In our fast-paced world, many carry tension in our bodies without realising it. This often unnoticed tension is frequently linked to somatic reflexes, which manifest as chronic pain, stiffness, or a general feeling of unease in our movements.
Somatic pioneers like Thomas Hanna and Moshe Feldenkrais identified somatic reflexes as a key element behind these issues.
What Are Somatic Reflexes and How Do They Affect Your Body?
Somatic reflexes are automatic responses of the nervous system to stress, injury, or trauma. These reflexes are not just momentary reactions; they can become deeply ingrained in our muscle memory, leading to habitual patterns of tension. This phenomenon is known as sensory motor amnesia, where the brain fails to recognise that certain muscles are contracted, accepting it as ‘normal.’ The result is chronic muscle tension that can cause fatigue, weakness, and pain.
The Three Primary Reflexes
Somatic work and practices identified three primary reflexes that affect our posture and movement:
The Red-Light Reflex (Startle Reflex):
This reflex is a protective response to fear, anxiety, or danger, causing the body to contract inward. The front of the body tightens to protect vital organs, leading to issues like neck, jaw, and shoulder pain, breathing difficulties, sleep disorders, and even depression.
The Green-Light Reflex (Landau Reflex):
Triggered by the need to act or stay alert, this reflex causes the back muscles to contract and the chest to lift in a ready-for-action stance. Overuse can lead to back pain, stiffness, restricted movement, and conditions such as herniated discs, sciatica, and knee injuries.
The Trauma Reflex:
This reflex occurs in response to physical injury or emotional shock, often leading to asymmetrical muscle contractions that cause the body to twist or tilt to one side. This can result in imbalances in posture, chronic pain on one side of the body, scoliosis, and various other conditions like frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Releasing These Reflexes
The good news is that these reflexes, while powerful, can be retrained. Somatic movements and practices are performed very slowly and deliberately to recalibrate the brain, allowing it to recognise and release over-contracted muscles. These exercises help reconnect the brain with the muscles to let go of tightness in the body.
By practising somatic exercises, you can:
- Increase Body Awareness: Recognising where tension is held is the first step in releasing it.
Reduce Chronic Pain: Releasing habitual patterns of tension can alleviate pain that has persisted for years. - Improve Posture and Mobility: As the body returns to a more natural alignment, movement becomes more fluid and comfortable.
- Enhance Overall Wellbeing: Letting go of physical tension often leads to a greater sense of mental and emotional ease.
Final Thoughts
This work on somatic reflexes offers profound insight into how our bodies respond to the stresses of daily life. By understanding and addressing these reflexes, we can move towards a life with less pain and more movement freedom. Somatic exercises are a practical way to unlock your body’s potential and move with ease once again.
If you are interested in practising Somatic yoga or movements, I teach these therapeutic techniques in special classes:
The Life Centre in Notting Hill, London
Somatic Yoga for Calm: Monday at 4:00 pm and Thursday at 4:45 pm
50Hill Rise Wellness Centre in Richmond, London
Somatic Yoga and Breathwork: Monday at 11:00 am
YogaHaven in Clapham, London
Somatic Yoga and Breathwork: Wednesday at 9:30 am
Please keep an eye on my list of workshops and courses, too or join my classes to experience the transformative power of somatic yoga. Book your spot now to start your journey towards a pain-free, more balanced life.