We tested a new exercise system that instantly resets your nervous system

One of the most interesting articles I recently read, in my search for the reasons for insomnia and emotional turmoil, talked about how our bodies are incredibly capable of storing memories, especially those that cause us stress.

Stress can creep into every cell of our bodies, only problem is – how to get rid of it? While swimming is an excellent physical activity for maintaining brain health, strength training helps us stay vital, and Pilates is essential for firming and strengthening the body, none of these types of workout can help to completely relax the nervous system.

Deep breathing and relaxation exercises bring immediate relief, and magnesium is always relaxing before bed, but I was looking for something that went a step further. In a conversation with a friend who is facing similar problems, she mentioned the NEUROFIT app, which she uses for a special type of exercise that, as she says, helps her “reset” her nervous system – somatic exercises.

What are somatic exercises?

The word “soma” itself comes from the Greek language and means body. Somatic exercises are a set of specific movements that regulate and target the nervous system. “Somatic exercises are a gentle and mindful approach to movement that helps regulate the nervous system and reduce stress in just a few minutes,” explains Loren Hogue, co-founder of the NEUROFIT app. The goal of traditional exercise is to build endurance and strength, while “ somatic exercises strengthen the conscious connection between the brain and body, which helps release tension and restore natural balance,” Loren adds. You can think of them as a gentle massage for the nervous system, and you will find it interesting to monitor the body’s reactions to certain movements, which very quickly reveal where stress has accumulated.

How do somatic exercises help the nervous system?

The “cortisol balancing” trend on social media has become like the key to achieving the ideal balanced life. At the same time, this trend reveals how many people feel chronic stress without knowing how to relax their nervous system. In modern life, there is no shortage of external stimuli, so it is occasionally necessary to even “detoxify” the nervous system. Somatic exercises have proven to be an excellent way to achieve this goal. They help the body relax and send signals that we are safe, which allows for natural hormone balancing.

What is the difference between somatic exercises, yoga and Pilates?

Somatic exercises involve gentle movements that help the body to relax easily. When you engage in somatic exercises and gentle movements, you will easily notice how your body is feeling more relaxed. Gentle movements are designed to do just that. “While yoga and Pilates often involve conscious movement, somatic exercises specifically focus on the nervous system’s stress response and the mind-body connection. The movements are usually smaller, gentler, and more focused on internal sensations rather than achieving specific poses or building strength,” Loren points out.

NEUROFIT founders, Andrew Hogue and Loren Hogue

The best examples of somatic exercises

The main advantage of somatic exercises is their simplicity and ease of execution. “Simple practices like gently tapping the body, shaking the body, or butterfly movements are extremely effective. At NEUROFIT, we have found that 95% of our community feels immediate stress relief after just 5 minutes of these basic exercises,” says Loren.

Practice somatic exercises at home

The good news for those who do not have time for training or do not like group exercises, you can easily practice somatic exercises at home. “One of the great things about somatic exercises is that they don’t require any special equipment and can be done anywhere. You can start with simple movements like gently tapping your body, shaking your hands above your head, or breathing with eye pressure before bed,” advises Loren. Through guided programs and applications such as NEUROFIT, these exercises can be even more effective.

What to expect after somatic exercises?

The effects of somatic exercises are felt surprisingly quickly, especially when you are under stress. Loren highlighted several changes that people most often notice:

• A feeling of calm and presence in the body
• Increased energy due to the nervous system coming out of a stressful state
• Clearer and more focused mind
• Better emotional balance
• Muscle and abdominal relaxation

Changes after 7 days of practicing somatic exercises

If you decide to include somatic exercises in your regular daily routine, even if you only set aside five minutes for them, you can expect clear changes. “People most often report better sleep , improved concentration and emotional balance, better mental health and a much better ability to cope with everyday stress. “Our data shows that regular practice, when combined with habits focused on body awareness, leads to a 54% reduction in stress levels within the first week,” adds Loren, who recommends taking time in the morning and evening for a short break with somatic exercises. They’re really useful when you are going through a stressful period. It’s also a good idea to avoid caffeine and heavy meals before exercise to help your body relax as much as possible.

Since a well-regulated nervous system is one of the most important elements of a quality life, somatic exercises can help you on your way to better mental health and a sense of stability. As Loren, who herself went through a real emotional whirlwind after a personal tragedy, says, “I worked on my mental health for years, trying to ‘fix’ my beliefs and overcome grief, and then in one quick somatic training session I felt more progress than through years of mental work. At that time, I was completely convinced of their power. It’s incredible to see how these simple practices can transform a person’s relationship with stress.” Loren has helped more than 100,000 people in over 100 countries around the world fall in love with somatic exercises with her app. “As someone deeply committed to making mental health support more accessible, it is fascinating to me to witness how such quick, gentle movements can create such profound changes in people’s well-being,” Loren concludes.

Somatic exercises are the ideal path to a harmonious nervous system. They are a great tool that will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed in your body, so when you are surprised by a surge of anxiety and stress, pause your life for five minutes and try a simple somatic exercise. The body will then automatically turn on its regulatory processes and help you think more clearly and lucidly.

The article was created in collaboration with the NEUROFIT brand.