Somatic Healing 101: Releasing Stored Trauma Through Body Awareness

Mariah Aurora
Oct 27, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 25, 2025

Trauma lives in the body. Discover how somatic practices like breathwork and movement can release the "freeze" response in your nervous system that talk therapy often can't reach.

Have you ever felt like you’ve done all the mindset work, all the journaling, all the affirmations—but something still feels stuck inside you?

In this episode of Jotindi: Journey to the Inner Divine, we explore how healing truly happens through the body.

Somatic healing is the bridge between mind, body, and spirit. Our bodies don’t just carry us through life—they remember, absorb, and radiate energy. When that energy becomes blocked through trauma, stress, or emotional overwhelm, we can experience physical tension, numbness, or a deep sense of disconnection.

Understanding Somatic Healing

Somatic healing is about more than just emotional release. It’s about recognizing that our bodies hold wisdom. They tell stories of our past, our struggles, and our triumphs. Have you ever noticed how a simple stretch can release tension? That’s your body speaking to you. It’s saying, “Hey, I need some attention here!”

By tuning into our bodies, we can uncover layers of emotions that we might have buried deep. This process can be transformative. It allows us to reclaim parts of ourselves that we thought were lost.

The Impact of Trauma on the Body

Trauma doesn’t just reside in our minds; it leaves imprints in our bodies. You may have felt a knot in your stomach during stressful times or tightness in your chest when faced with overwhelming emotions. These sensations are signals. They remind us that we are human, and we feel deeply.

When we ignore these signals, we risk creating a cycle of disconnection. It’s vital to acknowledge these feelings and understand their origins. By doing so, we can begin to heal.

The Connection Between Tension and Energy Flow

Have you ever considered how tension affects your energy? Think about it: when your shoulders are tight, do you feel open and free? Or do you feel constricted? Tension can block our energy flow, making it difficult to connect with our true selves.

Imagine how liberating it would feel to release that tension! It’s like opening a window after being cooped up for too long. Fresh air rushes in, and suddenly, you can breathe again.

Simple Somatic Practices for Healing

Let’s explore some simple somatic practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine. These practices can help you release stuck energy and restore balance.

Grounding Exercises: Stand barefoot on the ground. Feel the earth beneath your feet. Imagine roots growing from your feet into the earth, anchoring you.
Breath Work: Take a few deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth. With each breath, visualize releasing tension.
Gentle Movement: Dance, stretch, or simply sway your body. Allow yourself to move freely, letting go of any judgments.
Body Scan: Lie down comfortably. Close your eyes and scan your body from head to toe. Notice any areas of tension and breathe into them.

A Guided Exercise to Reconnect

Now, let’s engage in a short guided exercise to help you loosen your shoulders, reconnect with your body, and feel your energy flow again.

Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or stand in a relaxed position.
Take a Deep Breath: Inhale deeply, filling your lungs. Hold for a moment.
Release: As you exhale, let your shoulders drop. Feel the weight of the world lifting off your shoulders.
Visualize: Picture a warm light surrounding your shoulders. With each breath, imagine this light melting away tension.
Feel: Allow yourself to feel the energy flowing through your body. Embrace this sensation.

You’ll learn how to listen to your body as an ally, not an obstacle—and begin to experience healing on a whole new level.

Resources & Freebies

Download your free guide: The Spiritual Self-Care Menu – a beautiful resource filled with practices to help you ground, clear energy, and reconnect with your body. 👉 mariahaurora.com/freebie/menu