What is Somatic Movement Therapy?
Somatic Movement Therapy (SMT) incorporates the mind, body, and spirit into therapeutic healing. The goal of SMT is to treat the effects of mental and emotional health issues, through mind and body connection. SMT recognizes the natural wisdom and creativity of the human body, and taps into this resource as a pathway to healing. A somatic movement is performed consciously with the intention of focusing on the internal experience of the movement. Somatic Movement enhances human function and body-mind integration through mindful and restorative movement awareness.
How does SMT work?
Somatic Movement Therapy works by bringing conscious awareness to the body through guided imagery, structured movement exploration, and deep internal listening. This process invites feelings of wholeness and well-being as it integrates mental and physical energy into a single task or exploration. Many people find SMT methods to be highly effective in relieving chronic pain, improving bodily function, and mental health issues.
Somatic therapy can incorporate body-oriented modalities such as dance, breath work, and meditation to support clients through their healing journeys. SMT can change how a physical body holds on to stress, tension, and trauma, rather than only resolving problems verbally. Clients who experience this process often report feeling clear-minded, calm, centered and better equipped to face challenges.
Who can benefit from SMT?
Anyone can benefit and try SMT as an alternative to conventional talk therapy. It is used for a variety of mental, emotional and physical health issues including PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and stress. SMT is known to aid in reducing stress, improving sleep and improving breathing. Because of its focuses on grounding and mindfulness, this therapy can be an effective option for anyone looking to get more in touch with themselves and their experiences in life.
To learn more about Somatic Movement Therapy, please visit www.ismeta.org.
Robert Bingham is a Registered Somatic Movement Therapist and is available for scheduling.