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Somawise: Get Out of Your Head, Get Into Your Body

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How do I create authentic change?

How can I have more peaceful relationships?

How do I achieve holistic health?


All three of these questions require a journey into the body, where you learn how to listen to, reconnect with, and care for the body. With Somawise, embark on a transformational journey that unlocks the secrets of holistic health, authentic change, and peaceful relationships.

Somawise presents a groundbreaking approach that invites you to delve deep into the realms of your unique body. Through intuitive listening, profound reconnection, and compassionate self-care, you'll harness the power of your body as an invaluable compass for navigating life's complex landscapes. In a world saturated with quick fixes and superficial solutions, the key to lasting change lies within our own bodies.

Discover the untapped wisdom within your body, as it becomes your expert, guide, and guru. You’ll learn how to feel the subtle internal signals and cues that reveal whether your choices nurture or hinder your natural state of health, presence, and vitality.

When we stay connected to our body, we learn to differentiate between our baggage and someone else's experience. We learn how to show up and listen to others without the intrusion of our own emotional states being projected onto the other. And when we give that space for the other to be Self, we bring a sense of harmony into the relationship.

Start your journey back to yourself with the teachings, techniques, and strategies provided by Somawise. Discover the extraordinary potential that awaits within.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2022

91 people are currently reading
369 people want to read

About the author

Luke Sniewski

10 books4 followers

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5 stars
91 (48%)
4 stars
60 (32%)
3 stars
26 (13%)
2 stars
7 (3%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Nona.
716 reviews93 followers
October 19, 2023
"Somawise" delves into the transformative potential of establishing a deeper connection with our bodies. The book emphasizes somatic practices that prioritize self-care through a focus on the body rather than the mind. Sniewski's perspective highlights the body's influential role in shaping mental well-being, challenging the conventional notion of the mind governing the body. The author advocates for a rekindling of our bodily awareness, encouraging active listening and responsiveness to its needs, with the assurance that "the mind will follow".

Despite its glowing reviews, my experience with this book was mixed. While I found myself agreeing with certain statements and suggestions, such as the importance of maintaining a nutritious diet, ensuring sufficient sleep, and incorporating regular physical activity, these notions are not novel or groundbreaking; rather, they serve as simple reminders of established truths. The author's discussion of "body inflammation" and the so-called ability of meditation to cure cancer led me to classify certain sections as pseudoscientific, making it challenging for me to fully endorse his views. Furthermore, the inclusion of an entire chapter on the benefits of drug use demands approaching the content with some caution.

Despite some appealing concepts that can be incorporated into one's life, I found this book lacking in actionable guidance. The author's focus on personal anecdotes transforms the book into more of an autobiography, delving extensively into details about his family, traumas, travels, and struggles with porn addiction, using these experiences to illustrate how somatic practices aided in his personal growth. However, the book falls short in providing concrete guidance for readers to implement these practices themselves, aside from the rudimentary advice on maintaining a healthy diet and exercising. Although Sniewski discusses yoga and meditation, there is a noticeable absence of practical advice on HOW to undertake these practices or HOW to establish a deeper connection with one's body. In essence, the book lacks tangible exercises that would make the reader put the book down and DO something right at that moment.

It seemed to me that this book primarily caters to a male audience, with limited relevant content for women. The recurring focus on the author's personal struggles with porn addiction dominates much of the narrative, a theme that permeates almost every chapter. Additionally, the book is rife with repetitive passages, with the author often restating his points within a few paragraphs, needlessly prolonging the text. A significant portion of the content relies heavily on speculative language, with the author frequently framing his ideas as possibilities (“could help to”) rather than established scientific facts, leading to a perception of guesswork rather than empirical evidence.

In my view, "Somawise" suffers from excessive length due to repetition and employs a flowery writing style more suited to fiction rather than a straightforward non-fiction work. Non-fiction works should provide actionable insights accessible to all, and this book missed the mark by complicating its points unnecessarily through the use of metaphors and indirect language. While the book does present some valuable ideas, they are not particularly original, serving more as helpful reminders. Without seeking additional guidance from external sources on how to effectively engage in the described practices, it is challenging to attain the intended "somawise" state. Essentially, the book serves more as an introductory narrative than a comprehensive guide.

