Understanding Somatic Trauma Healing: Applied Somatic Theory:
Somatic trauma healing, often associated with applied somatic theory, is an approach to trauma recovery that recognizes the intimate connection between the mind and the body. It is rooted in the understanding that traumatic experiences can become trapped or stored in the body, leading to a range of physical and psychological symptoms. This approach is informed by several key principles and practices:
Body-Mind Connection: Somatic trauma healing recognizes that the body and mind are intricately connected. Trauma can lead to physiological changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and heightened arousal, as well as psychological changes like flashbacks, anxiety, and hypervigilance. These physical and mental aspects of trauma are interrelated and must be addressed holistically.
Trauma as Survival Response: Trauma is seen as a survival response to an overwhelming and life-threatening situation. The body’s natural response to threat, often referred to as the “fight or flight” response, can become dysregulated in the presence of trauma, leading to chronic stress and health issues.
Embodiment: The approach emphasizes the importance of becoming more in tune with one’s body and its sensations. This involves learning to recognize physical sensations and patterns associated with trauma and using the body as a resource for healing.
Safety and Regulation: Somatic trauma healing places a strong emphasis on establishing a sense of safety and emotional regulation. This involves techniques for grounding, breathing exercises, and other practices that help individuals manage their arousal and anxiety.
Release and Integration: The process of healing involves releasing stored traumatic energy from the body. Techniques such as bodywork, mindfulness, and movement therapies (like yoga and dance) can help facilitate this release. Once the trauma energy is discharged, the goal is to integrate the experience, allowing the individual to reclaim a sense of wholeness and well-being.
Mindfulness and Presence: Mindfulness practices are often a central component of somatic trauma healing. By bringing mindful attention to bodily sensations and emotions, individuals can develop greater self-awareness and self-compassion, which can be integral to the healing process.
Therapeutic Relationships: The therapeutic relationship is crucial in somatic trauma healing. A skilled therapist can provide support and guidance to help individuals work through their traumatic experiences and facilitate the release and integration of stored trauma.
It’s important to note that somatic trauma healing is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and different modalities and techniques may be used depending on an individual’s unique needs and preferences. Some popular approaches that fall under the somatic trauma healing umbrella include Somatic Experiencing (SE), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga, among others.
The goal of somatic trauma healing is to help individuals recover from the effects of trauma and regain a sense of safety, connection, and well-being in both their bodies and minds. If you’re interested in exploring this approach, it’s advisable to seek out a qualified and experienced therapist or practitioner who specializes in somatic trauma healing.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 