What is "somatics"

Somatics \So*mat"ics\, n. The science which treats of the general properties of matter; somatology.

n. 1 (context medicine English) Any of several holistic approaches to physical therapy that attempts to train both the body and the mind 2 (context archaic English) The science dealing with the general properties of matter; somatology.

Somatics is a field within bodywork and movement studies which emphasizes internal physical perception and experience. The term is used in movement therapy to signify approaches based on the soma, or "the body as perceived from within," including Alexander technique, the Feldenkrais Method, and Rolfing. In dance, the term refers to techniques based on the dancer's internal sensation, in contrast with " performative techniques," such as ballet or modern dance, which emphasize the external observation of movement by an audience. Somatic techniques may be used in bodywork, psychotherapy, dance, or spiritual practices.