What is the Origin of Somatic Techniques?

The term "somatic" is derived from the Greek sōmatikos, meaning "of the body." These techniques have roots in various ancient traditions and modern psychotherapeutic approaches that recognize the bidirectional communication between the body and the brain. They gained clinical traction with the understanding of how trauma and chronic stress are physically held and expressed within the physiological form.

What is the Mechanism of Somatic Techniques?

Somatic techniques work by engaging the interoceptive and proprioceptive systems, providing bottom-up regulation of the central nervous system. By consciously altering breath and posture, the vagus nerve is stimulated, promoting a shift from a sympathetic-dominant (fight-or-flight) state to a parasympathetic-dominant (rest-and-digest) state. This intentional modulation of autonomic tone directly impacts the HPA axis, reducing chronic cortisol output and supporting overall hormonal equilibrium.

Somatic Techniques

Meaning

A range of therapeutic or self-regulatory practices that utilize the direct mind-body connection to promote physiological and psychological well-being by focusing on internal bodily experience. These techniques involve intentional movement, focused sensation, and controlled breath to directly influence the autonomic nervous system and release stored physical tension. The core principle is that the body holds and expresses emotional and chronic stress-related patterns that can be consciously modulated.