ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses Wilhelm Reich’s quintessential contribution to psychology—his unique and contemporary relevant mind-body approach. This book does not train therapists to incorporate this modality, as in-person training is required. Research studies are included that validate the somatic perspective. The chapter follows the natural progression from character analysis to somatic interventions for selected patients and includes case examples. The body is a repository of personal historic difficulties and unhealthy current modes of functioning; the method allows for deep release of pent-up feeling: through expressive exercises, breathing, and direct interventions on the musculature that promote relaxation at the end of session. The work impacts the autonomic nervous system, musculature, and breath. Aspects can be applied to traditional verbal analysis, and interventions are described that encourage awareness of the body. Reich created a map of segmental armoring that correlates with character armoring. Detailed descriptions of the segments are included, starting with the ocular and cervical segments; through the oral, thoracic, and abdominal segments; and ending with the pelvic segment. Work with trauma and the importance of healing touch to treat trauma is described. (See the e-resource chapter entitled “Progression into Trauma”). This type of therapy creates a deep bond between patient and therapist as the engagement goes beyond words.
