Unlocking the Potential: Do Somatic Exercises Really Work in Trauma-informed Training?
Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.
Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.
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.
Unlocking Body Awareness: Can Somatic Exercises Effectively Aid in Trauma-Informed Training?
🗝️ Exploring the Efficacy: Do Somatic Exercises Really Work?
Upon entering the world of trauma-informed training, you will encounter a myriad of approaches that aim to facilitate healing and personal growth. Among these, somatic exercises, practices that involve mind-body integration, are rising in prominence. Let's delve into the crucial question: Do somatic exercises really work?
📝 Key Points
- What are Somatic Exercises?
- How Do Somatic Exercises Work?
- The Interconnection between Somatic Exercises and Trauma-Informed Training.
- Empirical Evidence: Do Somatic Exercises Really Work?
- Incorporating Somatic Exercises into Your Daily Routine.
- Frequently Asked Questions.
Somatic exercises are grounded in the belief that the body and mind are intimately connected, and that physical movements can impact our mental and emotional state. The theory behind these exercises is rooted in neuroscience and biology, which postulates that our bodies hold 'memory' of traumatic experiences and that by connecting to our bodies, we can process these 'memories' and promote healing.
"Healing becomes a process not of eradicating symptoms, but of integrating them into a larger self-understanding that grants the symptom or suffering a respected place [...]" - Dr. Peter Levine, founder of Somatic Experiencing
How Do Somatic Exercises Work?
Somatic exercises typically involve slow, intentional movements, deep breathing, mindfulness and body awareness. The idea is to create a safe space where one can tune into their body's sensations and feelings. Through this process, the practitioner can start to recognize and release tension, stress and trauma held in the body.
However, the ultimate goal of these exercises is not just release but also to establish a new body 'memory' that aligns with safety and wellbeing - a re-education of the nervous system.
Somatic Exercises and Trauma-Informed Training: A Conscious Integration
Somatic exercises have become an integral part of trauma-informed training because they address the very root of trauma. Trauma is often experienced via the body - through sensations, impulses, and reactions. Amber Gray, a psychotherapist specializing in somatic psychology, succinctly puts it: “Trauma is a body event, and therefore, to work with it, you have to work with the body.”
Professionals in the field of trauma-informed therapy rely heavily on somatic exercises as tools that allow individuals to reconnect with their bodies, thereby enhancing their capacity to heal.
Empirical Evidence: Do Somatic Exercises Really Work?
Emerging research suggests that somatic exercises can indeed be effective in relieving trauma symptoms. Several studies have demonstrated that techniques such as Somatic Experiencing, a form of trauma therapy that involves tuning into bodily sensations, have significantly reduced PTSD symptoms.
Furthermore, the benefits extend beyond trauma recovery. From managing stress and anxiety to promoting physical wellness, somatic exercises can act as a potent tool for overall personal health and development.
Incorporating Somatic Exercises into Your Daily Routine
The beauty of somatic exercises is their innate versatility and simplicity. Whether it's mindful breathing, yoga, tai chi, or conscious movement, these practices can easily be integrated into our everyday lives. At Aura Institute, we offer several training programs that focus on somatic practices.
However, it's important to remember that somatic exercises, while beneficial, are not a panacea. They should ideally complement other forms of therapy under the guidance of a trained professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly are somatic exercises?
Somatic exercises aim to increase body awareness and facilitate physical release of tension and stress, often held due to traumatic experiences.
2. Do somatic exercises have research-backed credibility?
Yes. Though research is still ongoing, several studies indicate that somatic approaches can effectively reduce trauma symptoms and promote overall wellbeing.
3. Can I do somatic exercises by myself?
While many somatic exercises like breathwork and conscious movement can be practiced individually, it's highly recommended to do so under the guidance of a trained professional, especially when dealing with trauma.
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.