In this episode of Wired for Connection, Travis Goodman speaks with Dr Peter Levine, developer of Somatic Experiencing, to explore why trauma manifests as a wound in the body, not just a story in the mind. We talk about how trauma shows up in the nervous system, why the vagus nerve and interoception matter, and how bottom-up, body-based trauma work can complete unfinished fight, flight and freeze responses.

Peter explains the roots of Somatic Experiencing, how it converges with Polyvagal Theory, and why true trauma healing depends on felt safety, curiosity and relationship. We walk through practical somatic tools like the Voo sound, slow completion of defensive responses, working with numbness, and titrating between resource and pain so clients are not retraumatized.

We also touch on trauma and spirituality, the “wounded healer” archetype, technology and disembodiment, and why trauma resolution often leads to deeper embodiment and meaning. This conversation is for therapists, coaches and survivors who want a clear, embodied roadmap for healing trauma through the nervous system, not just through insight.

Peter A Levine, PhD, and Ergos Institute are the leaders in somatic workshops and education. Learn more about Peter’s work, Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) Trainings, Research, Free programs, Books, and more here: https://www.somaticexperiencing.com/

Dr. Levine’s books including his latest book, An Autobiography of Trauma: A Healing Journey is available at: Ergos Institute, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Amazon UK, Inner Traditions, Books A Million, and Bookshop.org

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Email: community@polyvagal.org

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