Somatic Experiencing: Healing Trauma Through the Body
When most people think of therapy, they picture talking through thoughts and emotions. While this approach is valuable, it doesn’t always address the physical imprint of trauma. Research shows trauma is not only psychological—it’s also stored in the body. This can show up as chronic tension, pain, or unexpected emotional reactions long after the event has passed.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-centered therapeutic approach that helps release trauma stored in the nervous system. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, SE focuses on reconnecting with physical sensations to restore balance and promote emotional regulation.
What Is Somatic Experiencing?
Somatic Experiencing is grounded in the idea that trauma overwhelms the nervous system, trapping us in “fight, flight, or freeze” mode. Instead of fully processing the experience, the body holds onto the stress, leading to symptoms like:
Chronic tension or pain
Anxiety and hypervigilance
Sleep problems
Feeling “shut down” or disconnected
Sudden emotional triggers
By safely working with these body responses, SE helps the nervous system regulate again.
How It Works
Unlike traditional therapy, SE doesn’t require retelling traumatic memories in detail. Instead, it uses gentle awareness of bodily sensations. A typical session might involve:
Tracking sensations: Noticing areas of tension, heaviness, or subtle movement in the body.
Titration: Approaching difficult sensations in small, manageable doses to avoid overwhelm.
Pendulation: Moving between feelings of safety and discomfort, helping the body learn regulation.
Release and integration: Allowing natural responses like shaking, sighing, or relaxation that signal the body is letting go of stored stress.
The emphasis is on safety and resilience—not forcing the body to relive painful experiences.
Who Can Benefit?
Somatic Experiencing has been shown to help people dealing with:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Childhood trauma
Anxiety and panic disorders
Chronic stress or burnout
Grief and loss
Physical symptoms connected to emotional distress (headaches, digestive issues, etc.)
What to Expect in a Session
SE sessions are typically 50–60 minutes and move at a slower, mindful pace. Rather than focusing on detailed stories, your therapist will help you tune into subtle bodily shifts—like a flutter in your chest, warmth in your hands, or a deeper breath.
Over time, these gentle sessions help many people feel calmer, more grounded, and more capable of handling daily stress.
Benefits of Somatic Experiencing
People who try SE often report:
Reduced physical tension and stress-related symptoms
Feeling safer and more present in their bodies
Improved emotional resilience and self-control
Fewer and less intense traumatic triggers
A stronger sense of calm and stability
Final Thoughts
Somatic Experiencing reminds us that healing isn’t just about the mind—it’s also about the body. By helping the nervous system reset, SE offers a gentle but powerful way to move beyond survival mode and reconnect with a sense of safety and ease.
If talk therapy hasn’t fully addressed the effects of trauma for you, Somatic Experiencing may provide the body-centered support you need on your path to recovery