Documenting Hanna Somatic Education: A Multiple Case Study

Abstract

Musculoskeletal conditions are common and burdensome, leading to pain and lost income and cooccurring with many other chronic health disorders (Briggs et al., 2018). The current standard for care recommends multi-modal methods grounded in a biopsychosocial model of health. As described in the literature (Hanna, 1990), Hanna Somatic Education (HSE) is one such method. Loosely based upon the Alexander Technique and Feldenkrais Method, HSE employs functional and integrative movement patterns with mindful awareness to help people reset their resting muscle tone, regain voluntary motor control, and improve sensory awareness. Currently, there are no peer-reviewed data on HSE usage or clinical effectiveness.

This study employed a descriptive, multiple case-study research methodology to ask how HSE is practiced and describe as well as define its techniques and procedures. Four practitioner-client dyads were observed conducting HSE sessions. This study collected multiple data types, including recorded videos of clinical sessions and interviews with practitioners and their clients. The data was coded and analyzed for relevant themes.

Four themes emerged from the qualitative analysis. HSE is a mindful movement practice in which voluntary movement and conscious awareness form a positive feedback loop. Practitioners employed pandiculations, kinetic mirroring, and means-whereby to address sensory-motor amnesia. Practitioners modified clinical protocols and worked to build somatic resonance to address the specific needs of their clients. Lastly, clients were instructed how to apply Hanna Somatic Education movements and techniques on their own so they could continue practicing autonomously.

The observed practitioners aligned with the published literature. However, the practitioners were focused primarily on addressing and resolving sensory motor amnesia in session. Techniques to help clients maintain the benefits between sessions and efforts to reduce extra somatic causes were less apparent. As observed, HSE is situated within the fields of somatic education and mindful movement. HSE could likely benefit patients in multi-modal integrative health clinics. Further research would help validate these findings and clarify a full intervention arc. Research conducted to elucidate the mechanisms of action could benefit the field of somatic education and also manual therapy, physical therapy, yoga, and other complementary therapies.