When we think about therapy, we often imagine talking through challenges, stress, or past experiences. But healing doesn’t only happen through words — it also happens through the body. Somatic Experiencing® (SE) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between mind and body, helping people release stored trauma and restore balance to their nervous system.

What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing was developed by Dr. Peter Levine as a way to help individuals heal from trauma by paying close attention to body sensations. Instead of re-telling or re-living difficult experiences, SE gently guides people to notice physical responses — such as tension, restlessness, or breath changes — and gradually release the “stuck” energy that trauma can leave behind.

How It Works

The body’s natural stress response often stays active long after a difficult event has passed. This can lead to symptoms like anxiety, hypervigilance, fatigue, or feeling disconnected. SE therapy helps regulate the nervous system by:

• Increasing awareness of physical sensations
• Using grounding and gentle movement to discharge stored stress
• Supporting a return to safety, balance, and resilience

Benefits of Somatic Experiencing

• Reduces trauma symptoms such as anxiety, panic, or overwhelm
• Improves nervous system regulation, helping with sleep, focus, and calm
• Encourages self-awareness and deeper mind-body connection
• Restores resilience, making it easier to adapt to stress and challenges
• Supports overall well-being by integrating emotional and physical healing

Why It Matters

Trauma isn’t just in our memories — it’s also in our bodies. Somatic Experiencing offers a pathway to healing that honors this connection, providing a safe and effective way to release what’s held inside. Whether someone is recovering from a specific traumatic event or managing ongoing stress, SE can be a powerful tool for finding balance and moving forward.

09/28/2025