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What is Somatic Padwork?
Somatic padwork is a therapeutic or coaching approach that combines somatic (body-based) practices with striking techniques using focus mitts, pads, or similar equipment, often found in boxing or martial arts training. It's used not for combat training but as a tool for emotional regulation, trauma processing, stress relief, and personal empowerment.
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Key Elements of Somatic Padwork:
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Somatic Awareness: Attention is placed on physical sensations, breath, posture, and movement to reconnect the person with their body.
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Striking Movement: Punching or striking pads is used as a form of expression, discharge of stress or emotion, and reclaiming agency.
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Therapeutic Intent: Guided by a practitioner (therapist, coach, or trauma specialist), it's done in a safe and intentional setting to support nervous system regulation.
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Emotional Expression: Participants may access and release feelings like anger, fear, or grief in a contained and supported way.
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Integration: Verbal processing or grounding practices often follow the physical work to help integrate the experience.​
Who Uses It:
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Somatic therapists
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Trauma-informed coaches
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Movement or martial arts therapists
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People working with PTSD, chronic stress, or emotional numbness
Example Session Might Include:
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Grounding exercises
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Light warm-up or breathwork
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Guided padwork (e.g., punching while vocalizing or focusing on a specific intention)
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Debrief and integration (e.g., talking about what came up, journaling, rest)
Benefits:
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Releases stored tension or trauma
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Rebuilds trust in the body
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Increases emotional awareness and resilience
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Helps shift fight/flight energy safely
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If think this may be beneficially, I offer a free, no-obligation initial consultation where you can ask questions and get a feel for how I work.