Somatic therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that focuses on the connection of the body and the mind. Typically this form of therapy combines talk therapy with an additional form of physical therapy. These physical therapies could include massage, dance, yoga, exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques. Somatic therapy was developed in the 1970s and has gained popularity as an addition to traditional talk therapy.
When Should Somatic Therapy be Used?
Somatic therapy can help with a wide array of concerns. It has been proven helpful with those suffering from trauma, abuse, stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship problems. Even if you cannot pinpoint a moment or experience of trauma that you believe may be the cause of your mental health concerns, it is still likely that somatic therapy can help you. Our physical health is very much connected to our mental health. Learning to understand your specific needs is vital as your journey through recovery. Somatic therapy techniques can be included in both group therapy and individual therapy. Your mental health provider will help you determine the best combination of therapies for you.
How Somatic Therapy Works
The idea behind somatic therapy is that the body, mind, emotions, and spirit are all connected. Past trauma and emotional events have the power to stay within our bodies, causing physical pain, changing facial expressions, and altering our body language. Those practicing somatic therapy believe that developing an awareness between body and mind by using specific techniques can help to release tensions, anger, frustration, and other emotions. The goal is to help your body move past these traumatic events, freeing yourself from the stress and tension that hold you back from fully moving forward and working through these issues.
Somatic therapy can help with a wide array of concerns, such as trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, and addiction. Our bodies and minds are intricately connected, and our bodies can hold on to past trauma. Holding on to past trauma can affect our physical and mental well-being. For that reason, many individuals find it helpful to add somatic therapy to traditional talk therapy. Here at The Guest House, we are a group of professionals ready to help you better understand what you are feeling and better address the issues you are facing. Call us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you at (855) 483-7800.