Unlocking the Power of Somatic Healing: What Is Somatic Healing and How It Can Transform Trauma

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.

what is somatic healing

An Insightful Exploration: Discover the Power and Potential of Somatic Healing

Unlocking the Power of Somatic Healing: What Is Somatic Healing and How It Can Transform Trauma

This article unfolds the mystery and reveals the potential of somatic healing. We dive into the complex subject of somatic healing, presenting key points to deepen your understanding. You will also find beneficial if you are seeking training or looking to expand your knowledge in the field.

Key Points Covered

  1. Definition of somatic healing
  2. The science behind somatic healing
  3. The benefits of somatic therapy
  4. Steps involved in somatic healing
  5. How somatic healing can be utilized for trauma transformation
  6. Frequently asked questions

So, what is somatic healing? Somatic healing, or somatic therapy, is a holistic therapeutic approach that combines mind-body practices, physical movement, touch, and talk therapy. This approach nurtures the idea that the body and mind should be treated as one, rather than separate entities.

The term ‘somatic’ stems from the Greek word 'soma', meaning 'living body'. Somatic healing embraces the concept that our emotions and traumas have physical implications and are often stored within our bodies.

Now, let's explore in more depth the science, benefits and applications of somatic healing.

The Science Behind Somatic Healing

The brain’s limbic system, particularly the amygdala, plays a critical role in processing emotions. During a traumatic event, the amygdala becomes hyperactivated leading to intense emotional responses. These responses often persist in the body, even after the mind has forgotten or repressed the traumatic memory.

Somatic healing works by encouraging the body to release these emotions physically, using different techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and physical movement. By doing so, the trapped emotions are allowed to 'exit' the body, promoting mental and physical healing.

Benefits of Somatic Healing

  1. Stress Release: Somatic healing exercises are designed to release physical tension held in the body, thereby reducing stress.

  2. Improved Emotional Stability: By enabling the body to discharge trapped emotions, a healthier emotional balance can be achieved.

  3. Enhanced Body Awareness: These practices enhance sensitivity towards bodily sensations and emotions, promoting self-awareness and self-regulation.

  4. Reduced Physical Pain: Research suggests that somatic healing can relieve pain symptoms associated with trauma or chronic stress.

  5. Trauma Resolution: Somatic healing encourages the body and mind to resolve traumatic experiences.

Steps Involved in Somatic Healing

Somatic healing typically follows these stages:

  1. Assessment: The therapist determines the individual's readiness for therapy and identifies primary areas of focus.

  2. Psychoeducation: The therapist provides education about the physical impacts of trauma on the body.

  3. Skill Building: Using various exercises, the individual is coached to develop skills for safe emotional regulation.

  4. Processing: The individual uses the developed skills to engage with and process trauma-related physical sensations.

  5. Integration: The individual integrates these new skills and experiences into daily life.

Transforming Trauma through Somatic Healing

Somatic healing presents an effective approach for dealing with trauma, by enabling individuals to heal not just mentally, but physically too. This healing goes beyond mere symptom reduction, and strives for complete resolution of traumatic experiences.

Through fostering body awareness and building safe, therapeutic relationships, somatic healing can empower individuals to navigate through their fears and anxieties, facilitating a more fulfilling and connected life.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can benefit from somatic healing?

Anybody can benefit from somatic therapy. However, it is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with trauma, chronic stress, anxiety disorders and much more.

2. How long does it take to see results from somatic healing?

Typically, individuals may see results after a few sessions. However, this is very much dependent on an individuals' specific circumstances and the severity of their symptoms.

3. How can I start practicing somatic healing?

Seeking a professional somatic therapist is a good starting point. Additionally, self-guided practices such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi can also be beneficial.

Unlock the potential of somatic healing today, empower yourself or help others overcome their struggles.


At Aura institute, we offer comprehensive courses to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to practice somatic healing. Through our courses, you will also be able to explore a broad spectrum of mental health practices. Welcome to a journey of transformation, change, and self-discovery.



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.

Previous
Previous

Understanding the Importance of OA Diagnosis in OMM Training

Next
Next

Become a Somatic Therapist: Training and Education for Trauma-Informed Practices