Somatic Muscle Release Therapy

Somatic Muscle Release Therapy integrates the mind and body to help individuals release emotional trauma and chronic tension stored in the body. Works from the physical level to the emotional level, working through the different body segments. It is based on the idea that psychological issues manifest physically as muscle tension/ armour, posture imbalances, and restricted breathing.

 

Somatic Muscle Release Therapy integrates grounding, breathwork, de-armouring, massage, movement, and vocal expression to help release stored tension and trauma from the body.

 

This modality was created by Rafael Leandro Hakim using techniques and elements from Tuina Massage, Myofascial Release, Bio-Energetics, Chinese Medicine, Integrative Breathing and Reichian Body Therapy.

 

 

Key Principles of Somatic Muscle Release:

1. Mind-Body Connection – Emotions and trauma are stored in the body and affect physical health.

2. Energy Flow – Healthy emotional expression is linked to the free flow of energy in the body. Blocked energy can lead to emotional distress.

3. Body Awareness & Movement – Physical exercises, deep breathing, grounding, and expressive movements help release stored tension and emotions.

4. Emotional Release – By working on physical tensions, individuals can access and process deep emotions like fear, anger, or sadness.

5. Grounding & Stability – Helps individuals feel more present, balanced, and connected to themselves.

 

Techniques Used in Somatic Muscle Release:

• Deep breathwork exercises

• Body movement and stretching

• Vocal expression (shouting, sighing, laughing)

• Grounding exercises (standing, stomping, balancing)

• Deep massage, facial release, acupressure and bodywork to release muscular tension

 

Benefits of Somatic Muscle Release:

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Releases deep-seated trauma and emotional blockages

• Improves posture, breathing, and body awareness

• Enhances emotional resilience and self-expression