Unlocking Trauma Healing: What is Somatic Stretching and How It Works

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Unlocking Trauma Healing: Discovering Somatic Stretching and Its Role in Recovery

Delving into The World of Somatic Stretching: An Effective Tool for Trauma Healing

Key Points Covered in This Article

1. Exploring Somatic Stretching
2. Somatic Stretching and Trauma Recovery
3. A Step-by-Step Guide on Doing Somatic Stretches
4. Impacts and Benefits of Somatic Stretching
5. Frequently Asked Questions about Somatic Stretching

In the quest for holistic wellness, we often forget to acknowledge the deep connection between our body, mind and spirit. This guide takes you on a journey into a lesser-known but equally important aspect of healing and wellness - Somatic Stretching.

In today's world with its hectic pace, an escalating rise in trauma and stress-related disorders has been observed. As we begin to explore alternative ways to relieve these, one question comes to mind: What is somatic stretching and how can it assist in healing these disorders?

Stemming from the Greek word 'soma', meaning 'body', somatic stretching could be the answer to unlocking our body's potential to heal from past traumas. It's a form of bodywork that engages the mind and body in unison to release tension and regain flexibility, ultimately contributing to overall well-being.

Understanding Somatic Stretching

Somatic stretching, often paired with Somatic education, is a practice that encourages body awareness. Unlike traditional stretching, which solely focuses on elongating muscles, somatic stretching goes a step further by aiming to “reprogram” muscle memory and relieve chronic tension.

Through methods like self-observation, internal perception of sensations, and mindful movements, individuals learn to differentiate between what's merely habitual and what's necessary for functional comfort. This bodily intelligence, built over time, equips individuals better to manage stress, trauma, and even alleviate physical pains.

“In every culture and in every medical tradition before ours, healing was accomplished by moving energy." - Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

Somatic Stretching and Trauma Recovery

Indeed, trauma leaves severe impacts on our body and mind. Left untreated, they turn into 'body memories', residing in our neuro-muscular system, and manifesting as chronic body tension, anxiety, or erratic behavior. Our body inherently learns to tighten muscles as a freeze response to potential threats. Over time, this becomes involuntary, leading to painful trigger points.

Somatic stretching trains your brain to consciously control this involuntary muscular contraction. This stretching method, combined with focused breathing, allows individuals to revisit these trigger points and let go of the stuck energy.

This is where the magic of somatic stretching unfolds – by unlocking these moments of past trauma trapped in our bodies, we allow for healing and recovery.

Your Guide to Somatic Stretches

Somatic stretches can start with simple exercises that focus on mindful awareness of bodily sensations. One such example is the Somatic Pelvic Tilt, a practice common in yoga that aids in loosening up the lower back and pelvic muscles.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the exercise:

1. Lie flat on your back. Place your arms comfortably alongside your body and bend your knees.
2. As you take in a deep breath, gently push your lower back into the floor, tilting your pelvis upward.
3. Exhale, releasing the tilt and allowing your lower back to arch.
4. Repeat this 5-10 times, with each repetition being more mindful of your movements.

The Impact and Benefits of Somatic Stretching

Somatic stretches go beyond physical well-being. The practice is linked to increased mind and body connectivity, which results in reduced stress/anxiety levels, improved mobility, diminished chronic pain, enhanced performance in physical activities, and notably, trauma healing.

"There is deep wisdom within our very flesh if we can only come to our senses and feel it." - Elizabeth A. Behnke

FAQs About Somatic Stretching

• What is the primary goal of Somatic Stretching?The key goal is to help individuals regain conscious control over muscles, eliminate harmful involuntary contractions, and reduce chronic muscle tensions.

• Can I practice Somatic Stretching at home?Yes. While having a certified instructor guide you initially can be beneficial, these exercises are designed for you to carry them out independently and comfortably in your own space.

• I am a therapist looking to learn more about Somatic Stretching, where can I get official training?The AuraInstitute provides accredited courses for individuals and professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge and practice in Somatic Stretching.

As we wrap up, remember that healing is not linear, and every small step takes us further into a journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being. By understanding what somatic stretching is and how it can help us, we open the door to new possibilities for healing and recovery.

Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.