Somatic therapy is a holistic healing approach that recognizes the deep connection between the mind and body. It is based on the field of psychophysiology – the study of the interaction between psychological and physiological processes. Somatic techniques use the body’s sensations as a pathway to address emotional and psychological distress that has manifested physically.

The core premise of somatic therapy is that unresolved trauma, chronic stress, and difficult emotions often translate into physical tension, discomfort, and sometimes chronic pain signals. By helping individuals establish a greater awareness of their bodily sensations, somatic practices can activate the parasympathetic nervous system which regulates emotional and physiological equilibrium. This leads to reduced anxiety, enhanced ability to self-regulate, and overall improved wellbeing.

Regular practice of somatic exercises such as mindful movement, breathing exercises, and body scans has numerous benefits. It empowers individuals to recognize physical signals and intervene before they escalate. It also enables emotional processing and releasing of deep-rooted issues through bodily awareness. Integrating even short 10-15 minute somatic sessions can help diversify one’s approach to managing stress, trauma, or illness.

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle hands-on technique focused on enhancing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord. By applying light touch to the cranium, spinal column, and sacrum, craniosacral therapy can:

• Release tension and alleviate pain• Improve postural alignment• Enhance nerve function• Optimize brain and bodily communication• Aid detoxification of the body• Relieve headaches and migraines• Support recovery from injury or trauma

During a session, you will clothed and lay on a massage table. Using very light touch, I will assess the rhythm and motion of your cerebrospinal fluid and begin gently manipulating your cranial bones and spinal joints. You may feel a release of tension, warmth and pulsations as stuck energies and misaligned structures return to their optimal positions.

The aim of craniosacral therapy is to support the body’s inherent healing ability by helping it achieve balanced motion and fluidity. This allows the nervous system to function more efficiently, reducing symptoms and promoting deep relaxation that aids recovery and rehabilitation.

Reflexology is a form of alternative therapy that works on the principle that applying gentle pressure to certain points on the feet, hands and ears can provide benefits to corresponding areas of the body. By massaging these reflex points, reflexology can:

• Relieve stress and tension • Improve circulation • Ease muscle pain and stiffness • Boost energy levels • Aid relaxation and sleep • Promote whole body detoxification

During a reflexology session, I will use my thumbs and fingers to apply firm yet comfortable pressure to reflex points on your feet. You will remain fully clothed and typically either sit or lay on a massage table. As I work, you may feel pulsations, warmth and sensations of relief as blocked energy is released. Some clients also experience increased circulation, with the feet becoming warmer and redder during treatment.

While reflexology does not cure any medical conditions, it can help induce a state of deep relaxation and homeostasis in the body, which in turn allows for quicker recovery from illness or injury as well as an overall feeling of rejuvenation and wellbeing.