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In the latest episode of our podcast, Jacob Strong takes us on a remarkable journey from a career in civil engineering to a fulfilling life as a somatic coach and men's work facilitator. Jacob's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of movement and the importance of aligning one's work with personal values. Through his experiences, Jacob offers valuable insights into personal growth, embodiment, and the significance of community in healing and development.

From Civil Engineer to Somatic Coach

Jacob Strong began his career as a civil engineer in Sydney, Australia, driven by a desire to serve the environment. However, he soon found himself disillusioned by the industry's focus on manipulating the environment rather than protecting it. This realization led to a crisis of identity, prompting Jacob to leave his job and seek a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world.

Jacob's journey of self-discovery took him across the globe and into various movement practices, including yoga, dance, and martial arts. These practices not only helped him reconnect with his body but also revealed new pathways for personal and professional fulfillment. Jacob's transition from engineering to somatic coaching is a profound example of how embracing change and following one's passion can lead to a more meaningful and rewarding life.

Discovering Yoga in Ibiza

One of the pivotal moments in Jacob's journey was his yoga teacher training in Ibiza. Initially known for its party scene, Ibiza also offered a spiritual and holistic environment that profoundly impacted Jacob. Through yoga, he found a connection between body, mind, and spirituality, which became a cornerstone of his personal growth.

This experience in Ibiza marked the beginning of Jacob's deep dive into movement and embodiment. Yoga not only helped him physically but also opened up new avenues for exploring his emotional and spiritual self. It was here that Jacob began to understand the power of movement as a tool for healing and transformation, setting the stage for his future work in somatic coaching.

Learning from Movement Experts

Jacob's exploration of movement didn't stop with yoga. He sought out training with prominent leaders in the movement culture, including Ido Portal. This intensive training expanded his understanding of movement beyond physical exercise to include a holistic approach to living and interacting with the world.

Training with experts like Ido Portal helped Jacob see movement as an integral part of life, not just a separate activity. This realization was crucial in developing his approach to somatic coaching, where he combines physical practices with emotional and mental awareness. Jacob's time with these movement leaders enriched his perspective and provided him with the tools to help others on their journeys.

The Role of Indigenous Wisdom

Jacob's journey also led him to explore indigenous Australian wisdom, particularly the concept of the three brains: the gut, the heart, and the thinking brain. This holistic view resonated deeply with Jacob and influenced his approach to coaching and personal development.

Indigenous wisdom taught Jacob the importance of leading from the gut and filtering decisions through the heart before engaging the thinking brain. This approach helped him make more aligned and authentic choices in his life. By integrating this wisdom into his practice, Jacob offers a unique perspective that blends traditional knowledge with modern somatic practices.

Unpacking Relationship Dynamics

Through his somatic work, Jacob has gained valuable insights into relationship dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and observing how conflicts arise and persist, often rooted in unaddressed emotions and patterns. By becoming aware of these dynamics, individuals can begin to break the cycle and foster healthier relationships.

Jacob's approach involves using the body as a vehicle to sense and address underlying emotions. This method helps individuals identify and release patterns of tension and defensiveness, leading to more open and authentic communication. Jacob's work in this area highlights the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and relational well-being.

The Power of Men's Work

A significant part of Jacob's current work is focused on men's retreats and somatic coaching. He co-founded Alchemy Brothers during the depths of COVID-19 to provide a space for men to connect, share, and grow together. These retreats offer a blend of movement practices, breathwork, and group discussions aimed at helping men reclaim their masculine energy in a balanced way.

Jacob's men's work emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences in personal growth. By creating a safe space for men to explore their emotions and challenges, Jacob helps them build stronger connections with themselves and others. His retreats provide valuable opportunities for men to heal, grow, and support each other in their journeys.

Conclusion

Jacob Strong's journey from civil engineering to somatic coaching is an inspiring story of personal transformation and the power of movement. Through yoga, training with movement experts, and exploring indigenous wisdom, Jacob found a path that aligned with his values and passions. His work in somatic coaching and men's retreats offers valuable lessons in personal growth, embodiment, and the importance of community. Listen to the full episode to hear more about Jacob's experiences and gain practical insights for your own journey.

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