What is the Origin of Somatic Movement Protocol?

The term is derived from somatics, a field of bodywork and movement education that emphasizes the internal, subjective experience of the body, the soma. The 'protocol' applies this internal focus in a systematic way to achieve therapeutic and functional outcomes. It is fundamentally about self-sensing and self-correction of ingrained movement and postural habits.

What is the Mechanism of Somatic Movement Protocol?

The protocol works by engaging the gamma loop system, which regulates muscle spindle sensitivity, allowing the central nervous system to perceive and reset the resting length and tension of muscle fibers. By performing slow, conscious movements, the protocol downregulates the chronic activity of the sympathetic nervous system, reducing the physical manifestation of stress hormones. This action directly influences the HPA axis through a bottom-up regulatory effect, promoting relaxation and motor control.

Somatic Movement Protocol ∞ Area

Somatic Movement Protocol

Meaning

A structured series of movements, often slow and internally focused, designed to increase proprioceptive awareness and voluntarily regulate the neuromuscular system. This protocol specifically targets the body’s internal sense of movement and position, aiming to release chronic muscular tension patterns and improve body-mind integration. It is a powerful tool for reducing chronic stress held within the fascial and muscular structures.