Somatic Self-Love Ritual: Creating a Body That Feels Like Home for Those with C-PTSD
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disease (C-PTSD) can make our bodies feel like unfamiliar, even hostile, territories. Amidst the waves of anxiety, memories, and disconnection, it’s essential to cultivate a sense of safety and sanctuary within our own skin. Somatic self-love, the practice of deepening our connection to our bodies through mindful movement and awareness, can be a guiding star in this journey. Here is a simple, yet powerful, somatic self-love ritual to help you create a body that feels like home.
Our bodies are temples, each carrying a universe of emotions, memories, and stories within them 🌙🌿 It’s through the practice of somatic self-love that we can truly connect with our inner selves and honor the beauty of our bodies. And for some of us carrying unresolved trauma, our bodies don’t feel like home… somatic self-love can provide a gentle entry point.
Begin with Grounding 🌱
Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Sit or lie down, allowing your body to feel supported by the ground or a cushion. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, letting your attention shift from your external environment to your inner landscape.
Gentle Body Scan 🌟
Starting from your toes, slowly move your attention through your entire body, observing any sensations or emotions that arise without judgment. If you encounter areas of tension or discomfort, send a gentle breath to that area, inviting relaxation and release.
Soothing Self-Compassion 💗
Place one hand over your heart and the other over your belly. As you breathe, send loving-kindness and compassion to yourself. Remind yourself that you are worthy of love and care, especially during challenging times.
Tender Movement 🌼
Introduce some gentle movements to your body, such as stretching, swaying, or dancing. Allow your body to guide you, moving in ways that feel nourishing and comfortable. As you move, maintain a sense of mindful awareness, noticing how your body feels and responds to each movement.
Restorative Rest 🌙
After your gentle movement practice, find a comfortable resting position. Allow your body to sink into the support beneath you, giving it permission to fully relax and release any remaining tension. Stay in this restorative rest for as long as it feels nourishing.
Gratitude and Integration 🌈
When you’re ready, gently bring your attention back to the present moment. Take a few moments to express gratitude to your body for its resilience, strength, and wisdom. As you go about your day, remember to carry the somatic self-love you’ve cultivated with you, treating your body as the sanctuary it truly is.
Remember, this ritual is just a starting point. Feel free to adapt and modify it to suit your unique needs and circumstances. The key is to consistently practice somatic self-love, allowing it to guide you in creating a body that feels like home, even in the face of C-PTSD.