Meet Ash Hennen, a psychotherapist, somatic practitioner, and co-leader of our highly anticipated workshop, Blooming Bodies: Coming Home to Your Body Through Somatics. With a passion for guiding individuals toward a deeper connection with themselves, Ash uses somatic practices to help people tune into the present moment, explore the body’s wisdom, and cultivate emotional healing.
We asked Ash some questions to get to know her a little better. Keep reading to learn about her grounded and compassionate approach, which offers a safe space for self-exploration and growth. And join Ash at our somatic workshop this fall.
How do you guide someone who is just starting to explore somatics and may be unfamiliar with its concepts?
We start by meeting that curiosity! Whatever it is that draws someone into exploring somatics – that’s where I like to start. Is there hesitation? Excitement? A mixture of both? To me, the “how” – meaning techniques or concepts – should always be in support of the “why.” Why are you here? What are you hoping for? More freedom? Self-attunement? More connection? Peace? When I have a good understanding of what brings someone into exploring somatics, we’re better able to meet and co-create.
What is your favorite somatic practice or exercise for someone looking to bring more body awareness into their daily life?
One invitation I love is just bringing your attention to how your body makes contact with the environment around you. This can be done seated, laying down, standing, walking, or any combination of the above. Start to notice the gentle pull of gravity. Can you feel the support of the ground, trail, chair, sofa, whatever it is that’s supporting your weight? And can you let your attention linger there for five breaths?
Your work focuses on attuning to the present moment. What are some simple mindfulness techniques that anyone can use to start this process?
I recommend starting with the eyes open! Pick a color and let your eyes gently glide across your environment. Start to count and name any objects you see that are this color. Then check in with your other senses: sounds, scents, texture, and do the same.
What’s a small change someone could make today to be more in tune with their body’s signals?
Body scan meditations (like these) can be really nice for a more structured approach to getting in tune with one’s body – but it really doesn’t have to be a whole production! Just setting aside a few minutes to check in with how you’re feeling and naming sensations you’re experiencing can be so useful. And stacking your somatic check-in with something else you regularly do (brushing your teeth, stepping outside for the first time in the day, etc.) can be a nice way to build it into routine.
MAD LIBS With Ash 
You Glow Girl Edition.
Ask me about SOMATICS!
I need more playfulness and flow in my life.
And less over-seriousness.
RN, I’m LOVING Chappell Roan’s music!!
You’d be surprised to learn I’m probably wearing sweats on telehealth calls 😉
Advice I’d give to my 10-year-old self: Stay wild at heart, kiddo. The people who get it, get it.
Advice I’d give to a bestie who’s going through a rough patch: Where’s the medicine in these difficult feelings? How might they point you to what’s not working, or what needs to change?
My favorite way to unwind is dancing!
This year, my focus is on landing and finding community here in Colorado.
In a world of disaffection and disconnection, be vulnerable and courageous.
Ash’s Recos
To Read: Call of the Wild: How we Heal Trauma, Awaken Our Own Power, and Use It for Good by Kimberly Ann Johnson
To Listen: The Emerald Podcast
To Watch: I’ve been loving my re-watch of Schitt’s Creek lately!
To Follow: @heyjoni_official, obvi 😉
Ash brings a deep well of experience, presence, and warmth to her work in somatics, offering simple yet powerful practices for tuning into the body and mind. Whether it’s a gentle body scan, a mindfulness check-in, or finding grounding through connection with the environment, Ash encourages everyone to start where they are. As she continues to find community and belonging in Denver, Ash is eager to share her insights and hold space for others on their own journeys.
Connect with Ash through her website, reach out to schedule a session via email at [email protected], or meet her in person at our upcoming Blooming Bodies workshop for a transformative experience.