Somatic Experiencing for Trauma

What is Somatic Experiencing for Trauma?

Process stored trauma through body sensations rather than talking about events. Track physical sensations (tightness, tingling, warmth) and let them complete their natural cycle. Animals shake off trauma naturally — humans can learn to do this too.

Is there evidence for it?

How do you do Somatic Experiencing for Trauma?

1. 1.Find a quiet space and tune into your body. Notice any areas of tension, heaviness, numbness, or sensation
2. 2.Focus on one sensation and describe it: 'There's a tightness in my chest, about the size of a fist, it feels warm'
3. 3.Stay with the sensation without trying to change it. Breathe naturally. Notice what happens — it may shift, move, or dissolve
4. 4.If you feel shaking, trembling, or heat — let it happen. This is your nervous system completing the stress response
5. 5.Practice 'pendulation': alternate between the area of tension and a part of your body that feels comfortable or neutral. Back and forth, 30 seconds each

How long does it take?

10-20 minutes per session.

Is it hard to start?

medium.

This is one entry from the library Shift matches against. It is general information, not advice about you, and nothing on this page came from anyone's conversation.