Back in January I presented a class at the Yoga Expo in Pasadena. It was a combination of gentle yoga movements and Somatics, that I called “Slow your roll”. In a somatics yoga class, you slow down, in order to pay attention. The good news is with all the spare time I’ve had recently, I finally got around to recording the class for YouTube.
I don’t know about you but I’me slowly beginning to lose track of time. Every day slowly rolling into the next. One thing that’s keeping me on track is my google calendar. Scheduling time to record videos, so I can provide some relief in this troubling time. We all need to relieve some stress. I really hope this class resonates and provides some ease in these troubled times.
You can view the video above, or on YouTube. If you enjoy it then don’t forget to leave me a comment. Give me a thumbs up. And, don’t forget to subscribe! Because I’m planning on doing more videos soon. Also remember, I have exclusive full length yoga videos on my Patreon page
Somatics Yoga Class
What is somatics? When we do movement we generally tend to focus on what our body looks like. Often moving mindlessly through a movement pattern. Instead, in a somatics yoga class, we focus on how the body feels.
How well does it integrate? What’s the experience of the movement?
In noticing this internal experience we can become aware of patterns of body behavior that are different. Whether this is in range of motion, or how the body moves in gravity. This allows us the opportunity to be in the experience of the movement and not the expectation.
One thing I see a lot in somatic work is people wanting to do large movements. Quite often we can be more introspective if we allow ourselves to do less. By moving slowly, and doing less we allow ourselves to move into the parasympathetic stress reducing state.
Do less, to relieve stress
Honestly it’s been interesting to see people struggle with doing less during this time. And, hearing struggles of isolation. I think this is a great opportunity to work on ourselves and confront those shadow sides that perhaps harbor concealed emotional trauma.
When I first began doing somatics it was tough for me. As someone who is type-A I have the urgent need to “do things right”. However, with somatics there is no ‘right’. Just what is. That was a big lesson for me to learn. And has helped me embrace imperfection and just getting things done.
I really hope this somatics yoga class helps in this time of uncertainty. Please share with anyone who needs a free yoga class, or to simply unwind, relax and de-stress. Let’s come together as a community and spread good karma!
Questions
- Have you heard of somatics before?
- What do you do to relieve stress and relax?
- How well do you cope with doing less or nothing?
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Cosmo Mum
I have to say I haven’t heard about somatics yoga before. It sounds right up my street! I’ll be checking the video too!
Di Hickman
Awesome! It’s nice and gentle, suitable for all levels!
Jess Howliston
I have never heard of somatics before but I will definitely be checking out your video. I have been considering trying yoga for some time to help with stress so this will be fab!
Di Hickman
Awesome! Hope you enjoy it!
Ashleigh d
I have never tried yoga before but it does look so relaxing! May need to give it a try now I have lots of time on my hands
Di Hickman
It can definitely be relaxing! This class certainly is!
Kara Guppy
I have never tried Yoga or heard of somatics before. Two of my kids are club swimmers so this looks perfect for keeping them agile
Di Hickman
Heck yeah, this would be great for swimmers as it has rotation!
Liam Wilkinson
This sounds fascinating and anew one for me, my eldest daughter would fine this very useful with both stress and her flexibility for her dancing.
Di Hickman
yes! It’d be perfect!
Rebecca Smith
This will definitely help. I am trying to do more yoga during this time of uncertainty as it really helps me to relax.
Di Hickman
this class will definitely help you relax!
Eva Katona
I have never heard of somatics before – I do practice yoga and love it. This sounds great – might give it a go.
Di Hickman
awesome I hope you try it!
Yeah Lifestyle
Yoga is such a great exercise to do to keep fit mentally, emotionally and physically. Looks like you are doing a great job at it as well
Di Hickman
thanks so much!
Christa
A dear friend of mine teaches somatic yoga. I’ve taken a few classes and love it!
Di Hickman
Awesome! I was resistant at first but now it’s my favorite!
Angela
This is great! I have been trying to incorporate more yoga into my routines so I can’t wait to try this!!!
Di Hickman
Yay! Enjoy!
Fransic verso
I don’t really read much abou yoga and it seems new to me doing the somatics. However, I agree that its all about doing less and relief stress. My friend is stressing a lot and recommending this to her. Thank you for sharing!
Di Hickman
You are welcome. I hope this helps your friend relax and unwind!
Karen Monica
I have never heard of somatics but I love anything that can help to unwind especially during this time.
Di Hickman
yes, we need more stuff to relax and calm!
Stephanie
I’ve never heard of somatics before, but we’ve been doing a lot of yoga around here lately. My boys are (very slowly) getting the idea of slowing down and being quiet during the session. We did a pokemon-inspired yoga session earlier this week that they enjoyed. I think this is just what we all can use right now!
Di Hickman
awwww I love pokemon! I bet that was a great class!
Holly
This seems like a great way to unwind. Stress relievers are definitely in order this weekend!
Di Hickman
it really is relaxing. And yes we definitely need more stress relief right now