Somatic Experiencing is a body centered approach to emotional healing and trauma resolution developed by Peter Levine, PhD. It is based on 35 years of observation and study into stress and trauma and draws upon cutting-edge scientific research about how our nervous system responds to threat.
In his groundbreaking book, Waking the Tiger, Peter Levine demonstrates how animals in the wild are rarely traumatized because they engage instinctive physiological processes to discharge fight, flight and freeze energies. Although human beings have almost the same self-regulating capacities, we tend to inhibit and override these processes. When we are unable to discharge high levels of arousal, energy stays trapped in our bodies and our healing is thwarted.
Somatic Experiencing provides the steps necessary to reconnect you with the natural wisdom of your body. Through focused awareness of sensations, images, feelings, thoughts and movements you will be able to access restorative patterns, resolve symptoms and feel more peaceful and alive.
Somatic Experiencing is an effective treatment for developmental trauma, PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety and depression. It can also compliment recovery from addiction and eating disorders.
This approach can be weaved into traditional talk therapy as well.
For further information on Somatic Experiencing you can read Healing Trauma by Peter Levine. For a brief version of the information presented in the book, click here.