Psychedelics are substances that can induce profound changes in consciousness, perception, and mood. They can also facilitate healing and transformation for people who suffer from various mental and emotional health issues, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.
However, psychedelics are not magic pills that can solve all our problems. They require careful preparation, guidance, and integration to ensure a safe and beneficial experience. One powerful tool for psychedelic therapy and integration is somatic bodywork.
What is somatic bodywork?
Somatic bodywork is a form of bodywork that works with the connection between the mind and the body. It is based on the premise that our bodies store not only physical sensations but also emotional memories and traumas. By accessing and releasing these stored experiences, we can heal our wounds and free ourselves from negative patterns.
Somatic bodywork is an embodiment practice that fosters the experience and expression of being in one’s body. It can include techniques such as intention setting, breathwork, meditation, visualization, positive sensory input, grounding, movement, dance, sounding, and sensation awareness¹². Additionally, energy work, crystals, and smudging may be incorporated.
How can somatic bodywork help with psychedelic therapy and integration?
Somatic bodywork can help with psychedelic therapy and integration in several ways:
– It can prepare us for a psychedelic journey by helping us relax, trust, and surrender to the experience. It can also help us access our inner resources and intentions for the session.
– It can support us during a psychedelic journey by helping us stay present, grounded, and embodied. It can also help us process and express any emotions or sensations that arise during the session.
– It can assist us after a psychedelic journey by helping us integrate and consolidate our insights and learnings. It can also help us cope with any challenges or difficulties that emerge after the session.
Somatic bodywork can also enhance our overall well-being by improving our self-awareness, self-regulation, self-compassion, and self-care. It can also foster a deeper connection with ourselves and others. Somatic bodywork is a powerful tool for psychedelic therapy and integration that can help us heal our minds and bodies. By working with both our conscious and unconscious experiences, we can unlock our full potential and live more authentic and fulfilling lives.
References
(1) Somatic Therapy | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/somatic-therapy.
(2) Somatic Experiencing Therapy: 10 Best Exercises & Examples. https://positivepsychology.com/somatic-experiencing/.
(3) What Is Somatic Therapy? – Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-somatic-therapy-5190064.
Ashley Ryan, M.S. 