Can you do somatic mindfulness at work?

Yes, many somatic mindfulness techniques can be adapted for workplace settings. Simple practices such as noticing your breath, feeling your feet on the floor, or doing discrete hand-to-heart grounding can be done at your desk. Brief body scans during breaks or mindful breathing between meetings can help you manage work stress without drawing attention.

What does a somatic release feel like?

A somatic release can vary significantly between individuals and situations. You may experience sensations such as warmth, tingling, trembling, or gentle shaking. Some people report feeling emotional waves, deep sighs, or sudden relaxation. Others describe it as tension melting away or energy moving through their body. These experiences are generally gentle and natural, not dramatic or overwhelming ( 30 ).

What is the somatic meditation technique?

Somatic meditation combines traditional meditation principles with body-focused awareness ( 31 ). Rather than concentrating on thoughts or mantras, you focus on internal physical sensations – heartbeat, breathing, muscle tension, or areas of warmth and coolness. The practice involves observing these sensations without trying to change them, allowing your nervous system to naturally regulate through mindful body awareness.

What is an example of somatic awareness?

A common example is noticing how your shoulders feel when you’re stressed versus when you’re relaxed. You may observe that tension creates a heavy, tight sensation across your shoulder blades, while relaxation brings a sense of width and softness. Another example is recognizing that anxiety often creates a fluttery sensation in your stomach, while calm feels more like gentle, steady breathing in your belly.