What is “somatic”? Like “trauma”, the word “somatic” appears to be having its moment in the sun of collective awareness. There are somatic workouts and therapies, bodywork and breathwork, journaling prompts and listening sessions, meditations and yogas, and even narcissists and disorders. And let’s not forget quantum somatics, a term that does not seem to have any established definition, but does include two trendy words. For the purposes of our work together, which today consists only of me writing and you reading and possibly commenting, and does not yet extend into quantum field expeditions, it may be useful to look at the concept and its applications within various disciplines and frameworks.
The term “somatic” is derived from the greek word “soma,” meaning “body.” A quick scan of various dictionary entries for the word reveals that they collectively emphasize the distinction of “somatic” as pertaining to the body in contrast to the mind.
Merriam-Webster: **Somatic (adjective):** 1. Of, relating to, or affecting the body especially as distinguished from the germplasm 2. Of or relating to the wall of the body: parietal 3. Pertaining to the body.
Oxford English Dictionary: **Somatic (adjective):* 1. Relating to the body, especially as distinct from the mind. 2. Biology: Relating to the soma, especially as distinct from the reproductive cells.
Cambridge Dictionary: **Somatic (adjective):** 1. Relating to the body as opposed to the mind. 2. Medical: Relating to the body, particularly its physical aspect.
American Heritage Dictionary: **Somatic (adjective):* 1. Of, relating to, or affecting the body, especially as distinguished from a body part, the mind, or the environment 2. Of or relating to an animal body or body wall, as distinguished from the viscera, limbs, or head 3. Of or relating to the human body.
Using the word “somatic” according to its most common dictionary definition, it seems it may indeed be quite broadly applied. However, most current usage evokes not a contrast but a relationship between the body and the mind. Some somatic fields, like certain movement education practices, prioritize the body, while others, like somatic psychology, prioritize the mental and emotional spheres; one aims to alleviate chronic pain, while the other seeks to regulate a scattered and nervous mind. Both have in common the goal of promoting overall well-being, as well as the recognition of the bidirectional influence of body and mind on one another. My own use of the term “somatic”, at its most basic, implies a mind-body connection, but often extends into the realm of definitions provided by post-Jungian, integral, and transpersonal theoretical frameworks wherein the very language of the psyche consists of its somatic images, the body is considered to be not only of its physiology but also of its energetic dimension, and the corporeal is an instrument of perception of the transcendent.
Let us now have an overview the concept of “somatic” within the contexts of medicine, psychology, therapies and practices, philosophy and theory, and cultural and social frameworks, so that we may gain a deeper understanding of its significance and implications across various fields.
Medicine
In the context of medicine, the term “somatic” is used both to describe the physical in contrast to the mental/emotional as well as the physical in relation to the psychological.
An example of the former usage are somatic cells, which constitute most of the body's tissues and organs. These cells are crucial for the body’s structure and function, contributing to the formation of skin, muscles, and internal organs through the process of mitosis. Somatic symptoms, on the other hand, are physical symptoms that may be linked to psychological factors and exemplify the latter usage, the physical in relation to the mental/emotional. When individuals experience distressing physical symptoms, such as pain or fatigue, that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition it is called somatic symptom disorder. Recognizing these symptoms is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the intricate connection between mind and body.
Therapies and Practices
Somatic therapies and practices are therapeutic approaches that emphasize the body's role in healing and personal development, recognizing the connection between physical and emotional well-being. Nearly any type of movement that is practiced with focus on its internal experience rather than its external form or its end result may be considered somatic in this context. Yoga, pilates, somatic exercise, and dance are some common examples. Generally speaking, these type of movement therapies are practiced slowly and have an exploratory and intentional quality to them, requiring the individual to notice at all moments how their body is feeling. The term “somatics” was coined in the 1970s by Thomas Hanna. Hanna Somatics is a movement education system designed to improve physical function and alleviate chronic pain, emphasizing the body’s internal perception and experience. Other somatic education methods like the Feldenkrais Method and the Alexander Technique also aim to improve physical function by cultivating heightened awareness of movement patterns, thereby fostering better posture, flexibility, and overall bodily coordination.
