Neurodiversity Podcast

The Body-Brain Connection: Somatic Strategies for Well-Being

Aug 1, 2024

Mary Martin, a somatic-centered psychotherapist specializing in neurodivergent therapy, joins advocate Emily Kircher-Morris to explore somatic strategies for well-being. They discuss the critical body-brain connection and how somatic therapy enhances emotional regulation through body awareness and movement. Techniques like breathwork and vagal toning are presented as tools for nervous system regulation, especially beneficial for neurodivergent individuals. They also touch on the Neurodiversity movement, emphasizing inclusive practices for supporting all learners.

36:18

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Episode guests

Emily Kircher-Morris

Mary Martin

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Somatic therapy emphasizes the body-brain connection, allowing neurodivergent individuals to recognize and release emotional blocks through bodily awareness.

Interoception and co-regulation are essential for emotional regulation in neurodivergent individuals, highlighting the importance of breathing techniques and supportive environments.

Deep dives

Understanding Somatic Therapy

Somatic therapy serves as a body-centered approach to psychotherapy, emphasizing the connection between the body and brain. Unlike traditional talk therapy that focuses primarily on changing thought patterns, somatic therapy incorporates bodily sensations to promote healing. This holistic approach acknowledges that emotions are often manifested physically, such as tension or discomfort in specific areas, which can be explored in therapeutic settings. By focusing on bodily awareness, practitioners can guide clients in recognizing and releasing emotional blocks, facilitating a deeper understanding of their internal experiences.

Intro

2min

Exploring Somatic Therapy

22min

Exploring Vagal Toning for Bodily Awareness

2min

Bilateral Stimulation and Stimming in Therapy

6min

Playful Breathing Techniques for Self-Regulation

2min

Exploring Neurodiversity and the Mind-Body Connection

2min

On episode 235, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with somatic-centered psychotherapist Mary Martin about the benefits of somatic therapy for neurodivergent people. They discuss how this body-based approach complements traditional talk therapy by focusing on the body-brain connection, and about the importance of interoception and co-regulation. They describe strategies like body awareness, movement, and breathwork to help clients regulate their nervous systems and process emotions.

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Mary Martin is a somatic-centered psychotherapist who uses trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches in her therapy with both children and adults. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance and Psychology from Oklahoma City University, which would later help her discover her purpose and passion for somatic-centered therapy. This led her to her Master’s Degree in Somatic Counseling Psychology from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado with a concentration in Dance and Movement Therapy. Mary’s experience includes working in early childhood education with autistic and developmentally delayed children, children who have experienced trauma and neglect, and private practice settings.

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