In this episode of Taking Up Space, we sit down with Alison Leslie, a Bloomington-based therapist, EMDR trainer and consultant, and somatic experiencing practitioner, to explore the transformative power of embodiment in healing. Alison shares her personal and professional journey—how she moved from being a recreational enthusiast to a dedicated therapeutic practitioner—and the ways in which embodiment serves as a bridge between our internal and external worlds.

While embodiment is often a buzzword in wellness circles, Alison sees it as a dynamic and evolving practice of attuning to thoughts and bodily sensations without judgment. She discusses how her training in somatic experiencing deepened her understanding of self-awareness, both in her personal life and clinical work.

Many of us live in our heads, disconnected from our bodies—sometimes without even realizing it. Alison explains how disembodiment can show up in everyday life, from frequent clumsiness to a lack of awareness of personal space. She encourages listeners to approach their own embodiment with gentle curiosity, making small shifts to notice how their bodies interact with the world.

Embodiment is more than a personal practice—it’s also a tool for social justice. Alison discusses how being present in one’s body enhances co-regulation, resilience, and collective organizing. This attunement allows individuals to show up fully in activism and community work.

Guest Bio:

Alison is a licensed clinical social worker who lives in Bloomington, IN and owns her own private practice, Empower Healing.Alison approaches therapy through the lens of presence and attunement and believes in being a guide to help clients find their own internal healing powers. She has a background in animal-assisted services and includes the human-animal bond and nature in the therapeutic experience. Alison Leslie is a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and Transforming Touch Therapist as well as an EMDRIA-approved therapist, consultant, and trainer.

www.empower-healing.com

IG: @empowerhealingcc