Trauma has a profound impact on those who have experienced it. Beyond the memories and emotions, it can change the way we relate to our own bodies. Renowned trauma expert Bessel Van Der Kolk once noted, "Traumatized people are often afraid of feeling." This fear doesn't stem from the perpetrators who caused the trauma, but from the very sensations within their own bodies.
For trauma survivors, the enemy is not external; it's the internal world of physical sensations. The apprehension of being overwhelmed by these uncomfortable sensations can keep the body in a perpetual state of tension, and the mind locked in a cycle of fear and avoidance. Even though the traumatic event is in the past, the emotional brain continues to generate sensations that make the survivor feel scared and helpless.
It's not uncommon to find trauma survivors struggling with various coping mechanisms. Some may turn to compulsive eating or drinking to numb these sensations, while others may fear intimacy and avoid social activities altogether. For many, their sensory world becomes a territory fraught with anxiety and avoidance.
The journey towards healing from trauma often involves reconnecting with one's body and reclaiming the sensory world that has been largely off-limits. Here are some steps on this path to recovery:
1. Seek Professional Help:
Trauma therapy, such as EMDR or somatic experiencing, can be instrumental in helping survivors process and release trapped emotions and sensations.
Mindfulness and Body Awareness:
Practices like mindfulness meditation can help survivors become more aware of their bodily sensations without judgment, gradually reducing the fear associated with them.
3. Gradual Exposure:
Controlled and gradual exposure to sensory triggers can help survivors relearn that these sensations are not inherently dangerous.
4. Self-Compassion:
Developing self-compassion is essential in the healing process. Understanding that the body's reactions are survival mechanisms can reduce self-blame.
5. Supportive Networks:
Connecting with support groups or individuals who have experienced trauma can provide a safe space for sharing and healing.
Recovery from trauma is a unique and individual journey. It involves not only healing emotional wounds but also re-establishing a healthy relationship with one's own body and sensations. With the right support and strategies, trauma survivors can gradually reclaim their sensory world and find a path towards healing and well-being. Remember, you don't have to face this journey alone, and there is hope for a brighter future.
Get in touch today to book a session and work together.
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