To begin, Mind and body are always moving and changing, but trauma often leaves a mark that cannot be erased. Having a traumatic event can leave marks on our cells that are made of pain, fear, and distress. These marks can affect both our physical and mental health.
In this blog, we will learn more about the interesting world of somatic movement. This method recognizes the strong link between the mind and the body. Take a trip with us to learn how trauma changes our bodies and how somatic practices can help us feel better.
What Makes up Trauma:
Trauma can be big or small, short-term or long-term. It changes us in some way. An overwhelming traumatic event sets off a survival response in the nervous system.
This response is often called the "fight or flight" response. This high level of arousal can cause stress hormones to be released, which can set off a chain of physical reactions.
When these responses happen all the time, the body can store stress and emotion that has not been dealt with.
The Body Keeps Track:
Trauma can show up in the body, unlike memories that only exist in the mind. The muscles tense up, the posture changes, and the breath gets short.
These physical reminders of traumatic events stay with us long after the event is over, leaving a pattern of pain in our bodies.
In the long run, this can cause a lot of physical and mental problems, from long-term pain to anxiety and depression.
Somatic Movement: Getting to the Body's Wisdom
Somatic movement is a way to heal that takes into account the body's natural intelligence. This method involves getting in touch with your body again and letting it guide the healing process.
People can start to unravel the knots of tension that have become woven into their bodies by moving gently and with awareness.
Benefits of Somatic Movement:
Embodied Awareness:Â Somatic movement cultivates a deep sense of self-awareness, enabling individuals to tune into their body's signals and sensations. This heightened awareness is the first step towards healing.
Release of Tension: Certain movements and exercises that are part of somatic practices help the body let go of tension. This might help with pain, make you more flexible, and make your posture better.
Controlling the Nervous System:Â Moving your body helps control your autonomic nervous system, which lets you go from being highly alert (fight or flight) to being calm and relaxed (rest and digest).
Integration of Mind and Body:Â Somatic practices help to bridge the artificial gap between the mind and the body. This integration makes people feel whole and in sync.
Emotional Processing:Â Somatic movement gives people a safe place to talk about and work through their feelings. When people release emotions that have been holding them back, they often feel a deep sense of relief and catharsis.
Too busy to read? Watch the video version of the blog instead.
How to Include Somatic Movement in Your Everyday Life:
Deep breathing:Â Take a few minutes every morning to do some deep breathing. You can just let your breath flow as you watch your chest rise and fall.
The body should be gently scanned several times a day. Start at your toes and work your way up. Pay attention to any spots that feel tight or sore.
Yoga and Tai Chi: Do activities that focus on mindful movement and body awareness, such as yoga or tai chi.
Dance and Free Movement:Â Move your body freely to music without worrying about what other people will think or what you should do.
In the end, honoring the deep connection between our minds and bodies, somatic movement is a powerful way to heal from trauma. Practicing embodied awareness can help us untangle the knots of pain and tension that have become woven into our bodies. Expressing yourself through somatic movement is a kind act that helps you connect with your inner strength and vitality.
Ready to transform your relationship with your body and mind?
My workshops are designed to help you:
• Heal from trauma and stress
• Reduce pain and tension
• Improve flexibility and range of motion
• Increase body awareness and self-compassion
• Boost your mood and energy levels
No experience is necessary. My workshops are open to all levels and abilities.
Embark on your journey to inner peace and well-being. Book your somatic movement workshop with Fleek Fitness today through this link.