Gentle Somatic Yoga®: Beyond Stretching
Unlike traditional stretching, Gentle Somatic Yoga® (GSY) uses a technique called pandiculation to help muscles naturally return to their optimal resting length. This re-education process helps release long-held muscular tension, improve posture, and restore fluid, pain-free movement.
As one of the early pioneers to bridge somatics and yoga, James Knight, E-RYT, CHSE, created this progressive method drawn from over 30 years of clinical experience and facilitating trainings worldwide. It combines elements of Hanna Somatic Education, Hatha Yoga, Vipassana meditation, Core Energetic Psychotherapy, and polyvagal theory—offering a holistic approach to healing and embodiment.
Today, Gentle Somatic Yoga® is at the forefront of neuroscience and heart-informed movement education. Yoga teachers and therapists can begin applying what they learn immediately in private sessions and group classes.
Details on these ONLINE, self-paced, GSY Levels 1 and 2 training course bundle:
Highlights of What You’ll Learn in Gentle Somatic Yoga® Level 1
- 25+ Therapeutic Somatic Movement Flows®
Gain hands-on experience with over 25 Gentle Somatic Yoga® sequences, each with a specific anatomical focus. These accessible, mindful movements are designed to help reprogram habitual tension based patterns stored in the tissues, support nervous system regulation, and address common physical complaints. - Pandiculation: A Somatic Alternative to Stretching
Replace traditional static stretching with pandiculation—a proven technique for resetting brain-to-muscle communication, releasing chronic tension, and restoring functional movement. - Sensory Motor Amnesia:
Learn How and Why GSY Targets the Root of Chronic Issues.
Understand the underlying causes of persistent pain (found in the brain and nervous system), postural imbalances, stiffness, fatigue, and anxiety—and how Somatic Movement Flows® retrain the nervous system for long-term relief and improved function. - Intuitive, Nourishing Movement for Your Body
Learn to move in ways that feel good and safe for your unique body. Emphasis is placed on interoception—listening from within—so you can rely less on "doing it right" and more on finding your own inner teacher. - Adaptations for Individual and Therapeutic Use
Develop tools and modifications to adapt Somatic Movement Flows® for a wide range of student needs, whether in private sessions or group therapeutic settings.
Highlights of What You’ll Learn in Gentle Somatic Yoga® Level 2
- 29+ Additional Therapeutic Somatic Movement Flows®
Learn a new set of 29+ Somatic Movement Flows®—distinct from those taught in Level 1—designed to support emotional resilience, energetic balance, and whole-body vitality.
- Tools for Energizing the Subtle Body
Explore innovative techniques inspired by Core Energetics and Bioenergetics to activate the chakra system and aura. These powerful practices support mental clarity, emotional release, and spiritual well-being.
- Integrating Science and Soul
Expand your professional toolkit with GSY’s unique integration of leading-edge neuroscience and somatic psychology—balanced with intuitive, heart-based wisdom.
- Embodying Wellness & Self-Healing
Develop a stronger internal felt sense of wellness and self-trust. Through consistent practice, you’ll gain the confidence to support your own healing process and personal evolution.
- Additional Practical Applications for Private and Group Settings
Receive tips, modifications, and best practices for adapting Somatic Movement Flows® to a variety of client needs. Learn how to skillfully incorporate GSY into your classes, workshops, or private sessions.
