I’ve been practicing what’s called ‘somatic therapy,’ the concept that emotions can be released through physical exercise, movements and breathing. It was a stormy day when I found out about my sister’s illness, and I felt overwhelmed by the raw emotions. In that moment, I turned to the hotel pool, seeking solace in the water.

As I swam, I focused on visualizing my pancreas, trying to understand its hidden location within my body. The news of my sister’s illness weighed heavily on my mind, and I felt a deep sense of helplessness. The ocean waves crashed violently outside, mirroring the turmoil within me. I needed an outlet for my emotions, a way to cope with the overwhelming sadness and fear.

Turning away from the window, I made my way to the hotel pool, hoping to find some respite from the storm raging both outside and within. With no one else around, I allowed myself to immerse in the water, letting my thoughts and emotions flow freely. Memories of my sister flooded my mind, from cherished moments together to the pain of her illness.

As I swam, I found myself releasing pent-up emotions, tears mingling with the pool water. The physical exertion and the soothing embrace of the water provided a much-needed release. In that moment, I found comfort in the practice of somatic therapy, experiencing firsthand the power of physical movement and exercise in processing and expressing emotions.

Through somatic therapy, I discovered a way to navigate the overwhelming emotions that threatened to consume me. The act of swimming became a form of emotional release, allowing me to confront and process the deep-seated feelings of grief and helplessness. In the water, I found a sense of solace and a means of coping with the tumultuous emotions that accompanied my sister’s illness.