Common Somatic Healing Terms
When I first discovered Somatic Healing, I was instantly in awe of the experience I felt when I noticed that simple movements, breathwork and body awareness could create such deep emotional shifts. But I’ll be honest — some of the terms I heard in the somatic world felt a little foreign at first.
Words like dysregulation, grounding, and window of tolerance came up in workshops and therapy sessions, and I wished I had a simple guide to explain what they meant.
So, I decided to create that for you. If you’ve ever wondered what somatic practitioners mean when they talk about titration or somatic, this post is for you.
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Somatic originates from the Greek word, “soma” which is translated to mean the “living body.” When I describe the experience of somatic healing I always let people know that it is the process of coming into our body. When we are able to connect with our body through mindfulness, breath and movement it comes alive.
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Refers to the physical experiences noticed in your body. These can be described by temperature: hot, cool, warm, etc. By pressure: tight, tingling, tense, open, loose, etc. They can also be identified through movement, color or sound association as well. There is no right or wrong way to name sensations, so long as it makes sense to you.
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A tool that allows you to orient yourself to the present moment - into your body, the space and anything else you are experiencing. Grounding allows your body to feel more safe and present especially in moments that may feel heavy or challenging.
Some grounding practices can involve feeling your feet on the ground or practicing box breathing.
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A process of focusing your awareness on the various parts of your body to name and notice the various sensations present. A body scan can move from the bottom-up (feet to head) or vice versa.
This tool can help you notice where you are holding onto tension, stagnant energy or emotions.
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The window of tolerance is the “optimal zone” where your nervous system feels regulated, and you can think, feel, and respond to life without becoming overwhelmed or shut down. The window of tolerance is an individualized experience that looks and feels different for everyone.
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A somatic principle that involves slow and mindful movements and noticing of sensations as to not overwhelm the body or nervous system. This is especially useful when facing more challenging or traumatic experiences.
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Exercises that help to regulate the nervous system and support the vagus nerve - a major nerve that connects your brain to your body, helping you to keep you calm, balanced, and connected.
Some vagal toning exercises include humming, singing, gargling, etc.
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The process of bringing your body into a deeper state of calm and out of stress or overwhelm. Tools that can help regulate your nervous system may also support you in shifting out of “flight, fight, freeze or fawn” mode to increase feelings of safety.
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The process of becoming more present to and aware of your body: its emotions, breath and sensations. It can be one of the main goals of somatic healing to increase feelings of self control and connection.
Somatic healing invites us to come home to our bodies. And while the language might feel new at first, understanding these terms can help you feel more grounded, empowered, and open to your own healing process.
If you are wanting to explore and experience Somatic Healing for yourself and are located in Miami, FL - I currently hold weekly group Somatic Healing classes at Daily Flows Movement studio on Thursdays at 7:45 PM. You can sign up for class here.
Additionally, I also have availability for individual in-person (in Miami) or virtual Somatic Healing sessions which you can book a consultation call for here.
