Description

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Shena Jade Jensen, a licensed therapist and relationship coach with over 15 years of experience. Shena brings a deep, body-oriented perspective to her work, drawing from extensive training in somatic modalities including Somatic Experiencing and Hakomi.

Together, Nicky and Shena dive into the world of somatic therapy, exploring how the body holds emotional experiences and the powerful role present-moment awareness plays in healing. The conversation touches on how trauma shows up in the nervous system, the importance of grounding and embodiment, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential to effective therapeutic work.

Shena also offers insight into the distinctions between coaching and therapy, and the value of having professional guidance when working with deep emotional patterns. Throughout the episode, Nicky and Shena illuminate the layered nature of healing and the importance of connection, mindfulness, and compassion on the path toward emotional well-being.

Takeaways:

• Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection.
• Memories can be stored in the body as tension and pain.
• Trauma can manifest in small, everyday experiences.
• Talking about trauma has limitations; somatic therapy addresses the body.
• Dissociation is a common response to trauma.
• Present moment awareness can help in processing trauma.
• Somatic release can take many forms, including shaking and crying.
• Professional guidance is crucial in trauma work.
• Healing involves rewriting patterns in the nervous system.
• Grounding through the body is essential for healing.
• Embodiment leads to empowerment and self-acceptance.
• Changing posture can transform self-perception.
• Trauma-informed therapy is crucial for effective healing.
• Therapists must be trained to hold space for clients' emotions.
• Mindfulness practices are foundational in somatic therapy.
• Repatterning thoughts requires a complex understanding of trauma.
• Healing is a layered process that unfolds over time.
• Connection with others enhances the healing journey.
• Practicing self-compassion is vital for emotional growth.

Connect with me:

https://nickyYyoga.com

https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity

support@nickyYyoga.com

Connect with Shena:

https://bayfamilycounseling.com/

https://www.instagram.com/themarriagetherapist/

https://www.facebook.com/ShenaWakeUpInLove

Tags: somatic therapy, trauma, Hakomi, emotional healing, body awareness, mindfulness, dissociation, personal growth, therapy techniques, mental health, somatic work, overcoming trauma, grounding, embodiment, healing, empowerment, therapy, coaching, emotional processing