Somatics is a field that focuses on the conscious feeling of the body (soma). It assumes the unity of body and mind and the possibility of a connection between emotions – especially those that have been suppressed for a long time – and the occurrence of certain physical ailments.
The Impact of Emotions on the Body and Mind
In stressful situations, the pituitary gland stimulates the adrenal glands to produce hormones, including cortisol. The body receives a signal that it should be ready to act. Changes such as an increase in heart rate or an increase in glucose levels then take place in the body.
If this situation persists for a long time, the following occur:
- mood disorders,
- sleep problems,
- gastrointestinal disorders,
- feeling tired,
- decrease in immunity,
- weight gain,
- deterioration of the heart condition,
- headaches,
- muscle, back and neck pain.
The body reacts completely differently to pleasant emotions, such as joy or closeness. The level of endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin then increases. Muscles relax, breathing becomes calmer, and the body has time to regenerate.
Somatics in psychology
Patients seeking psychological help often suffer from diseases and pain, the causes of which could not be determined despite thorough diagnostics. They are a manifestation of mental problems such as trauma, DDA syndrome or neurosis.
In such people, therapy is indicated, which allows you to discover the real cause of the difficulties, and then find a way to work through negative experiences. For this purpose, you can use, for example, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic or humanistic psychotherapy. Relaxation techniques are also helpful, which serve to quickly reduce stress, and art therapy, which allows you to express repressed emotions.