Somatics and dance - the PTSD support group for Cambodian women

Somática y danza- el grupo de apoyo en EPT para mujeres Camboyanas

The PTSD support group for Cambodian women at San Francisco General Hospital has between 15 and 20 participants ranging in age from 35-65 years old. We have met weekly since 1996. Many of the women were children and adolescents at the beginning of the Pol Pot Regime. All of them had survived years of repeated beatings, rape, forced labor, and starvation in the Khmer Rouge camps. In addition, they had all witnessed the torture and murder of their families and fellow villagers. All of the women eventually escaped to the Thai border refugee camps and were relocated in San Francisco in the 1980's. Every woman suffers from severe PTSD with frequent flashbacks, severe depression, anxiety, isolation, hopelessness, shame, and survivor's guilt. Common physical complaints are constant headaches, dizziness, insomnia, body aches, joint pain and gastrointestinal pain. All of their symptoms are exacerbated by their current living situation, which is in a small room or apartment in an urban area of high crime and violence. Most of the women are not responding to medical treatment. Somatics (body awareness exercises, movement, and bodywork) and dance have had a profound effect on developing trust, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging. In addition, many of the psychological and physical complaints have lessened.

This presentation will explore how somatics and dance can help develop trust, restore and sense of self, and to create a sense of community and belonging. In addition, we will explore how many rhythms and movements in the body resemble nature and vice versa. We will examine how universal qualities in movement and nature evoke personal and cultural experiences that can be powerful resources for healing and rehabilitation.

This presentation will draw on case studies from the Cambodian women's group at San Francisco General Hospital, using narrative and slides. In addition, theoretical material drawing from psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, dance movement therapy, and somatic therapy will be included.