Those of you who have worked with me will know that I have an interest in somatic and body psychotherapy. My curiosity in the therapy space goes far beyond what we say, do, think, and feel into what’s happening in the body, the space inbetween us and the space around us. I am always looking for ways I can expand my knowledge so that I can offer more to the people I work with. I wanted to share my experience and trust that you will take what you need.

My Journey into Somatic Yoga: A Transformative Experience

This weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to learn from a somatic yoga practitioner during the ‘Space to Breathe, Space to Be’ workshop. This experience was not only enlightening but also profoundly transformative. Somatic yoga, which focuses on the internal experience of the body, offered me a unique perspective on movement and mindfulness.

Arrival and Introduction

The workshop began with a warm welcome from the instructor, who introduced us to the principles of somatic yoga. We learned about the importance of noticing what’s going on in our bodies and opening our diaphragm up with small, meaningful movements. The atmosphere was serene, and the participants were eager to embark on this journey of self-discovery.

Exploring Movement

Throughout the workshop, we engaged in various exercises designed to heighten our bodily awareness. These movements were gentle and deliberate, allowing us to tune into the subtle sensations within our bodies. I realized that I hold my breath when I’m in a freeze response, which activates my sympathetic nervous system. It became clear to me that I hold a lot of tension in my body. This session gave me the opportunity to move into that tension in my upper body. I was encouraged to make space for myself and at one point, I was invited to expand my arms out and make even more space, which was profoundly significant for me personally. To have permission to fill the space around me was so liberating.

We were invited to use our breath to complement the somatic movements, creating a sense of harmonious and restorative balance.

Conclusion

Participating in the somatic yoga workshop was a truly transformative experience. It taught me to listen to my body and to appreciate the subtle nuances of movement and sensation. I left the workshop feeling more connected to myself and more mindful of the way I use the space around me, how I stand, sit and move through the world. I highly recommend somatic yoga to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their body and mind.

 

I have a sense that this is just the start of a long journey of discovery…

 

Thank you to Liz Underwood at Intelligent Movement.

For more information, please follow the link to her website

 intelligent-movement.co.uk.

Lots of sessions both online and in person to choose from.

 

Learn More About Somatic Yoga in the UK

If you’re interested in exploring somatic yoga further, here are some places in the UK where you can find workshops, classes, and retreats:

1. Still Flowing Yoga Teacher Training: Offers somatic yoga and movement trainings and retreats, integrating principles of somatic experiencing, mindfulness, and nature-based practices. [Learn more here](http://www.stillflowingyogateachertraining.com/somatic-yoga-somatic-movement-trauma-informed-trainings-retreats) 1.
2. Ritual Roots: Provides information on the benefits of somatic yoga, exercises, and classes near you in the UK. [Discover more here](https://ritualroots.co.uk/yoga/somatic-yoga-uk) 2.
3. Soma Soul: Focuses on somatic healing through yoga, emphasizing relaxing breathing techniques, conscious sensation, and organic movement. [Find out more here](https://www.somasoul.co.uk/)3.

 

 

Please note that the experiences and reflections shared in this blog are my own and may differ from those of others. I am not a somatic yoga practitioner, and my words should not be taken as authoritative or knowledgeable about the practice. This blog is intended to share my personal journey and insights from participating in the somatic yoga workshop.