My name is Lauren. I’m a trauma-informed Integrative Somatic Facilitator and Founder of Creative Embodiment. My work supports the nervous system, embodied healing, and creative self-expression. I offer practices such as somatic movement, restorative yoga, Reiki, massage, nervous system resourcing, and stress management programmes to help you reconnect, resource, and restore.

I have a room at Be Different Studio, where I offer one-to-one sessions and group programmes. You can book in to see me for:

1:1 Somatics sessions
Myofascial Release therapy
Vagal Flow head massage
Monday & Thursday Restorative yoga at 6 PM
Monthly Cacao Rest & Be sessions
Stress and Burnout Support Programmes
Somatic Dance in (Taradale)

And more….

Originally from the UK, I’ve lived on a rural farm in Aotearoa for over a decade, where I find connection, inspiration and insight with the whenua. These roots inspire the offerings I bring through Creative Embodiment.

My work is deeply personal, shaped by my own experiences with mental health and burnout. Through discovering the transformative power of restorative somatic practices, nervous system resources, and empowering embodiment rituals, I found healing not just for myself, but also a means to foster collective change. These practices not only benefit individuals but also contribute to social justice education by addressing the systemic harm caused by oppressive structures.

When I learned that multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia run in my family, my curiosity about the nervous system and how stress affects well-being deepened. This curiosity became a calling when I saw how the tools I had learned over the years helped restore balance to my own life.

With over 360 hours of trauma-informed facilitation training through SomaPsych and Legacy Motion, I’ve been taught to create spaces where people can reconnect with their bodies, honour their stories, and reclaim their power. This training also opened my eyes to the profound ways oppressive systems harm the collective, and how these systems of power reinforce societal norms that limit freedom of expression, rest and overall well-being. In my journey, I’ve seen how somatic practices challenge these harmful norms by empowering individuals to reclaim their own power and dismantle limiting beliefs.

My work with Sarsha Hope in somatic dance, where I completed 200 hours of training, further strengthened my belief in the healing potential of movement and sound. Together, these practices become a medicine for self-expression, transformation, and collective liberation.

At the heart of this work is you—your experiences, your choices, and your unique journey. I am passionate about creating brave, compassionate, and inclusive spaces where you can explore your inner wisdom, express your authentic self, and navigate life’s challenges with more ease and joy.

Together, let’s honour your journey, celebrate your growth, and embrace the beauty of simply being you.

Ngā mihi nui, Lauren

Integrative Somatic Practitioner

Here a somatic exercise you can use to support you in channelling and releasing anger:

Inhale deeply through the nose while clenching your fists tightly (allowing any shake or tremble to happen).
Exhale very slowly with your teeth and lips clenched, so the air releases through your nose and possibly the sides of your mouth breathing out as if you were fogging up a window.
Simultaneously, outstretch your hands and fingers as wide as possible.
Repeat for 3–5 rounds or more. Use this practice when you feel tension, frustration, or overwhelm building.

Meet Lauren Albans