Somatic Practice to Settle Your Nervous System

I almost always begin classes with gentle movements knows as somatic movement. The specific style of somatics I teacer are knows as SATYA (Sensory Awareness Training for Yoga Attunement) which was created by Tias Little , and its a great way to begin your morning yoga practice. Take a look at the video below for a short 10 minute SATYA practice.

What is Somatic Movement?

Somatic movement is a type of body-focused practice that emphasizes internal physical perception and awareness. The word “somatic” comes from the Greek word “soma,” meaning body, and in this context, it refers to the lived, felt experience of the body from the inside out. Rather than focusing on external forms or postures, somatic movement encourages people to tune into their body’s sensations, movements, and inner rhythms. Over time, as we do this practice we become more finely attuned to our internal sensations which is so supportive of staying emoitionally balanced in day to day life.

What does Somatic Movement do for people in recovery?

1. Restoring Body Awareness

Substance abuse often dulls a person’s ability to feel and connect with their body. This disconnect can increase feelings of alienation or shame. Somatic practices gently guide individuals to restore that connection, helping them become more attuned to their bodies without judgment. This enhanced awareness can promote a deeper sense of self and embodiment.

2. Releasing Trauma

Many individuals in recovery have experienced physical or emotional trauma, and this trauma can become stored in the body. Somatic movement helps release tension, trauma, and emotional pain in a safe and supportive way. The gentle, mindful approach allows individuals to explore where they hold stress or memories in their muscles and tissues, helping them release pent-up emotions that could otherwise hinder their recovery.

3. Reducing Anxiety and Cravings

Somatic practices emphasize slow, mindful movements that naturally promote relaxation. This shift activates the parasympathetic nervous system (also known as the “rest and digest” mode), which helps lower anxiety, reduce stress, and minimize cravings for substances. Learning to regulate the nervous system in this way can empower individuals to respond to triggers with calm and control.

4. Supporting Mind-Body Integration

In recovery, people often work on healing both their minds and bodies. Somatic movement integrates these two elements by encouraging individuals to be present and listen to what their body needs. This practice can help them develop a healthier relationship with their body, supporting overall well-being.

5. Building Self-Compassion

One of the most powerful aspects of somatic movement is its non-judgmental approach. It encourages people to move in a way that feels good, rather than achieving an external ideal. For those in recovery, this can be a powerful practice of self-compassion, helping to reframe negative self-talk and promote kindness toward oneself during the healing process.

Incorporating somatic movement into recovery programs can be a gentle yet profound way to support long-term healing and well-being. This body-centered approach creates a safe space for individuals to explore their physical and emotional landscape in a way that promotes balance, ease, and greater self-understanding.

Research supports¹ that somatic practices can reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which are common challenges in addiction recovery . By embracing somatic movement, individuals can experience a deeper sense of freedom and release that complements their overall journey of recovery.

10 minute video practice

I hope you enoy this practice as much as I do! Please let me know your thoughts or questions. If you want to try out this practice in class, take a look at my in-person yoga schedule for Marin County California.