What Is Somatic Therapy and How Does It Work?
When my therapist first suggested I make noise to release my feelings, I laughed and said, “No way.” But I gave it a try—and now I shake out my arms and legs, sigh loudly, and move emotions through my body all the time. This is the essence of somatic therapy: learning that healing isn’t just about talking, it’s also about letting the body speak.
What Is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic therapy is based on the understanding that emotions don’t just live in our minds—they show up in our bodies too.
For me, I often notice a tightness in my chest, as if my body senses danger even when I know there’s no real threat. For others, it might be tense shoulders, a clenched jaw, or a knot in the stomach.
Talking about how we feel can bring clarity, but sometimes the body needs to release what it’s been holding. Somatic therapy gives space for that release, helping you connect mind and body in the healing process.
What Happens in a Somatic Therapy Session?
A session might involve:
Slowing down to notice sensations in the body
Following the rhythm of your breath
Gently moving in ways that feel natural or intuitive
Shaking out tension or stress
Letting out a sigh, a sound, or a laugh
Focusing on where emotions show up in your body
These practices help release what words alone can’t always reach.
Why Does the Body Hold On to Emotions?
When we push down anger, hold back tears, or grow up in environments where emotions weren’t safe, our bodies often carry that weight for us. Over time, stored emotions may show up as:
Chronic tension in the body
Headaches or stomach pain
Restless nights or difficulty sleeping
Feeling “stuck in your head” and disconnected from your body
Somatic therapy creates space for the body to process those old feelings. Sometimes release feels tender or surprising—other times playful and freeing. Healing doesn’t always have to be heavy; it can be as simple as shaking out your hands, dancing, or laughing when emotions feel overwhelming.
Is Somatic Therapy Right for You?
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your head, disconnected from your body, or unable to release emotions through talking alone, somatic therapy may be a supportive next step.
If you feel ready to explore healing that engages both mind and body, reach out to our Client Care Coordinator today. They’ll connect you with a compassionate therapist who can guide you through somatic therapy and help you discover new ways to release, connect, and heal.
Warmly,
Lauren David, AMFT
