{"id":62073,"date":"2024-07-26T08:22:07","date_gmt":"2024-07-26T08:22:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=62073"},"modified":"2024-07-29T15:35:55","modified_gmt":"2024-07-29T15:35:55","slug":"somatic-exercise-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Do_Somatic_Exercises_Really_Work\" >Do Somatic Exercises Really Work?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Do_Somatic_Exercises_Release_Trauma\" >Do Somatic Exercises Release Trauma?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Main_Benefits_of_Somatic_Exercises\" >Main Benefits of Somatic Exercises\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Somatic_Exercises_for_Stress\" >Somatic Exercises for Stress<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Side_Effects_of_Somatic_Exercise\" >Side Effects of Somatic Exercise<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Somatic_Exercise_Side_Effects\" >Somatic Exercise Side Effects<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Common_Sensations_when_Starting_Somatic_Exercise_and_what_Causes_Them\" >Common Sensations when Starting Somatic Exercise and what Causes Them\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#How_to_Start_a_Somatic_Practice_with_the_Greatest_Comfort\" >How to Start a Somatic Practice with the Greatest Comfort<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Grounding\" >Grounding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Body_Scans\" >Body Scans<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Diaphragmatic_Breathing\" >Diaphragmatic Breathing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#What_happens_after_somatic_exercises\" >What happens after somatic exercises?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Is_it_normal_to_feel_tired_after_somatic_exercises\" >Is it normal to feel tired after somatic exercises?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Why_do_people_cry_during_somatic_workouts\" >Why do people cry during somatic workouts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#How_often_should_you_do_somatic_exercises\" >How often should you do somatic exercises?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#Summary\" >Summary<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stepping into the world of somatic exercises can be an exciting time as they come with many potential incredible benefits. Somatic exercises can become second nature with practice, they don\u2019t take a lot of time, and they can even be done in the comfort of your own home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re focusing on somatic exercises, somatic workouts, somatic therapy, somatic experiencing, or somatic healing, each of these carries many benefits that can help change and improve your quality of life. However, when starting these exercises, releasing tension, and retraining your nervous system, people sometimes experience side effects before they start to see any benefits <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/#:~:text=The%20main%20effect,the%20following%20sensations%3A\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(1)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=&quot;&quot;LINK&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;video autoplay=&quot;autoplay&quot; loop=&quot;loop&quot; muted=&quot;muted&quot; playsinline=&quot;playsinline&quot; width=&quot;777&quot;&gt;&lt;source src=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-5.mp4&quot;&quot; type=&quot;video\/mp4&quot; \/&gt;&lt;\/video&gt;&lt;\/a&gt;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:805,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-5.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with any new workout regime or exercise, your body may experience muscle stiffness as it becomes used to these new movements. In this blog, we\u2019ll discuss the benefits of somatic exercises, the side effects of somatic exercises, and how you can start comfortably practicing these movements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Somatic_Exercises_Really_Work\"><\/span><b>Do Somatic Exercises Really Work?\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before we dive into whether somatic exercises work, let\u2019s first define what somatic exercises are. The term \u201csomatic\u201d means \u201cof, related to, or affecting the body\u201d <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.today.com\/health\/diet-fitness\/what-is-somatic-workout-rcna138383\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(2)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Somatic exercises focus on the mind-body connection between physical sensations and mental and emotional states and listening to signals from your body regarding pain and discomfort <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/somatics\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(3)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0 Some examples of somatic exercise include walking meditations, diaphragmatic breathing, yoga, and grounding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises are known to be quite beneficial for people. While more conclusive evidence is required, some studies have proven that somatic exercises help manage chronic discomfort, support positive emotions, improve balance and mobility, and reduce anxiety (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/somatics#does-it-work:~:text=Does%20it%20actually%20work%3F\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using somatic exercises can help you become more aware of areas of pain, discomfort, or tension in your body that need to be released or attended to. One of the most notable benefits of somatic exercises is that they can significantly reduce stress when done consistently (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/somatics#does-it-work:~:text=Does%20it%20actually%20work%3F\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to physical benefits, somatic exercises can improve your mental and emotional state. A person can achieve this by becoming more in tune with their mind and body, which encourages them to have increased self-awareness, reduced stress and worry, and a better emotional state of mind (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/somatics#does-it-work:~:text=Does%20it%20actually%20work%3F\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61993 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/woman-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Somatic Exercise Side Effects\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/woman-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/woman-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/woman-1.