Healing + Human Potential Podcast: Episode 78 - The Most Powerful Somatic Tool + Guided Process

Host: Alyssa Nobriga
Release Date: March 4, 2025

Introduction to Somatic Work

In Episode 78 of the Healing + Human Potential Podcast, Alyssa Nobriga delves into the transformative world of somatic work, presenting it as a potent tool for personal liberation. With over two decades of experience as a licensed somatic psychotherapist, Alyssa aims to share advanced methodologies that transcend traditional coaching techniques. As she emphasizes at the start of the episode, "I'll teach you briefly what somatic work is...even if you know somatic work, what I'll be sharing with you is part of my body of work, so it'll probably be new for you" (00:00).

The Essence and Benefits of Somatic Work

Somatic work, also referred to as embodiment work, focuses on releasing physical and emotional tensions stored within the body. Alyssa elucidates that this practice helps individuals "access more peace and freedom in your life" (01:08). By integrating somatic techniques, listeners can learn to navigate life's challenges by "surfing the wave versus getting tumbled by it" (00:42). The approach emphasizes feeling rather than controlling or fixing emotions, allowing energy to move naturally through the body.

The Paradox of Transformation

A central theme in the episode is the "paradox of transformation." Alyssa explains that true freedom lies in embracing what we fear rather than avoiding it. She articulates this concept vividly:

"The last place that we would be willing or wanting to go holds the key to our freedom. I call this the paradox of transformation, because the very thing we've been avoiding is actually the doorway to what we deeply desire." (02:00)

This idea is further broken down into the "game of opposites," where achieving a desired state involves embracing its opposite:

• Confidence through embracing insecurity
• Worthiness through embracing unworthiness
• Freedom through embracing feeling stuck
• Connection through embracing loneliness

Freedom To vs. Freedom From

Drawing inspiration from her meditation teacher, Adyashanti, Alyssa contrasts two notions of freedom:

• Freedom From: Characterized by escapism and the desire to eliminate unwanted experiences. For instance, avoiding certain emotions to feel free often leads to anxiety and control issues.

  "Freedom from is really escapism...so it's like I need this thing to get out of my life so that I'm free." (02:50)

• Freedom To: Represents true liberation by being open to all of life's experiences. This approach fosters resilience and creativity, allowing individuals to handle whatever arises without attempting to manipulate their lives.

  "Freedom 'to' is real freedom. It's being free enough to meet all of life...knowing that I'm free enough to navigate my human experience." (03:10)

Practical Applications in Daily Life

Alyssa illustrates the practical implications of somatic work through relatable scenarios:

• In Relationships: Avoiding feelings of abandonment can lead to clinginess, which paradoxically causes the very abandonment one fears.

  "If you want to feel confident, it's through embracing insecurity..." (02:20)

• In Sales: Hesitation due to fear of rejection can result in a lack of confidence, leading potential clients to decline offers, thus reinforcing the fear of rejection.

  "If you're feeling something longer than that, you're not allowing it to be in your body as pure sensation." (07:00)

The Guided Somatic Process

A substantial portion of the episode is dedicated to a guided somatic exercise designed to help listeners engage with their internal sensations. Alyssa guides the audience through a series of steps:

1. Relaxation and Grounding: Encourages listeners to find a comfortable position, close their eyes, and focus on their breath (11:53).
2. Connecting with Safe Sensations: Directs attention to areas of the body that feel safe or nourished, fostering a sense of security before addressing deeper emotions (13:25).
3. Identifying and Embracing Avoided Feelings: Invites listeners to locate and acknowledge feelings they've been avoiding without judgment (15:07).
4. Dialogue with Emotions: Suggests a silent conversation with the sensed emotion, expressing acceptance and gratitude (15:19).
5. Deepening Awareness: Encourages a detailed exploration of the emotion's characteristics—size, color, density—and maintaining curiosity (17:05).
6. Integration and Release: Guides listeners to allow the emotion to flow through, aiming for a sensation of lightness and presence (18:40).

Throughout the process, Alyssa emphasizes the importance of acceptance over resistance, sharing:

"Resistance isn't bad. It's just trying to protect you." (09:40)

Overcoming Resistance: A Client Story

Alyssa shares a poignant story of a client who resisted facing her challenges, resulting in internal conflict. By providing a supportive environment and encouraging acceptance rather than judgment, the client's resistance was acknowledged and ultimately released, leading to emotional release and relief.

"To the degree that an emotion doesn't feel allowed, it will defend inside of ourselves and in others." (09:40)

This narrative underscores the efficacy of somatic work in transforming resistance into liberation.

Recommendations and Safety Precautions

Alyssa advises listeners to approach somatic work with caution, especially those dealing with significant trauma. She clarifies that while somatic techniques are beneficial, they are not a substitute for professional therapy in cases of severe emotional distress.

"Sometimes with somatic work, it can activate trauma...you always want to take care of yourself and work with a trained specialist." (08:00)

Additionally, she recommends practicing the guided process regularly—ideally for 30 days—and encourages forming supportive communities to maintain consistency and accountability.

Conclusion: Embracing a New Relationship with Emotions

Wrapping up the episode, Alyssa reinforces the transformative power of somatic work in fostering a healthier relationship with one's emotions. By feeling rather than controlling or avoiding, individuals can unlock new levels of vitality, creativity, and aliveness.

"Real transformation comes by meeting life fully." (03:00)

She concludes with affirmations of compassion and encouragement, inviting listeners to prioritize self-care and trust in their personal growth journey.

Notable Quotes:

• "The last place that we would be willing or wanting to go holds the key to our freedom." — Alyssa Nobriga (02:00)
• "Freedom 'to' is real freedom. It's being free enough to meet all of life." — Alyssa Nobriga (03:10)
• "Resistance isn't bad. It's just trying to protect you." — Alyssa Nobriga (09:40)
• "Real transformation comes by meeting life fully." — Alyssa Nobriga (03:00)

This episode offers a profound exploration of somatic work, blending psychological insight with practical guidance. Alyssa Nobriga equips listeners with the knowledge and tools to engage deeply with their emotions, fostering lasting personal transformation.