Emi Iizuka is a highly experienced mindfulness teacher & SE practitioner

Have you ever felt disconnected from yourself, your dreams, or the simple joy of living? Mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing® offer a gentle yet profound way to heal, reconnect, and rediscover your authentic self.

Find peace in the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with your true self

In the fast pace of modern life, living authentically can feel like an uphill battle. Your mind urges you to keep going even when you’re exhausted, while your body says, “No.” Over time, ignoring your body’s voice can disconnect you from your true self – your dreams, desires, and joys. The way out isn’t about pushing harder or numbing yourself.  The way out is within. Reconnect with your body. Listen.

Healing begins in this moment  

Can you feel your breath right now? Not thinking about it – just feeling it as it flows in and out. Is there anything happening now beside the fact that you are ALIVE!

Breathe, pause. Feel it. You are alive, savor this moment.

With each breath, space opens within you – clearing the noise, softening your thoughts, and allowing your emotions to simply be.

The present moment is key 

The present moment is where life happens – where we connect, feel, and love. It’s also where we realize our deep interconnection with others. This is the essence of mindfulness.

Mindfulness isn’t just about reducing stress; it’s about cultivating compassion for yourself and others. It’s the foundation for reclaiming your wholeness.

“Mindfulness is the key to feeling and trusting your authenticity, unlocking

your full potential to experience love and the ultimate joy of being alive.”
Emi Iizuka, Mindfulness teacher & therapist

Emotions and thoughts are like trains

Imagine your emotions and thoughts as trains passing through your mind. Mindfulness – the space within you created by being fully present – allows you to stand at the station and watch them go by, without jumping on board.

Here’s how mindfulness helps you observe your emotions and thoughts:

• Notice: What triggered them?
• Observe: What sensations or feelings do you notice?
• Respond: Do you stay grounded, or do you let them carry you away?

Sometimes, you may find yourself on a train headed somewhere you never intended to go. The power of mindfulness is realizing you can step off at any moment – ground yourself, reclaim your center, and take back control. Being present allows you to observe your thoughts and emotions rather than be ruled by them.

Importance of being aware of the body, emotions and thoughts: your source of wisdom

Emotions and thoughts arise from the body’s responses to internal and external experiences. These are shaped by your physiology, environment, and past (including trauma). Emotions – like joy, fear, or anger – are physical signals, while thoughts give meaning to them. For example, a racing heart can trigger thoughts like, “I’m in danger” or “I’m excited.”

By tuning into your body – whether it’s noticing the ground beneath your feet or the tension in your muscles – you begin to understand the connection between physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts. You begin to understand what’s the trigger for you and why.

Why I practice Somatic Experiencing®

For over 10 years, I’ve practiced embodied mindfulness through yoga and compassion programs. Yet, I still felt disconnected from my body’s sensations. This led me to Somatic Experiencing® (SE), which focuses on the body and nervous system.

What helped me the most was the mindful presence of others. Being held without judgment allowed me to explore my body’s sensations safely. Through three years of SE® training, I reclaimed my true self. I feel lighter, more at ease, and more in tune with my body’s voice.

Somatic Experiencing® and mindfulness: a path to reconnection

The journey to reconnecting with your true self begins with safety – safety in your body, your sensations, and your mind—only accessible in the present moment. Awareness is the key. Mindfulness and Somatic Experiencing® help you cultivate this deep sense of safety, empowering you to be fully present and heal.

Whatever arises, you have the capacity to recognize it, understand it, and meet it with compassion – strengthened by the practice of mindfulness. Embracing mindfulness accelerates the healing process, allowing you to navigate emotions with clarity, resilience, and deep self-compassion.

Join our Somatic Experiencing® retreat

At our Somatic Experiencing® retreat in April 2025, you’ll have the opportunity to reconnect with your true self in a supportive, nurturing environment and an incredible team of therapists. Through mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing®, and compassionate guidance, you’ll learn to feel safe in your body and mind – ready to heal and step into a life of joy and authenticity.

Spots are limited – reserve yours now to begin your transformative journey.

Learn more about our retreat