Did you know that zebras don’t suffer from PTSD? They should, being hunted and preyed in the safari, they have the ultimate fight or flight response to run as a matter of life and death. Once the threat is gone, they quickly return to a state of calm and continue to graze and get back out again as if nothing happened. What we don’t see in the background is that said zebra returns to their herd enclosed in a circle where the zebra is given time to ‘shake’. Yes shake! In an insightful book by Rob Sapolsky ‘Why Zebras don’t get ulcers’ delves into the fascinating aspect of animal behaviour, contrasting it with the chronic stress that humans often experience.
While zebras efficiently manage acute stress, humans tend to hold onto stress, allowing it to accumulate and manifest in various ways. Similarly, Bessel van der Kolk's book The Body Keeps the Score speaks of the same. Many studies have shown that stress are not just psychological experiences but are deeply embedded in our physical bodies, affecting our health and well-being.
This is where the concept of somatic exercises becomes transformative, offering a bridge between our mental and physical states. Somatic exercises are a form of body-centred therapy designed to help individuals become more aware of their physical sensations and release stored tension. Unlike traditional forms of exercise that focus on fitness and endurance, somatic exercises prioritize mindfulness and body awareness, promoting a deep connection between the mind and body.
Scientific Studies on Somatic Exercise:
Stress Reduction and Trauma Healing
Research by Bessel van der Kolk, as mentioned in his book, highlights how trauma + chronic stress are not just physiological experiences but are deeply embedded in our physical bodies. Somatic exercises help in releasing trapped emotions and tension, fostering a sense of calm and balance
- Studies have shown that somatic exercises can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD and other stress-related disorders by promoting body-awareness and mindfulness
Improved Physical Health
Somatic exercises have been found to alleviate muscle tension, pain and other bodily symptoms associated with chronic stress and unresolved trauma. By engaging in these exercises, individuals can experience improved physical health and wellbeing
Research indicates that somatic exercises can reduce inflammation and improve overall physical function, making them beneficial for inividuals with chronic pain conditions
Enhanced Mental Health
The practice of somatic exerieces have been linked to improved mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression. By forsteing a deeper connection between the mind and body, individuals can achieve a greater sense of emotional stability and resilience.
Studies have shown that somatic exercises can enhance mood and overall physiological well-being by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
Benefits of Somatic Exercise
Mind Body Connection : Somatic exercises promote a deep connection between the mind and body, allowing individuals to become more attuned to their physical sensations and emotions.
Stress Relief By releasing stored tenstion and trapped emotions, somatic exercises help in reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm and balance
Improved Physical Health Somatic exercises can alleviate muscle tension, pain, and other bodily symptoms, leading to improved physical health and well-being
Enhanced Mental Health The practice of somatic exercises has been linked to improved mentla health outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression.
Sapolsky’s insights into stress responses and van der Kolk’s exploration of trauma both highlight the need of addressing our physical selves in the healing process.
Experience the transformative power of somatic exercises at the Envision Wellness Retreat. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to engage in non-verbal tools and interventions guided by experts, helping you connect deeply with your body and mind. Join us to explore the benefits of somatic exercises + movement and embark on a journey towards holistic well-being.
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