What if somatic work is not failing you, but simply not the right approach for your body?
In this solo episode, Ailey explores how somatics has become a catch all term for healing, and why that can lead to harm when practices are used without context. As a somatic psychologist, Ailey has seen how well meaning embodiment work can overwhelm the nervous system instead of supporting it.
Ailey offers a clear map of different somatic therapy approaches so you can better understand what you have tried and why it may or may not have worked. We look at expression based methods, as well as slower, more regulated approaches that prioritize safety, awareness, and integration.
The takeaway is simple and relieving. If somatic work has not helped, you are not broken. You may have been given the wrong tool for your history.
If you are navigating healing or trying to understand your nervous system, this conversation offers a more informed and compassionate path forward.
In this episode:
- 0:00 Welcome And Why A Somatics Map
- 3:48 When Somatic Work Makes You Worse
- 8:38 Lineage: The Missing Context
- 13:28 Soma Definition And Western Scope
- 19:38 Catharsis Lineage And Its Risks
- 32:03 Feldenkrais And Hakomi Slower Work
- 40:38 Woodman And The Body’s Story
- 46:38 Levine And Somatic Experiencing
- 51:38 Choosing Tools
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