{"id":82379,"date":"2025-10-13T12:04:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-13T12:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=82379"},"modified":"2025-10-13T14:13:12","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T14:13:12","slug":"somatic-relaxation-techniques","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/","title":{"rendered":"What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#How_to_Calm_Your_Somatic_System\" >How to Calm Your Somatic System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#How_Do_You_Release_Somatic_Tension\" >How Do You Release Somatic Tension?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#What_Are_Some_Effective_Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\" >What Are Some Effective Somatic Relaxation Techniques?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#What_Is_the_Difference_Between_Cognitive_and_Somatic_Relaxation\" >What Is the Difference Between Cognitive and Somatic Relaxation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#How_Does_a_Somatic_Relaxation_Feel\" >How Does a Somatic Relaxation Feel?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#Do_somatic_exercises_really_work\" >Do somatic exercises really work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#Do_somatic_exercises_release_trauma\" >Do somatic exercises release trauma?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#What_is_somatic_anxiety\" >What is somatic anxiety?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#What_does_somatic_release_feel_like\" >What does somatic release feel like?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress is tricky and often appears when you don\u2019t expect it. Sure, it may be positive: you feel stressed before going on your first date with a stud, before your birthday party, or at a wedding ceremony.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-5.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, sometimes you feel flustered, which may cause unpleasant body sensations. Do you remember the last time you stressed over something that left you with an upset stomach or headache?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It could be anything: slight jealousy toward your partner, dismay from failing your driving test, or chatting with a repugnant salesperson.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may have heard of Pilates, yoga, gratitude, or meditation as stress-relief techniques. They can have an impact and help you relax, alleviate stress, and lift your spirits afterwards.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here you\u2019ll learn about a different strategy to calm your body, improve self-awareness, and cultivate the mind-body connection. You\u2019re about to dive into the world of somatic relaxation techniques to target and regulate your nervous system. This article will answer some specific questions that may pop into your mind:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are restorative somatic relaxation techniques?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the difference between cognitive and somatic relaxation?<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you calm your somatic system?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Calm_Your_Somatic_System\"><\/span><b>How to Calm Your Somatic System<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the Cleveland Clinic, the somatic nervous system allows you to move and control your muscles throughout your\u00a0 body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/body\/23291-somatic-nervous-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The somatic system also governs how the body responds to stress and tension. As you face stressful situations, your body can respond with tight muscles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, imagine this scenario: another driver bumps into your car, causing damage. Your heart races, your body feels shock and anger, and your muscles tense. You want to jostle that driver to the ground, but you realize that you need to calm yourself down.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72622\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-1024x640.png\" alt=\"somatic relaxation techniques\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Calming your somatic system quickly on the spot can be done via a powerful breathwork technique.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breathing is effective for alleviating anxiety, boosting your mood, and reducing respiratory rates (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC9873947\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, you could try a short box breathing technique:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breathe in through your nose, counting to four.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold your breath for another count of four.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowly release them through your mouth for a four count.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold the release for a four count, then repeat (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a good way to cool down your somatic system. If you\u2019re already familiar with box breathing, continue reading for other somatic relaxation techniques for mental health.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-wall-pilates\/\">Somatic Wall Pilates: A New Era Of Mind-Body Movement<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_You_Release_Somatic_Tension\"><\/span><b>How Do You Release Somatic Tension?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic tension refers to physical signs of stress, such as tight muscles and poor sleep. Releasing somatic tension is possible on your own in the comfort of your home. All you need is somatic relaxation techniques for adults &#8211; they foster a connection between your mind and body, allowing you to feel safe in your body, while exploring emotions and thoughts that may surface (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brooklynsomatictherapy.com\/blog\/somatic-techniques-for-stress-and-anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consistency matters if you\u2019re hoping to get the full benefits from somatic techniques. <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-emotional-release\/\">Somatic emotional release<\/a> is a gradual process, so allow yourself the space and patience you need as the release comes (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iahe.com\/storage\/docs\/articles\/Somato-Emotional-Release-article-the-list.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most importantly, you need to consult a mental health professional if you\u2019re currently struggling with depression, trauma, or any other mental health condition. Somatic therapy might be used as a complementary strategy. If you\u2019re looking for practical ways to relax, take a look at the techniques below (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/directory.traumahealing.org\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Whether you\u2019re a workout beast or just a beginner making your first foray into the world of fitness and dieting \u2013 BetterMe has a lot to offer to both newbies and experts! <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Install the app and experience the versatility first-hand!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Some_Effective_Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><\/span><b>What Are Some Effective Somatic Relaxation Techniques?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation techniques for anxiety and other forms of distress may work differently for each individual. Despite their simplicity, these strategies can have a real impact. If not at the beginning, in time, you\u2019ll see desirable changes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember to start small. Pick one or two approaches and practice with full attention and concentration, focusing on how your body feels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72625\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1024x640.png\" alt=\"somatic relaxation techniques\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices-3.