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/woman-1-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Somatic_Exercises_Release_Trauma\"><\/span><b>Do Somatic Exercises Release Trauma?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When individuals experience a traumatic event, the trauma and emotions they go through can become trapped in their bodies. Trauma can be held in the body and present itself in physical symptoms for many years. These symptoms can include headaches, chronic pain, dissociation, and muscle tightness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/health\/how-your-body-remembers-trauma#:~:text=Trauma%20can%20be%20held%20in,%2C%20chronic%20pain%2C%20and%20dissociation\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises have been proven to be effective for releasing trauma from the body. We store experiences in different parts of our bodies as a result of accidents, injuries, or emotional traumas (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theworkoutwitch.com\/blogs\/news\/somatic-exercise-stored-trauma-do-somatic-exercises-really-work#:~:text=The%20Benefits%20of%20Somatic%20Exercise%20for%20Releasing%20Trauma\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Once you\u2019ve pinpointed the various areas in your body that are holding onto trauma and tension, you can perform specific exercises to target these areas and release the tension. It is recommended when you start any type of somatic exercise work focusing on trauma that you receive the support of a trained mental health professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The type of somatic therapy that focuses on treating trauma and PTSD is called somatic experiencing and needs to be done with the help of a professional (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/somatic-experiencing\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read More:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/list-of-somatic-exercises\/\"><em>List of Somatic Exercises for Mental and Physical Well-Being<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Main_Benefits_of_Somatic_Exercises\"><\/span><b>Main Benefits of Somatic Exercises\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who perform these exercises consistently can experience the benefits of engaging in somatic exercises. One of the best parts of somatic exercises is that individuals of all ages, abilities, locations, and fitness levels are able to perform them in the comfort of their own homes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercises-benefits\/\">Somatic exercise benefits<\/a> include (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/somatic-exercises\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">):<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduced stress<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Improvement in posture and flexibility<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Better balance and mobility<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Better emotional awareness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potential release of where trauma is being physically held in the body<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61114 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cycle-Syncing-4-1024x576.png\" alt=\"somatic exercises side effects\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cycle-Syncing-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cycle-Syncing-4-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cycle-Syncing-4.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cycle-Syncing-4-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Somatic_Exercises_for_Stress\"><\/span><b>Somatic Exercises for Stress<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the greatest benefits somatic exercises provide is reducing stress. Research has shown there to be a correlation between stress and high cortisol levels. When our bodies are in a consistent state of high cortisol levels, this can lead to weight gain, specifically around the abdominal area (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cortisol-and-stress#faq\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lowering stress can also improve sleep, lower blood pressure, improve digestion, and reduce muscle tension (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mondaycampaigns.org\/destress-monday\/the-health-benefits-of-reducing-stress\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Some of the best somatic exercises for stress and anxiety are progressive muscle relaxation, grounding, yoga, and body scans (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/compassionify.com\/somatic-exercises-for-anxiety\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Side_Effects_of_Somatic_Exercise\"><\/span><b>Side Effects of Somatic Exercise<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises are generally considered safe for everyone. However, with any new physical activity, there may be side effects, particularly when you first start. As a rule, it\u2019s always best to consult your physician before trying a new exercise.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main purpose of somatic exercises is to release chronic tension in the muscles. However, whenever we work on retraining and releasing the muscles, this can come with a variety of sensations. While the end result may feel much better, some of these sensations can be unpleasant (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Many of these sensations will only be temporary as your body adjusts. Somatic exercises side effects may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Feeling off-balance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle twitching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle soreness, tightness, or pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache or migraine\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emotional release<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can adjust your routine by practicing somatic exercises less frequently, such as every other day or just a few days a week, or you could shorten your somatic exercises from around 20\u201330 minutes to 5\u201310 minutes a day as your body becomes used to these new movements. If the discomfort persists, make sure to receive guidance from your medical team on how to proceed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61342 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Somatic_3-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Somatic_3-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Somatic_3-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Somatic_3-1.