By Stephanie Bucklin
As someone who has struggled with sleep due to chronic back and neck pain, I’ve spent years developing a nightly practice that helps me release tension and prepare my body for restful sleep. This deeply personal journey started in childhood when my mother taught me progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing techniques to calm my body after waking up from nightmares. These early tools became the foundation for what I now call my self-healing movement practice—a blend of somatic wisdom, yoga, and pilates tailored to ease chronic pain and tension.
From Nightmares to Chronic Pain: A Personal Evolution
In my adult life, chronic low back and neck pain presented new challenges, often preventing me from falling asleep or staying asleep. Over time, I adapted my childhood practice, integrating gentle movements to target the pain directly. Some nights, my routine is a full-body workout designed to release deep-seated tension in my back. Other nights, it’s a simpler series of stretches and breathwork to calm my nervous system.
My nightly practice is more than just exercise—it’s an intuitive approach to self-healing. It’s the reason I’ve embraced the title of Self-healing Specialist. I’ve learned to listen to my body and respond with movements that bring relief and relaxation.
The Science of Somatic Movement
Somatic movement, a practice rooted in reconnecting with the body through awareness, plays a central role in my technique. Thomas Hanna, the founder of Hanna Somatics, describes this approach as a way to “restore full sensory-motor control of the body through slow, gentle movements.” Similarly, biomechanist Katie Bowman emphasizes that “movement is not just exercise; it’s a way of nourishing your body on a cellular level.”
These principles resonate deeply with my experience. Chronic pain often develops from repetitive patterns of tension or immobility. By addressing these patterns through mindful movement, I’ve been able to release pain and find ease in my body.
Could My Practice Help You?
Over the years, I’ve sought guidance from massage therapists, physical therapists, and chiropractors to refine my movements and ensure they are safe and effective. I’ve dreamed of creating an educational program to share this technique with others who suffer from chronic pain or struggle to sleep due to physical tension.
For now, my practice remains deeply personal—but I’m curious to know if it resonates with you. Do you experience chronic back or neck pain? Have you tried somatic movement, pilates, or yoga for relief? Would you be interested in learning a guided version of my nightly practice?
Please share your thoughts in the comments below! Together, we might explore new ways to unlock restful sleep and ease chronic pain in your body.
A Call to Self-Healing
In my journey, I’ve discovered that healing often requires tapping into our innate wisdom. My nightly movement practice is a testament to the power of listening to the body and trusting its ability to heal. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, stress, or sleepless nights, I encourage you to explore somatic movement and find what works for you.
Let’s continue the conversation—share your experiences, questions, or thoughts below. Your input might just be the spark I need to bring this practice to a wider audience. Namaste.
Warmly,
Stephanie Bucklin
The Self-Healing Specialist
Join Me for Gentle Yoga on Monday Evenings at 7pm!
If this blog resonated with you, I invite you to take the next step in your self-healing journey. Starting Monday, January 6th, I’ll be hosting Gentle Yoga with Stephanie classes every Monday evening. These sessions are designed to help you release tension, build body awareness, and cultivate relaxation—all in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain, looking to improve your sleep, or simply seeking a mindful way to unwind, these classes are perfect for you. Let’s explore gentle movement together and create space for healing and renewal.
Details:
🗓 When: Mondays, starting January 6th
🕕 Time: Evening sessions, 7pm MST
📍 Where: Online via Zoom
Reserve Your Spot Today!
Click here or email me at catalyst@stephaniebucklin.com to sign up. I can’t wait to support you on your journey to greater wellness and ease.
Let’s move, breathe, and heal together. See you on the mat!
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