Move, Feel, Heal: The Transformative Power of Movement in Releasing Trauma

Dec 03, 2023
Megan Ashton

In the journey of healing from trauma, various therapeutic modalities have emerged, each emphasizing different aspects of the mind-body connection. At Biodynamic Breathwork and Trauma Release Institute (BBRTRI®), we firmly advocate a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates various healing elements. This harmonious blending not only allows for a powerful synergistic effect but also paves the way for the most potent and effective healing experiences. Our framework encompasses six essential elements: breath, sound, touch, emotions, meditation, and movement. In this article, we will shine a spotlight on the vital role of movement in activating the body’s natural ability to release deep-seated tensions and trauma, ultimately contributing to the restoration of well-being.

Why Moving the Body is Integral to Trauma Healing

The mind may forget, but the body always remembers and when we experience trauma, it becomes embedded in the body, manifesting as tension and stress. These physical manifestations often give rise to discomfort and emotional unease, cause nervous system imbalances, and serve as enduring echoes of painful past experiences. Given the body’s pivotal role in storing trauma, relying solely on the mind proves insufficient for trauma resolution. True healing requires engaging the body to release the trapped energy of trauma; only then can genuine recovery unfold.

Another reason movement is so integral to trauma recovery is because it reconnects us to our bodies. Trauma has a profound impact on both the mind and body, often leading to a disconnection between the two. Individuals who have experienced trauma may find themselves living predominantly in their heads, detached from the sensations and feelings within their bodies. This disconnection can manifest in various ways, such as numbness, tension, or a sense of disembodiment.

Movement, whether through exercise, dance, or mindful practices like yoga, offers a powerful avenue for reconnecting with the body. Engaging in intentional and embodied movement allows individuals to tune into their physical sensations, fostering a sense of presence and awareness. This process enables a gradual reintegration of the mind-body connection, offering a means for individuals to reclaim a sense of agency and empowerment.

The Vital Role of Movement in BBTRI®

The diverse movement techniques in BBTRI® act as portals, unlocking the body’s innate capacity to release tensions and trauma, facilitating a return to a state of equilibrium. This movement-centric approach not only enables individuals to tap into the wisdom stored within but also provides a unique pathway to healing by nurturing a non-verbal dialogue between individuals and their bodies, and restoring the mind-body connection.

The following is a glimpse into the movements we offer:
  • Somatic and Creative/Dance Exercises
    BBTRI® incorporates a range of somatic (body-based) and creative/dance exercises, providing individuals with a diverse toolkit to explore and engage with their bodies. From playful warm-ups to more expressive dance forms, these exercises are designed to invite movement that transcends verbal expression and tap into the body’s reservoir of unspoken emotions.

 

  • Playful Warm-ups
    We use playful warm-ups at BBTRI®, to create a safe and inviting space for individuals to reconnect with their bodies. These exercises are not just physical; they serve as a gentle introduction to the language of the body, helping participants become more attuned to sensations, emotions, and areas of tension within themselves.

 

  • Organic, Whole-Body Tremors
    One distinctive feature of BBTRI® is the incorporation of organic, whole-body tremors. This technique encourages individuals to surrender to spontaneous movements and tremors, allowing the body to shake off accumulated stress and tension. These tremors serve as a powerful release mechanism, helping to dislodge energy that may be trapped in the body due to traumatic experiences and restore balance to the nervous system.

 

  • Undulating Spinal Waves:
    The undulating spinal waves practiced in BBTRI® provide a dynamic and expressive outlet for releasing trauma. Participants are guided through movements that engage the entire spine, facilitating the flow of energy and unlocking areas where trauma may be stored. This fluid, rhythmic motion encourages a profound sense of release and freedom within the body.

 

Conclusion

In the realm of trauma healing, the power of movement cannot be overstated. At BBTRI® we recognize the importance of somatic and creative movement in unlocking the body’s potential for healing – and this recognition is key to what makes BBTRI® truly transformative. By embracing movement as a tool for releasing trauma, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing, ultimately reclaiming a sense of wholeness and well-being. If you’d like to experience the power of  BBTR® for yourself, we invite you to join our Free Community Breathwork Sessions.

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The BioDynamic Breathwork & Trauma Release System® 6-Element approach empowers your body’s natural process for healing.

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