Somatic Emotional Release
Somatic Emotional Release is a cathartic engagement that supports the release of stored physical and emotional trauma held within the body. It is based on the understanding that stress, trauma, and unresolved emotional experiences create an energetic load that can become embedded in the tissues where it remains unprocessed in the manner the body requires.
What is Trauma?
All stress, positive and negative, generates an energetic response for the body to take some type of action. If that energy is not used somatically then it remains in the body. Trauma is when a person experiences more stress than they have the resources to process at that time. It can be a accumulated over time or in a heavy load all at once.
Emotional Processing Through the Body
Rather than forcing emotional release, this work allows the body’s innate intelligence to guide the process. Emotional energy may release naturally through sensations such as warmth, shaking, deep relaxation, or tears.
Using intuitive touch, typically along with short phrases or words repeated by the patient either out loud or silently, these holding patterns are engaged so the body can naturally process and release the energetic load it has been carrying. Chronic guarding becomes disengaged and emotions such as fear, grief, anger, or sadness may surface and resolve, often leading to greater balance, stress relief, and overall well-being.
Sessions are conducted in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. Clients typically remain fully clothed and are encouraged to simply notice and experience what arises. Emotional expression—such as crying, venting, laughing, or quiet reflection—is a normal and welcomed part of the process.
How Somatic Emotional Release Works
Identifying Holding Patterns
The therapist listens carefully to the body, noticing areas of tension, bracing, or restriction that may be linked to past experiences.
Creating a Sense of Safety
A calm, grounded presence helps the nervous system feel supported enough to allow deeper sensations and emotions to emerge—often with the client remaining clothed.
Releasing Tension and Resetting the Nervous System
As guarding disengages the body releases stored energy, helping regulate the nervous system and restore a sense of ease and balance.
What You May Experience
Emotional responses such as crying, venting, laughter, or quiet stillness
Physical sensations including tingling, warmth, softening, or deep relaxation
A sense of lightness and clarity, feeling calmer, more centered, and free
Each experience is unique, and there is no “right” way for the body to release. SER simply supports the conditions for healing to unfold naturally.