I’m back from the Peak district and I hope this last week has treated you well? And also, have you treated you well? (That just came to me as I started typing?). I know life happens, but in between all of that, how are you treating you? Have you given yourself moments in nature, for nourishing movement? The support of good company, music, dance and laughter? We need all of that to navigate the stresses of our world.
Last week I was in receipt of all of the above, in wonderful company with a friend for a few days then onto my friend’s retreat to teach somatics. It was a bit of a working holiday with a group of amazing women at an incredible venue. It was a pleasure to introduce somatics to newbies, all were blown away by how subtle movements make such a difference , how less really is more and how they learned so much about themselves through these simple movements and through tune in - known as a “Soma Scan".
Soma scans act like a sensory compass - literally giving you a sense of where you are at. This in itself is a self care practice and serves as a guide, a messenger for what you need. By doing this, you are giving yourself in the moment guidance and self care.
“It’s only when we slow down and catch up with ourselves do we get some clarity, perspective and little bit of inner peace.”
The act of sensing yourself in the moment begins the process of easing tension and regulating your nervous system, so, as you read this, notice how you are sitting, standing, feel your feet, sense your hands and your breath, notice if you are holding your breath, clenching your jaw or your belly. Whatever feels tense in this moment, can you tense it, just a little bit more, then slowly let go… pause and sense how you feel. Retrace that again throughout your day and it might give you many insights, some of which is how much tension we carry throughout our day, your sitting and standing habits.
And if you would like to try a free somatics class with me, why not join me on Sunday 3rd May, Central Wellness have their annual open day, my class is at 11am and I’ll be around to answer any questions afterwards too.
Let me know that how mini soma scan went for you, details below of what’s in class and my upcoming offerings are here
Now in the Library - Relief for Aching Arms & Shoulders
This class came about after a stint of power washing my patio, conservatory roof and soffits. This class is also ideal if you’ve been doing a lot of gardening, raking, sweeping etc or playing racket sports or golf.
New Somatic Yoga Class
Begins Friday 1st May at Central Wellness. This gentle class offers a therapeutic blend of somatics and yoga, suitable for all levels. Slow, mindful movements to release tension and pain, together with somatic practices for nervous system regulation, leaving you feeling grounded, calm & relaxed.
In Class This Week - Head to Toes
This class began whilst I was exploring some gentle head, eye and neck movements, then into a spinal flow and ended with movements for my toes. A kind of a "somatic spring clean!"
From my Heart, Soul & Soma to Yours,
Liz 🙏🏻🧡