Somatic Intelligence
Somatic intelligence is the ability to understand and effectively use information from our body and physical sensations. Being fully embodied helps us make decisions and navigate our world.
In our fast-paced, sedentary, and often stressful modern world, Somatic Intelligence is becoming increasingly important. By developing our awareness of and connection to our bodies, we:
- improve our physical and emotional health,
- manage stress more effectively, and
- cultivate greater overall health and wellbeing
When I was a theatre major, the body was an instrument that we needed to be in harmony with for our performances. During a voice and speech class, the professor uncovered layers of information that no other course provided. And I wish I was taught in elementary school.
We learned that our body stores trauma and emotional pain. And unless, we release it, we carry it with us everywhere we go. Our bodies hold onto these experiences and often manifest as tension, pain and disease.
For many of us, there are many emotions that get stuck in our bodies that unless released, transform into potential illnesses. Research has found that traumatic experiences can be stored in somatic memory, and manifest as changes in an individual’s biological stress response.
Somatic Healing
And this is where somatic healing comes in by recognizing the deep connection between our bodies and our emotions. Imagine Somatic Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence as holistic Human Intelligence. When our hearts are our central navigation system, our intelligence expands.
At its core, somatic healing is about tapping into the natural wisdom of our body to facilitate healing. By doing so, we release pain and trauma that may have been stored in our bodies for years.
Our ability to listen to our body is key as it speaks to us all the time. The question is do we choose to listen to what it’s communicating.
We are moving beyond traditional approaches to healing, which often focus mostly on the mind and less on our bodies. As more of us become aware of holistic approaches to our health and wellbeing, our somatic intelligence becomes more central. It is becoming an increasingly powerful tool for transformation and healing.
In many ways, there is still a great deal for us to explore and discover when it comes to integrated, holistic ways of living. But we are becoming more aware of the need to be fully embodied and grounded. And that there are alternative options available to us.
As we become more attuned to the wisdom of our bodies, we’ll begin to unlock new levels of healing and growth. And as conscious leaders of our lives, health is everything.