Somatic Therapy Explained: Trauma, Chronic Stress & Your Body

In this episode of Menopause Rescue, Dr. Polly Watson is joined by massage therapist and somatic practitioner Audrey Burke to explore how the nervous system influences both physical and emotional health. Together, they discuss how chronic stress, trauma, and prolonged survival mode can contribute to symptoms such as digestive issues, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, chronic pain, and other persistent health concerns—even when medical testing appears normal. Audrey explains how somatic therapy differs from traditional talk therapy by focusing on the body's sensations and nervous system regulation rather than simply processing thoughts or revisiting past experiences. The conversation explores the science behind the gut-brain connection, developmental trauma, co-regulation, the vagus nerve, and why helping the body feel safe is often an essential step toward healing. Whether you're navigating chronic illness, recovering from trauma, or simply feeling stuck in a constant state of stress, this conversation offers practical, compassionate insights into the powerful connection between the body and the mind. Quotes "With somatic therapy, we don't actually have to go back to the original event in order to heal from it." — Audrey Burke "We're not just looking at our thoughts or emotions, but also noticing what's happening in the body's experience." — Audrey Burke "Maybe you don't need another five supplements. We need to get your nervous system to feel safe." — Dr. Polly Watson Connect with Audrey Burke New Patient: https://calendly.com/restorativepresence-1/ Newsletter: https://www.restorativepresence.com/newsletter Website: https://www.restorativepresence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somaticswithaudrey/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restorativepresence Connect with Dr. Polly Watson Website: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast Resources: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast-resources New Patient: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/new-patient-consultation Instagram: https://instagram.com/hormonewellnessmd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hormonewellnessmd YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4Tw8oHGR_6wBZmXrTu9xA Disclaimer: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast-disclaimer