(Also, Mr. Sniewski, if you include links that redirect me to your website, make sure it is a secure connection. We're in 2023.)
Profile Image for Diana Budurea.
1 review2 followers
March 7, 2024
Amazing book about the steps you can take for getting to know yourself better, to reconnect with your body and to heal yourself.
Profile Image for Ana Stanciu-Dumitrache.
969 reviews110 followers
October 5, 2023
Îmi doream sa citesc aceasta carte de cand a apărut, la recomandarea terapeutei Petronela Rotar, care a facut împreuna cu Luke programul lui Gabor Mate.
Nu m-a dezamăgit deloc si mi-a confirmat, încă o data, ca cel mai bun lucru pe care il pot face in viața aceasta e sa ma cunosc cu adevărat, sa ma uit la mine.❤️
1 review1 follower
April 16, 2024
Life changing! Reading "Somawise" was an incredibly enlightening experience. As both a coach and a somatic therapist, Luke brings his wealth of knowledge to the table, offering a transformational approach to self-improvement.
Luke’s holistic approach is both innovative and incredibly practical, making the complex connection between body and mind something you can actually apply in your daily life. Each chapter builds on the previous one, mixing personal stories with solid scientific data to create a comprehensive guide that not only encourages self-discovery but also prompts real change.

The impact of the book was so profound on me that I decided to sign up for the Somawise course. This decision turned out to be one of the best I've ever made. The course deepened my understanding of the concepts from the book and offered a supportive and interactive setting that enhanced my practical skills. Luke’s compelling teaching style and his sincere compassion for all, has truly amplified the overall learning experience, making it transformative on a personal level.

For anyone seeking to cultivate deep self awareness and live a more authentic life, "Somawise" and the accompanying course are incredible resources. Dr. Sniewski’s dedication to integrating mind, body, and spirit is evident and inspiring, providing a real blueprint for a healthier and more satisfying life.
1 review
March 28, 2024
My wife read this at the beginning of 2023 and I read it at the end of 2023. We both got a lot out of it and we did other therapy at the same time which was complimentary. I particularly liked that this was written by a bloke with ADHD tendencies. Most modern psychology books are written by women. This made it a lot easier to relate Luke's life experience with my own. I got a lot of value out of this book. Highly recommended.
1 review
March 27, 2024
“ Somawise” is the book that is changing your life.
It makes you realize that you didn’t “ live” so far. This book made me realize that I didn’t live my life at full capacity and that I lived on “ automatic pilot “.But, don’t believe me, just read it and convince yourself.
Profile Image for Anastasia Kokorina.
1 review
January 21, 2023
Over and over again, we seek outside of ourselves for answers ignorant to the fact that our greatest teacher, doctor, and guide is within us,” argues Luke in his book. It is one of the amazing phrases I wrote down after reading his work!

The book is amazing, and I am sure it can help many of us rethink many aspects of our lives and find answers to our questions (mine were answered!). Luke’s book is a guide on how to listen to the voice of our bodies and how to care for it and engage our body’s wisdom in everyday life. He breaks down the questions of caring for our body into so many interesting details and even speaks about how understanding our body helps us build relationships with others.

What amazed me the most was Luke's honesty when sharing his story. He took a deep dive into his path of understanding his body, which was an emotional roller coaster full of traumas. He described in detail his emotions and body sensations and, more importantly, mentioned PRACTICAL steps that helped him to power through these issues. I am sure that many people will see themselves in this story and be able to draw many useful conclusions.

The book is also very easy to read and understand and very well structured. It helps a lot!

Highly recommended!
1 review1 follower
March 10, 2023
Somawise, the book, functions as a lifescan, if you let it, wherein you position your physical body in the universe, or in the scheme of things. Keep a notebook handy for your memories, intentions, and possibly where you feel you are at, now. Be bold and be warned: Dr Sniewski ’s path idles at ice baths, but nothing is compulsory, here.
If you are sometimes gripped by any of keto paleo low carb high protein you name it diets or food fads, twinned with ultra working out for weight loss or happier body image baby, Dr Sniewski is decidedly for more organic, intuitive solutions, but you’ll still have work to do.
'Somawise: Get out of your head, get into your body' is an open and sparkling invitation to go where you’ve been avoiding going. The author works from the experience, learning, training, research and observation that propelled his personal transformation, so you can be confident it’s not pie in the sky, airy fairy, or diaphanous new age: it all works, and you can do it your way.
Profile Image for Leo Lee.
1 review
Read
July 6, 2023
If you want to find a book about wellness that is informed by somatic intelligence, this is a good introduction and science-based book to read. One thing that truly stands out from this book for me is the author’s personal story about porn addiction and how this intimate journey affects his health and well-being. Luke Sniewski reflects on this experience using body as a means and as an end with authenticity and honesty. He reminds us, “Holistic wellbeing is achievable when we forge an intimate connection with our body and immerse it in an environment that supports health and healing.”
Profile Image for Julia.
Author 1 book1 follower
August 14, 2023
This book contains all kinds of wisdom that just felt nourishing to me at this stage of my life. I like the way Sniewski describes things, and I can relate to how he reasons things out. Sometimes he comes across as a little too ambitious in his practices, but then in the next chapter he writes beautifully about radical self acceptance and gentleness. I think he's just really enthusiastic and competitive, but has gotten to a kinder place through bringing together physical and spiritual practices. Anyway - I highlighted half the book and will revisit it often!
Profile Image for Dr. Naushin Moledina.
134 reviews4 followers
December 19, 2025
What does it mean to be SOMAWISE?
'Soma' is a Greek word that means "body," and being SOMAWISE means "body-wise." Somawise, as defined by author Dr. Luke Sniewski, is a conscious decision to live life in connection with our moment-to-moment bodily experience. The wisdom that emerges from this way of being can assist us in cultivating holistic wellbeing, effecting authentic change, and bringing peace and harmony into our relationships. According to Dr. Luke, the answers we seek can be found in our own bodies. We only need to look within, as the body can be our teacher, guide, and compass on our life's journey. This process of being SOMAWISE is the process of connecting to the wisdom of the body. The majority of us think and feel that our minds need to be healed, but this book will alter your viewpoint by introducing you to some common applications of conscious discomfort. “The mind tells stories, but the body tells the truth.” As stated by the author, it opens up a whole new perspective on health and well-being.

