Somatic Restoration / Dynamic Stretching
– A Full-Body Joint and Fascia/Connective Tissue Opening Practice
Before you begin, please watch the video on the Principles of Somatic Restoration to fully understand the principles and philosophy behind this series.
This joint-opening and connective tissue release series is designed to help restore your body’s natural movement capacity.
Practiced regularly (ideally 5–7 days per week), it can increase mobility, release tension, and support a pain-free, unrestricted body.
🌿 What Is Somatic Restoration?
Inspired by Chen Style Qigong Silk Reeling Exercises, Thomas Kurz Stretching Scientifically, Thomas Hanna’s work on Somatics and guided by principles from the Dao De Jing, this method focuses on Dynamic Stretching, releasing sensorimotor amnesia—the forgetting of how to move dynamically because of habitual movement patterns and restrictions we accumulate over time.
The goal is to return to a supple, childlike state of fluid, spontaneous movement.
Whether you’re recovering from injuries, trauma, or chronic tension, this method offers a gentle, intelligent way to open your myofascial system and restore freedom of movement.
🔹 Key Principles:
- Start at 70% effort — avoid working at your maximum range.
- Think of movement like gently widening a hole with a stick, using spiraling, gradual expansion.
- There should be no pain — back off if discomfort arises.
- Consistency is key — but even short or partial practice is better than none.
- You can practice the full sequence or select specific parts to target particular areas.
🧘♂️ Restore. Release. Reconnect.
If you’re looking to unlock tight joints, ease chronic pain, and regain natural movement, Somatic Restoration may be what your body needs. Practice mindfully, stay curious, and give yourself time to unwind deeply held tension.
Principles of Somatic Restoration Video
Somatic Restoration Video
Hi Kerry,
I just thought I would let you know that today I tried your Level 1 stretch routine. It was Japan day and I wanted something to open me up and relax me properly before I went to the demonstration. Worked really well. Helped my nerves too. Thank you so much!
Jeanie
Hi Kerry,
I do your Somatic Restoration video 4 regularly and it is AWESOME. I do it after surfing, after gardening or strong physical work, after too much sitting at a deck, I do it as a study break, I’ve done it before exams, whenever I want to feel more relaxed i’ll take 15 min to do this sequence. Thank you so much for making and sharing it.
Also thank you for the session on Friday, the body is feeling great.
Cheers, Michael West