The Weaving of Somatics and Gender

I want to dive into the dynamic relationship between somatics and gender. Are you up for exploring this fascinating connection with me?

Let's begin by strengthening the connection we have to our bodies and how it relates to our actions of gendering. I like to refer to this flow of connection as the ability to be present with our current state, even as we navigate actions and choices to shape it. Our nervous system naturally fluctuates between states of connection and protection, and by developing our awareness, we can notice the flow and our nervous system's reactions.

Whenever we find ourselves out of sync, we can practice self-compassion, offering ourselves a warm hug of understanding for any fears or concerns we may have. For example, as we choose certain clothing from the closet, we might notice sensations of feeling cautious as we remember others' past reactions. We can acknowledge and honor the challenges we have and will continue to face. It's important to recognize that societal judgments and expectations have influenced our choices and our fluctuations towards being protective. But when we appreciate that we're doing the work of building resilience and showing up authentically, knowing it takes time, we're building up our resiliancy to stay with the challenges put on us by the world. Some days, we may make different choices, and that's okay! Allow for the fluctuations, knowing that you're going to keep coming back to your flow.

It's worth noting that our self-expression through attire can extend beyond ourselves. We may dress to honor special events, embrace cosmic changes, or express emotions like grief. Our clothing choices can transcend gender or its effects, providing a rich array of avenues for creative self-expression. Sometimes our expression and sense of gender do not feel aligned. This is another opportunity to build resilience, knowing you're out of your flow and are wandering towards it with purpose.

Feminist educator Caitlin Gunn highlights the importance of speculative play and practice in honing our skills and empowering us to thrive. This perspective affirms that life-affirming self-expression serves as both protection and resource for ourselves. To cultivate gendering glimmers and queer joy, I encourage you to explore creative and playful practices that resonate with you. Somatic tools and toys are designed to help you reconnect with your sense of self and embrace your flow state.

Now, here's the beautiful part: as someone who identifies as queer, I want you to embrace your uniqueness and act like it! Of course, this is only when it feels safe and comfortable for you to do so. How can we create an environment that feels more secure and comforting in your body? Remember, as a non-cis gendered individual, you have the ability to think queerly and ask yourself what you truly want. Throughout this journey, honor yourself by doing things your way. Somatic practices are always simply an invitation, open to your interpretation.

As Audre Lorde said, "Revolution and love come into existence when we have the capacity to take action." By questioning gender constructs and expressing ourselves in ways that defy norms, we spark a revolution within ourselves and become models for others. By nurturing the mind-body-spirit connection, we equip ourselves to face the world's challenges with love, igniting that revolution in those around us. These habits of self-care strengthen our ability to show up authentically, embracing our gendering joy and supporting collective work.

Remember, gendering queerly invites us to release judgment and expectations tied to our past AS WELL AS our future selves. What truly matters is where we are right now, in this very moment. How do you engage in a revolutionary act in this moment, knowing that's aligned with your flow and will carry you in the direction you desire? The past and future are mere thoughts in the present, so let's focus our actions on honoring our presence. Let's equally respect and care for both our connective and protective responses as we navigate this beautiful journey!