Unlocking Wellness Through Somatic Movement and Dance Therapy
What is Somatic Movement and Dance Therapy?
Unlike traditional "top-down" talk therapy, somatic movement and dance therapy is a "bottom-up" approach, engaging the brain-body connection responsible for the body's response to trauma and stress. This involves key components of the brain-body system, including the brainstem, hypothalamus, and limbic system, which control automatic responses such as breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure.
In simpler terms, somatic movement and dance therapy uses touch, breath, movement, imagery, processes of embodiment, and the development of self-awareness to tap into the body's innate wisdom. The goal is to support participants in accessing this wisdom and using it to return to a state of safety, relaxation, balance, and optimal health.
The Holistic Benefits
Chronic Pain Management:
Emotional Processing and Regulation:
It helps individuals process and regulate their emotions, offering a path towards emotional healing and balance.
Blood Pressure Control:
Trauma Integration:
Chronic Stress Relief:
Managing Health Conditions:
Menopause Support:
Long COVID:
Feeling Safe, Grounded & Connected to Self:
Healing the Whole Self
One of the distinguishing features of this therapy is its holistic perspective. It views the body-mind and soul as interconnected aspects of a single whole, challenging the societal tendency to compartmentalise them. By re-rooting individuals into their bodies and awakening sensory perception, this practice encourages them to expand their sense of self to include the wider web of life.
This expansion leads to a profound appreciation of all aspects of life, from the human world to the more-than-human world, recognising our place within this intricate tapestry. As we experience our living bodies as valued parts of the web of life, we develop a felt sense of self. This self-awareness allows us to find creative solutions on a cellular level, make choices that promote healing, discover somatic agency, flourish, and ultimately support all of life.
In a world that is becoming increasingly challenging, somatic movement and dance therapy is not only beneficial but also necessary. It fosters trust in the body, promotes non-judgment and acceptance of all types of bodies, and motivates change against injustice.
Somatic movement and dance therapy holds the key to unlocking wellness on multiple levels, offering participants a transformative journey towards healing, self-acceptance, and a deeper connection with the world around them. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain, emotional healing, or simply a greater sense of self-awareness and connection to yourself and others, this holistic approach can be a powerful tool on your path to well-being.
Contact me today to discuss how somatic movement and dance therapy can help you.
