How Trauma-Informed Somatic Exercises Work: A Comprehensive Guide
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Exploring the Effectiveness of Trauma-Inspired Somatic Exercises: An Extensive Review
Do Somatic Exercises Work in Addressing Trauma?
The contemporary field of mental health emphasizes a body mind integration approach, with somatic exercises quickly gaining recognition. But the question on everyone's mind is, 'do somatic exercises work' in rectifying the impacts of trauma and stress? This comprehensive guide explores that question, traversing through the intricacies of somatic therapy and its tangible benefits.
Key points:
- Understanding Somatic Exercises
- The science behind somatic exercises
- Trauma-informed somatic exercises
- The benefits of somatic exercises
- FAQ
Understanding Somatic Exercises
Somatic exercises are a form of therapeutic treatment that highlights the connection between mind and body. Focusing on internal physical perception and experience, these exercises recognize the body as an integral part of our mental health.
The Science Behind Somatic Exercises
Somatic exercises work on the principle that trauma and stress leave lasting impacts on the body’s nervous system, often presenting as chronic pain, anxiety, and other physical manifestations. These exercises help the body to ‘release’ the physical symptoms of this stress, promoting overall mental well-being.
Trauma-Informed Somatic Exercises
Trauma-informed somatic exercises work by helping individuals develop body awareness, teaching the ability to diligently listen to what their bodies are communicating and respond accordingly. This, in turn, empowers individuals to take control over their bodies, gradually aiding in the dissolution of trauma-inflicted physical symptoms.
"The body keeps the score. If the memory of trauma is encoded in the viscera, in heartbreaking and gut-wrenching emotions, in autoimmune disorders and skeletal/muscular problems, and if mind/brain therapy can't access such memories, then perhaps the body needs to be the target of healing techniques, and needs to be recognized as a far more important adjunct to the psychotherapy than has hitherto been acknowledged.” - Bessel A. van der Kolk
This principle is at the heart of somatic exercises, since they work towards healing the body as part of a comprehensive approach towards trauma-informed therapy.
The Benefits of Somatic Exercises
Somatic exercises come with a variety of benefits. They:
- Encourage self-awareness and mindfulness
- Enhance capacity for self-regulation
- Improve physical symptoms related to stress and trauma
- Foster groundedness and reduce anxiety
- Contribute to a strengthened sense of well-being
FAQs
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How do I start with somatic exercises?A professional therapist trained in somatic therapy is your best bet. They guide you through exercises and help you process the emotions and sensations that arise.
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Can somatic exercises replace psychotherapy?While somatic exercises aid in trauma recovery, they should be seen as a supplemental treatment rather than a replacement for traditional therapy methods.
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Are somatic exercises safe for everyone?A qualified professional can adapt somatic exercises to suit different individuals, although those with certain medical conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new form of treatment.
Somatic exercises definitely play a positive role in mental health, specifically relating to trauma. This revelation leads to the conclusion that mental health treatments cannot completely disregard the physical component of the individual, ushering in a holistic perspective in mental health therapy.
For more insights and in-depth exploration of mental health treatments, check out other trauma-informed practices in the Aura Institute Blog.
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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.