A traumatized body is an overwhelmed body.

Our nervous system is designed to respond fluidly to the world around us. Periods of activation, calm, as well as low energy states, are a natural part of being human. The normal course of events is that once a perceived threat has passed, we return to our baseline. When things operate this way, we can also connect to feelings of ease, safety and connection.

What happens, though, if we perpetually live in an overwhelmed state?

That’s when things get difficult, as our system is being asked to operate beyond its capacity. We can become stuck in survival mode and a host of trauma symptoms can appear. Everything from physical ailments to emotional and mental challenges may step in, robbing us of our joy, vitality and life-force energy.

All is not lost, though.

To recover from trauma we need to work gently in a titrated way, following a pace that creates an inner sense of safety and connection; one that builds capacity; that facilitates lasting change. A pace that rebuilds a fluid state in our nervous system so we’re not locked in the survival strategies of overdrive or shutdown.

Somatic therapies help us connect with and understand our body, mind and emotions. Instead of focusing on reliving traumatic events, we explore the sensations that arise in the body in the current moment, as trauma patterns follow us through life until they are processed fully.

By staying present and curious about these sensations, we allow them to unfold, transform and reach a natural completion. Somatic Experiencing® changes the physiology that creates trauma patterns, allowing us to move forward in our lives unencumbered by the residual effects of trauma.

Glimmers

Somatics isn’t just about addressing trauma or discomfort; it’s also about noticing what feels good. By inviting in “glimmers” — moments of safety, compassion, connection and healing — we create new neural pathways.

To lay the groundwork for this deeply affecting experience, careful attention is spent creating a solid, caring relationship between us. During our first session(s) we’ll talk about consent, boundaries and what you hope to gain from our time together.

I work with adults and youth, many of whom have experienced developmental, complex or spiritual trauma.

Sessions include:

• Embodiment practices to facilitate nervous system regulation, including Somatic Experiencing® and movement practices.

• When appropriate, gentle hands-on work (SE Touch and Craniosacral Therapy) to integrate the somatic practices and facilitate tissue release.

60-minute session $150 + HST*