Introduction to trauma-sensitive bodywork · 23.05.2026 · 11-15H
4-hour practical workshop
This 3–4 hour experiential workshop introduces how awareness of the nervous system can support your bodywork practice. Suitable for existing massage therapists and total beginners alike, the workshop combines accessible theory taken from my somatic work - with guided hands-on practice so you can understand what is happening in the body and how to respond through touch, communication and session structure.
Rather than focusing only on technique, we look at the whole client experience, including how pacing, presence, environment and communication influence comfort and a sense of safety during a session.
What you will learn and practice:
• a basic introduction to nervous system states (regulated, activated, shutdown) and how they may show up in the body (informed by Polyvagal Theory)
• how to recognise changes in comfort, tension, or overwhelm during a bodywork session
• how to structure and guide a simple bodywork session from beginning to end
• how pacing, pressure and rhythm influence the overall experience
• how to communicate clearly and supportively before and during touch
• how to adjust your approach in real time based on observation and feedback
• guided practical exercises where you will both give and receive bodywork ⸻
You will:
• observe demonstrations
• practice in pairs
• receive guidance and feedback
• experience the principles directly
Open to anyone who wants to:
• learn the foundations of structured, safe bodywork
• understand how the nervous system influences physical experience
• improve awareness in giving or receiving touch
• develop more clarity and confidence in body-based interaction
No prior experience is required - this session introduces the foundations and offers initial hands-on practice. Longer trainings allow for more in-depth practice, repetition, and integration - available at a 10% discount for all foundations attendees.
This workshop is educational and experiential. It focuses on awareness, communication and practical learning in bodywork contexts. It does not involve therapy, diagnosis or treatment.
4-hour practical workshop
This 3–4 hour experiential workshop introduces how awareness of the nervous system can support your bodywork practice. Suitable for existing massage therapists and total beginners alike, the workshop combines accessible theory taken from my somatic work - with guided hands-on practice so you can understand what is happening in the body and how to respond through touch, communication and session structure.
Rather than focusing only on technique, we look at the whole client experience, including how pacing, presence, environment and communication influence comfort and a sense of safety during a session.
What you will learn and practice:
• a basic introduction to nervous system states (regulated, activated, shutdown) and how they may show up in the body (informed by Polyvagal Theory)
• how to recognise changes in comfort, tension, or overwhelm during a bodywork session
• how to structure and guide a simple bodywork session from beginning to end
• how pacing, pressure and rhythm influence the overall experience
• how to communicate clearly and supportively before and during touch
• how to adjust your approach in real time based on observation and feedback
• guided practical exercises where you will both give and receive bodywork ⸻
You will:
• observe demonstrations
• practice in pairs
• receive guidance and feedback
• experience the principles directly
Open to anyone who wants to:
• learn the foundations of structured, safe bodywork
• understand how the nervous system influences physical experience
• improve awareness in giving or receiving touch
• develop more clarity and confidence in body-based interaction
No prior experience is required - this session introduces the foundations and offers initial hands-on practice. Longer trainings allow for more in-depth practice, repetition, and integration - available at a 10% discount for all foundations attendees.
This workshop is educational and experiential. It focuses on awareness, communication and practical learning in bodywork contexts. It does not involve therapy, diagnosis or treatment.