A Deeper Dive with Rachel Axmacher: Orienting and Grounding

The high today is 90 degrees!

Is anyone else sweltering? Oh da ma goodness this Alabama heat is really kicking up and showing off! I think I sweated a cup this weekend when I was out in the sun! So before I get into today’s post I want to remind you to drink fluids, especially water (hydrogen-rich Kangen water if you have access to it) and electrolyte drinks like Instant Hydration, Redmond ReLyte, Coconut water, if you are getting out in this heat. It’s great to sweat and move out body toxins, but we’ve got to keep ourselves hydrated! Hydrating is important for everyone, but especially for the elderly, chronically ill, and for LifeWave patchers (who need hydration to make the patches work optimally)!

I am trying to get my morning walks in earlier and earlier to avoid overheating and to take advantage of the early morning sunlight. I hope you are managing to get out and enjoy a little time in nature and practice your grounding, and maybe some orienting? I have been practicing grounding and I am planning to share some photos with you soon! Don’t forget you can share your photos of yourself grounding for the June Challenge with hashtag #SomaticJuneChallenge for a chance to win some Kangen water.

A welcome shady spot along my walk in this blistering heat!

We have been talking a good amount about somatic work this month, I'm excited to share part two of my interview with Rachel Axmacher, a certified physical therapist and somatic experiencing practitioner. In our conversation, Rachel shed light on the importance of somatic practices in releasing trauma and promoting overall well-being. And today I am going to share a couple of videos she made just for us with you!

Understanding Somatic Work

A quick reminder, somatic work is a powerful approach that focuses on internal physical perception and experience. By tuning into our bodily sensations, we can release stored tension and trauma, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Rachel's work is centered around this philosophy, and her videos offer a glimpse into the transformative power of a couple somatic practices.

Exploring Grounding and Orienting Techniques

In Rachel's sample videos, she shares two essential techniques for promoting relaxation and reducing stress: grounding and orienting. I hope you will watch and feel free to follow along.

1. Grounding Techniques: These exercises help us feel more present and connected to our bodies and environment. By focusing on our senses, we can calm our nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety.

Remember there are a few things to watch for to know if this technique is working for you: For example, you will know you are shifting into your parasympathetic state (relax, digest, and heal state) when you experience a deep breath, a yawn, feeling your shoulders drop, a tummy gurgle, a sigh, or that “just right” feeling.

Some other effective grounding techniques I like to use include:

  • 5-4-3-2-1 Exercise: Notice five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. (This works best for me right after cooking and enjoying a meal because lots of smells and taste abound, but you can use it anytime.)

  • Body Scan: Lie down or sit comfortably and focus on each part of your body, starting from your toes and moving up to the top of your head.

2. Orienting Techniques: These exercises help us become more aware of our surroundings and internal experiences. By paying attention to our environment and bodily sensations, we can better regulate our nervous system and respond to stressors more effectively.

So to Remind Us, What are the Benefits of Somatic Work?

Somatic work offers numerous benefits, including:

- Increased Body Awareness: By tuning into our bodily sensations, we can better understand our physical and emotional needs.

- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Somatic practices can help regulate our nervous system, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

- Improved Emotional Regulation: By becoming more aware of our bodily sensations, we can better manage our emotions and respond to challenging situations more effectively.

Getting Started with Somatic Work

If you're interested in exploring somatic work further, here are some tips to get you started :

- Start with Simple Exercises: Begin with basic exercises like deep breathing, body scan, or progressive muscle relaxation.

- Find a Qualified Practitioner: Consider working with a certified somatic practitioner or therapist who can guide you through the process.

- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key when it comes to somatic work. Set aside time each day to practice and explore different techniques like the butterfly hug, havening touch, and progressive muscle relaxation.

By incorporating somatic practices into our daily lives, we can cultivate greater body awareness, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote overall well-being. I'm excited to share these insights from Rachel Axmacher and explore the transformative power of somatic work with. Let me know, does grounding or orienting help you? What’s been your favorite place to ground so far? Mine has been by a nearby pond!

My toes love the grass!


Stay tuned for more great health and wellness posts in the weeks to come! I’ve got some great news for all of you who want more ways to have hydrated beautiful skin.

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How Your Nervous System State Can Help or Hinder Your Healing Journey

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How to Take Somatic Practices to the Next Level with Aeon Patches