Somatic  Resourcing
        A GUIDEBOOK FOR
     OVERCOMING OVERWHELM
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   Definition
         WHAT IS IT?
         Somatic = Relating to or affecting the body. From
         “soma,” of Greek origin, meaning “body.”
          
         Resourcing = The act of tapping into inherent internal
         strengths (practices, memories, experiences) that support
         us in moving from a state of distress to a state of calm.
         WHAT IS IT FOR?
         Somatic resourcing is something we do in preparation for
         thinking, writing or talking about distressing emotions
         or events in our life so that if we become overwhelmed by
         these recollections, we have something to return to – or to
         bring us back to center.
         WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
         In this exercise, you’ll identify 1-3 somatic resources (of
         a potential 5) so that you can intentionally bring your
         awareness to these as a tool to reduce overwhelm and
         increase resilience.
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    Before you start
    In the coming pages is a series of prompts to help you get
    connected to your internal somatic resources. We’re not
    creating anything here, we’re simply tapping into what’s
    already there.
    It’s best to do this exercise when you’re in an “okay” state of
    mind and body. Make sure you’re not too triggered by a
    recent occurrence or too hungry, tired, distracted, irritated,
    hyper, etc. 
    This exercise will be much easier and much more fruitful if you
    can get into a somewhat calm or neutral state before
    starting.
    You’ll want to find a place where you can be alone, still,
    quiet and in a reflective state of mind.
    Get yourself into a comfortable and physically supported
    seated position, with your spine upright (yet relaxed,) your
    breathing unobstructed and your feet flat on the ground.
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    Tap into your somatic
    resources
    Please take your time. If any particularly prompt is too challenging
    to connect to, simply skip it.
    Notice what emotions and body sensations you feel and where
    you feel them (even if it is super subtle, weird or random!) Note the
    ones that are more pleasant or neutral.
    Make note of any mixed emotions -- ones that are seemingly
    contradictory (e.g. joyful, longing and sad at the same time.)
    It may help you to close your eyes after you read each prompt to:
      Reduce stimuli in your environment
      Visualize yourself in the scene
      Tap into the physical sensations
    It may help to imagine your “mind’s eye” scanning your body
    from head to toe for each prompt.
    If you’re having a tough time putting vocabulary to emotions,
    sensations, or noticing where in the body you're feeling them,
    feel free to reference the lists below.
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