Harnessing Somatic Movement for Nervous System Regulation

When chronic pain or symptoms grip your life, the real culprit often lurks beneath the surface—a nervous system stuck in a state of perpetual danger. In this illuminating episode, Tanner and Anne share five powerful, scientifically-backed techniques to regulate your nervous system and create the internal safety your body desperately needs to heal.

Most of us instinctively flee from uncomfortable sensations, a natural human tendency that paradoxically keeps us trapped in pain cycles. "Safety is the cure," Tanner explains, reframing regulation not as mere calmness but as developing the flexibility to return to equilibrium when life inevitably knocks us off balance.

The strategies range from deceptively simple to profoundly effective: learning to drop into and describe bodily sensations throughout your day; practicing specific somatic movements calibrated to your current state; intentionally savouring pleasant sensations to counterbalance discomfort; utilizing deep breathing with extended exhales to activate your parasympathetic system; and visualizing calming memories that trigger your body's relaxation response.

What makes these approaches particularly valuable is their accessibility. None require special equipment or lengthy time commitments—most can be practiced within a few minutes while going about your day. As Tanner shares how he uses these techniques before family vacations, listeners gain practical examples of regulation in action.

Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, managing anxiety, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, these five regulation strategies offer both immediate relief and long-term resilience. Your nervous system holds the key to healing—these practices help you unlock it.

Try our free YouTube practices or explore our comprehensive digital course featuring over 60 somatic exercises designed to help you unlearn chronic pain and create lasting nervous system regulation.

Free Releasing Emotions Practice: https://youtu.be/erFtcNRlSHM

Free Somatic Movement Practice: https://youtu.be/w5Ddn2ndJNc

Tanner Murtagh and Anne Hampson are therapists who treat neuroplastic pain and mind-body symptoms. They are also married! In his 20s, Tanner overcame chronic pain and a fibromyalgia diagnosis by learning his symptoms were occurring due to learned brain pathways and nervous system dysregulation. Post-healing, Tanner and Anne have dedicated their lives to developing effective treatment and education for neuroplastic pain and symptoms. Listen and learn how to assess your own chronic pain and symptoms, gain tools to retrain the brain and nervous system, and make gradual changes in your life and health!

The Mind-Body Couple podcast is owned by Pain Psychotherapy Canada Inc. This podcast is produced by Alex Klassen, who is one of the wonderful therapists at our agency in Calgary, Alberta. https://www.painpsychotherapy.ca/

Tanner, Anne, and Alex also run the MBody Community, which is an in-depth online course that provides step-by-step guidance for assessing, treating, and resolving mind-body pain and symptoms. https://www.mbodycommunity.com

Also check out Tanner's YouTube channel for more free education and practices: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Fl6WaFHnh4ponuexaMbFQ

And follow us for daily education posts on Instagram: @painpsychotherapy

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