Physical ailments have always been dealt with from a medical perspective and the same courtesy has off late been voraciously extended to mental health
as well. But how can the body and mind come into complete alignment, when the spectrum of emotions between them is left ignored? That is where somatic work comes into play. A Harvard Health report explains: "Somatic work is a mind-body therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between your brain and nervous system. Instead of just talking about problems, it uses physical awareness, breathing, and gentle movement to release pent-up tension and regulate your nervous system." Speaking of emotions, sadness and grief have to be the most universally experienced and internalised of the lot. Reiki master Talyn Fiore demonstrates the path to their Somatic release.
Release Sadness from your Body
Sit with your spine straight, but relaxed. Take support against a wall if needed, but make sure you don't feel restricted in any which way. Take your index finger and run it below your clavicle. Stop as you hit the shoulder and put down your middle finger here. Begin massaging in circles. There is no stipulated number of rounds or minutes you are required to complete. Simply try and get in tune with your body - chances are you will know when to stop. Repeat this exercise on the other side. Fiore, who was taught this movement by a Somatic therapist, explains how you are likely to feel tight and painful in these spots if your body has been strongly holding on to sadness and grief - if tears come up (more likely than you'd think), let them. She also clarifies that the right clavicle and shoulder help release sadness and grief from masculine wounds, while the left clavicle and shoulder do the same for feminine wounds.
Intention is Everything
Somatic sciences stand fully grounded in the belief that the body, in all its tangibility, literally 'stores' emotions - perceptively intangible. A physical act such as this method should then be ideal to expel the held grief and sadness. However, merely indulging in the exercise without reworking the mental state with which we are approaching it is a job half done. Even if you're skeptical about the efficacy of this rather simple routine, the 'work' here comes from you trying to believe, even if your sadness isn't letting you.
An effective way of rewiring your mind is to repeat affirmations, while you perform the routine:
- "With every exhale, I release sadness and tension from my body."
- "I allow my shoulders to drop, my jaw to unclench and my body to relax."
- "I give myself permission to feel what I am feeling, without holding it physically."
- "I forgive myself for the days I do not feel strong, and I honour where I am."
- "It is okay to feel sad, and it is safe for me to heal."
- "I am gentle with myself as I navigate these difficult moments."
- "I am allowed to rest, breathe and take things one moment at a time."
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
