What is pendulation?

Pendulation is a key concept in Somatic Experiencing (SE), a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Peter Levine for addressing trauma and stress. The term refers to the natural process of moving between states of tension and relaxation, or activation and deactivation, within the body and mind.

In the context of SE, pendulation involves:

1. Awareness of Sensations: The practitioner helps the client become aware of physical sensations and emotions associated with trauma or stress. This might involve noticing areas of tension or discomfort in the body.

2. Gradual Movement Between States: The recipient is guided to gently oscillate or move back and forth between experiencing these uncomfortable sensations and returning to a state of relative calm or safety. This helps in processing and integrating traumatic experiences without becoming overwhelmed.

3. Building Resilience: By practicing pendulation, the recipient learns to tolerate and manage their internal experiences more effectively. This process helps in regulating their nervous system and developing resilience to stress.

Overall, pendulation in Somatic Experiencing aims to help recipients process trauma in a manageable way, allowing them to gradually move through and integrate difficult experiences while maintaining a sense of safety and stability.