How Somatic Movement Helps Release Stress Stored in the Body

Let’s be real—stress isn’t just in your head. It lives in your body too. You know that tightness in your shoulders after a long day? Or the knot in your stomach before a big meeting? That’s stress, physically hanging out in your muscles, nervous system, and even your breath. But here’s the good news: somatic movement can help you release it.

What Is Somatic Movement?

Somatic movement is all about reconnecting with your body through gentle, intentional movements. Instead of forcing a stretch or pushing through a workout, somatic movement encourages you to slow down, tune in, and move in a way that feels natural. It’s not about perfect form or hitting a fitness goal—it’s about listening to what your body needs.

How Stress Gets Stored in the Body

When we experience stress, our body reacts with tension—tight muscles, shallow breathing, and even changes in posture. Over time, if we don’t release that tension, it can become stuck, leading to chronic stiffness, fatigue, and even pain.

Think of it like this: your body keeps the score. If you’re always rushing, tensing up, or holding in emotions, your muscles and nervous system take on that load. That’s why stress doesn’t just “go away” when the stressful moment passes—your body needs a way to let it out.

How Somatic Movement Helps Release Stress

Somatic movement helps reset your nervous system and unwind the built-up tension in your body. Here’s how:

1. Encourages Mind-Body Awareness

Most of us go through the day on autopilot, barely noticing how we sit, stand, or move. Somatic movement brings awareness to those subtle patterns of tension so you can start to release them.

2. Activates the Relaxation Response

By moving slowly and intentionally, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the “rest and digest” mode—which helps counteract stress and anxiety.

3. Releases Muscle Tension Gently

Unlike intense stretching or workouts, somatic movement works with your body, not against it. Small, mindful movements help relax tight muscles without force.

4. Improves Breath and Circulation

Deep, mindful breathing is a huge part of somatic movement. It helps improve oxygen flow, reduces stress hormones, and signals to your body that it’s safe to relax.

5. Creates Space for Emotional Release

Stress isn’t just physical—it’s emotional too. Somatic movement can help you process and release emotions that have been stored in your body, leaving you feeling lighter and more at ease.

Easy Somatic Moves to Try

You don’t need an hour-long routine to start feeling the benefits. Here are a couple of easy somatic exercises to try:

• Body Scan & Breath Awareness: Lie down, close your eyes, and mentally scan your body from head to toe. Notice any areas of tightness, and take slow, deep breaths into those spots.
  
  
• Gentle Shoulder Rolls: Move your shoulders in slow circles, noticing where you feel stiffness and tension. Breathe deeply as you move.
  
  
• Pelvic Tilts: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Slowly tilt your pelvis forward and back, feeling the movement in your lower back and hips.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to overhaul your routine or become a movement expert to feel better. Just a few minutes of somatic movement a day can make a big difference in how you feel—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The key? Keep it simple, listen to your body, and enjoy the process.