Somatic means “relating to the body”. It comes from the Greek root word ‘soma’ which means “body”. Therefore, somatic coaching is an 80/20 approach. 80% is focused on connecting with the body while 20% is focused on mindset. Various somatic techniques are used including breath, sound, & movement in order to unlock the wisdom the body is wanting to share with us. From there, we tap into the mental field to re-pattern, rewire, and re-organize limiting belief systems, unhealthy/unwanted behaviors/habits, and negative thoughts. Somatic sessions often implement several powerful psychology techniques including Parts work, which is derived from the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model founded by psychotherapist Dr. Richard Schwartz. When we weave together all these tools, we are able to integrate the physical, mental and emotional pieces that all play a role in how we think, act, and feel.

Every coaching session is unique. Based on your goals, your intention for the session and what is happening in your life, your coach intuitively pulls from her somatic toolbox throughout the session to offer the most supportive and aligned tools and techniques. Typically, trauma-informed breathing techniques, guided visualizations, parts work, and energetic attuning will be offered throughout the session. Sessions are 60-90 minutes long. You can expect to feel more relaxed, calm and a release of tension and stress. Most people report a good night’s sleep after the session as well. In order to see true and lasting transformation in your life, it is highly recommended to commit to at least a 3-6 month program. The more consistent you are with continuing sessions, the more you transform as you start to unlock those parts of you that have been feeling stuck, constricted, overwhelmed and perhaps even numb.

Parts Work, also known as Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, is a profound and transformative therapeutic approach that explores the intricate landscape of the human psyche. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz, Parts Work is based on the premise that our minds are not singular entities but rather complex systems composed of various distinct parts, each with its own unique characteristics, beliefs, emotions, and memories.

In Parts Work, the therapist guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery, helping them explore and understand the different parts of themselves. Through techniques such as guided visualization, dialogue, and mindfulness, individuals are encouraged to identify and connect with these inner parts, often represented as distinct personalities or archetypes within their internal world.

The key principles of Parts Work revolve around fostering curiosity, compassion, and acceptance towards all parts of the self. Rather than viewing certain parts as "good" or "bad," Parts Work recognizes that each part has its own positive intentions and protective functions, often developed in response to past experiences or traumas.

Central to the process is the concept of the Self, which represents the core essence of an individual—their innate wisdom, compassion, and clarity. The Self serves as the compassionate and wise leader within the internal system, capable of healing and integrating all parts.

Through the therapeutic process, individuals learn to cultivate a compassionate relationship with their parts, acknowledging and honoring their existence without judgment or criticism. This compassionate stance allows individuals to navigate internal conflicts and challenges with greater ease and resilience.

Parts Work offers a powerful framework for healing and transformation, as individuals gain insight into the underlying dynamics of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By developing a deeper understanding of their internal landscape, individuals can begin to release outdated patterns, heal past wounds, and reclaim lost parts of themselves.

Ultimately, Parts Work empowers individuals to live more authentically and consciously, fostering a sense of wholeness, integration, and self-compassion that extends into all aspects of their lives.

Nervous system regulation is vital for overall health and well-being. It governs essential bodily functions, from heartbeat to digestion, ensuring seamless coordination and response to stimuli. Proper regulation maintains homeostasis, the body's internal balance, crucial for optimal functioning of organs and systems. It influences mood, cognition, and emotional stability, impacting mental health profoundly. Dysregulation can lead to a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, affecting quality of life. By promoting relaxation and resilience to stressors, regulated nervous system function supports longevity and fosters a state of equilibrium for physical, mental, and emotional health.

The nervous system in its entirety is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It is known as the “command center” of the body.  There are two main parts to the nervous system, the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS is then broken down into two parts motor (efferent) and sensory (afferent). The motor (efferent) branch of the PNS is divided into 2 branches, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the somatic system. Today we will be focusing on the ANS (part of the PNS) which contains the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems that involve regulating emotions, behaviors, responses and reactions as well as physiological functions including digestion, immunity, heart rate, and respiration to name a few.