integrate them.
Benefits of Somatics
Somatic therapy can offer a wide range of benefits, including:
Trauma Healing
By addressing the physical symptoms of trauma, somatic therapy can help individuals release stored trauma and reduce its impact on their daily lives.
Stress Reduction
Techniques such as breathwork and mindfulness can help regulate the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Improved Emotional Regulation
By becoming more aware of bodily sensations, individuals can learn to better understand and manage their emotions.
Enhanced Physical Health
Releasing tension and addressing physical symptoms can lead to improvements in overall physical health and well-being.
Increased Self-Awareness
Somatic therapy encourages a deeper connection with oneself, fostering greater self-awareness and self-acceptance.
Who Can Benefit from Somatics?
Anyone curious and eager to deepen their connection with their bodies and emotions. Whether you are new to somatics or have some experience, you’ll be introduced to valuable tools and insights to enhance your well-being. It’s particularly useful for those who feel disconnected from their bodies or who have not found relief through traditional talk therapy alone, and can aid in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and stress-related conditions.
If you’re considering somatic therapy, it’s important to find a qualified therapist who has specialized training in this approach. They can guide you through the process, helping you explore the mind-body connection and embark on a journey of holistic healing.
Remember, your healing journey is unique, and finding the right therapeutic approach is a personal and important decision. Always consult with a qualified therapist to determine the best path for your individual needs.
Join Us for an IRL Somatics Circle
“Blooming Bodies: Coming Home to Your Body Through Somatics”
Members of the Hey Girl Hey Community are invited to an enlightening & restorative event where we’ll explore the theme of emotions.
- Date: October 1st
- Time: 6:00pm – 7:30pm MT
- Location: Hey, Joni. HQ in Sunnyside, Denver
About the Event
In our fast-paced, modern world, many of us have become disconnected from our bodies and emotions. Western society often neglects the importance of emotional awareness, leaving us unprepared to name and understand our feelings. When triggered, we may feel an emotion without recognizing it, leading us to project these unacknowledged feelings onto those around us. This can create unnecessary drama in our relationships.
At “Blooming Bodies,” we will dive deep into the realm of somatics—the study of the body’s internal perception and experience. Our aim is to help you reconnect with your emotions and understand how they manifest in your body.
What You Will Learn:
Understanding Emotions: Gain insight into how emotions are stored and their wisdom.
Identifying Emotions: Learn the powerful RAIN technique—Recognize, Allow, Investigate, and Nurture—to identify and process your emotions.
Somatic Practices: Engage in somatic exercises designed to help you become more aware of your body’s signals and responses, including gentle movement practices.
What to Bring:
- Yoga mat
- Journal + pen
- Comfortable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement
We look forward to sharing space with you.
Warm regards,
Ash + Sam
Meet the Experts
Ash Hennen, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and founder of Soma Circle Therapy, based in Denver, Colorado. In her work, Ash guides clients through complex emotional and physical challenges, blending movement, mytho-poetics, and somatics with evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Ash’s approach, working with individuals and in groups, is collaborative, trauma-informed, and grounded in ongoing experiential learning.
Samantha E. is the founder of EnneOne and Chetana. She believes our purpose is not something we do, it’s who we are. Our true essence is ever-present. To unlock our original wholeness and genius, we simply need to attune to the present moment.