Trauma is stored in the body.

To work with trauma means to work with the mind, spirit, and body. I’ve been a trauma therapist for years.  I first learned to incorporate the mind then the spirit, and now the body. Please don’t get me wrong I’ve been incorporating the body the entire time, but felt like there was more to explore. After extensive research, I found Somatic Experiencing and instantly knew that this form of psychotherapy is what has been calling to me.

A core principle of somatic experiencing, a body-oriented approach to healing trauma, is working with the body for both the client and the therapist.  Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses on the mind, somatic experiencing delves deep into the physical sensations and memories associated with traumatic events. While Somatic Experiencing doesn’t advertise this its principles incorporate spirit work, which is a vital part of Revitalizing Inner Self Essence.

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, somatic experiencing is based on the idea that the body is designed for survival. When faced with overwhelming stress or trauma, the body goes into a state of shock or hyperarousal. This survival response can become stuck, leading to the symptoms of PTSD.

Somatic experiencing gently guides individuals to release this trapped energy, allowing the body to return to a state of balance. It’s about listening to the body’s wisdom and honoring its innate capacity to heal.

How Does Somatic Experiencing Work?

Unlike traditional talk therapy, somatic experiencing doesn’t focus on retelling traumatic stories. Instead, it helps individuals to connect with the physical sensations associated with the trauma. By gently bringing awareness to these sensations, the body is given an opportunity to complete the interrupted stress response.

This process can be challenging, but it’s done at a pace that is comfortable for the individual. The therapist provides a safe and supportive environment, helping the client to develop the resources to manage the arising sensations.

A somatic therapy session is a unique experience that differs significantly from traditional talk therapy. Rather than focusing solely on verbal expression, the session emphasizes the body’s role in healing and processing trauma.

What Does A Somatic Experiencing Look Like?

Typical Session Structure:

• Grounding and Safety: The session often begins with grounding techniques to bring the client into the present moment. This might involve deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, or gentle movement.
• Body Awareness: The therapist encourages the client to focus on bodily sensations, paying attention to tension, discomfort, or areas of relaxation.
• Exploring Sensations: Guided by the therapist, the client may explore specific physical sensations associated with past traumatic experiences. This is done gradually and with care, allowing the body to process the stored energy.
• Pendulation: A core concept in somatic experiencing, pendulation involves moving between states of arousal and relaxation. The therapist helps the client safely navigate these shifts.
• Resource Activation: Once the body begins to release tension, the therapist helps the client access resources and grounding techniques to support the healing process.

Benefits of Somatic Experiencing

• Reduced PTSD symptoms: Somatic experiencing can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
• Improved physical health: Trauma can manifest as physical symptoms like chronic pain or digestive issues. Somatic experiencing can alleviate these problems.
• Enhanced emotional regulation: By addressing the root of the trauma, individuals can develop better emotional regulation skills.
• Increased self-awareness: Somatic experiencing fosters a deeper understanding of one’s body and emotions.
• Improved relationships: By healing past trauma, individuals can build healthier and more fulfilling relationships.x

Begin Trauma Healing with Somatic Experiencing in Baltimore, MD

Somatic experiencing can be a new and restorative form of traumatic healing. RISE can offer support in going through the process from our Baltimore, MD-based practice. You can experience the benefits of alternative trauma healing techniques by following these simple steps:

• Contact me with any questions you may have
• Start processing trauma in a more effective way!

Other Services at Revitalizing Inner Self Essence in Baltimore, MD

This year of transition is a great time to share other services at Revitalizing Inner Self-Essence. At RISE, one of my favorite things to do is share my knowledge with agencies and individuals using consulting, training, and presenting services. In addition to somatic experiencing, I specialize in combining trauma-informed interventions with mind-body interventions which are incorporated into consulting, training, and presenting services. In addition to Mind-Body Medicine, I am trained in EMDR, Pranic Healing, Sound Healing. If you are interested in getting to know more about consulting, training, and presenting services, fill out our contact form.