What is a somatic coach?
Soma is the Greek word for body. There are many interpretations of what somatic coaching can be. Here is what I do. Starting with the premise that the mind is the body and the body is the mind, I listen, and if video is available (via Skype or other video conferencing) I watch as well. Of course, if you are in Asheville, NC I will be happy to see you in person! I watch/listen as you speak of your wishes, dreams, obstacles and challenges. These can range from career questions to physical challenges. Together we explore the relationship of use of self to the somatic sense of self.
Then we develop a program: it may be exploring awareness through movement, a writing assignment, an exercise to try while moving through life. Each person’s journey is unique.
What does it cost?
Each session is $75 – I send you an invoice which you can pay via PayPal, credit card or by sending a check.
How many sessions do I need?
That is up to you. This is not a program that requires a minimum number of sessions to “get it.” You may just want to do it once, regularly, or on occasion, when a particular question arises.
How do we schedule an appointment?
Email me: lavinia@laviniaplonka.com with a few days and times (be sure to include your time zone). Also, let me know if you have Skype and want a visual session, or want to work via phone.
What do people say about this work?
Here are just a few testimonials from people who have explored the rich possibilities of somatic coaching:
Working on the phone with Lavinia helped me access language that allowed me to examine my concerns with a fresh sense. Once I felt my issue more clearly, she reminded me of somatic ways in which I can engage in my process. Lavinia is clear, present and a gifted guide. It was like having a great talk therapy, art therapy, feldenkrais and work-out session all rolled into one. Thank you.
Jodi Freedman GCFP, Educator, Writer
What a pleasure to talk with you! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on ‘my concerns and world’. I’ll be in touch – you are really good!
Jane Schue
I really enjoyed working with you. It’s profound how deep and how quickly one can come to an awareness of what is the next step to a deeper commitment to what’s important in one’s life. Thank you so much for bringing an embodied awareness of what I can do to bring a fuller experience to what I love. Your capacity to facilitate self-awareness and your assessments are deeply empowering.
Primitivo Rojas-Cheatam
In my phone session with Lavinia, I was able to reconnect with aspects of how I can use my body in a more relaxed way, to support my weight and breath with more ease. She was curious about finding (sometimes surprising) connections among my various observations, sensations, and questions, while – playfully and kindly – inviting me to experiment with options. As I sit at the keyboard, I’m enjoying a feeling of awareness, resiliency, and peace in my diaphragm, pelvic floor, feet, eyes, and jaw — great stuff!
Suzanne Weinberg
Teacher
For more info and more testimonials visit my blog entry: http://laviniaplonka.com/creativebody/2009/09/07/working-with-lavinia/