Psychology
In psychology, the term "somatic" emphasizes the profound connection between the mind and body, particularly focusing on how emotional and psychological experiences manifest physically and vice versa. Somatic Psychology recognizes that mental states are deeply intertwined with physical sensations and responses. Emotions like stress, anxiety, and joy are not merely abstract feelings but are often experienced through bodily sensations such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, or a sense of lightness. By understanding these physical manifestations, somatic psychology provides insights into how the body processes and stores emotional experiences. For instance, psychological trauma can result in physical symptoms such as chronic pain or gastrointestinal issues, highlighting the body's role in holding and expressing psychological distress. The field also examines how bodily awareness and physical experiences can influence psychological states. For example, posture and movement can affect mood and self-perception, demonstrating the bidirectional relationship between body and mind. The term psychosomatic is expressive of this mind-body connection.
One prominent application of somatic psychology is Somatic Experiencing, a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine, which focuses on bodily sensations in order to help individuals release trauma. By paying attention to physical manifestations of held trauma rather than just cognitive processes, this method aims to address its root cause and to restore the body’s innate ability to regulate itself, leading to more effective healing. Another significant application is body psychotherapy, which integrates the body into psychological treatment. This approach uses physical movement, breathing techniques, and awareness of bodily sensations to help individuals process emotions and psychological issues. The role of the body in processing and storing trauma is well-documented; physical experiences often hold memories and emotions that the mind may not be fully aware of. Techniques used in somatic psychology, such as mindfulness and movement therapy, promote healing and self-awareness by encouraging a holistic understanding of one’s emotional and physical states.
Imaginal Psychology, deeply influenced by the work of James Hillman, Carl Jung, and other depth psychologists, emphasizes the role of imagination, images, and archetypal patterns in understanding the psyche, and asserts that images, defined not just as visual representations but encompassing all sensory experiences, including sounds, smells, tastes, and tactile sensations, are primary carriers of meaning in the psyche. In contrast with the literal and reductive thinking often found in conventional psychology, Imaginal Psychology emphasizes a poetic and metaphorical approach to understanding images. In this theoretical framework, the soma, or body, carries metaphorical and symbolic meanings that are important for understanding one's inner life and psychological processes. The body is seen as a vessel for the imagination. Dreams, fantasies, and visions often include bodily sensations and images, highlighting the deep connection between the body and the imagination. The body is viewed with a sense of soulfulness, suggesting that bodily experiences and even ailments are not just physical phenomena but are imbued with psychological and spiritual significance. Healing involves attending to the body's soul dimension.
In Integral Psychology, the concept of "soma" refers to both the physical body and its energetic dimensions. Developed by Ken Wilber and others, Integral Psychology aims to integrate various psychological theories into a cohesive framework. The soma includes the body's physiological processes and energy systems, as recognized in somatic therapies, yoga, and Eastern medicine. Emphasizing embodiment, Integral Psychology focuses on the lived experience of being in a body, encompassing bodily sensations, movements, and energy flow. Physical health is seen as essential to psychological well-being, with practices like exercise, nutrition, and somatic therapies being vital components. A key principle is the integration of bodily awareness with mental and emotional processes, acknowledging the mutual influence between physical and mental states. Techniques such as mindfulness, body scanning, and somatic experiencing support this integration. The soma is also viewed through developmental stages, suggesting our relationship with our body evolves from basic survival to advanced understandings and uses of bodily potential. Incorporating practices from Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Western holistic health, Integral Psychology underscores the importance of bodily awareness, health, and the mind-body integration for overall psychological well-being and development.
Transpersonal Psychology emphasizes the spiritual and transcendent aspects of human experience and integrates the concept of soma, or the body, as essential for spiritual and transcendent states. It adopts a holistic view, recognizing the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, and considers the soma integral to human experience across physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. The body is seen as a site for healing and transformation, where physical symptoms often manifest deeper spiritual processes. Healing addresses both physical ailments and their psychological and spiritual roots. Embodied spirituality is such that spiritual insights are lived through the body. Techniques like Holotropic Breathwork, developed by Stanislav Grof, access non-ordinary states of consciousness through deep, rhythmic breathing. Rituals and ceremonies involving movement, breath, and sensory experiences evoke sacredness and connection, linking the embodied experience to its spiritual dimensions.
