Healing Through the Body: Understanding Somatic Therapy & Trauma
When most people think of therapy, they imagine talking about thoughts, feelings, past experiences, or future worries. And while talking can be powerful, it’s not the only way to heal. Our bodies carry stories too, especially when it comes to trauma and stress. This is where somatic therapy comes in.
What Is Somatic Psychotherapy?
Somatic means “of the body.” Somatic psychotherapy is a type of therapy that pays attention not just to your thoughts and emotions, but also to what’s happening in your body. It recognises that trauma isn’t just something we think about—it’s something we feel, often long after the event has passed.
You might notice this yourself: tight shoulders when you’re stressed, a knot in your stomach when you’re anxious, or holding your breath without realising it. These are all signs your body is responding to something, even if your mind can’t quite explain it.
Somatic therapy gently helps people reconnect with their bodies, release stored tension, and learn to feel safer and more at ease. It might involve breath work, mindful movement, or simply tuning into physical sensations during a conversation.
What Does It Mean to Be Trauma-Informed?
A trauma-informed therapist understands how deeply trauma can affect every part of a person’s life—from how they feel and think, to how they relate to others or experience their own body. More importantly, a trauma-informed approach creates a space that feels safe, non-judgmental, and empowering.
Rather than diving straight into painful memories, a trauma-informed therapist will work with you at your own pace. They’ll make sure you feel respected and in control throughout the process. And they’ll consider your cultural background, personal identity, and life experiences as important parts of your healing journey.
Introducing Internal Family Systems (IFS): Meeting Your Inner Parts
Another approach that blends beautifully with somatic and trauma-informed care is Internal Family Systems (IFS). IFS is based on the idea that we all have different “parts” inside us—like an inner critic, a worried protector, or a child who still carries pain from the past.
In IFS therapy, you learn to get to know these parts and understand why they act the way they do. You might realise that your anxiety is actually a part trying to protect you. Or that your self-doubt is a voice that developed to keep you from getting hurt.
The goal in IFS is not to get rid of these parts, but to help them relax and trust your core Self—the calm, compassionate, wise part of you that’s always there beneath the noise.
Putting It All Together: A Holistic Path to Healing
Imagine this: You’re in therapy, and you begin to feel nervous. Your therapist invites you to notice where that nervousness shows up in your body—maybe a tight chest or fidgety hands (that’s the somatic part). They remind you that you’re safe here and that you can take your time (that’s the trauma-informed part). Then, they guide you in getting to know the part of you that’s feeling nervous, asking it what it needs with curiosity and kindness (that’s IFS).
Together, these approaches create a powerful and gentle way to heal—one that respects your body, honours your story, and trusts your ability to lead your own healing from the inside out.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be familiar with therapy or psychology to benefit from these approaches. Somatic therapy, trauma-informed care, and Internal Family Systems are for anyone who wants to feel more at home in their body, more understanding of their emotions, and more connected to their inner strengths.
If you’ve ever felt like talk therapy didn’t quite reach what you were carrying—or if you’re curious about a more embodied, compassionate way to heal—this might be the path worth exploring.
