By Emily Olson
Moving through life, I have always been in awe of the natural flow of the world. Everything in our world is connected in little and big ways. What is above, on, and beneath the earth have inter tangled webs that affect one another. Here in central Oregon, we are all very aware of how every rain drop counts. We know that with a lack of rain our lives are negatively impacted, and with the sky nurturing us with rain we can look forward to a smoke-free, flower filled summer. So too is the way that our souls, minds, and body function. In providing nourishment to our souls and minds our bodies flourish and vice versa. I chose to engage in the world of therapy to be a part of supporting the community in feeding their body, mind, and souls.
The most primary tenet of therapy is thought to be talking to a trusted professional. Although, talking can be hard. Going into a place and divulging things that are buried deep within us is no easy feat. Indeed, it can seem to be downright impossible. It can also be nearly impossible to sit still, especially for children. This is why I became interested in somatic therapy. Somatic therapy stems off of the notion that sometimes primarily talking is not in the cards for those wishing to explore themselves deeply. It allows an avenue where focusing on the body to get to the mind is an effective route. There are many different types of somatic therapy that are evidence-based. I chose to engage in one that spoke to me and I have personally found it beneficial in sorting through the labyrinth of my own mind; this is the trauma conscious yoga method.
At the core of trauma conscious yoga method (TCYM), it is about noticing what is happening in our bodies when we engage in mindfulness within our bodies through yoga poses. Afterwards, we discuss what comes up for us with a trained clinician. It provides an outlet for individuals to be able to notice sensations that are occurring in our body while actively engaging in stretches that are beneficial for our nervous systems, digestion, and more. As an example, while you are reading this, I invite you to lift one or both arms in the air and notice if there is any sensation standing out to you. While I am doing this, I notice a lengthening sensation in my bicep. This could be similar to what you may be noticing, and it is normal for others to have a completely different experience. In noticing what is happening within your body with movements you are practicing looking within yourself.
Diving further into what brought me to TCYM, the traditional practice of yoga stems from a spiritual beginning. TCYM follows the origins of yoga and focuses more on individuals’ experiences rather than emphasizing adherence to specific poses. This encourages engaging in yoga that is beneficial for our minds, souls, and bodies. It is about noticing where it is ok to push yourself and where it is necessary to stop in order to avoid harm, much like what traditional talk therapy emphasizes. I have found that in my own life this has opened up many different opportunities for me to reflect on what I am doing in day to day life as I practice. Engaging in yoga throughout my day allows me to reflect on how I am pushing myself in my practice and how that relates to how I am feeling and acting in other areas. I am able to practice finding the balance in my body and mind in order to sort through the areas of my life where I can lean into the discomfort and the areas where I can find compassion for where I am at and find rest. Finding the balance in my body has become an additional way for me to boost how I am able to find balance in my mental health and overall life. I invite you to reflect on how adding time into your day to look inward, in any form, would benefit your mind, body, and soul. Who knows? It may be the nourishment you need.