What are somatic workouts?

Stress-busting somatic exercises tap into the mind-body connection.

January 23, 2026

By Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch

Reviewed by Mercedes von Deck, MD, Contributor

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A man performs somatic exercises on a yoga mat in a shady yard.

Huffing and puffing at the end of a workout, you’re spent. But somehow, you realize you’re still holding tension in your muscles. How can that be?

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About the Author

Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch

Maureen Salamon is the executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She also writes for the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch, as well as for Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website. … See Full Bio

View all posts by Maureen Salamon

About the Reviewer

Mercedes von Deck, MD, Contributor

Dr. Mercedes von Deck is a practicing orthopaedic surgeon at the Cambridge Health Alliance, specializing in joint replacement surgery. She began studying the Feldenkrais Method intensively while competing internationally in ballroom dance as a way to … See Full Bio

View all posts by Mercedes von Deck, MD

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