What Is Somatic Yoga (& Can It Help You Overcome Trauma)? – ryan

Per Kelleher, the definition of somatic is ‘relating to the body.’ “All yoga is somatic by this definition, but somatic yoga is not focused on any pose, or shape or alignment, but rather feeling sensation within the body, aside from any goal,” he says.

Somatic yoga classes focus on gentle movements, restorative poses and mindful breathing techniques, and Kelleher says they’re designed to help students go inward and learn to experience and communicate with their physicality. “They are slower paced, and it is entirely possible to experience an entire somatic yoga class laying down the whole time!”

“A somatic yoga session often includes low light, and lots of props,” Kelleher says. “Classes are slower paced, low to the ground and may take place entirely on the ground. Props are used to define and highlight sensations in the body, movements are small, specific and often linked to the breath.” How will you feel? Kelleher notes that practitioners can expect to feel tuned in, rejuvenated and rested after a somatic class.