What is Somatic Work in Therapy?

1. Body Awareness: Somatic work focuses on tuning into bodily sensations, movements, and postures to help individuals become more aware of how emotions and stress manifest physically.
2. Mind-Body Connection: It emphasizes the connection between mental and physical states, using techniques like breathwork, movement, and mindfulness to promote integration of the body and mind.
3. Trauma Release: It helps process stored trauma or tension in the body that may affect emotional and psychological well-being. Somatic work is also about learning what safety feels like, identifying triggers, and learning what the body needs to feel safe.
4. Grounding Techniques: Practices to help individuals feel more present in their bodies and in the moment, reducing feelings of disconnection or overwhelm. Learning to ground the sympathetic nervous system is especially important when working with anxiety, anger, fear, and trauma.

Why is it Helpful for ADHD?

1. Improves Focus: Somatic work helps individuals with ADHD ground themselves in the present moment, which can improve attention and concentration.
2. Regulates Emotions: Many with ADHD experience emotional dysregulation. Somatic techniques can help manage impulsivity and emotional intensity by calming the nervous system.
3. Reduces Anxiety and Restlessness: ADHD can lead to physical restlessness or anxiety. Somatic practices like deep breathing or mindful movement can reduce these symptoms.
4. Enhances Self-Awareness: By paying attention to bodily sensations, individuals with ADHD can better recognize signs of overwhelm or distraction and learn to manage them before they escalate.