Origins
Somatic therapy traces its roots back to various disciplines, including psychotherapy, neuroscience, and body-centred practices. It was popularised by Dr. Peter A. Levine, who developed Somatic Experiencing® (SE), a specific approach within somatic therapy. Levine’s work was influenced by his observations of how animals recover from traumatic experiences without exhibiting symptoms, unlike humans. This led him to explore the innate capacity of the body to release trapped stress and tension.
Somatic therapy operates on several key principles:
Body-Mind Connection:
Somatic therapists view the body and mind as interconnected systems that influence each other’s functioning. Emotional experiences can manifest in physical sensations, and vice versa.
Trauma and Stress in the Body:
Traumatic events and chronic stress can lead to physical responses that become “stuck” in the body. These unresolved responses can contribute to emotional and psychological difficulties.
Resourcing:
Somatic therapy emphasises accessing internal and external resources to support the body’s natural healing processes. Techniques aim to help clients develop a sense of safety, self-regulation, and resilience.
Release and Regulation:
Through guided awareness and gentle techniques, clients are encouraged to release physical tension, discharge stored energy, and regulate their nervous system responses.
Empowerment:
Somatic therapy empowers clients to be active participants in their healing journey. Clients learn to develop body awareness, track sensations, and self-regulate.
