SomatoEmotional Release

SomatoEmotional Release™ (SER) is a therapeutic process that uses and expands on the principles of CST to help a person rid their body of the residual effects of past injuries and negative experiences. SER is based on university research conducted by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger and biophysicist Zvi Karni. Physical forces enter a person's body at the time of an accident or injury. The injured body may immediately begin dissipating these forces and the natural healing process will follow, or the physical forces imposed upon the person's body may be retained rather than dissipated. Drs. Upledger and Karni came to realize that very often the body retained the emotional energy along with the physical force, and called this localized and concentrated area that formed, an "energy cyst." Initially the body accommodates to the presence of the energy cyst, but over time the body weakens or tires of this accommodation, and can develop symptoms of pain, dysfunction, or emotional stress.

SER facilitates a gentle process for releasing tissue memory, thereby helping the person to decrease the adverse effects of past traumas. There is vast research to show that a change in physical health is accompanied by a change in mental health, and it is equally documented that the reverse is apparent. SER is a holistic mind-body somatic approach that may also assist a person in gaining insight as to how that held trauma is influencing their physical and emotional health. SER can support the person transition from dysfunction and unresolved issues towards wellness and optimal function.

How does SER Work?

SomatoEmotional Release (SER) works by addressing the connection between the body and emotional trauma. It helps individuals release stored emotions and physical tension that may contribute to pain, stress, or imbalances within the body. The therapy operates on the belief that emotional and physical trauma can leave lasting effects on our muscles, joints, and tissues, potentially causing pain, tension, and other health conditions.
During a SER session, the therapist uses light touch to sense the rhythmic movements of the craniosacral system. These movements help identify areas of emotional blockage and use subtle manipulations to encourage the release of these tensions. The process is often gentle and non-invasive, focusing on creating a safe space for emotional processing and release.
SER is a powerful intersection between physical therapy and emotional healing, acknowledging the profound connectivity between the mind and body. It offers a path to recovery that addresses both emotional and physical dimensions of health. Whether dealing with unresolved emotional traumas or seeking a deeper understanding of one's body's responses, SER offers a compassionate and effective therapeutic option.

What does CST help with?

• Migraines and Headaches

• Chronic Neck and Back Pain

• Autism

• Stress and Tension-Related Disorders

• Motor-Coordination Impairments

• Infant and Childhood Disorders

• Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

• Chronic Fatigue

• Fibromyalgia

• TMJ Syndrome

• Scoliosis

• Central Nervous System Disorders

• Learning Disabilities

• ADD/ADHD

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Orthopedic Problems

• And Many Other Conditions