Trauma can leave deep scars, not just in the mind but also in the body. When people go through difficult or painful experiences, their bodies often hold onto that stress, leading to muscle tension, headaches, or even chronic pain. It’s like carrying an invisible weight that never really goes away.
Somatic trauma therapy is a special way of healing that focuses on both the mind and the body. Instead of just talking about the past, this therapy helps people feel and release the tension stored inside them. It uses gentle movements, breathing exercises, and body awareness techniques to bring relief.
Unlike regular talk therapy, which mainly focuses on thoughts and emotions, somatic therapy works by reconnecting a person with their body. This helps them feel safe again, reduces stress, and allows them to heal in a deeper way.
How Trauma Affects the Body
Our minds and bodies are connected. When something bad happens, it doesn’t just affect how we feel—it also affects how we move, breathe, and react. Trauma can stay in the body long after the event is over.
How Trauma Stays in the Body
- The body remembers stress. When someone faces danger, their muscles tense up to protect them. But if the stress doesn’t go away, the body stays tense.
- Breathing changes. Scary or painful events can make breathing shallow and fast. This can become a habit, even after the danger is gone.
- The brain stays on high alert. Trauma makes the brain think danger is always near. This can lead to restlessness, fear, or trouble relaxing.
Common Signs of Unresolved Trauma
- Muscle tension – Tight shoulders, stiff neck, or aching back.
- Chronic pain – Unexplained headaches, stomach pain, or joint pain.
- Fatigue – Feeling tired all the time, even after resting.
- Digestive issues – Stomach aches, nausea, or changes in appetite.
- Sleep problems – Trouble falling asleep or waking up often at night.
- Fast heartbeat – Feeling anxious or panicked for no clear reason.
Trauma doesn’t just stay in the mind—it shows up in the body too. But the good news is that healing is possible. Somatic therapy helps release this stored stress and brings relief.
What Is Somatic Trauma Treatment?
Somatic trauma treatment is a way to heal both the mind and body. It helps people release stress and pain stored inside them. Instead of just talking about feelings, this therapy focuses on body movements, breathing, and awareness.
How It Works
- Mind-body connection – The body holds onto past stress. Somatic therapy helps release it.
- Awareness of body sensations – People learn to notice tight muscles, fast breathing, or discomfort. This helps them understand their emotions better.
- Gentle movements – Stretching, walking, or simple exercises help release tension.
- Controlled breathing – Slow, deep breaths calm the nervous system and reduce stress.
Key Techniques in Therapy
- Breathwork – Deep breathing exercises help relax the body.
- Body scanning – People close their eyes and focus on different body parts to find tension.
- Grounding exercises – Touching the floor, holding an object, or feeling textures helps bring calmness.
- Movement therapy – Gentle stretching or shaking can help release built-up stress.
- Touch therapy – A therapist may use light touch to help the body relax.
Somatic therapy gives people simple ways to heal. It helps them feel safe, strong, and in control of their bodies again.
Who Can Benefit from Body Based Trauma Treatment?
Somatic trauma treatment helps many people. It is useful for those who struggle with stress, pain, or past trauma.
Who Should Try It?
- People with PTSD
Those who have been through accidents, abuse, or other scary events.
- Anyone with anxiety
It helps calm racing thoughts and restless feelings.
- Those dealing with chronic stress
Long-term stress can harm the body. This therapy helps release tension.
- People with unexplained pain
Headaches, back pain, or stomach issues can be linked to emotions.
- Anyone with sleep problems
It helps relax the body and improve sleep.
- Those looking for natural healing
If someone wants to heal without only using medication, this is a good option.
Somatic therapy helps the mind and body work together. It teaches people to feel safe, strong, and relaxed.
The Healing Touch!
Somatic trauma therapy shows us that healing goes beyond just talking about our feelings. Trauma affects our bodies too, leaving behind tension and pain that can hold us back. However, by using gentle movements, deep breathing, and mindful body awareness, we can slowly release that hidden stress. This therapy helps people feel calm, safe, and in control once again. It reminds us that when we listen to our bodies, we can take small steps toward a happier, healthier life. Ultimately, somatic therapy offers a natural way to mend both the heart and the body, opening the door to a brighter future.
Tulua Therapy is a mental health practice based in Burnaby, BC. They have a team of experienced counsellors who work in various areas of mental health. They have several professionals, and they offer a range of services that include but are not limited to somatic therapy. The practice emphasizes a respectful, trauma-informed approach and is mindful of the traditional lands on which it operates.
