The Problem: identifying the root cause, not the symptom

Chronic muscle pain and restricted movement often stem from the brain “forgetting” how to sense and release tight muscles due to ongoing stress reflexes and habitual holding patterns, a status Dr. Thomas Hanna called Sensory Motor Amnesia (SMA). PANDA Reset helps you recognize these patterns and relearn how to let them go.

The Solution: the two-way communications between your brain & body, not medical intervention

PANDA uses voluntary pandiculation, a neuromuscular re-education technique that trains the cortex brain to release and lengthen tight muscles beyond their normal lengths – without force or medical intervention. Pandiculation is seen across all mammal vertebrates (like a “yawn” when you wake up in the morning). This instinctive three-step process—contract, slow release, and relax for integration—resets muscle function and reduces chronic tension. 

In PANDA, this technique is integrated into movement sequences targeting common holding patterns throughout the body. Through mindful, first-person exploration, you enhance body awareness and develop new movement habits.

The Results: lasting, self-sustaining improvement, not a bandaid fix

PANDA restores the nervous system’s innate ability to self-monitor, self-regulate, and self-improve. By “moving to sense” and “sensing to move” for the better, you educate your brain and body to relax unnecessary tension and improve movement efficiency beyond pain relief—creating lasting, life-enhancing change.

The Bonus: a daily treat, not a task

PANDA is simple, comfortable, and rewarding. It is also adaptable as most movements can be done lying, sitting, or standing. Over time, it becomes a restorative daily ritual—something you do for yourself and by yourself anytime you need to reset and reconnect.

PANDA Reset is a somatic movement practice in the lineage of Hanna Somatics founded by Thomas Hanna. Hanna Somatics is a recognized, neuromuscular re-education to relieve pain, stress, and trauma. It uses voluntary pandiculation (PANDA) to retrain the brain and restore natural, voluntary control of the muscles for freer and easier movement.

Who is Thomas Hanna? 

Dr. Thomas Hanna was a philosopher and neuromuscular pioneer who coined the term “Somatics” to describe the field which included the mind/body integration disciplines.

Each PANDA Reset class is a safe and nurturing space to reconnect with your body through gentle, guided movement. You’ll be led verbally through carefully designed sequences that help you sense, release, and move with greater ease. Most movements are done lying on a mat or blanket, with comfortable seated options available for anyone who prefers not to lie down.

• Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.

• A yoga mat or blanket where you can lie down and slide your arms and legs without restriction. A pillow or cushion for support during certain movements.

• Most importantly — your curiosity and open mind 🙂

Many participants notice relief within the first few classes, with the effects deepening and lasting longer over time. Because sensorimotor reset is a learning process, gradual improvement comes through mindful, intentional repetition of the movements. Results vary depending on each person’s physical condition and body awareness at the start—but both naturally improve with continued practice.

Voluntary pandiculation enhances body awareness by teaching your brain to recognize and release tension automatically, setting the foundation for your daily physical activities. 

It helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, supporting balanced energy throughout your day. Moreover, through the sensory–motor exploration of PANDA Reset, you build new neural pathways—helping your body move smarter and with greater ease.