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These methods are not the primary treatment for any mental health condition. Let\u2019s now take a look at basic somatic relaxation techniques examples (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #1 Grounding: Focus on the Present<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever been so overwhelmed with stressful thoughts that you can\u2019t fully notice what is happening around you?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You walk in the park, not noticing the beauty around you because you\u2019re too busy thinking about everything that is going wrong in your life. These thoughts prevent you from relaxing and enjoying the moment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Or you\u2019re at the checkout in the grocery store, not hearing the final price because your mind is elsewhere.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72621\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1-1024x640.png\" alt=\"somatic relaxation techniques\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Collage-Banner-somatic-exercices1.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is where the grounding technique can be useful. It shifts your focus away from the nagging thoughts and feelings and anchors you in the present:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use the 5-4-3-2-1 Method:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notice 5 things around you that you can visually observe.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bring awareness to 4 things you can touch and physically feel &#8211; pay attention to their texture or temperature.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tune into 3 sounds near or far.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identify 2 scents present in your environment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acknowledge 1 taste or sensation in your mouth.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Barefoot grounding: if possible, walk barefoot on grass, soil, or sand, focusing on the sensations beneath you.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Temperature changes: Run cold water, then warm water over your hands, and notice how you feel about this (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #2 Breathing Strategies<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ve already got acquainted with box breathing. It\u2019s not the only way to relieve your anxiety.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try 4-7-8 Breathing. Here\u2019s how you do it:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inhale through your nose for a 4 count.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold your breath for a 7 count.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exhale through your mouth for an 8 count, making a gentle sound.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your breath is the basic tool for calming your nervous system. Slowing down your breath helps your body soothe, signaling that it\u2019s safe to relax.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One study has shown that diaphragmatic breathing supports the body\u2019s natural relaxation response by lowering cortisol levels, which reduces stress (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC5455070\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s fine not to reach the full count for each breath. The mentioned counts are general guidelines to regulate your breathing and chill your nervous system.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72595\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11-1024x640.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-11.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #3 Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This technique involves tensing and releasing each muscle group, which can help you notice physical tension and encourage relaxation (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s how you can practice progressive muscle relaxation. As you practice this technique, notice how your muscles hold tension.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find a relaxed position &#8211; either sitting or lying comfortably.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tighten your face muscles: scrunch your eyes, mouth, and forehead. Hold for 5 seconds and slowly release.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Draw your shoulders towards your ears. Clench your fists and tense your arms. Hold for 5 seconds, and relax.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a deep breath, tightening your chest and core. Hold for 5 seconds, exhale, and let go.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Press your legs together, flex your toes, tense your thighs and calves. Hold for 5 seconds and release.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tense your entire body from head to toe. Hold for 5 seconds, release fully as you breathe out, softening each muscle.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Reasons why BetterMe is a safe bet: a wide range of calorie-blasting workouts, finger-licking recipes, 24\/7 support, challenges that\u2019ll keep you on your best game, and that just scratches the surface! <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Start using our app <\/a>and watch the magic happen.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #4 Rhythmic Movement<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rhythmic movements are easy but truly effective in helping your body release tension. They are probably the most enjoyable <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercises\/\">somatic exercises for anxiety<\/a> as they require no special dancing skills or structured moves (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They\u2019re unstructured and intuitive, and can jazz up your routine with fun movements. Some samples of rhythmic movement include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sway your body gently side to side while seated or standing.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gently shake your arms, legs, or even your entire body for 30 seconds, letting go of any tension.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Put on your favorite song and dance like no one is watching: slow, fast, energetically, relaxed &#8211; whatever feels right for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Roll your shoulders and neck backward and forward to ease stiffness.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-80311\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid-1024x640.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/meramaid.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #5 Butterfly Hug Technique<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experiencing emotional distress can make you anxious. During such moments, you want to feel safe and sound and to be supported, both physically and emotionally.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When there\u2019s no one around to hug, you can give yourself a gentle butterfly hug. To do so, you need to (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sit comfortably and fold your arms across your chest. Place your right hand on your left upper arm and your left hand on your right upper arm.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tap your arms gently, creating a rhythm.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acknowledge your sensations and feelings during tapping.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Technique #6 Body Scanning<\/b> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Somatic-Exercises-for-Anxiety-_Faith-Behavioral_-PDF-1-1-1.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Body scanning is a powerful technique for developing mindfulness and strengthening your connection to your body. Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sit comfortably in a chair or lie on a couch and close your eyes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay attention to the lower part of your body, specifically your feet. Notice any sensations such as muscular tension or tingling that arise.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gradually shift your focus upward: scan your legs, core, chest, arms, shoulders, and head.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take deep calming breaths, and on the exhale, imagine letting go of all the tension and tightness you feel.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-yoga-routine\/\">Somatic Yoga Routine: A Path to Better Mind-Body Balance<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Difference_Between_Cognitive_and_Somatic_Relaxation\"><\/span><b>What Is the Difference Between Cognitive and Somatic Relaxation?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation targets physical manifestations of stress, such as muscular tension or discomfort by increasing awareness of bodily sensations. It fosters mind-body connection via movement-based practices (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8276649\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ve encountered the best somatic techniques for releasing tension, such as deep breathing, grounding, progressive muscle relaxation, and others. By engaging the mind and body, somatic relaxation can improve emotional and physical health (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8276649\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By contrast, cognitive relaxation focuses primarily on the mind and thoughts. Using mental strategies may help reduce stress, manage emotions, and control behaviors, often within cognitive behavioral therapy (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC8475916\/#:~:text=Conclusions.%20CBT%20is%20an%20effective%2C%20gold-standard%20treatment,behaviors%20shown%20to%20generate%20and%20maintain%20anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). One of its techniques is guided imagery relaxation (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rogelcancercenter.org\/breaking-habits-beating-us\/learning-relax\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Our previous post goes into great detail about the <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/12-guided-somatic-exercises\/\">12 guided somatic experiencing exercises<\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72600\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1024x640.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-somatic-exercices-3.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Imagery Relaxation (sample):<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spacing out is good, particularly in moments of distress. Going to a serene place in your imagination when you\u2019re anxious isn\u2019t about escaping reality (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rogelcancercenter.org\/breaking-habits-beating-us\/learning-relax\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s about creating a soothing environment in your imagination to release stress and help yourself unwind.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visualization is a perfect practice that can be done anywhere (not while driving, though).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shut your eyes, imagine a serene place where you feel safe. This could be a forest, beach, cozy room, a park &#8211; anything that chills you out.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Picture the details vividly. Notice the sounds, colors, smells, and sensations in this place. Imagine the sound of thunder and a downpour.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stay in your imagined place as long as you want. Let the calmness of your surroundings help your body and mind relax.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To summarize, cognitive relaxation calms your body through your mind, while somatic relaxation calms your mind through your body. Mixing these approaches may be even more beneficial than just practicing one alone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_a_Somatic_Relaxation_Feel\"><\/span><b>How Does a Somatic Relaxation Feel?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation is felt mostly in your body. When you practice <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/exercise-to-release-trauma\/\">somatic exercises to release trauma<\/a> or to reduce anxiety, the process starts with changes in bodily sensations: your tight muscles soften, breathing gets deeper, and tension gradually releases (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/somatic-exercises-for-anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your attention shifts from racing thoughts to bodily sensations, which creates a sense of grounded presence. You\u2019ll notice that you can experience intense emotions without feeling overwhelmed. Mentally, it gives you clarity and calm, while you feel safe and connected to your body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/somatic-exercises-for-anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation feels like a gentle unwinding of your body and mind: as if you\u2019ve had a truly restful vacation, leaving you more centered and at ease.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your experience may differ from this explanation, but the approximate effects may crop up, especially with consistent practice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-72584\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3-1024x640.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"770\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3-1024x640.png 1024w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3-768x480.png 768w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3-1720x1075.png 1720w, https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Banner-mental-health3.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_somatic_exercises_really_work\"><\/span><strong>Do somatic exercises really work?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, somatic exercises work. They boost body awareness, relieve stress, support trauma healing, enhance mindfulness, and build up a mind-body connection.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There isn&#8217;t a great deal of high-quality research available at this time on somatic practices, but there is support for the benefits of mindfulness and exercise<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mindful breathing, gentle movements, and grounding promote relaxation and support your physical and mental well-being (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/somatic-workouts-exercises-stretches-movement\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_somatic_exercises_release_trauma\"><\/span><strong>Do somatic exercises release trauma?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises are a part of somatic therapy, which may be effective for releasing trauma (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/integrishealth.org\/resources\/on-your-health\/2024\/october\/somatic-therapy-signs-your-body-is-releasing-trauma\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) by easing stored tension and helping you reconnect with your body. Moreover, they allow emotions linked to past experiences to surface safely, which promotes healing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_somatic_anxiety\"><\/span><strong>What is somatic anxiety?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic anxiety involves the body\u2019s physical responses to stress, including elevated heart rate, increased cortisol levels, and muscle tension (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/topics\/medicine-and-dentistry\/somatic-anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_somatic_release_feel_like\"><\/span><strong>What does somatic release feel like?