a very interesting and insightful book, with takeaway techniques that I will continue to use, and have found useful.

‘Somatic Therapy for Trauma’ by Adele Wilson explores somatic methods for managing and healing trauma, emphasising body-focused techniques. While the concept of somatic therapy is compelling, especially as trauma recovery increasingly integrates mind-body approaches, this book struggles with substantial evidence and clear applications, leaving some readers seeking more grounded insights. Despite the growing interest in this therapeutic approach, Wilson’s work may feel lacking to readers accustomed to trauma texts backed by rigorous research.

Accuracy: ★★★☆☆

The book introduces various somatic techniques, but some claims seem to lack strong scientific backing. While somatic therapy is a legitimate and beneficial approach, this text occasionally relies on anecdotal examples rather than solid data. A more thorough exploration of case studies or research would improve confidence in its methods.

Perspective: ★★★☆☆

Wilson’s perspective is empathetic, emphasising the importance of self-compassion in trauma recovery. However, without a firmer foundation in current clinical standards or substantial references, it lacks the authority that trauma survivors or clinicians might expect. Her emphasis on self-guided somatic exercises is valuable, but more alignment with best practices would benefit readers.

Relevance: ★★★☆☆

Given the increased interest in holistic and somatic therapies, the book is timely. However, with only a limited focus on evidence-based results and application techniques, readers may feel the book doesn’t fully capture the potential of somatic trauma therapy.

Engagement: ★★☆☆☆

Though the topic is engaging in theory, the lack of relatable or vivid examples makes the book harder to connect with. For a subject like trauma therapy, storytelling or concrete cases could have offered much-needed context to guide readers through what might otherwise feel abstract.

Readability: ★★★☆☆

The language is accessible, yet some sections feel dense and could be more effectively organised. Wilson’s tone is kind and approachable, but the absence of practical layouts or visual aids can make the content feel more challenging to digest.

Enjoyment: ★★☆☆☆

Readers interested in somatic therapy for trauma may find some insights here, but the book’s limitations may make it less satisfying overall. Those looking for a more well-rounded introduction to somatic practices with clinical rigour may find other resources more rewarding.


‘Somatic Therapy for Trauma’ offers an introduction to body-based approaches to trauma healing, with gentle insights and exercises. However, it lacks the thorough research and practical application that many readers may hope for, making it an introductory read but perhaps not the most comprehensive resource on this vital topic.

This book as incredibly helpful and gave me so many things to try out and see what works for me. The writing was also easy to read and everything was explained in detail. I would 100% read anything the author writes in the future.

Difficulties in concentrating.Changes in appetite.Anxiety, mood swings.Guilt, shame, and self-blame.Sleeping problems.Irritability, anger, or fearfulness.Flashbacks, nightmares.Chronic fatigue, stomach issues, and more.So, what is somatic therapy – and how it can help?By focusing on bodily sensations rather than thoughts or feelings, somatic therapy helps us unlock the hidden stories stored within our bodies. It's about listening to the whispers of our bodies, acknowledging their pain, and offering them the love and care they deserve.Trauma Resolution: Helps us process and release trauma stored in our body. This can alleviate symptoms of PTSD and complex ptsd symptoms adults.Improved Emotional Regulation: Enhances the ability to manage and regulate our emotions by increasing body awareness and mindfulness.Reduced Physical Symptoms: Alleviates physical symptoms such as chronic pain, tension, and fatigue often associated with emotional distress.Enhanced Self-Awareness: Increases awareness of our body's sensations, helping us understand the connection between our physical and emotional states.Better Stress Management: Provides tools and techniques to cope with stress, leading to improved overall well-being.Somatic therapy for trauma can lovingly form the connection between our minds and bodies and help us find ways how heal from past trauma; and guidance for nervous system regulation.

This book can help you if

Want to find gentle ways for overcoming childhood trauma as an adult.Wonder how to heal from past trauma.Want to find ways to regulate your emotions.Want to aim helping your family through ptsd.Wonder can you heal from childhood trauma, (You can.),Or want to know what is somatic therapy for beginners.That's where this amazing book comes in!"Somatic Therapy for Trauma" is a warm guide to reclaiming your inner peace and strength. With a regimen of simple somatic exercises, meditation, and real-life anecdotes, and loving, easy-to-follow guidance, Adele Wilson invites you to traverse the path of self-discovery and healing from past trauma. Plus there are amazing bonuses.

And there is we wanted you to have more than just a book—so we created a tribe for you.

This is a perfect tool for your mental health toolbox. So informative and very helpful.

As an individual with C-PTSD I really appreciated this work - the 28 day plan was insightful and I truly appreciated learning about some of these things so that I can incorporate them into my own journey.

Thank you to NetGalley for this E-Arc!

I downloaded this book out of curiosity for the recent trend in somatic therapy and exercises.

I found it to be a useful introduction to the topic, and it's been useful when listening to friends who have started formal therapy based on this modality.

Truthfully, the gorgeous cover art was what prompted me to preview this self-help workbook. The focus is dealing with trauma, primarily childhood trauma. Therapy in this area has gained much attention in recent years, and this volume addresses the need. The book introduces the reader to the concept and benefits of somatic therapy; offers assessments to see if the work will be suitable for an individual: and includes a 28-day program of activities.

