What Is Somatic Experiencing and How Can It Heal Trauma?

Trauma isn’t just a mental wound—it’s a full-body experience. Somatic Experiencing (SE), developed by Dr. Peter Levine, is a body-oriented approach to healing trauma.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, SE focuses on what’s happening in the body to help release stored survival energy.

When we experience trauma, our bodies often get stuck in a state of fight, flight, or freeze. SE works by:

Tracking Sensations: You learn to notice subtle physical sensations, like tingling, tightness, or warmth. These cues are the body’s way of communicating unresolved trauma.
Titration: Rather than diving into overwhelming emotions, SE gently works with small pieces of the traumatic experience. This helps prevent retraumatization and promotes a sense of safety.
Discharge and Release: By allowing the body to complete its natural stress cycle, you release the trapped energy and regain a sense of balance and vitality.

The beauty of Somatic Experiencing lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It reminds us that our bodies are incredibly wise and capable of healing when given the right support.

SE is ideal for anyone seeking to process trauma, improve emotional resilience, or deepen their connection to their body.

Interested in learning how SE can support your journey? Let’s explore this path to healing together.