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SOMATICS

SOMATIC MOVEMENT AND WELLBEING PRACTICES
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Discover Somatics at Sarvanga...

Somatic movement is a mindful practice that goes beyond traditional exercise, focusing on the internal experience of the body in motion.  

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​Whether you're looking to complement your yoga practice or seeking a new way to nurture your well-being, our somatic workshops offer a path to greater ease, balance, and self-discovery. Explore this transformative practice with us and unlock the potential of moving from within.

The history of Somatics

Somatic practices have rich historical roots that blend ancient and modern traditions, focusing on the deep connection between body and mind. The term "somatic," from the Greek word "soma" meaning body, highlights practices that emphasize internal bodily sensations and experiences. Ancient traditions such as yoga and Tai Chi laid the groundwork for contemporary somatic approaches, emphasizing the body's integral role in mental and emotional health. These practices provided early insights into the importance of bodily awareness for holistic well-being.

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In the 20th century, modern somatic practices were significantly shaped by pioneers like Ida Rolf and Moshe Feldenkrais. Rolf developed Rolfing, which explores how structural alignment affects bodily function, while Feldenkrais created his method to enhance movement efficiency and awareness. Thomas Hanna made notable contributions with Hanna Somatics, focusing on the nervous system's role in chronic muscle tension and movement patterns. His approach aimed to help individuals regain control over their muscular function, enhancing movement and overall well-being. These developments expanded the field, integrating ancient wisdom with modern understanding to address both physical and emotional health.

The benefits of Somatics

The benefits of somatic practices are diverse and impactful, offering profound improvements in both physical and emotional well-being. ​

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Key benefits include:

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  1. Increased Bodily Awareness: By focusing on internal sensations and movement patterns, individuals can better understand and address habitual tensions and imbalances, leading to improved self-regulation and stress management.

  2. Improved Posture and Flexibility: Somatic practices enhance body awareness, which can result in better posture and greater flexibility, helping to alleviate chronic pain and discomfort.

  3. Enhanced Movement Efficiency: Techniques like Hanna Somatics retrain the nervous system to release habitual muscle tensions, leading to smoother, more efficient movement and reducing physical discomfort.

  4. Stress Reduction: The mindfulness component of somatic practices helps manage stress by promoting relaxation and a deeper connection to one’s body and mind.

  5. Emotional Resilience: Regular engagement in somatic practices fosters emotional well-being, helping individuals develop greater resilience and a balanced sense of self.

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Overall, somatic practices offer valuable tools for improving health, enhancing self-awareness, and achieving a more balanced and harmonious life.​

About Francesca

Francesca Melluzzi is a seasoned somatic coach, yoga instructor, and trauma and mental health practitioner with over two decades of experience.

 

Specialising in nervous system regulation, Francesca creates a safe and nurturing environment for clients to explore and address their emotional and physical well-being. Her coaching integrates self-regulation tools, practical learning, psycho-education, and self-compassion, offering a holistic approach to personal growth.

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Francesca’s extensive background includes roles at the mental health charities and ADHD centres. In these positions, she has developed a deep expertise in using body-based interventions to support emotional regulation, particularly for those dealing with overwhelm and anxiety. Her sessions are interactive and grounded in a profound understanding of the mind-body connection, helping clients apply practical tools for self-regulation.

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Central to Francesca's philosophy is the cultivation of self-compassion and internal validation, countering shame and self-criticism. Her signature workshops combine somatics with techniques such as yoga, Qi-gong, play therapy and mindfulness meditation. This approach is designed to foster emotional resilience and joy, making it accessible to anyone seeking greater emotional well-being and inner peace.

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Upcoming Events

Somatics workshops

Join our leading somatic movement workshops in Wokingham at Sarvanga Yoga Studio to enhance body awareness, reduce stress, and experience holistic well-being.

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