How can I look within myself for answers? How can I break free from my bad habits? How can I improve my relationship skills? How can I keep my health perfect? Is there an alternative to medicine for treating illnesses? How can I approach the difficult tasks of everyday life with more understanding and peace? How can I overcome my self-doubt and low self-esteem? How can I treat my partner with greater understanding? If you have ever asked yourself these questions and could not find the answers, this book is for you!

According to Dr. Luke Sniewski, when the body heals, the mind follows. In a world where quick fixes and pain avoidance are common, "SOMAWISE" advocates for long-term change by tapping into the body's untapped wisdom. The book introduces readers to the body's subtle signals, allowing them to discern choices that either nurture or hinder natural states of health, presence, and vitality. Readers learn to distinguish personal experiences from those of others by staying connected to their bodies, fostering harmonious relationships.

The author has included some real-life experiences from himself and his clients to demonstrate the techniques described. Each chapter concludes with a summary and some exercises or questions to ask yourself, guiding readers toward becoming SOMAWISE. I could not find more than one error in the text because it was so well edited. Although the book's drawbacks include being lengthy and taking the reader out of the way, these drawbacks are balanced by the scientific evidence provided by the author for the techniques explained.

I would give this book 5 out of 5 stars because of the excellent editing, examples, summary, and techniques provided. This book completely altered my outlook on health. Although this book is not appropriate for children due to some inappropriate topics, I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their mental and physical health. BE YOUR OWN GURU!
1 review
March 22, 2024
Rediscovering Holistic Health and Authentic Living" invites readers on a transformative journey into the depths of their own bodies. In a world inundated with quick fixes and surface-level solutions, this book offers a refreshing perspective by emphasizing the profound connection between our physical selves and our overall well-being.

Through intuitive listening, deep reconnection, and compassionate self-care, the author guides readers toward harnessing the innate wisdom of their bodies as a compass for navigating life's complexities. What sets "Somawise" apart is its emphasis on authentic change rooted in understanding and honoring our bodies' signals and needs.

The book not only offers practical techniques for tuning into our bodies' subtle cues but also delves into the profound impact this awareness can have on our relationships. By staying connected to our bodies, we learn to differentiate between our own experiences and those of others, fostering deeper empathy and harmony in our interactions.

Overall, "Somawise" presents a groundbreaking approach to holistic health and authentic living, reminding us that the key to lasting change lies within our own bodies. Whether you're seeking greater vitality, presence, or healthier relationships, this book provides invaluable insights and strategies for embarking on a journey back to yourself.
Profile Image for Manuela Di Giorgio.
1 review
February 15, 2023
"Somawise is the conscious choice to live life in connection with our moment-to-moment bodily experience. The wisdom that arises from this way of being can help us cultivate holistic wellbeing, create authentic change and bring a sense of peace and harmony to our relationships. The answers we seek are in the body. Your body. "

Most of us are looking for answers outside of ourselves, listening "the Noise" that is inside and outside of our heads, when the real truth is within our body. We forgot that we just need to stop and listen what the body is trying to say!

