Somatic Stretch: The Art of Ease

Self Awareness the Process and the Goal

Working without tension is the first goal of Somatic Stretch and applies to all all exercises: Stretches are done slowly with awareness of the stretch reflex so that flexibility improves gradually and without injury; strengthening exercises focus on isolating body parts and directing energy to the target muscles; body alignment is central to the technique, improving posture and reducing strain on muscles and joints; breathing is an integral part of each exercise.

The work is internal and meditative and has an overall calming effect that leaves a sense of peace and “all’s right with the world.” It is a journey of self discovery, a “know-your-body” technique that is uniquely different for each person.

Later phases of the work focus on how to bring the separate parts of the body into alignment so that pressure is removed from soft tissue, relieving pain and creating cohesion for the whole body. It involves isolating and working with muscles that directly affect each body part, whether to loosen, or strengthen, or simply for using them, at the same time developing a high degree of body awareness and control.

Finally, the separation of body parts evolves into working the body as a whole in harmonious interplay, resulting in relief from pain, ease of movement and wellbeing.

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