Somatic Experiencing is based on Dr. Levine's observation and
study of how animals in the wild do not get traumatized despite constantly being in
life threatening situations while humans are subjected to traumatic symptoms of physical and emotional illness. This is because the wild animals utilize their innate mechanisms to fully express and
complete their fight, flight or freeze instincts which in turn helps in discharging the high levels of energy associated with threatening situations. However, humans, being in a conditioned
environment, tend to override these natural impulses
leading to traumatic symptoms from the incomplete biological responses and the
associated build up of high amounts of energy in the system.
According to SE principles,trauma or an unbalanced nervous system is not caused by the traumatic event itself but more so from the overwhelming response and reaction that our system exhibits under perceived threats.
It is important to know that SE works on the body memories of the event ie. sensations lying underneath the feelings.
SE approach primarily involves tracking and
being aware of bodily sensations in a safe and resourced environment while regulating and discharging the high levels of pent up physical, mental and emotional energy. It utilizes various
SE techniques to help bring the autonomic nervous system back to regulation.