Philosophy and Theory
Philosophical and theoretical perspectives delve into the profound relationship between the body and mind, offering a rich exploration of how our physical being influences and is influenced by our mental and emotional states. Phenomenology, a branch of philosophy that focuses on the structures of experience and consciousness, places a strong emphasis on the embodied nature of human existence. This perspective, championed by philosophers like Maurice Merleau-Ponty, suggests that our bodily experiences are central to how we perceive and interact with the world. Merleau-Ponty's ideas on the lived body propose that the body is not merely a biological entity but a fundamental aspect of our identity and perception. Similarly, Embodiment Theory investigates how physical being is integral to cognition and experience, arguing that our thoughts and emotions are deeply rooted in our bodily states. This theory is increasingly influential in contemporary cognitive science and philosophy, where discussions on the embodied mind explore how physical and sensory experiences shape cognitive processes. These philosophical and theoretical frameworks highlight the essential role of the body in shaping human experience, offering a comprehensive understanding of the somatic dimension that bridges the gap between physicality and consciousness.
Social and Cultural Frameworks
The concept of "somatic" extends beyond individual experience to encompass the role of the body in social and cultural practices and beliefs. In this context, body politics becomes a critical application, referring to how societies regulate and control bodies through cultural norms, laws, and institutions. This regulation can be seen in various aspects of life, from dress codes and beauty standards to healthcare policies and reproductive rights, all of which reflect broader societal attitudes toward the body. A notable application is the concept of somatic markers, introduced by neuroscientist Antonio Damasio, which posits that bodily sensations and emotions significantly influence decision-making processes. These markers help individuals navigate complex social environments by linking physical experiences to emotional responses, thereby guiding behavior. In addition to its applications in neuroscience, psychology, and clinical practice, the notion of somatic markers is relevant in behavioural economics, helping to explain why people sometimes make irrational decisions that are driven more by emotion than by logical reasoning. By examining the intersection of the body with cultural and social dynamics, we gain a deeper understanding of how somatic experiences are shaped by and contribute to the fabric of society.
Interdisciplinary
The concept of "somatic" serves as a vital bridge between various fields of study, fostering interdisciplinary connections that enhance our understanding of the body-mind relationship. As we have explored, in medicine, psychology, and therapeutic disciplines, somatic principles are increasingly being integrated to address complex health issues holistically. This collaboration enables a more comprehensive approach to patient care, recognizing that physical health, mental well-being, and emotional states are deeply interconnected. Beyond healthcare, somatic principles are being incorporated into education, sports, and the arts, enriching these fields with insights into bodily awareness and movement. Projects that blend somatic education with traditional academic curricula show promise in developing students' self-awareness, emotional regulation, and cognitive skills. These interdisciplinary efforts highlight the transformative potential of somatic approaches, advocating for a more integrated and holistic perspective across diverse domains. By bridging gaps between disciplines, the study and application of somatic concepts contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of human health and experience.
I will complete today with the first verse of perhaps the most somatic of poems, Walt Whitman’s I Sing the Body Electric:
I sing the body electric,
The armies of those I love engirth me and I engirth them,
They will not let me off till I go with them, respond to them,
And discorrupt them, and charge them full with the charge of the soul.
Was it doubted that those who corrupt their own bodies conceal themselves?
And if those who defile the living are as bad as they who defile the dead?
And if the body does not do fully as much as the soul?
And if the body were not the soul, what is the soul?
You can find the rest here: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45472/i-sing-the-body-electric
Thank you for writing this. I’ve been hearing a lot about somatic, yoga, or different exercises to release trauma, but I’ve just never really had the time to learn much about it. I appreciate this information and I’m now a subscriber.