Life can be an unpredictable roller coaster ride, filled lots of emotions. When faced with loss and grief such as the experience of widowhood, the emotional pressure can build up like one of those geysers in Yellowstone. There are some powerful somatic practices for blowing off steam, because just as that gyser needs to release steam, so do you as a human being.

Why You Need to Blow off Steam?

Grief causes intense emotions, ranging from sadness and anger to frustration and anxiety. Your emotions can build up and create that same feeling of pressure. Neglecting to release that pressure can lead to long-term negative effects on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Have you ever found yourself snapping at someone, bursting into tears for no reason, or having a mysterious headache?  That’s your release value letting off a little pressure. 

What Are Somatic Practices?

Somatic practices involve engaging the body in intentional movement, breath work, and mindfulness to help you reconnect and release emotional tension. Your physical and emotional states are deeply intertwined. By engaging in somatic practices, you can tap into the body’s wisdom and find profound relief and healing.

Top Ten Somatic Practices for Processing Grief

• Deep breathing
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Body scanning
• Grounding yourself
• Expressive movement
• Screaming or vocalizing
• Journaling
• Guided Imagery
• Mindful walking
• Body-based Mindfulness

In the face of grief and loss, it is essential to acknowledge and honor your emotions. Just like a geyser or boiling water, you need to find healthy ways to blow off steam and release the emotional pressure.

Somatic practices offer you a valuable toolbox for achieving this release, allowing you to reconnect with your body, find solace in movement, and restore your emotional well-being. By incorporating these practices into your life, you can embark on a healing journey that honors your grief while also nurturing your resilience and capacity for joy. Remember, in giving yourself permission to blow off steam, you create space to heal.

You’ve got this, and I’m here to help.

Julie

P.S. If you want to hear more about somatic practices, head on over to my podcast, Navigating Widowhood, wherever podcasts are played.