Have your ever wondered why dancing feels so good for your spirit? Besides the endorphins and confidence boost, there’s much more science to it than you may think, and it has everything to do with your hips.
Often referred to as the emotional junk drawer, neuroscience and somatics both conclude that much of a woman’s emotional trauma lies within her hips. This is why twerking and whining can be so healing. You’re essentially releasing any stagnant feelings begging to be processed. Here’s a deeper look into why women store trauma in their hips, and what you can do to hygienically expel any stagnant tension.
Why Does Trauma Stay In The Hips?
For both men and women, tension tends to accumulate in the hips due to stress or emotional strain. This can manifest as tightness or discomfort, typically linked to past traumas. The psoas muscle, located in the lower back and connects to the hip joint, is particularly susceptible to holding onto tension.
Somatic therapy, which focuses on the mind-body connection and how physical sensations can reflect emotional states, only further solidifies this belief. Many practitioners note that clients often report tightness and discomfort in their hips when discussing emotional issues. However, for women, this sentiment intensifies.
The body can store emotional experiences, leading to a phenomenon known as “body memory.” This means that unresolved emotional issues can create physical tension in specific areas, including the hips. Often associated with safety, support and stability, the hips are a focal point for emotional experiences. The root and sacral chakra are also both located near the hip era, associated with a woman’s sensuality, sexuality, familial roots and sense of security.
Women are often socialized to internalize emotions and stress, which can lead to physical manifestations in the body. Being that hips are also associated with femininity and motherhood, there are countless emotional experiences that can live in this area.
How To Release Trauma From The Hips
A lifetime of trauma won’t exactly be released in one go, but incorporating mindful practices on a regular or consistent basis can make a world of difference.
Yoga
Yoga incorporates stretching and strengthening poses that can help release tension in the hips. Poses, like pigeon, butterfly and bound angle, are particularly effective for opening the hips and encouraging emotional release. Focus on deep, mindful breathing while holding these poses.
Foam Rolling
Using a foam roller or massage ball can help release tightness in the hip muscles and fascia. Spend time rolling out areas, like the hip flexors, glutes, and outer thighs to alleviate tension and improve blood flow.
Somatic Therapy
Consider working with a somatic therapist who specializes in body-centered approaches to healing. These practitioners help clients process emotions stored in the body, often guiding them to release tension through movement and breath.
Dance
Engaging in freeform dance or other expressive movement practices can help release stored emotions. Allowing your body to move freely can create a sense of liberation and help access feelings that may be trapped in the hips.
Breathwork
Practicing breathwork techniques, like diaphragmatic breathing, or more advanced forms, like holotropic breathwork, can help release emotional blockages. Focus on deep, intentional breaths, directing your awareness to the hip area.
Therapeutic Massage
Receiving a professional massage, particularly focusing on the hips and surrounding areas, can help release tight muscles and promote relaxation. Look for therapists experienced in techniques, like deep tissue or myofascial release.