Somatic Yoga

A gentle healing practice. This type of yoga is especially powerful for healing trauma, decreasing anxiety and reducing stress. I highly suggest using the YouTube videos from Dr. Arielle Schwartz. She is both a licensed counselor and yoga teacher. All of her classes are free and safe for most fitness levels. You can perform them on the floor or in a chair. They are a fantastic way to unwind before bed.

https://www.youtube.com/@dr.arielleschwartz913

Somatic yoga is a type of yoga that emphasizes internal awareness, sensation, and mindful movement. The term "somatic" comes from the Greek word soma, which means "living body". 

Somatic yoga differs from other styles of yoga in that it focuses on how movements feel to you, rather than how they look. It's a gentle practice that encourages you to be mindful and deeply sense your body in every moment.

Here are some characteristics of somatic yoga: 

• Slow, gentle movements

  Somatic yoga uses small, slow, and gentle movements to re-educate the brain to relax and move muscles more functionally. 

• Focus on internal sensations

  Somatic yoga focuses on internal sensations, proprioception (awareness of one's body in space), and mindful movement. 

• Release muscular tension

  Somatic yoga can help release pent up emotions and muscular tension. 

• Work with subtle anatomy

  Somatic yoga works closely with the systems of subtle anatomy, like the nadis (energy channels), chakras (energy centers), and pranic flow. 

• Develop self-compassion

  Somatic yoga can help you develop a more self-compassionate relationship with yourself and your body. 

Here is a short, relaxing routine from Dr. Schwartz:

https://youtu.be/1FpSUURvIw8?si=ikS2iVd7-1O0LtYV