We’ve totally lost the plot when it comes to nervous system regulation. Somatic therapy is based on observing animals in the wild regulate their nervous systems by moving their bodies. By shaking, or making sounds. By getting it out. Not by remaining calm in the face of danger or a threat.
When your body has a reaction to something that makes you want to scream or cry or punch something or laugh hysterically or dance, it’s giving you that signal for a reason.
This isn’t your permission slip to be overly, dangerously or immediately reactive and hurt/disrupt/scare those around you. This is not an excuse to let your emotions rule your interactions. It means finding a healthy and safe outlet to let these emotions move through you. It means screaming alone in the car, not at other people. It means crying in the arms of a loved one who you can trust and who can sit in the fire with you without getting burned. It means removing yourself if you are overwhelmed and need an outlet. It means FINDING A SAFE ENVIRONMENT TO PROPERLY REGULATE IN. When you find that outlet, you will actually have less inappropriate outbursts that negatively affect you & those around you because your body knows it has a place to release. It trusts that you’ll let it move through you instead of storing it.
You have to find these outlets for yourself. You have to find a safe healthy way to regulate that’s also unhinged. Your anger is telling you something, your grief is asking to be heard, your joy wants to be expressed. Dance, scream, sing, laugh, cry. Let it move through you, not control you.
#somatichealing #nervoussystem #nervoussystemhealing #regulate #fyp
The phrase "I'm really tired of people assoclating nervous system regulation" highlights common misconceptions surrounding this vital process. Nervous system regulation isn't about suppressing or ignoring strong emotional reactions; it's about understanding and safely releasing the energy that builds up in response to stress or trauma. Similar to how animals in the wild instinctively shake or vocalize to release tension, humans can benefit greatly from physically moving their bodies to process emotions. Scientific studies in somatic therapy emphasize the importance of physical expression—such as shaking, crying, or vocalizing—to recalibrate the nervous system. When emotions like anger or grief arise, they are signals from our body urging us to address internal states rather than bottling them up. Finding a safe environment to express these feelings helps prevent inappropriate outbursts and promotes emotional resilience. Practical strategies for nervous system regulation include setting aside time for activities like dancing, singing, or even screaming in a private space. These actions not only help discharge emotional energy but also build trust between mind and body. Moreover, expressing emotions in trusted relationships—such as crying in the arms of a supportive loved one—allows for healing without fear of judgment or harm. It's critical to distinguish between being overwhelmed and allowing emotions to control behavior. Responsible regulation means recognizing when to remove yourself from triggering situations and choosing healthy outlets suited to your needs. This mindful approach empowers individuals to integrate their emotional experiences constructively. In summary, embracing somatic therapy’s principles invites us to reconnect with our innate capacity for self-regulation by honoring the body’s innate wisdom. Prioritizing movement and authentic emotional expression supports lasting nervous system health and cultivates a deeper sense of peace and balance in daily life.
