Somatic Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma: How Your Body Holds the Key to Healing

We often think of healing as something that happens in our minds—through insight, reflection, or talking things through. But our bodies hold stories, too. The tension in your shoulders, the tightness in your chest, the fatigue that won’t go away—these sensations may be whispers (or shouts) from parts of you that have been holding pain for a long time.

Somatic healing is a holistic therapy approach that recognizes the deep connection between our minds and bodies. It’s about listening to what your body is saying and allowing it to be part of the healing process. If you've been searching for ways to heal from trauma, reduce anxiety, or reconnect with yourself, somatic healing may be the key to lasting emotional well-being.

How Trauma Lives in the Body

When we experience something overwhelming, our nervous system kicks in to protect us. Sometimes, though, the energy of that experience gets stuck. You may notice this as chronic tension, unexplained anxiety, or a feeling of being “on edge” even when you’re safe. This can happen after any experience of overwhelming stress - whether we're talking about a one time experience, or a series of them.

Your body remembers. But the good news? Your body also knows how to heal.

What is Somatic Therapy?

Somatic therapy is a trauma-informed, trauma-centered approach that helps release stored stress and emotional pain through body-based practices. It is especially effective for people struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or chronic stress.

What Somatic Therapy Looks Like

Somatic therapy isn’t about forcing change—it’s about noticing, allowing, and gently releasing. In therapy, we might explore:

• Body awareness – Noticing sensations without judgment.

• Grounding techniques – Simple ways to come back to the present.

• Movement – Small, intentional movements to release stored energy.

• Breathwork – Using breath to regulate the nervous system.

• Somatic experiencing – A gentle, trauma-focused method to help the nervous system process stress.

• Brainspotting - a therapeutic technique that uses specific eye positions, called "brainspots," to access and process trauma and emotional/physical pain

  
  

Each of these tools helps the body complete the stress response cycle, creating more space for ease and connection.

Why Somatic Therapy is Essential for Emotional Well-Being

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses primarily on thoughts and emotions, somatic therapy engages the body's wisdom. Research shows that unresolved trauma can lead to chronic pain, digestive issues, and even autoimmune conditions. By integrating somatic practices, individuals can experience deep healing, improved nervous system regulation, and a greater sense of peace.

How to Get Started with Somatic Therapy

If you’re curious about somatic therapy, start with small body-based practices like mindful breathing, gentle stretching, or grounding exercises. Seeking a somatic therapist trained in trauma-sensitive techniques can also provide deeper support tailored to your healing journey.

At Woven Wholeness, we incorporate somatic therapy techniques to help clients reconnect with their bodies and release stored trauma in a safe and supportive environment. If you’re looking for a therapist specializing in somatic healing, reach out today to learn more about our services and begin your journey to emotional well-being.