Thank you to the author for sharing this incredible knowledge with us. As someone who has tried various forms of therapy, somatic therapy is new to me and the author broke down the concept in a warm and accessible way. I am now at a place where I will begin the programme and I’m excited to see how it works.

The world needs more books like this one. Way more than there are.
Somatic practices are so under-used in regard to treating trauma, ptsd, cptds, anxieties and a plethora of other issues. This book is step by step guide, a detailed program on how to do it. Love it.

A really lovely book, where the author takes you by the hand and guides you through a 28 day programme. The suggestions are practical, well researched and based in science. A great resource to help anyone recovering from trauma.

Adele Wilson’s *Somatic Therapy for Trauma* is a compassionate and empowering guide that offers readers a path toward healing from past traumas through the transformative practice of somatic therapy. In a world where the impacts of trauma are increasingly recognized, Wilson’s book stands out as a warm, accessible, and deeply empathetic resource for those seeking to reconnect with their bodies and minds.

The central premise of Wilson’s book is that the longest and most important relationship we have is with ourselves, and that relationship deserves to be nurturing and peaceful. For readers who have experienced trauma, this concept may seem out of reach, but Wilson’s approach is both reassuring and practical. She introduces somatic therapy as a holistic method of healing that focuses on bodily sensations rather than just thoughts or emotions. By tuning into the physical manifestations of trauma, readers are invited to listen to their bodies’ “whispers,” acknowledge their pain, and offer themselves the love and care they may have been deprived of.

Wilson’s writing is warm and inviting, making complex concepts of trauma and somatic therapy easy to understand, even for beginners. She carefully explains how trauma can manifest in both the mind and body, leading to a range of symptoms such as chronic stress, anxiety, mood swings, and physical ailments like fatigue and stomach issues. By providing this foundational understanding, she demystifies the often misunderstood impacts of trauma, empowering readers to recognize and validate their own experiences.

The book is particularly effective in its practical application. Wilson offers a variety of somatic exercises, meditations, and mindfulness practices that are simple yet powerful tools for trauma resolution. These exercises are designed to help readers process and release the trauma stored in their bodies, improving emotional regulation, reducing physical symptoms, and enhancing overall self-awareness. Wilson’s approach is gentle, recognizing that healing is a journey that requires patience, courage, and a safe space for self-exploration.

What sets *Somatic Therapy for Trauma* apart is its focus on creating a sense of community and support. Wilson doesn’t just provide readers with a book; she invites them into a “tribe,” a collective of individuals on the path to healing. This sense of belonging is crucial for those who may feel isolated in their experiences, and Wilson’s dedication to her readers shines through in every chapter. She encourages readers to see themselves as “real-life superheroes,” acknowledging the bravery it takes to confront and heal from trauma.

The book also addresses a wide audience, from those seeking to heal from childhood trauma to individuals dealing with the effects of PTSD. Wilson’s inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of where they are on their healing journey, can find value in her teachings. The real-life anecdotes sprinkled throughout the book add authenticity and relatability, showing readers that they are not alone in their struggles.

In conclusion, *Somatic Therapy for Trauma* by Adele Wilson is a heartfelt and empowering guide that offers readers the tools they need to reconnect with their bodies and heal from past traumas. Wilson’s loving guidance, combined with practical somatic exercises and a focus on community support, makes this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking to reclaim their inner peace and strength. It’s more than just a book—it’s an invitation to start a courageous journey towards self-love and healing. Whether you’re new to somatic therapy or looking for additional support on your healing path, this book is a must-read.

Some helpful ideas for working through Chronic PTSD issues - not everyone has coverage for or can afford years of therapy, so books like these are important! My thanks to the publisher & Net Galley for the advanced readers copy * also for bring this book to all those who need it!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book for review.

There was a lot of information in the book, and a 30 day programme of meditations, exercises and journal prompts to follow. Although it was a 30 day programme, there was a lot of repetition of days, and most of the exercises were fairly standard meditation and mindfulness type activities. They were backed up by evidence of why they were being suggested, and there was a couple of pages of useful references at the end.

For this type of book there were relatively few anecdotes, for which I was grateful. The writing style was conversational and easy to read although I did find the constant 'my dear' throughout the book to be very grating. I know it was not the intention, but I find 'my dear' to be patronising both in speech and on the page, and there was so much of it in this book it was really off-putting.

If you're looking for a very general introduction to the subject and don't mind the 'my dears' then this would be a useful place to start.

Super interesting book full of detailed information about tools for healing. The subject is new to me and I thought Wilson did a great job of explaining the modalities of somatic therapies. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

First of all, the cover art is what initially drew me to this book and had me circle back to see what it could offer for my patrons. I am always looking for quality books that can help provide a sense of care, help, and hope. I have not heard of Somatic Therapy prior to reading this book and feel that the author did a wonderful job at explaining what it is and the benefits. I really like how there was the quiz before starting the book to see if Somatic Therapy would be something for the reader to peruse with an honest and authentic assessment. I really felt as though the author had the readers best interest in mind. The 28-day program is written in an easy to follow format with illustrations that incorporates yoga and journaling.