Somatic Bodywork is a gentle, trauma-informed approach that combines touch, movement, breath, and mindful awareness to help release stored tension, stress, and trauma from the body. Rather than focusing only on muscles, it works with the nervous system, fascia, and internal sensation, bridging the gap between physical therapy and talk therapy to support deeper mind-body connection and self-regulation.
Sessions often involve slow movements, light or still touch, and guided awareness, usually on a massage table, allowing the body to reorganize at its own pace. Clients are invited to listen to their body’s signals, fostering a sense of safety, presence, and new ways of moving and feeling.
Key Aspects
Nervous System Focus: Supports the body in shifting out of survival states (fight, flight, freeze) into regulation and rest
Somatic Awareness: Encourages noticing internal sensations, emotions, and habitual patterns held in the body
Gentle & Slow: Uses subtle movement and light, non-forcing touch to support organic release
Trauma-Informed: Addresses the physical imprints of trauma, injury, and chronic stress with care and consent
Common Techniques
Gentle hands-on connective tissue work and still touch
Breathwork to support release and regulation
Slow, self-directed somatic movement
Body scanning and sensory awareness
Sound or vocalization to discharge held energy
How It Differs from Massage
Massage: Primarily targets muscle relaxation and physical tension
Somatic Bodywork: Works with the nervous system and fascia to address deeper stress and trauma patterns, not just muscles
Benefits
Reduces chronic stress and anxiety
Supports trauma processing and integration
Enhances body awareness and presence
Cultivates a sense of safety and empowerment
Releases long-held tension and habitual holding patterns