Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that is used to address physical and emotional issues. There are many different types of somatic therapy, and each one has its unique benefits. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of somatic therapy and help you determine which one is right for you!
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What Is Somatic Therapy?
Somatic therapy is a form of treatment that is used to address physical and emotional issues. The word “somatic” comes from the Greek word “soma,” which means “body.” This type of therapy focuses on the mind-body connection and the role that our bodies play in our overall health and well-being.
It is a form of treatment that is rooted in the belief that our bodies hold the key to healing our minds and spirit.
This therapy could involve breathing exercises, movement, and massage. Somatic therapy helps you to become more aware of your body and how it responds to stress and trauma. This type of therapy can be used to treat a wide variety of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.
Types Of Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy can help you to feel more connected to your body and the present moment. It can also help you to heal from past traumas.
There are many different types of somatic therapy, and each one has its unique benefits. Some of the most common types of somatic therapy include:
Massage therapy
Massage therapy is a type of somatic therapy that uses touch to promote relaxation and healing. Therapists use their hands to knead and stroke the muscles, which can help to release tension and pain. It is used to help with a variety of conditions, including headaches, neck pain, back pain, anxiety, and stress.
Yoga
It is a type of somatic therapy that uses movement, breathwork, and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. Yoga can help to improve flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. It is used to help with a variety of conditions, including anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. For instance, a recent study found that yoga can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with cancer.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a type of somatic therapy that uses thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body. This type of therapy can help to relieve pain, improve sleep, and reduce stress. For instance, a 2008 study found that acupuncture was an effective treatment for chronic lower back pain.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractic care is a type of somatic therapy that uses manual manipulation to improve overall health and well-being. It focuses on the alignment of the spine Chiropractors use their hands to apply pressure and adjust the spine, which can help to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and reduce stress. For example, a 2012 study found that chiropractic care was an effective treatment for lower back pain.
EMDR
EMDR therapy is a type of somatic therapy that can be used to treat PTSD. This therapy uses eye movements and other forms of stimulation to help the brain process and heal from traumatic memories. EMDR is an effective treatment for PTSD, and it can also be helpful for other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Hakomi
Hakomi is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on mindfulness and non-violent communication. It is based on the belief that we all have an innate capacity for self-awareness and healing. Hakomi therapists work to create a safe and supportive environment in which clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This process can help clients to understand and change patterns of thought and behavior that are causing them distress.
- Hakomi is an excellent choice for people who are interested in exploring the mind-body connection.
- It can help treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. Hakomi therapists are trained to work with clients of all ages, from children to adults.
Neurosomatic Therapy
It is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on the relationship between the nervous system and the body. It works to improve communication between the two systems so that the body can heal itself. For instance, if you have a chronic pain condition, this therapy can help to retrain your nervous system so that it no longer sends pain signals to your brain. And can help to reduce or eliminate your pain. Neurosomatic therapy can aid in the healing process by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on the release of the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles. If you have a lot of tension in your shoulders, this type of therapy can help to release that tension.
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on the movement of the cranial bones and the sacrum. For instance, if you have ever had a concussion, this type of therapy can help to release the pressure on your brain.
Polarity Therapy
Polarity Therapy focuses on the balance of energy in the body. This can be helpful for those who have chronic pain or injuries. It works to improve communication between the two systems so that the body can heal itself. It can be helpful for various conditions too.
Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on the release of trauma from the body. It works by helping the body to process and release the trauma that is stored in the nervous system. The therapist will teach the client how to use their body to release the trauma.
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy is a type of somatic therapy that focuses on the relationship between the mind and the body. It can eliminate pain. It works by helping the client to become aware of their body and how it is feeling.
Thus, it can be treated by a therapist, and which therapy is best suited for you can be decided by discussing with them your injury, pain, and trauma. There are many different types of somatic therapies, and each one can offer different benefits.
How Does Somatic Therapy Work?
Somatic therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the mind-body connection. This type of therapy can help you to become more aware of your body and how it responds to stress and trauma. It can also help you to heal from past traumas and to manage stress in your life. It works by helping you to connect with your body and to become more aware of the way that your body responds to stress.
Somatic therapy can be a very effective treatment for many different types of mental health conditions. It helps to treat our cellular level memory, which can be very helpful in treating conditions like PTSD.
Benefits Of Somatic Therapy
The various benefits of somatic therapy depend on the specific type of therapy used. However, in general, somatic therapy can help to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety: Somatic therapies can help to lower the levels of stress hormones in your body, which can lead to reduced anxiety and improved mood.
- Improve sleep: Somatic therapies can also help to improve sleep quality by helping to regulate the nervous system.
- Reduce pain: By improving the functioning of the nervous system, somatic therapies can also help to reduce pain.
- Increase relaxation: Somatic therapies can help to induce a state of relaxation by helping to regulate the nervous system.
- Improve overall well-being: Somatic therapies can help to improve your sense of well-being by increasing your body awareness and improving your mind-body connection.
Thus these are benefits of somatic therapy that can be seen in general. You should consult with a therapist to see what type of somatic therapy would work best for you depending on your needs.
Conclusion
It may be concluded that which type of somatic therapy is best for you depends on what your needs are. However, in general, somatic therapy can provide many benefits, and improve overall well-being. You should consult with a therapist to see what type of somatic therapy would work best for you. It will be worth considering!
If you want more guidance and tips on how to treat or what to expect from therapy, be sure to contact Therapy Mantra. The team of experts here can help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our services. You can also book an online therapy session or download our free Android or iOS app.