Somatic Experiencing is a body-centered approach to trauma healing. Somatic experiencing focuses on helping individuals release emotional and physical reactions within the body to support relaxation of the nervous system.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as "tapping", is a mind-body technique that involves tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusingon a negative emotion or issue.
Core Principles of SE
Trauma Response: SE recognizes that the body's natural response to threat (fight, flight, freeze) can become dysregulated by trauma.
Completing the Response: The core of SE is helping individuals complete these interrupted survival responses.
Gentle Approach: SE avoids directly confronting traumatic memories. Instead, it focuses on gradually increasing awareness of bodily sensations and helping the body naturally release pent-up energy.
How SE Works
Mindfulness of the Body: Paying close attention to physical sensations like tension, breath, and movement.
Gentle Movement: Using gentle movements to release tension and encourage the flow of energy.
Pendulation: Moving between states of arousal and relaxation to help the nervous system regulate itself.
Who Can Benefit from SE and EFT Tapping?
SE & EFT tapping can help individuals reduce symptoms ofPTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. It can also improve overall well-being and resilience.