Types of Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy is a psychotherapy that engages both your mind and body to address trauma, stress, and anxiety. It utilizes techniques like mindfulness and movement to help you release these emotions.
Somatic therapies come in many varieties and are tailored to each client’s specific needs. These treatments can benefit anyone dealing with anxiety, depression, grief or any other mental health issue.
Different forms of somatic therapy exist, all designed to help you release stress and trauma from your body. They may also teach you how to better regulate emotions and reduce anxiety levels.
Sensorimotor psychotherapy is a form of somatic therapy that integrates traditional talk therapy with body awareness and movement. This approach may be especially helpful if you have experienced trauma in the past.
Other forms of somatic therapy include meditation, tai chi, yoga and dance. They can help relieve stress, enhance emotional wellbeing and reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression.
These techniques can be an effective way to reduce anxiety and tension without needing regular therapy appointments. Furthermore, they make you more at ease in your own skin, increasing self-awareness in the process.
When searching for the ideal somatic therapy, you may feel overwhelmed and stressed. Consider factors like your current emotional state, whether or not you want to work with a therapist for an extended period of time, as well as your schedule.
One of the most widely used somatic therapy approaches is somatic experiencing (SE). In this type of therapy, you observe your physical sensations and compare them to feelings of relaxation or tension. SE therapists sometimes employ resourcing as a way of helping their clients balance tension and relaxation.
Some therapists also incorporate somatic techniques into formal sessions with traditional talk therapy. They may lead you through meditation or mindfulness activities, or simply encourage you to pay attention to your physical sensations occasionally.
Another somatic therapy approach is Hakomi, which is an energy psychology approach. This type of somatic therapy focuses on the body’s energy system, including chakras and energy fields within it. This therapy is safe for both children and adults and can be administered by a therapist or self-administered.
Somatic EMDR is an effective somatic therapy for those dealing with trauma and anxiety. This approach integrates talk therapy with various somatic techniques, making it suitable for both children and adults.
Somatic EMDR is a form of therapy in which you and your therapist work through memories of traumatic events while paying close attention to any physical sensations experienced during the session. This can be especially helpful if you suffer from PTSD or another post-traumatic stress disorder.
Your therapist and you will also discuss how your thoughts and emotions impact your body, so you can better regulate them. Doing this helps you feel calmer and relaxed as you navigate life’s ups and downs together.