Somatic Experiencing®: A Body-Based Approach to Healing Trauma
Understanding Somatic Experiencing®
Somatic Experiencing® (SE®) is a trauma healing approach developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine. It is based on the understanding that trauma is stored not just in the mind but also in the body, and that healing requires engaging directly with the nervous system. SE® focuses on restoring an individual’s natural ability to regulate stress and process overwhelming experiences.
Dr. Levine's journey into trauma healing began in the 1970s when he became deeply interested in how animals in the wild naturally recover from life-threatening situations. Unlike humans, animals instinctively release survival energy after a threat has passed, preventing trauma from becoming trapped in their systems. Humans, however, often suppress these natural responses, leading to ongoing nervous system dysregulation. Levine's work, therefore, focuses on helping people complete these unfinished survival responses and release stored trauma in a safe, controlled way.
The Development of Somatic Experiencing®
Dr. Levine’s understanding of trauma and its impact on the body led him to create Somatic Experiencing®. His foundational work in SE® emerged from a deep exploration of how trauma affects the autonomic nervous system, causing it to remain in a heightened state of arousal long after the initial threat has passed. Levine wanted to help individuals process these trapped energies and emotions without the need to relive the traumatic event itself.
Through his research and clinical work, Levine observed that individuals could begin healing by reconnecting with their bodily sensations, allowing them to release pent-up energy and restore balance. Over time, SE® became widely recognized as an effective trauma treatment that helps individuals safely process and heal from traumatic experiences.
How Somatic Experiencing® Works
Somatic Experiencing® doesn’t require individuals to relive traumatic memories. Instead, it helps them tune into their bodily sensations and gradually process stored survival energy. The process involves several key techniques:
Tracking Sensations: Noticing physical sensations in the body, such as tightness, heat, or tingling, which signal nervous system activation.
Titration: Breaking down overwhelming experiences into manageable pieces so the body can process them without becoming retraumatized.
Pendulation: Moving between sensations of discomfort and feelings of safety, which allows the nervous system to regulate itself.
Completion of Survival Responses: Encouraging the release of trapped fight, flight, or freeze energy through subtle movements, shifts in posture, or spontaneous deep breaths.
These methods help individuals build resilience, restore a sense of safety, and regulate their nervous systems in a gradual, body-focused way.
The Growing Impact of Somatic Experiencing®
Dr. Levine’s pioneering work in Somatic Experiencing® has grown to become a global movement in the field of trauma healing. Today, SE® is practiced by 60.000 of trained professionals worldwide. Since its development, SE® has expanded into various therapeutic and clinical settings, with practitioners now spanning over 40 countries.
The impact of Somatic Experiencing® has touched countless lives, as individuals from diverse backgrounds have used it to heal from trauma-related conditions such as PTSD, developmental trauma, chronic stress, emotional numbness, and physical pain. Today, SE® is widely regarded as one of the most effective approaches for healing trauma, and its influence continues to grow within the mental health and wellness communities.
Why Somatic Experiencing® Matters
Somatic Experiencing® provides a compassionate, gentle, and body-centered approach to healing that respects the pace of the individual. By focusing on the body's inherent ability to heal itself, SE® empowers individuals to release stored trauma and restore balance to their nervous system. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, stress, anxiety, or chronic pain, SE® offers a transformative path to healing, helping individuals reconnect with their bodies, emotions, and overall sense of well-being.
Healing at Your Own Pace
If you are curious about exploring Somatic Experiencing® or seeking a new approach to healing, I offer a supportive, attuned space where you can reconnect with yourself. You don’t need to have all the answers, just an openness to explore what arises. Feel free to reach out and schedule your first session to experience SE® for yourself.
