In the Somatic therapy, we embark on a journey to rediscover the untapped wisdom within our bodies. Modern society has, over time, distanced us from this innate source of wisdom that accompanies us every step of our lives. This blog post explores the reasons behind our disconnection from our body’s wisdom and the transformative potential of somatic therapy in bridging this gap.
The Impact of Modern Science
In our quest for medical and scientific advancements, we’ve gradually relinquished our reliance on signals from our own bodies. Feeling discomfort or fear about our physical well-being often leads us to seek immediate solutions, such as consulting doctors or therapists or resorting to medication. While these resources are invaluable, they’ve inadvertently led many of us to overlook our body’s innate wisdom. The authority of science and the medical model has overshadowed our trust in our body’s wisdom. We tend to feel more secure when outcomes are predictable and explanations are straightforward, favoring the hard sciences over the enigmatic nature of our bodies.
The Decline of Spirituality
Modern society has shifted away from spirituality, emphasizing rationalism and science. This shift has steered us away from our bodies and towards our intellects. In times past, healing was viewed as a blend of both medicine and spirituality, recognizing the profound impact of our soul and spirit on the healing process. While modern medicine has acknowledged the placebo effect, it’s often seen as a lesser form of healing. Hard sciences have taken precedence over spiritual beliefs.
Fear of Buried Memories
Irrespective of our trauma history, many of us have become disconnected from our bodies. Approximately 80% of individuals, according to Staci K Haines of the Strozzi Institute for Embodied Leadership, need guidance to reconnect with the sensations within their bodies. This statistic likely holds true for a broader audience as well. There are valid reasons for this disconnection – reestablishing contact with our bodies can be intimidating. We may have forgotten how to do it, and the fear of confronting buried emotions and memories can deter us. However, with a gentle, self-compassionate approach and a commitment to safety, we can gradually reconnect with our bodies.
The Benefits of Tuning Into Our Body’s Wisdom
Present Moment Awareness and Creativity
Cultivating awareness, affection, courage, and connection enables us to embrace our internal experiences kindly. This newfound ability empowers us to tap into the valuable information held within our bodies. Instead of vague sensations that leave us feeling uneasy, we can utilize this internal wisdom to navigate the world more effectively. As Anne Weiser Cornell, a leading figure in focusing techniques, asserts, “The feeling in the present moment is the doorway to countless future possibilities.”
The Mind in Our Head, Heart, and Gut
Recent theories on mind-body connections, such as Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Perspective, highlight the existence of “brains” in our heart and gut. These areas of our body contain memory and intuitive intelligence, with information flowing bidirectionally between our brain and the visceral systems. The cardiac nervous system and enteric nervous system play crucial roles in many bodily functions and behaviors. Settling into our bodies can lead to a corresponding sense of calm in our minds.
Embracing an Untapped Resource
We don’t have to rely solely on intellectual reasoning to solve every problem; sometimes, our gut or heart can offer valuable guidance. Although it may require patience, trusting our emergent wisdom often results in authentic solutions. By surrendering the struggle to reach an intellectual conclusion, we open ourselves to the innate wisdom residing in our head, heart, or gut, which can work together to lead us to creative resolutions.
In Conclusion:
Somatic therapy offers a pathway to reconnecting with the wisdom inherent in our bodies. By understanding the reasons behind our disconnection and recognizing the benefits of tuning into our body’s wisdom, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Embrace somatic therapy as a tool to unlock the profound potential of your body’s innate wisdom and lead a more fulfilling life.
