Dear Global Somatic Experiencing® Community,
Recently, Katie Kroll and I went to Budapest, Hungary, as guests at the European Association of Somatic Experiencing® (EASE) General Assembly (GA). This marked my fourth attendance, but the first time we could fully immerse ourselves in the entire event.
The experience confirmed a deep truth: Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) connects us all. Despite geographical distances and language barriers, SE™ serves as our universal language. In these turbulent times, gathering to discuss ways to broaden SE™'s reach offers a gentle balm for our collective spirit.
While many discussions were notable, one stood out: our perspective on Somatic Experiencing's role in the world. SE™ is for everyone. As global challenges mount, our mission is to spread healing, primarily through SE™. Though not a universal remedy, making SE™ accessible to all—even those with whom we may disagree—is crucial. It helps us recognize the humanity in everyone, encouraging a more connected world through healing.
Over the past seven years on the SEI board and four years attending the GA, I've had the privilege of deepening my connection with the EASE community. We've strived to increase mutual understanding, guide the community's evolution, and improve our collaborative efforts. Every interaction reinforces my belief in this community's exceptional nature—a group dedicated to positive global change, expanding healing practices, and building meaningful connections.
In the current whirlwind of international events, we often forget to pause and reflect. The EASE GA provided this valuable opportunity. My key takeaway, which I wish to share with the global SE™ community, is simple: we have each other. Our work can be both exhilarating and exhausting, but we're united in our common goal. As SEI celebrates its 30th anniversary, we also celebrate the worldwide community that has flourished around it. Engaging with EASE members on our shared mission reminded me of our global unity and mutual support.
I hope we can all sense the larger container of our collective SE™ nervous system and recognize how, as a community, we're collaborating to bring more healing into the world through Somatic Experiencing®.
To everyone in the SE™ community, thank you for your contributions. And to the EASE members, thank you for welcoming us and allowing us to witness and to participate in the connection and heart that connects us together.
Sincerly,
Rebecca Stahl, SEP™
Interim Executive Director