by Denise Costello
Greetings, wonderful readers! As a holistic health nurse and veteran of the Air Force, I understand the unique challenges with stress, anxiety, bodily tension, and the journey to recovery from alcohol or trauma. In this blog post, I want to introduce you to an empowering, fun, more elevated approach that holds the potential to transform your well-being—Somatic Dance Therapy.
Dance and movement have been my medicine to release and heal as well as self-regulate. The goal is to not slip into the past narrative or story, re-triggering trauma, but to allow the body an opportunity to feel and express how it feels in the present moment to dance with the feeling. As quickly as we can access the depth of our internal dialog, we can shift out of it and transmute it. Through this dance process, we are giving people the courage and comfort to feel emotions. We often say in this work, feel the feelings for 5 minutes of the song, so you don’t need to feel it for 5 more years or a lifetime!
Embracing the Mind-Body Connection
In the realm of holistic health, the mind-body connection is paramount. Somatic dance therapy is a dynamic practice that beautifully combines movement and psychology, fostering a deeper awareness of our bodies and emotions. As we embark on this journey together, let's explore the science behind somatic dance therapy and how it can be a powerful tool for managing the challenges you may be facing.
Understanding Somatic Dance Therapy
Somatic dance therapy encourages us to be present in the moment, to connect with our bodies, and to embrace the wisdom that resides within. This mindful approach can serve as a beacon of healing for those navigating stress, anxiety, bodily tension, and the aftermath of trauma or alcohol recovery.
The Neurobiological Dance of Healing
Engaging in dance and movement triggers a cascade of neurobiological responses. Endorphins, those delightful neurotransmitters associated with happiness, flood our system, while serotonin helps lift our mood. These neurobiological effects are instrumental in managing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.
Liberating Tension Through Movement
Bodily tension often harbors the echoes of stress and trauma. Somatic dance therapy provides a safe and expressive space to release this tension through movement. As we dance, we allow our bodies to communicate, expressing emotions that may be challenging to verbalize. The result? A profound sense of release and relief.
Bridging the Body-Mind Gap
Somatic dance therapy is a holistic approach that invites us to explore the intricate connection between our physical and psychological well-being. By delving into movement patterns, we gain insights into our emotions and thought processes. This integration fosters unity, empowering us to navigate life with a newfound sense of self.
Empowerment and Self-Expression
The journey toward empowerment and self-discovery is a transformative one. Somatic dance therapy offers a creative outlet for self-expression, allowing you to communicate and process emotions in a unique and empowering way. As we dance, we reclaim our voices and celebrate our individual narratives.
Navigating Recovery Holistically
Whether you're on the path to recovery from alcohol or trauma, somatic dance therapy complements traditional healing methods. It addresses the physical and emotional dimensions of recovery, contributing to the regulation of the autonomic nervous system and promoting a balanced and relaxed state.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Wellness
The journey to holistic wellness is a personal and empowering one. Somatic dance therapy opens doors to self-discovery, healing, and joy. As your holistic health nurse, I encourage you to explore this transformative practice, embrace the power of movement, and rediscover the strength that resides within you. Together, let's dance our way to a more vibrant and empowered life
I’m thrilled to bring the Energized Living Wave Somatic Silent Disco Experience to PCSM Church on Feb 9th at 7 pm. I hope you can join us!
Wishing you love, light, and the joy of movement,
Denise Costello
Holistic Health Nurse
Energized Living Lifestyle Coach
A Little More About Me:
Throughout my 30-year career as a health professional including training as a Registered Nurse, an Air Force Flight Nurse, founding the Winchester Hospital Breast Care Center, and as Co-Owner of the Chrysalis Meditation Center, I noticed the most devastating factor on health and aging is stress. As a result, I was determined to learn and share the most effective and natural ways to bring calm and healing back to the body. This led to the creation of my Energized Living Retreats and The Energized Living, What Else is Possible program. A 40-day virtual experience of self-discovery, self-improvement, and self-love. Incorporating my three pillars of Prayer, Plant Medicine and Play that are safe, time-efficient, transforming you into an energized, spiritual, healthy, happy, sexy, strong individual.