TS06: Harmonizing Body and Mind: Exploring Somatics in Yoga Therapy

Speaker bio: Shaye Molendyke, MA, E-RYT 500, C-IAYT

In this session, we will explore the profound world of somatic movement within the context of yoga therapy, offering participants a unique experiential chair somatic practice that will deepen their understanding of the mind-body connection and enhance their skills as yoga therapists.

We will delve into the theory of sensory-motor learning and explore sensory motor amnesia, which refers to the body’s ability to forget how to move efficiently due to chronic stress, trauma, or habitual patterns of movement. Somatic practices aim to reverse sensory motor amnesia by reawakening our awareness of these patterns and reintegrating healthy, efficient movement. We will also look at the brain’s somatosensory and motor cortices, which play a crucial role in processing sensory information from the body and translating this input into external “motor” actions.

After the practice we will explore the potential benefits of integrating somatics into therapeutic sessions and how this approach may enhance client outcomes.

Learning objectives:

1. Explain how the brain and nervous system construct experiences.
2. Explain how sensory input drives motor output and its relevance in yoga therapy.
3. Incorporate somatic exercises into a yoga therapy session.

Your purchase gives you access to the recorded session listed below (audio/slides)—plus .5 CE credits.