Somatic Experiencing
A body-centered approach to processing stress and trauma.
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine that focuses on resolving trauma and stress through attention to bodily sensations rather than cognitive processing alone. While distinct from massage, SE principles inform some bodywork practices — particularly the understanding that emotional experiences can be held in the body's tissues and released through conscious, skillful touch.
How it is used in practice
When a client considers a session with a practitioner informed by Somatic Experiencing, they might discuss past experiences or chronic tension patterns. During bodywork, the focus often shifts to subtle bodily sensations. A practitioner may guide awareness to areas of tightness or numbness, observing how these sensations change or express themselves without judgment. The goal is to help the client track their internal experience, allowing the body to naturally process and release stored energy related to stress. This might involve gentle pressure, sustained holds, or simply creating a safe space for the client to notice and respond to their body's signals, fostering a deeper sense of presence and self-regulation within the session.