A Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Therapy

Two women perform somatic practices on a bed in a home bedroom
Two women perform somatic practices on a bed in a home bedroom

Question for you: 

Do you think that the mind follows the body? 

Example: If you have poor diet and exercise habits, they will negatively affect your psychological well-being. 

Or, do you think the body follows the mind? 

Example: If you’re depressed, your physical health will suffer. 

In reality, this issue is much more complex than the black-and-white scenarios above. 

And this is exactly what the field of somatic therapy explores. 

Somatic therapy is a form of psychotherapy that emphasizes the connection between the mind and body in healing. It is based on the understanding that trauma, stress, and emotional experiences can manifest physically in the body, leading to chronic pain, tension, and other physical symptoms. 

Somatic therapy aims to address these physical symptoms through various techniques, helping individuals to release stored tensions, alleviate stress, and improve overall physical and emotional well-being.

The techniques used in somatic therapy may include: 

• Deep breathing

• Relaxation exercises

• Guided imagery

• Movement (such as dance or yoga)

• Other body-oriented methods 

The therapy focuses on helping individuals become more aware of their bodily sensations and learning how to interpret and manage these sensations as a way to regulate emotions and reduce symptoms of distress.

Through innovative practices, somatic therapy claims to address issues like: 

• Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Anxiety and stress

• Depression

• Chronic pain

• Grief and loss

• Emotional regulation

• Attachment disorders

• Dissociation and disconnection

• Self-esteem and body image issues

• Eating disorders

• Addiction recovery 

• Sleep disorders 

• Relationship issues and social anxiety 

• Life transitions and adjustment issues

Many people find somatic therapy beneficial in increasing self-awareness, particularly in how emotions are experienced in the body. This awareness can lead to better emotional regulation and a deeper understanding of one’s responses to stress and trauma.

The emphasis on bodily awareness and self-regulation techniques empowers people by giving them practical tools to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma on their own.

Books on somatic therapy

middle aged blonde woman is reading a book while sitting on a sofa at home

The seminal work on trauma and somatic therapy is The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk. 

This book spent over 200 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list and explores how trauma affects the body and mind and presents somatic experiences as a powerful method for healing.

Oprah Winfrey even featured the book on her show and website

Additional books on somatic therapy include: 

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine.

Embodied Healing: Using Yoga to Recover from Trauma and Extreme Stress by Lisa Danylchuk.

In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness by Peter A. Levine.

Body-Centered Psychotherapy: The Hakomi Method by Ron Kurtz

Healing Trauma: A Pioneering Program for Restoring the Wisdom of Your Body by Peter A. Levine. 

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment by Pat Ogden and Janina Fisher.

If you’re interested in the topic, grab one of these books for a deep dive into somatic therapy and its theory and real-life applications.

Next steps: Placing the power of your body and mind in your own hands

Dynamic Brain

At Stonehenge Health, we’ve long been proponents of nurturing the connection between body and mind. 

Somatic therapy and brain health supplements like Dynamic Brain share a common purpose in improving well-being—somatic therapy through therapeutic techniques and Dynamic Brain through nutritional support for cognitive functions.*

With a blend of 40 brain health ingredients, including nootropics such as Huperzine A, Bacopa Extract, DHA, and Phosphatidylserine – Dynamic Brain is designed to support your brain’s cognitive ability.*

Learn more about Dynamic Brain from Stonehenge Health.


The Healing Power of Holiday Music

Senior couple dancing and smiling together in happiness during Christmas holiday while wearing Santa hat for season celebration
Senior couple dancing and smiling together in happiness during Christmas holiday while wearing Santa hat for season celebration

As the holiday season unfolds, a familiar and magical symphony takes center stage, filling the air with joy, nostalgia, and a sense of togetherness. With its timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics, holiday music possesses a unique healing power that transcends generations and cultures. In this essay, we delve into the profound impact of holiday music on emotional well-being, exploring how these harmonious tunes contribute to the season’s magic.

