Somatic Experiencing
Somatic Experiencing® is a powerful body-based method developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine which employs cutting-edge science and supports the regulation and resetting of the nervous system using neuroscience and Western anatomy. SE™ is based upon the observation that wild prey animals, though routinely threatened, are rarely traumatized. Animals in the wild use innate mechanisms to regulate and discharge the levels of energy arousal associated with defensive survival behaviors.
Trauma is anything that is experienced as threatening to our nervous system, our survival, or our wellbeing and can result in lingering symptoms. The body holds memories without words; it holds feelings, emotions, and reflexes of a moment.
SE is a particular way of paying attention and reading the nervous system in order to support it. SE employs awareness of body sensations to help people “renegotiate” and heal rather than re-live stressful behaviors or re-enact traumas. We don’t have to talk about the story. We get curious about the sensations beneath the feelings. This is the pathway to a balanced nervous system and learning to feel safe in your body. Dr. Levine believes that accessing the nervous system and bypassing the brain allows for more relaxation, containment, and emotional self-regulation.
Trauma-Sensitive Yoga
In TCTSY, participants are invited to explore movement in a safe space. Each participant is empowered to make choices about their own body. As a facilitator, Jen will be on her own yoga mat participating in the yoga forms. Unlike some public yoga classes, there are no “adjustments” and no one will be touched. Yoga forms are offered by the facilitator, it’s each individual’s choice how they might choose to express that form or not. Participants are always welcome to choose to rest instead.
With TCTSY, we don’t talk about trauma. TCTSY has no interest in making meaning out of bodily sensations, emotional content, or story. This may sound like a welcome change if talk therapy is not providing relief.
Learn More About Jen Worth
Tags: Somatic Experiencing, Trauma healing, Trauma Sensitive Yoga