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Somatic_3-1-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Somatic_Exercise_Side_Effects\"><\/span>Somatic Exercise Side Effects<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Sensations_when_Starting_Somatic_Exercise_and_what_Causes_Them\"><\/span><b>Common Sensations when Starting Somatic Exercise and what Causes Them\u00a0<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may be wondering what causes these sensations during somatic exercise. Actually, there are different scientific reasons behind each somatic exercise and the sensations or side effects you may experience with them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The start of a new exercise or movement type can often release habitual muscle tension. By releasing this tension, you\u2019re letting new sensory information into your vestibular system (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). We rely on the vestibular system to keep us balanced and coordinate our movements, so if it experiences changes, we may feel nauseated, dizzy, and off balance. Most of the time, the reason for this is due to the vestibular system being affected by the changes in posture that are caused by practicing somatic exercises (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Feelings of dizziness, being off-balance, or nausea should only last for a short period of time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle soreness is also a common side effect when starting somatic exercises. This is mostly caused by moving and stretching muscles you haven\u2019t typically been using. Releasing tight muscles can cause soreness or pain (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Again, this should only be temporary. If you experience a lot of muscle soreness and discomfort, you should reduce your exercises until your body adjusts to the new movements and consult your medical team for further guidance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experiencing soreness or other unpleasant sensations after or during somatic exercises doesn\u2019t necessarily mean you should stop them, it just means that your body is adjusting to them and you may need to take it easy until your body adjusts to them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If you wish to reach into the deep crevices of your mind, take yourself out of the mental loop, <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\">regain balance<\/a>, infuse yourself with optimism, and cultivate compassion &#8211; <a class=\"waffle-rich-text-link\" data-sheets-formula-bar-text-link=\"https:\/\/better-meditation.onelink.me\/MD4H\/c81cf89a\" data-sheets-formula-bar-text-style=\"font-size:13px;color:#1155cc;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:underline;font-family:''Arial'';font-style:normal;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;\">BetterMe app is exactly what you need<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Start_a_Somatic_Practice_with_the_Greatest_Comfort\"><\/span><b>How to Start a Somatic Practice with the Greatest Comfort<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises don\u2019t require any equipment and many of them can be performed very comfortably on a cushioned mat on your floor, in a chair, or even from the comfort of your own bed! It may be possible to better prepare yourself to potentially have fewer side effects of somatic exercise. It\u2019s best to start with gentle and easy exercises. These low-impact exercises will get you used to somatic exercise and help you determine which areas of your body are full of tension.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re wondering how to do <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercises\/\">somatic exercises<\/a> and where to start, some of the best exercises are grounding, body scans, diaphragmatic breathing, and yoga.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Grounding\"><\/span><b>Grounding<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grounding is the practice of allowing your body to feel stable, calm, and more connected to the earth (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.anytimefitness.com\/ccc\/care\/what-are-somatic-exercises-a-guide-for-beginners\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). To do this, you can simply find a comfortable place outside and focus on the present moment and what is around you. You can do this by noticing what you can see, hear, touch, taste, and smell.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61238 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/chair-yoga_seniors_3-1024x576.png\" alt=\"somatic exercises side effects\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/chair-yoga_seniors_3.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/chair-yoga_seniors_3-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/chair-yoga_seniors_3.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/chair-yoga_seniors_3-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-movement-exercises\/\">Somatic Movement Exercises to Relax and Destress<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Body_Scans\"><\/span><b>Body Scans<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Body scans are the process of lying down comfortably on the floor in a relaxed position. You can also lie down in your bed or sit comfortably in a chair. To perform this exercise, you\u2019ll close your eyes and, beginning from the top of your body, slowly do a mental scan down your body to your feet, focusing on every body part as you go.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you bring <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/body-awareness\/\">awareness to each body part<\/a>, note any discomfort, feelings, or sensations such as relaxation or tenseness. During a body scan, you\u2019re encouraged to make sure you engage in steady, slow breathing (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.headspace.com\/meditation\/body-scan\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). This exercise will help you determine which muscles to focus on and which body parts require attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diaphragmatic_Breathing\"><\/span><b>Diaphragmatic Breathing<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This exercise helps you strengthen your breathing and relearn proper breathing techniques. To perform this exercise, you can lie on a flat surface, sit, or stand comfortably. If you place one hand on your upper chest and the other below your rib cage, you will be able to feel your diaphragm as you breathe (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/articles\/9445-diaphragmatic-breathing\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1) Breathe in slowly through your nose.