As taught by the Soma Intimacy Institute

These practices are part of a body of work that supports the integration of somatics, intimacy, and erotic development. Rooted in trauma-informed embodiment, each practice offers a pathway to reconnect with oneself, others, and pleasure in ways that honour consent, safety, curiosity, and personal truth.

A. Foundational Awareness & Embodiment

  1. 5 Pillars of Embodiment – Practices using breath, movement, voice, awareness, and conscious touch to deepen presence in the body.
  2. Connection with Senses – Awakening sensory experience as a doorway to pleasure and presence.
  3. Body Awareness / Focalisation on Body Sensations – Tracking and grounding through internal physical sensations.
  4. Somatic Regulation (Pendulation, Titration) – Balancing activation and rest through small, manageable steps of nervous system engagement.
  5. Exploring the Autonomic Nervous System – Noticing triggers, resources, and states of safety or stress through body-based inquiry.
  6. Wide Range of Different Embodiment Practices – A variety of tools that connect physical experience with emotional and erotic awareness.

B. Boundaries, Consent & Safety

  1. Wheel of Consent (as developed by Betty Martin) – A framework to explore giving, receiving, taking, and allowing in physical interactions.
  2. Practices about Boundaries – Somatic and verbal tools to clarify, express, and respect limits.
  3. Transition to Nudity – A step-by-step process to feel safe and present while undressing or being seen nude.

C. Self-Connection & Pleasure

  1. Self-Love – Touching yourself with affection, care, and presence.
  2. Self-Love with a Witness – Practising self-touch while being seen, to deepen presence and visibility without performance.
  3. Breast Meditation – Gentle awareness and loving touch focused on the chest or breasts.
  4. Genital Meditation – Cultivating mindful presence and connection with the genitals, without agenda.
  5. Body / Genital / Anal Mapping – Exploring the landscape of the body through touch to discover sensation, boundaries, and stories.
  6. Pleasure Mapping – Identifying and expanding zones of pleasure on your own body with conscious, curious touch.