FAQs

Q; What does somatics mean?

A: The word somatic contains soma,  which can be understood as the physical body separate from thoughts, Soul, and Spirit. The term somatics however, refers to the exploration of the physical body as perceived from within, using all five senses in addition to any labelled emotions and associated memories. The work of somatic therapies uses a variety of exercises to explore the inner landscape using the modality of the physical body, and in turn, helps to create a more logical portrait of our current embodied experience.

Q: Does yoga fall under somatic therapies?

A: As somatic therapy is anything to do with both the perceived and physical experience of the body incorporating both passive and dynamic cueing exclusive to the individual experience, yoga asana (postures) also falls under this umbrella.

Q: What is trauma-informed therapy?

A: Trauma-informed therapy works with the individual in examining their maladaptive and compensatory physical, behavioural, and cognitive patterns due to a traumatic experience, be it during the developmental stages of life or experientially in a single event. This begins with a passive exploration using the tool of the body, mindfully acknowledging the somatic experience through the five senses. This type of therapy is not to change or rid past traumatic experiences, but more so to create a conscious awareness around physical and behavioural stress responses to better manage the unpredictability of life. This therapy acts as an empowering reminder of our innate resourcefulness and resilience.

Q: What is embodiment?

A: For myself and the manner in which I teach, embodiment can be understood as the complete acknowledgment, acceptance, and becoming of what one perceives themselves to be. Embodiment is the unapologetic harmonization of mind, soma, and Spirit.

Q: What can I expect from a Liberate workshop?

A: Liberate is a captivating and cathartic combination of somatics and trauma-informed therapy. You can expect to whisper, speak, sing, and wail. You can expect to swing, jump, slash, crawl, press, kick, stomp and even dance your way through both guided and unguided movements to the beat and vibration of music. You can expect to be invited to the edge of your poised persona to then relate to the beast that lies within. You can also expect to be guided through an involuntary trembling exercise that can further integrate, transform, and release excess emotional, mental and physical tension.