Traumatic events can weave themselves into the deeper recesses of who we are. Sometimes hiding, somethings manifesting into physical ways that can look very different than how we perceive ourselves. When they happen, the response can vary from total and complete freeze and shock to immediate compartmentalization of something you do not have the tools or ability to deal with. Anger, withdrawal, and everything in between is also a completely normal part of the process. There isn't a manual on how you will react to trauma, and the effects can last from hours to years.
It isn't uncommon for traumas to resurface, years later, as fresh and agonizing and distressful as they were the day it happened. It's also normal for traumas to suddenly manifest in ways where we aren't even sure what the event was, having pushed it so far away from us. Traumatic events can be triggered by similar situations or witnessing or hearing about similar problems. The only thing that is certain about trauma is that they affect everyone differently. Managing symptoms and effects of traumatic events don't have a one-size-fits-all approach.
Why Somatic Therapy is Different
Somatic Therapy may be effective in managing:
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Grief
Trauma
Abuse
The Somatic Therapy approach is based on the connection between the nervous system, the physical body, and the traumatic experience. While other therapies may focus predominantly on the mind, Somatic Therapy believes that the physical body and the sensations brought on by the emotional trauma need to be addressed and treated together and seeks to address both physical and psychological symptoms for a holistic healing experience.
When more traditional talk therapies have not been successful, especially for physical issues like chronic fatigue or pain, Somatic Therapy can offer a gentle, guided healing process that includes physical movement to alleviate the painful symptoms of trauma in the body and mind.
When you are working with the Somatic therapist, you will learn cues from your body that help you be more present and engaged. Sessions can be challenging as all of the unmetabolized, difficult experiences or parts of ourselves that have been discarded begin to come to the surface and often need to be acknowledged and sometimes grieved, but do not be afraid of this healing process. Your Somatic Therapist will gently guide you with compassion, non-judgment, and acceptance to help you undo past conditioning.
With you in kindness,
Kerri