The combination of Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Craniosacral Therapy offers profound healing for the mind, body and spirit. Somatic experiencing—both touch and non-touch therapy—is a body-based therapeutic approach that aims to release trauma stored in the body. This activation can come in the form of ruminating thoughts, tightness in a part of our bodies (usually in the core) or even frustration at once-trivial triggers. Release occurs through connecting to our bodies and learning to regulate ourselves out of fight/flight/freeze patterns which may persist for years or even decades.

SE touch therapy uses gentle, intentional touch on the muscles, joints, organs and diaphragm to help the body find balance, natural regulation and relief. The wonderful thing is that our nervous system can gently guide us back to our felt sense of goodness and peace in our bodies. It might feel like warmth, openness, spaciousness or deep relaxation. The connection between body and mind is incredibly powerful, and as we tune into our bodies, we learn to trust this felt sense and return to it whenever we need.

Craniosacral Therapy complements SE, providing gentle, safe touch to support the nervous system from cranium to sacrum. A trained therapist senses areas of tension or imbalance from ongoing stress or trauma. With a supportive presence and great understanding of the body’s release patterns, they facilitate a release of stored tension and trauma to help the nervous system regain balance. The body learns to remember and access this balanced state more easily.

Bonnie Leggo currently offers Somatic Experiencing touch work, and will begin to offer Craniosacral Therapy in February of 2025 at Pathways to Healing, Somatic Therapy and Consulting, LLC - 1037 W McKinley Ave, Milwaukee, WI. To book an appointment, contact Bonnie at 262-289-5081.