In an attempt to work on ourselves externally, we often neglect the internal. But the connection that our mind forges with our body plays an important role in both physical and mental health. Somatic release is one impactful approach in which you can begin your healing process. But what is it exactly, and how is it different from regular yoga? We answer these questions and more as we explore somatic release techniques and benefits in this article.
What is Somatic Release?
Focusing on the mind-body connection, somatic release is a form of healing practice that helps with releasing tension and trauma stored in our body. It does so by stimulating our body to process suppressed emotions and stress in a natural manner. The intentional body movement is what seperates somatic exercises from yoga.
The origin of this practice lies in the work of Dr Thomas Hanna and Dr. Peter Levine, which comprehends the mind-body connection and bodily sensations to perform body-based psychotherapy [1]. The basic principle is that unresolved tension and trauma can actually manifest themselves in the form of physical symptoms and emotional distress.
Learn more about somatic movement:
A Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Workout
The Best Somatic Exercises for Mental and Physical Well-Being
Key Principles of Somatic Release
The approach is that through the practice of somatic therapy techniques and exercises, individuals will be able to release the negative energy trapped in their bodies due to traumatic events and experiences. Once you reconnect with your body and release stress and built-up tension, you can achieve emotional balance and use it as an effective tool for processing any post-traumatic stress disorder, amongst other forms of stress.
Somatic Therapy Techniques for Emotional Healing
Somatic therapy uses body-centered practices to release tension, reduce stress, and promote better mental health. Here are some key techniques:
1. Deep Breathing
This is a foundational technique under somatic therapy exercises where intentional breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system. It reduces stress and promotes relaxation, focusing on deep belly breaths that help with easing tension.
2. Body Scan Relaxation
Closing your eyes and mentally scanning your body from head to toe helps you notice and release areas of tension. It’s like giving yourself a quick reset.
3. Somatic Shaking
Gently shaking your body—like a quick full-body wiggle—helps release stress and reset your nervous system. It’s a natural way to shake off built-up tension.
4. Breath Awareness
Bringing awareness to how your breath moves through your chest, shoulders, and belly can help you feel more connected to your body and emotions.
5. Moving with Intention
Stretching, walking, dancing, or doing yoga can help you process emotions physically. Moving mindfully lets your body release tension and energy in a natural way.
6. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
This therapeutic approach revolves around focusing on different parts of the body with intention and being attuned to them to release physical tension and even chronic pain. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) can help alleviate physical pain by addressing both the physical and emotional components of chronic pain, leading to symptom relief and improved mental health.
Exercises for physical and mental health:
Yoga Mat Workout Guide: 10 Exercises You Can Do With a Yoga Mat
How to Get Started with Somatic Release
A somatic therapist is a qualified individual who can guide you through the process of practicing somatic exercises for emotional release. Through their guidance, it’ll be easier to experience physical sensations and can ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed while processing your emotional and physical symptoms.
So, how do you prepare yourself for somatic therapy sessions? Through talk therapy, you’ll be guided on what you should be focusing on, so it would be good to set aside your personal goals and also settle your mind into a stable state. To be able to control your stress response, it is important to know how you can practice self-regulation. For you to truly unleash your physical and emotional tension, a safe environment is essential.
Benefits of Somatic Release
Somatic release is all about letting go of tension stored in the body, and the benefits go way beyond just feeling relaxed. It can help with stress, emotional balance, pain relief, and even trauma healing. Here’s how:
1. Less Stress, More Relaxation
Somatic techniques help your body switch from stress mode to relaxation mode, making it easier to unwind and feel at ease.
2. Pain Relief & Recovery Support
By loosening up tight muscles and increasing body awareness, somatic work can help manage chronic pain, bodily sensations, and support healing from injuries.
3. Better Posture & Body Awareness
When you pay attention to how your body feels, you naturally improve your posture and movement, reducing aches and stiffness.
4. Stronger Mind-Body Connection
Breathwork, movement, and other somatic experiencing exercises make you more aware of how your emotions show up in your body, helping you feel more connected and in control.
5. Emotional Release & Balance
Holding in emotions can feel heavy. Somatic release helps you process and let go of built-up feelings, making it easier to stay emotionally grounded.
6. Healing from Trauma & PTSD
Trauma often gets stuck in the body, leading to tension and distress. Somatic release through a mental health professional can help you process and release those experiences in a safe, natural way.
For more yoga-based workout:
Recover Restore Relax Workouts
Final Thoughts
Somatic release isn’t just about feeling good in the moment—it helps you feel more in tune with yourself, both physically and emotionally. Whether you’re dealing with stress, pain, or past trauma, these techniques can help you move through life with more ease and balance. So consider incorporating these exercises into your everyday routine. For more tips on how you can lead a healthy and active life, check out the JustFit app!