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2) When you breathe in, your stomach should move out. You can place one hand on your stomach and one hand on your chest to feel this.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3) The hand on your stomach will rise, while the hand on your chest should stay still.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4) Breathe out through your mouth with your lips pursed (as if blowing out a candle).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5) As you breathe out, tighten your stomach muscles so your stomach moves in and your hand on your stomach goes down (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/articles\/9445-diaphragmatic-breathing\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-62077 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga-1024x576.png\" alt=\"somatic exercises side effects\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga-1636x920.png 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/somatic-yoga.png 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_happens_after_somatic_exercises\"><\/span><strong>What happens after somatic exercises? <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After somatic exercises, you should feel a release of muscle tension (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/#:~:text=The%20main%20effect%20of%20Clinical,be%20surprising%20and%20even%20unpleasant\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). This can be different for everyone, with some people taking longer than others to notice any benefits. You may experience some muscle soreness or pain as your joints shift into alignment and you use muscles that you don\u2019t typically use. To help avoid or reduce any side effects when starting somatic exercises, you should start very gradually and with very low-impact exercises.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_normal_to_feel_tired_after_somatic_exercises\"><\/span><strong>Is it normal to feel tired after somatic exercises? <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s normal to feel tired after somatic exercises as you\u2019re using muscles, focusing on improving your nervous system, and using exertion (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/healingrefuge.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/The-Refuge-Aftercare-Instructions.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_do_people_cry_during_somatic_workouts\"><\/span><strong>Why do people cry during somatic workouts? <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s perfectly normal to cry during a somatic workout. This is due to the fact that you\u2019re releasing pent-up or stored emotions or working through past trauma (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yourtango.com\/self\/what-means-cry-during-hard-workout#:~:text=So%2C%20crying%20while%20exercising%20can,of%20exercise%20can%20trigger%20it\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">15<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_often_should_you_do_somatic_exercises\"><\/span><strong>How often should you do somatic exercises? <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can do somatic exercises every day. These exercises can be done at any time. Some people prefer to do them in the morning as a way to start their day grounded, while others prefer to do them right before bed to help them sleep. They can take between 5 and 30 minutes to do (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.prevention.com\/fitness\/workouts\/a46993501\/somatic-exercises\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=&quot;&quot;LINK&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;video autoplay=&quot;autoplay&quot; loop=&quot;loop&quot; muted=&quot;muted&quot; playsinline=&quot;playsinline&quot; width=&quot;777&quot;&gt;&lt;source src=&quot;&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2-4.mp4&quot;&quot; type=&quot;video\/mp4&quot; \/&gt;&lt;\/video&gt;&lt;\/a&gt;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:809,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/en\/first-page-generated?flow=1843&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Somatic_Exercises_Side_Effects\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2-4.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Summary\"><\/span><b>Summary<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somatic exercises offer a range of benefits, including helping manage chronic discomfort, improving balance and mobility, and reducing anxiety and stress. Somatic exercises and somatic experiencing can also help release trauma that may be stored in your body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/somatic-experiencing\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, as with any new physical activity, it may initially cause side effects such as muscle stiffness, soreness, nausea, dizziness, and emotional release. These sensations are usually only temporary and can be managed by adjusting the frequency and duration of the exercises. If soreness or pain persist, stop the exercises immediately and consult your physician.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For<a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercises-for-beginners\/\"> beginners, somatic exercises<\/a> to start your somatic journey with are grounding, diaphragmatic breathing, and body scanning. These are gentle exercises that can help relax your body and pinpoint areas of tension in your body that require specific attention.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To learn more about somatic exercises, visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mental-health\/therapy\/somatic-exercises\/\"><b>BetterMe<\/b><\/a><b>\u2019s<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> library of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mental-health\/therapy\/somatic-exercises\/\"><b>somatic exercise<\/b><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">resources.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Stepping into the world of somatic exercises can be an exciting time as they come with many potential incredible benefits. Somatic exercises can become second nature with practice, they don\u2019t take a lot of time, and they can even be done in the comfort of your own home.