Bodies Don't Lie

Amazing repositories of memory and keen response, our bodies are always trying to tell us something, if only we will listen. After years of ignoring the messages, many of us experience this the hard way in the wake up call of illness. We can start now to tap into the every day messages. Somatic coaching is a valuable tool you can bring out with clients when the occasion is right.

A Different Kind of Feelings

When a client expresses a desire to make a change in thought or behavior, and strong feelings are causing resistance, help them to shift away from analytical thought and emotional feelings to body awareness. Here's an 8-step process:

1. Start by telling your client you'd like to try an experiment that involves tapping into body wisdom. Ask their permission to proceed.

Would you be willing to try an experiment right now that uses your body wisdom?

2. Then, ask them to describe the old behavior or thought.

How would you describe in one sentence the old behavior/thought?

3. Ask them to articulate how they'd like to think and behave from now on.

Well said. Now, how would you describe the new behavior/thought you want to have now?

4. Ask them to recall one recent and specific circumstance where they have had the habitual thought/behavior. (Usually, they've just described this to you in session which brought this exercise to mind for you.)

Think again about the circumstances you told me about earlier today. Do you have it fully in mind again?