One of the dominant views of western culture is the idea that our mind and body are separate from one another. This distinct split between the two often leads to treating the body, or the mind, like an object; an object that needs to be “fixed” when something isn’t working “right.” In some cases, this perspective can be useful for addressing a problem and finding a solution. However, approaching ourselves and others with a view of “what’s wrong” and “how do we fix it” says to the person in need “you’re wrong” or “you’re less than you should be.” To care for someone in this way can not only be counterproductive to their healing and growth, but it can also be a shaming experience. Somatic coaching invites us to explore another option for offering support.

The word “somatics” was developed in the early 70’s and comes from the word “soma” which means “the living organism or body in its wholeness.” In an effort to shift the view from a separate mind and body, somatics says our entire being is a “living organism” with all parts alive, intelligent, and working together as a whole system. When we acknowledge our mind, body, emotions, and all parts of us, as living and encompassing the wisdom of how to work together, we move from objectification to curiosity and openness - qualities essential for meaningful learning, growth, and change.

In the early stages of my training, I was taught that all human beings have 3 inherent needs: safety, belonging, and dignity. This teaching, while also recognizing the very real needs of things like food, water, housing, and healthcare, proposes that human beings are very adaptable creatures. We are so adaptable, in fact, we can go without some of our needs being met for days, months, or even years. However, there are consequences to living a life without our needs being met. The injury of unmet needs can lead to emotional pain, and in some cases, physical pain or other health issues. Additionally, coping mechanisms, often in the form of unconscious behavioral patterns, may be adopted as a best effort means to survive the painful situation or event. Often this behavior, born out of unhealthy circumstances, will need to be seen and understood to determine whether or not it still aligns with the life we want for ourselves now. I find the work of somatics to be a powerful way to address these unmet needs, the sustained impacts or injuries, and any behaviors that were developed as a result.

The 3 main areas of this work together involve building somatic awareness, exploring somatic practices, and arriving at what are called somatic openings. Most of us in the western world are very skilled at thinking and intellectualizing as a way of taking care of ourselves. Where we are often less practiced is feeling emotions and physical sensations of the body. This is where somatic practices come in to help build these new areas of awareness. Done at a pace that feels safe and with consent, somatic practices are also introduced to support any key areas of growth the client is looking to achieve. These practices can look like guided meditations, movement practices, boundary setting practices, stress release practices, and more. Lastly, a somatic opening refers to a shift in the client where they feel, often both emotionally and physically, changed and in more alignment with the life they’ve longed for. Even in the face of old challenges, a new openness exists that provides access to new forms of action and ways of being. This process does require energy and commitment and it’s also really beautiful and one I’m grateful to facilitate and support.

Here are the session packages I’m currently offering:

-1 individual session - $50

-5 Sessions - $200 total ($40 per session) - meeting weekly or biweekly

-10 Sessions - $350 total ($35 per session) - meeting weekly or biweekly

All sessions are 50 minutes and are held remotely via zoom.