3 Simple Somatic Exercises for Stress Relief and Relaxation

Hey there,

Did you know that our bodies and minds are like BFFs who just can't stop chatting?

Well, that's what Somatic Therapy is all about!

It's this awesome way of getting our bodies and minds to team up and feel super happy and chill.

Picture this: you've got a magical wand that can instantly make you feel better when you're stressed or anxious.

That's exactly what somatic exercises are like!

They're like these little enchantments that help your body unwind and your mind find serenity.

Exercise 1

Want to try out a super fun exercise called the "Balloon Breath"?

It's a great way to relax and calm your mind.

So, picture this: your belly is like a huge balloon.

When you take a deep breath in, imagine that balloon getting bigger and bigger.

And as you exhale, the balloon slowly deflates. Sounds cool, right?

Ready to give it a go?

Here's how you can do it:

1. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down.

2. Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose.

3. Imagine your belly is a big balloon filling up with air as you breathe in.

4. Hold your breath for a moment, feeling your belly expand like a balloon.

5. Slowly exhale through your mouth, imagining the balloon deflating as you release the air.

6. Repeat this process several times, focusing on the sensation of your belly rising and falling like a balloon.

The "Balloon Breath" exercise helps you relax, reduce stress, and bring a sense of calmness to your mind and body. You can practice this exercise anytime you need to unwind or before bedtime to help you sleep peacefully.

Exercise 2

Another cool exercise is called "Shake It Off." Just like a dog shakes off water after a bath, you can shake off any stress or worries.

Stand up, wiggle your arms and legs, and shake your whole body like a silly dance!

It's a playful way to release tension and boost your mood. Here's how you can do it:

1. Stand up tall with your feet hip-width apart.

2. Start by wiggling your fingers and toes, then gently shake out your arms and legs.

3. Let yourself move freely as you shake your whole body - like you're dancing to your favorite song!

4. Imagine shaking away any negative feelings or tension from your body.

5. Keep shaking for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, feeling lighter and more energized with each shake.

6. Take a deep breath in and out to finish, noticing how refreshed you feel.

The "Shake It Off" exercise is a great way to release stress, increase energy levels, and bring a sense of playfulness into your day. You can do this exercise whenever you need a quick pick-me-up or want to shift your mood.

Exercise 3

Have you ever played a game where you close your eyes and try to feel different parts of your body?

Well, the "Body Scan" exercise is a bit like that, but it's not a game - it's a way to help you relax and tune in to how your body is feeling. Here's how you can do it:

1. Find a comfy spot to sit or lie down.

2. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax.

3. Start at the top of your head and slowly move your attention down through your body.

4. Notice how each part of your body feels - from your head, neck, shoulders, all the way down to your toes.

5. If you notice any tension or discomfort, take a deep breath and imagine sending warmth and relaxation to that area.

The "Body Scan" exercise helps you become more aware of any tension or stress in your body so you can release it and feel more at ease.

You can do this exercise before bed to unwind after a long day or whenever you need a moment of calm during a busy day. Give it a try and see how it makes you feel!

These exercises are like secret superpowers that you can use whenever you need to feel better.

Next time you're feeling a little stressed or anxious, try these fun somatic exercises.

If you're more of a visual learner and could use a little extra help with practicing those Somatic exercises, I've stumbled upon a fantastic Youtube video that might just do the trick for you. Give it a watch and happy practicing!

As usual, if you have any questions, you can email me.

Best,
Alex