\u00a0 Whether you\u2019re focusing on somatic exercises, somatic [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":98,"featured_media":62075,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[132,209],"tags":[],"coauthors":[252,240],"class_list":["post-62073","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mental-health","category-somatic-exercises"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"\u2605 SOMATIC EXERCISES SIDE EFFECTS \u27a4 Somatic exercises have many benefits, but with each new exercise and movement, your body may experience some side effects.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"\u2605 SOMATIC EXERCISES SIDE EFFECTS \u27a4 Somatic exercises have many benefits, but with each new exercise and movement, your body may experience some side effects.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-07-29T15:35:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13-1024x576.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"576\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Aimee Egger, Melissa Geraghty, PsyD\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Aimee Egger, Melissa Geraghty, PsyD\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Aimee Egger\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/4362d498f891762c618fe949c3ecbbfc\"},\"headline\":\"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-07-29T15:35:55+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\"},\"wordCount\":1865,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Mental Health\",\"Somatic Exercises\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Stepping into the world of somatic exercises can be an exciting time as they come with many potential incredible benefits. Somatic exercises can become second nature with practice, they don\u2019t take a lot of time, and they can even be done in the comfort of your own home.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Whether you\u2019re focusing on somatic exercises, somatic workouts, somatic therapy, somatic experiencing, or somatic healing, each of these carries many benefits that can help change and improve your quality of life. However, when starting these exercises, releasing tension, and retraining your nervous system, people sometimes experience side effects before they start to see any benefits <\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/#:~:text=The%20main%20effect,the%20following%20sensations%3A\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">(1)<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">.\u00a0<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-root=\\\"1\\\" data-sheets-value=\\\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;[video-shortcode link=\\\\&quot;LINK TO QUIZ\\\\&quot; mp4=\\\\&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-5.mp4\\\\&quot;]&quot;}\\\" data-sheets-userformat=\\\"{&quot;2&quot;:805,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">As with any new workout regime or exercise, your body may experience muscle stiffness as it becomes used to these new movements. In this blog, we\u2019ll discuss the benefits of somatic exercises, the side effects of ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/\",\"name\":\"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-07-29T15:35:55+00:00\",\"description\":\"\u2605 SOMATIC EXERCISES SIDE EFFECTS \u27a4 Somatic exercises have many benefits, but with each new exercise and movement, your body may experience some side 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Geraghty, PsyD","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@betterme","twitter_site":"@betterme","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Aimee Egger, Melissa Geraghty, PsyD","Est. reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/"},"author":{"name":"Aimee Egger","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/4362d498f891762c618fe949c3ecbbfc"},"headline":"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them","dateModified":"2024-07-29T15:35:55+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/"},"wordCount":1865,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png","articleSection":["Mental Health","Somatic Exercises"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stepping into the world of somatic exercises can be an exciting time as they come with many potential incredible benefits. Somatic exercises can become second nature with practice, they don\u2019t take a lot of time, and they can even be done in the comfort of your own home.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re focusing on somatic exercises, somatic workouts, somatic therapy, somatic experiencing, or somatic healing, each of these carries many benefits that can help change and improve your quality of life. However, when starting these exercises, releasing tension, and retraining your nervous system, people sometimes experience side effects before they start to see any benefits <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/somaticmovementcenter.com\/sensations\/#:~:text=The%20main%20effect,the%20following%20sensations%3A\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(1)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;[video-shortcode link=\\&quot;LINK TO QUIZ\\&quot; mp4=\\&quot;https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-5.mp4\\&quot;]&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:805,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;11&quot;:3,&quot;12&quot;:0}\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with any new workout regime or exercise, your body may experience muscle stiffness as it becomes used to these new movements. In this blog, we\u2019ll discuss the benefits of somatic exercises, the side effects of ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/","name":"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png","dateModified":"2024-07-29T15:35:55+00:00","description":"\u2605 SOMATIC EXERCISES SIDE EFFECTS \u27a4 Somatic exercises have many benefits, but with each new exercise and movement, your body may experience some side effects.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Somatic_13.png","width":2560,"height":1440},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-exercise-side-effects\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Mental Health","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mental-health\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Therapy","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mental-health\/therapy\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Somatic Exercises","item":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/mental-health\/therapy\/somatic-exercises\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"name":"Somatic Exercise Side Effects: What Causes Them and How to Avoid Them"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/","name":"BetterMe Blog","description":"Health &amp; 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