somática

Somática, or somatic in English, is a term used to describe aspects related to the body as distinct from the mind or reproductive cells. It is employed across biology, medicine, psychology, and philosophy to denote bodily, physical, or non-reproductive dimensions.

In biology, somatic refers to cells and processes of the body that are not involved in reproduction. Somatic cells form most tissues and organs, while germ cells (sperm and eggs) carry genetic information to offspring. Somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells and are generally not inherited, though they can contribute to diseases such as cancer within an individual.

In the nervous system, the somatic nervous system is the component of the peripheral nervous system responsible for voluntary control of skeletal muscles and the conveyance of sensory information from the body to the central nervous system. It is distinguished from the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions.

In medicine, somatic pain arises from structures such as the skin, muscles, joints, or bones, in contrast to visceral pain from internal organs. The term somatic symptoms is used in various medical and psychiatric contexts to describe physical manifestations that may accompany psychological distress or disease.

In psychology and psychiatry, somatization refers to the expression of psychological distress through physical symptoms. Somatic therapies and education—often grouped under the umbrella of somatics—emphasize body awareness and mindful movement as a path to physical and mental well-being. Notable approaches include movement-based modalities that focus on perception and conventionally labeled body work.

Etymology: from Latin soma, meaning body. The term is widely used in Portuguese, Spanish, and other languages with related meanings.