Hanna Somatic Education® (HSE)—also referred to as Hanna Somatics or Clinical Somatics—is a scientific based, neuromuscular movement approach grounded in neuroscience and somatic principles. Developed by Dr. Thomas Hanna, it addresses the root causes of chronic muscular tension by working directly with the central nervous system’s role in regulating muscle tone and voluntary movement.
Through slow, deliberate movements performed with focused attention, HSE enhances sensory-motor integration. This process facilitates the release of involuntary muscular contractions and improves neuromuscular coordination.
Understanding Sensory Motor Amnesia (SMA) A foundational concept in HSE is Sensory Motor Amnesia (SMA)—a state in which the brain loses voluntary control over specific muscle groups due to prolonged stress, injury, habitual patterns, or emotional trauma. This results in chronic muscular contraction and diminished sensory perception, often manifesting as:
Persistent muscular pain (e.g., back, neck, shoulder, joint)
Reduced mobility and joint range of motion
Postural dysfunction and shallow breathing patterns
Asymmetries, coordination challenges, and muscular compensation
Who May Benefit from HSE HSE can be particularly effective for:
Individuals with chronic pain or muscle tension
Those recovering from injury, surgery, or repetitive strain
Individuals managing stress-related somatic symptoms
Movement professionals (dancers, athletes, performers) seeking functional refinement
Anyone interested in cultivating deeper somatic awareness and autonomy in movement
Healthcare practitioners and educators integrating body-based methods into their work
Benefits of Hanna Somatic Education HSE provides a systematic framework for improving neuromuscular function and postural integrity. Reported benefits include:
Sustained relief from muscular tension and discomfort
Enhanced proprioception, coordination, and movement efficiency
Improved postural organization and biomechanical alignment
Greater physical ease and autonomy in daily activities
A non-invasive, somatically-driven alternative to pharmacological or surgical interventions
Regulation of the nervous system and reduction of stress-induced holding patterns
HSE can be practiced as a stand-alone method or used to complement existing medical, therapeutic, or somatic interventions.
Session structure each HSE session is individually tailored and typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, can be conducted either online or in-person. Sessions may include guided movement sequences and hands-on facilitation to support neuromuscular integration.
To learn more or inquire about working together, feel free to get in touch via message or email. A complimentary 30-minute consultation is available for those curious to explore how Hanna Somatic Education can support their well-being.
🔗 For further information, visit Hanna Somatic Association Website.
Disclaimer Hanna Somatic Education is an educational process and not a medical treatment or licensed physical therapy. If you have a medical diagnosis or are under a doctor's care, please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new movement practice.