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic release feels like tension easing from your body. You may notice muscles loosening, gentle tingling, or a sense of lightness. Emotions that are tied to past experiences can emerge, leaving you calmer and more grounded (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/faithbehavioralhealth.com\/somatic-exercises-for-anxiety\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Relaxation_Techniques\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2-4.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><b>The Bottom Line<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation is a great way to relax your mind by targeting your body. Its best techniques are grounding, breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, body scanning, rhythmic movement, and the butterfly hug.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic relaxation doesn\u2019t require any special equipment or a specific place to unwind. Basically, you need a safe and peaceful spot to practice the techniques. By contrast, cognitive relaxation focuses on your mind and mental processes to calm your body down.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Stress is tricky and often appears when you don\u2019t expect it. Sure, it may be positive: you feel stressed before going on your first date with a stud, before your birthday party, or at a wedding ceremony.\u00a0 However, sometimes you feel flustered, which may cause unpleasant body sensations. Do you remember the last time you [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":82380,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[209],"tags":[],"coauthors":[45],"class_list":["post-82379","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-somatic-exercises"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques? - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What are restorative \u2605 SOMATIC RELAXATION TECHNIQUES \u27a4? If you\u2019re feeling tense and anxious, check out these easy techniques to calm your body and mind.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, nofollow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What are restorative \u2605 SOMATIC RELAXATION TECHNIQUES \u27a4? If you\u2019re feeling tense and anxious, check out these easy techniques to calm your body and mind.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"#\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-10-13T14:13:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/BP-583-somatic-relaxation-techniques-1024x640.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"640\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"BetterMe\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"BetterMe\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"BetterMe\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/46a2559fa95a734cb81f6fc6a2c3f404\"},\"headline\":\"What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques?\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-13T14:13:12+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/\"},\"wordCount\":2078,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/BP-583-somatic-relaxation-techniques.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Somatic Exercises\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Stress is tricky and often appears when you don\u2019t expect it. Sure, it may be positive: you feel stressed before going on your first date with a stud, before your birthday party, or at a wedding ceremony.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-root=\\\"1\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">However, sometimes you feel flustered, which may cause unpleasant body sensations. Do you remember the last time you stressed over something that left you with an upset stomach or headache?\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">It could be anything: slight jealousy toward your partner, dismay from failing your driving test, or chatting with a repugnant salesperson.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">You may have heard of Pilates, yoga, gratitude, or meditation as stress-relief techniques. They can have an impact and help you relax, alleviate stress, and lift your spirits afterwards.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Here you\u2019ll learn about a different strategy to calm your body, improve self-awareness, and cultivate the mind-body connection. You\u2019re about to dive into the world of somatic relaxation techniques to target and regulate your nervous system. This article will answer some specific questions that may pop into your mind:\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n<ul>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">What are restorative somatic relaxation techniques?<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">What is the difference between cognitive and somatic relaxation?<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\" aria-level=\\\"1\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">How do you calm your somatic system?<\/span><\/li>\\r\\n<\/ul>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>How to Calm Your Somatic System<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">According to the Cleveland Clinic, the somatic nervous system allows you to move and control your muscles throughout your\u00a0 body (<\/span><a href=\\\" ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/\",\"name\":\"What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques? - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/BP-583-somatic-relaxation-techniques.png\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-13T14:13:12+00:00\",\"description\":\"What are restorative \u2605 SOMATIC RELAXATION TECHNIQUES \u27a4? 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Sure, it may be positive: you feel stressed before going on your first date with a stud, before your birthday party, or at a wedding ceremony.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, sometimes you feel flustered, which may cause unpleasant body sensations. Do you remember the last time you stressed over something that left you with an upset stomach or headache?\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It could be anything: slight jealousy toward your partner, dismay from failing your driving test, or chatting with a repugnant salesperson.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may have heard of Pilates, yoga, gratitude, or meditation as stress-relief techniques. They can have an impact and help you relax, alleviate stress, and lift your spirits afterwards.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here you\u2019ll learn about a different strategy to calm your body, improve self-awareness, and cultivate the mind-body connection. You\u2019re about to dive into the world of somatic relaxation techniques to target and regulate your nervous system. This article will answer some specific questions that may pop into your mind:\u00a0<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are restorative somatic relaxation techniques?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the difference between cognitive and somatic relaxation?<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you calm your somatic system?<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>How to Calm Your Somatic System<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the Cleveland Clinic, the somatic nervous system allows you to move and control your muscles throughout your\u00a0 body (<\/span><a href=\" ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/","url":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/","name":"What are Restorative Somatic Relaxation Techniques? - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-relaxation-techniques\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/stage.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/BP-583-somatic-relaxation-techniques.png","dateModified":"2025-10-13T14:13:12+00:00","description":"What are restorative \u2605 SOMATIC RELAXATION TECHNIQUES \u27a4? 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