CORRECTION OF THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CONDITION OF PEOPLE USING SOMATIC MOVEMENTS

Abstract

The materials presented in the article continue the research on the scientific topic "Innovative technologies of the educational and training process in physical education and sports" (state registration number: 0124U000490).

The modern higher education system of Ukraine is undergoing significant transformations due to the difficult socio-political situation, in particular, the full-scale war. Under martial law, people experience significantly increased psycho-emotional stress, anxiety, fatigue, and general exhaustion. This, in turn, requires the search for effective means of supporting and correcting both the physical and psychological health of the population.

Among such tools, somatic practices – movement systems that combine body awareness, breath control, gentle stretching, relaxation, and mindfulness – are attracting increasing attention. Their use in physical education of people of all ages can become an important component in improving the quality of life, especially in conditions of current stress and information pressure.

Somatic practices are distinguished by the fact that they combine work with the body and consciousness, creating conditions for the harmonious interaction of physical and mental processes. The value arises not only in developing strength, flexibility, or endurance, but also in developing a deeper sense of their own body, recognizing its signals, and developing internal balance. While traditional forms of physical activity mostly measure effectiveness in quantitative terms, the somatic approach considers the formation of internal changes that encompass both physical condition and psycho-emotional well-being.

The concept of "somatic movements" goes beyond the usual idea of exercises as mechanical repetition of movements. Each action provides conscious attention, feeling, and analysis of one's own bodily reactions. In the context of somatic practices, the development of consciousness goes from average sensory perception to a deep scientific understanding of truth, is realized in the gradual expansion of one's sensations and understanding of one's own physical experience, which, in turn, affects the general psycho-emotional state of a person. This is a unique process observed through movement, where the body becomes an instrument of cognition.

The article analyzes the special literature of various authors on the study of the impact of somatic practices on human health, characterizes the main physical effects and practical application for the correction of physical and mental state.