2. Complementing writing with physical expression
While writing provides a cognitive and emotional outlet, movement addresses the physical sensations and stored tensions that writing alone cannot reach. Engaging the body through movement complements the verbalization process by creating a holistic approach to trauma release, integrating both the mind and body into the healing journey.
* Writing helps articulate and organize inner experiences, while movement works to discharge the somatic impact of trauma, such as muscle tension, shallow breathing, or physical numbness.
3. Reconnecting with the body
Trauma often causes dissociation, where individuals disconnect from their bodily sensations as a protective mechanism. Movement helps rebuild this connection by fostering somatic awareness. Practices like yoga and mindful walking encourage individuals to tune into their bodies, identify areas of tension, and release them in a gentle, supportive way. This reconnection complements writing by enabling a fuller expression of what is being felt internally.
* Studies on yoga for trauma recovery (e.g., by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk) show that it helps individuals reconnect with their bodies, improve interoception (awareness of internal body states), and reduce PTSD symptoms.
4. Rhythmic movement and the regulation of the nervous system
Repetitive and rhythmic movements, such as walking, dancing, or bouncing, are particularly effective for trauma release because they mimic the natural rhythms of the body. These movements help regulate the nervous system by engaging the parasympathetic response, which promotes relaxation and recovery. When paired with reflective writing, rhythmic movement can create a dynamic cycle of emotional and somatic processing, enhancing the overall healing experience.
* Rhythmic activities provide a grounding effect that stabilizes emotions uncovered during writing exercises.
Release & Voicing
The importance of movement in somatic release
as a complement to writing
Scientific research highlights that trauma is not only a psychological experience but also deeply rooted in the body. Traumatic experiences can lead to the activation of the body’s stress response, which may remain unresolved, resulting in stored tension, dysregulation of the nervous system, and a sense of physical and emotional “stuckness.” Movement, as a somatic release tool, complements writing by addressing these embodied aspects of trauma, facilitating deeper healing and integration.
1. Trauma and the body: Why movement matters
According to trauma experts like Dr. Peter Levine, founder of Somatic Experiencing, trauma resides in the body as trapped energy that needs to be discharged to restore equilibrium. Movement helps release this energy by directly engaging the nervous system. Physical activities, especially those that involve mindful or rhythmic motion, provide a pathway for the body to “complete” the defensive actions (e.g., fight, flight, or freeze responses) that were interrupted during the traumatic event.
*Research shows that movement-based therapies, such as yoga, tai chi, and dance, help regulate the autonomic nervous system, reducing hyperarousal and promoting a state of safety and relaxation. This supports the body’s natural capacity to heal itself.
5. Facilitating emotional release through embodied practices
Certain forms of movement, such as dance or somatic exercises, encourage expressive, unstructured motion that mirrors the emotional release process facilitated by writing. Movement can help externalize and physically release emotions, such as anger, grief, or fear, that may be difficult to verbalize. This complements writing by allowing individuals to “act out” feelings that might otherwise remain suppressed.
* Studies in dance therapy have found that creative, expressive movement fosters emotional release and enhances emotional regulation, improving psychological well-being in individuals recovering from trauma.
6. Enhancing the healing process through integration
Combining movement with writing creates a powerful synergy. Writing provides clarity and structure to emotions and experiences, while movement allows the body to process and release residual tension or energy. Together, they facilitate a sense of integration, where mind and body work in harmony to restore balance, resilience, and a sense of wholeness.
The science of integration
Research in trauma therapy consistently supports the integration of body-based practices with cognitive and emotional therapies. Writing enables individuals to rewrite their personal narratives, while movement ensures that the body is included in the process, addressing trauma at its roots and supporting the full release of stored tension.
By incorporating movement into a healing practice, individuals not only deepen their emotional and physical recovery but also create a comprehensive approach to reconnecting with themselves and their lives. Together, writing and movement form a complementary path to healing that is grounded in both scientific evidence and holistic principles.