The Emotional Resonance of Holiday Music

Christmas decor on music notes background

Holiday music is special in our hearts, acting as a sonic bridge between the past and the present. The emotional resonance of these melodies taps into the collective memories and experiences associated with the holiday season. From the uplifting notes of “Jingle Bells” to the soul-stirring rendition of “Silent Night,” each song carries a unique emotional weight, stirring feelings of nostalgia, warmth, and love.

1. Evoking Nostalgia and Memory

Family memories from christmas eve

Holiday music has an unparalleled ability to evoke nostalgia and trigger memories of past celebrations. The familiar tunes transport us to cherished moments spent with family and friends, bringing a sense of continuity and connection across time. This emotional resonance can be especially powerful for those physically distant from loved ones during the holidays, offering a sonic embrace that transcends physical boundaries.

2. Fostering a Sense of Community

Cinematic shot of Conductor Directing Symphony Orchestra with Performers All Wearing Santa Hats Playing Violins, Cello and Trumpet on Classic Theatre with Curtain Stage During Christmas Music Concert

The communal nature of holiday music creates a shared experience that fosters a sense of community. Whether singing carols around a fireplace, attending a holiday concert, or enjoying the tunes playing in a bustling mall, the shared joy of music brings people together. This collective experience promotes a sense of unity and belonging, reminding us that we are part of something larger than ourselves.

3. Alleviating Stress and Elevating Mood

Senior woman with her dog opening Christmas presents.

The holiday season, while joyous, can also be a source of stress for many. The pressures of gift-giving, social gatherings, and the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations can take a toll on emotional well-being. Holiday music acts as a soothing balm, alleviating stress and elevating mood. The melodic simplicity and positive lyrics of many holiday songs have a calming effect, providing a musical respite amidst the seasonal chaos.

4. Enhancing Mindfulness and Presence

close up of man hands plays  on  Piano Keys with Christmas tree and decoration light, in the night of Christmas season, Christmas backgroumd with copy space

Listening to holiday music invites a sense of mindfulness and presence. As the melodies weave through the air, they encourage listeners to be in the moment, savoring the season’s beauty. Whether it’s the gentle strains of a classic carol or the vitality of a festive anthem, the music compels us to pause, reflect, and embrace the present, fostering a deeper connection with the holiday spirit.

5. Expressing and Processing Emotions

letters j-o-y / as portrayed by christmas things / candy cane and such

Holiday music provides a channel for expressing and processing a range of emotions. From the jubilation of “Joy to the World” to the reflective introspection of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” these songs encapsulate the multifaceted nature of the holiday experience. For those navigating feelings of joy, sorrow, or gratitude, the music becomes a companion in expressing and understanding these emotions.

6. Inspiring Generosity and Kindness

Elderly man giving a Christmas present to his wife

Many holiday songs carry messages of goodwill, generosity, and kindness. The lyrics often emphasize the importance of giving, love, and compassion. These themes resonate deeply during the holiday season, as a gentle reminder of the values that define the spirit of the holidays. Through the power of music, individuals are inspired to embody these virtues in their interactions with others.

7. Cultivating Creativity and Tradition

man wearing Santa hat holds and paints small wooden Christmas tree, prepare toys ready for Christmas

Holiday music cultivates creativity and tradition with its rich tapestry of genres and interpretations. Artists bring their unique styles to classic tunes, infusing them with new life and energy. This dynamic fusion of creativity and tradition ensures that holiday music remains both timeless and evolving, appealing to a broad spectrum of listeners across generations.

Harmonize Your Holidays with An Additional Frontman

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms

Holiday music is more than just a seasonal soundtrack; it’s a source of joy, connecting us to festive memories and creating a warm, harmonious atmosphere. Whether it’s classic carols, jazzy tunes, or rock anthems, immersing yourself in these melodies can uplift your spirits and foster a sense of togetherness.

And for an extra dose of tranquility and feel good-ness, consider adding adaptogenic mushrooms to the mix. Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms blend Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Shiitake, each known for their adaptogenic properties.* This unique combination supports cognitive performance, immune health, stress resilience, and – all conveniently packed in one blend.* 

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.