Through his personal life experience, Luke leads us to explore many topics that aim to direct us to understand ourselves, our body and what it needs.
I found it a very flowing and easy to read book (although English is my second language). I also very much apricate the guidelines at the end of every chapter ...they are very practical tools to help starting the hard work of "getting out of our heads and getting into our body"!
I loved the authenticity of this book and the transparency with which Luke recounts his experiences, which really make us immerse in reading and relate to our own stories.

I'm really thankful for such a powerful, helpful and authentic book. Highly recommended!




1 review
May 7, 2024
Excellent book that has helped me tremendously on my mental health journey. There’s so much in these pages which led me to critical thinking, to challenging and unpacking my beliefs on my body and its role in healing, and ultimately learning how to find a new way to approach healing. I am a person who spent over two decades in sport working my body and mind, yet realize through this fine book by Dr. Luke Sniewski that I have little connection to what I thought I knew best: my body. For anyone frustrated with the common perspective on mental health, who’s hit a road block on the path to healing, or those looking to take their first steps in the healing process, looking for some guidance to arrive at real and lasting healing, this book is for you. I’ve read it twice and found new nuggets of wisdom each time. This is a book you’ll come back to time and again. I’m grateful to have this in my library of guidebooks to living a more connected life with place, space, selfs and others.
-Clara Hughes
6 x Olympic medallist
Canada
1 review
March 22, 2023
I read Somawise in one sitting. I couldn't put it down.
Luke from a place of vulnerability, authenticity, openness and honesty shares his personal story of struggling with an addiction, allowing limiting beliefs to lead his relationships with others and himself and shares his own healing story.

I am so grateful that Luke decided to share his experience with us. I really admire his strong will and desire to help others and he managed to do just that with writing this book.
A book that provides solid scientific evidence on every practice he suggests, packed with ideas on how to re-connect with your body and lead a happier, more authentic life.

The one thing that really stands out is his respect and compassion to everyone's pace, rythm and ability. Luke helped me be more compassionate towards my body and my busy mind.

If my body could speak, it would really say a big thank you to Luke for helping me listen and trust it more now
Profile Image for Raasti.
1 review
May 3, 2025
A Book That Breathes — Into the Body, Not Just the Mind

Dear Luke,
Reading Somawise felt less like consuming a book and more like being invited back into my own body — as if each page whispered, “Come home.”
Your words breathe. They remind me that peace is not something we think our way into, but something we feel our way back toward.
You helped me remember what Rumi once taught in silence:
“Don’t go outside your body looking for peace.
The breath is a doorway. Enter.”
Your book is that doorway.
It doesn’t promise to fix us — it simply reminds us to feel.
To bow to tightness.
To kiss the ache.
To listen to the wise language of the body before the mind starts speaking over it.
Somawise is a prayer in motion.
Thank you for writing it with such clarity, presence, and compassion.
I didn’t just read your book —
I breathed it into my nervous system.
With gratitude,
Raasti
Profile Image for Denise Hukins.
1 review
March 12, 2023
I really enjoyed the straight forward and practical way this book delivered these concepts for self-healing. As someone who is very cerebral and always seeking knowledge and intellect, I understood the need to be more "in my body" and "connected to my body" without managing to really achieve the stillness you talk about. I enjoyed the practices and I am beginning to feel like I am experiencing much more stillness in my meditation (although still as work in progress!), am less reactive in my relationships and more curious about the tension that arises. Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and sharing your journey, it is a great resource for our time.
1 review
May 6, 2024
It was eye-opening to understand the mechanisms around how focusing solely on our conscious mind (thoughts) disconnects us from the body. Somawise takes the reader through a path, where the importance and possibility of reconnecting with our body, to our sentiments, or our subconscious existence is described in a followable and relatable manner.
1 review
July 23, 2024
No spoilers:
An outstanding insight into workings and failings of the mind and body. Tying together various aspects of the physical and psychological conditions in which we live and experience this journey of being human. I have recommended it many friends and will continue to do so. An excellent book that will change lives.
Profile Image for Laura Luca.
1 review
March 15, 2024
This book is a gem. Good info, very structured and most important, helpful (bought several copies for giving it to my friends).
For me, was the book of 2023, because it helped me change some habits. I strongly recommend it.
Profile Image for RJ Peters.
135 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2024
So many nuggets of truth and wisdom in this book. I need to go back and re-read the many highlighted parts.
4⭐ because I found some content repetitive; it would have benefited from substantive editing.
1 review
March 21, 2024
Love the author’s reframing of a situation as creating yet another opportunity to explore what needs healing. Beautiful reminder to recent what is important in your life.
261 reviews
November 23, 2024
Self-obsessed and obnoxious. Regurgitates common self-help advice. Even worse, tries to add new names to techniques existing for thousands of years.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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