Exploring Somatic Trauma Release For PTSD

By Dorothy Watson


While most often individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder seek out the help of a mental health professional, there are other options. In one case, Somatic Trauma Release approaches trauma through body oriented healing techniques. For, if one can not heal the body, it can often be difficult to heal the mind or spirit. Whereas, when any aspect of body, mind and spirit are out of sync, it can often be difficult for individuals to perform at full potential.

The Somatic Experiencing method was created and developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine. While controversial in the beginning, the practice has proved successful over the years. In the process, a practitioner uses a series of momentary shocks and other healing techniques which have been discovered to be key elements in transforming and overcoming different aspects of trauma.

During a research project in the 1970s, Levine worked with animals, most of whom were always in fear of death though showed no outwardly signs of fear. After which, Levine noted that individuals can often become frozen or traumatized due to a physiological reaction when feeling threatened. As a result, the doctor then created a method in which individuals could overcome a number of fears and phobias based on past traumatic experiences.

Upon receiving doctoral degrees in psychology and biophysics, Dr. Levine founded an Institute focused on the Somatic Experiencing method. Since that time, Levine has been treating stress and trauma clients for over forty years. Still, the doctor remains most well known for developing the Somatic Experiencing method.

The method, works to eliminate blockages in an individual during flight or fight mode or, when an individual is having a physiological reaction in which the body freezes. In doing so, a practitioner uses different clinical aspects including a number of trouble-shooting and problem solving tools in order to return the individual to a normal state. Most often, the tools used are featured prominently in different areas of the mental health field.

The science behind the approach has recognized that traumatic episodes can often begin as an acute attack of stress brought on from life threatening situations or, as a result of cumulative stressors over time. Both types of stress have the ability to impair an individual's ability to function normally with ease and resilience.

Stressors from which different types of trauma can result include birth defects, birth trauma, natural disasters, war, neglect, emotional or physical abuse, physical or sexual assault, invasive medical practices, accidents, conflicts and phobias. In all cases, these stressors can have a negative aspect on body, mind and spirit. Whereas, if able to eliminate the fear these traumas create, an individual can often return to a happy and healthy life.

Ultimately, the method works to help complete self-protective responses and release blocked instincts trapped inside the body. Whereas, as the method addresses the root cause of trauma, clients can often gain an increased tolerance level when dealing with bodily reactions and suppressed emotions. For, when an individual is healthy in body, mind and spirit, it can often be much easier to interact with others on a number of levels.




About the Author: