What is Somatic Experiencing?

Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) emerges as a transformative path to healing, blending gentle mind-body techniques with deep insights into trauma recovery. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, SE™ draws inspiration from the natural resilience of wild animals, who instinctively discharge survival energies to evade trauma. This innate capacity to self-regulate exists within humans as well, though it is often overridden in modern society, leading to a spectrum of symptoms ranging from chronic stress and anxiety to severe trauma responses. In short, individuals can become ‘stuck’ in survival mode (fight, flight, freeze, and fawn), and SE supports clients in moving out of this state, freeing up energy to be redirected towards life.

In SE™, practitioners believe in the profound ability of our nervous systems to move towards healing when given the right conditions. By cultivating present-moment awareness of bodily sensations, individuals are empowered to reconnect with their innate resilience and wellness. Over time, this process integrates mind and body, fostering a natural sense of ease, connection, and wholeness.

Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) offers a myriad of advantages, including: an increased ability to engage fully in life rather than just going through the motions, better navigation of stressful situations, enhanced creativity and vitality, improved attentional focus, and relief from physical pain.