The 'Healing Era': Overcoming Past Traumas
Welcome to the "Healing Era" - a term that's trending among those embarking on journeys of self-discovery and recovery.
This era represents a significant phase in life where individuals actively work to overcome past traumas. It's about turning pain into power, understanding deep-seated emotional wounds, and transforming them into sources of strength and resilience.
In this blog, we'll explore what it means to be in your 'Healing Era' and how to navigate this transformative period.
Understanding Trauma
Understanding trauma involves recognizing how deeply our brain and relationships are affected by traumatic experiences. Past traumas, especially those in early life, can profoundly impact mental and emotional health. They can lead to attachment wounds, where the ability to form secure and healthy relationships is disrupted, and in more severe cases, result in Complex PTSD, a condition characterized by enduring emotional distress and anxiety.
I greatly admire Bonnie Badenoch, an advocate of Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB), and her emphasis on the relational aspect of healing from trauma. She suggests that “healing is in our hands and hearts and brains” and highlights the importance of nurturing connections for trauma recovery. This perspective aligns with the understanding that our brains are wired for connection, and therefore, healing from trauma is often facilitated through supportive, empathetic relationships.
Trauma often leaves a lasting imprint on the brain and body, affecting our ability to regulate emotions and reactions. The brain is deeply interconnected with our relationships and experiences. Trauma can disrupt these connections, leading to chronic states of hyperarousal or dissociation, hallmarks of Complex PTSD. Such conditions deeply affect one's sense of safety and stability, impacting daily life and relationships.
In healing trauma, the role of attachment becomes crucial. Traumatic experiences, especially those involving relational betrayals or neglect, can lead to attachment wounds. These wounds shape our ability to trust and connect with others. Addressing these wounds is vital in trauma therapy, as it can help rebuild a sense of security and foster healthier relationships.
Here’s a list of some forms of trauma you may be addressing in your ‘Healing Era’:
Bullying: Being subjected to physical, verbal, or social bullying, especially during formative years.
Traumatic Loss: The sudden or unexpected loss of a loved one.
Domestic Violence: Exposure to physical, emotional, or psychological abuse within the home.
Narcissistic Abuse: Experiencing manipulation, and emotional or psychological abuse from someone with narcissistic traits, often leading to long-term emotional trauma.
Natural Disasters: Experiencing life-threatening natural events like earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes.
Accidents and Injuries: Serious accidents, such as car crashes or workplace injuries.
War or Combat Exposure: Experiencing or witnessing combat and warfare.
Chronic Illness or Medical Trauma: Long-term health issues or traumatic medical experiences.
Witnessing Violence or Trauma: Observing acts of violence or traumatic events, even if not directly involved.
Emotional Betrayal or Abandonment: Experiencing deep emotional wounds from betrayal or abandonment, especially by trusted individuals.
Childhood Neglect or Abuse: Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse experienced during childhood.
These types of traumas can deeply impact an individual's mental and emotional health and often form the basis of issues addressed in therapy.
Trauma is not just an individual experience but also a relational one. Healing, therefore, involves not only addressing the neurobiological impacts but also nurturing safe, supportive relationships that can help rewire the brain toward a sense of safety and connection.
Acknowledging the Healing Journey
Acknowledging the healing journey is crucial in the 'Healing Era.' This period is marked by the conscious decision to confront and work through past traumas. It involves recognizing that healing is not just necessary but vital for overall well-being.
The 'Healing Era' can look different for everyone. For some, it might involve therapy, self-reflection, and rebuilding relationships. For others, it could mean learning new coping strategies, setting boundaries, or exploring creative outlets. It's a time of turning inward, understanding the impact of past experiences, and actively working toward emotional and psychological healing.
This era is not about erasing the past but transforming the pain into strength and wisdom.
Therapeutic Approaches
In trauma therapy, a variety of therapeutic methods are utilized for effective healing. Today, I’m sharing some of the approaches I take in my healing journey and my work with my clients.
Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) focuses on how our brains are shaped by relationships and trauma, fostering a deeper understanding of one's emotional responses. Brainspotting and the Safe and Sound Protocol (grounded in Polyvagal Theory) offer innovative ways to access and process traumatic memories by tapping into the body's natural healing capabilities. Somatic therapy emphasizes the connection between body and mind, using physical awareness and movement to release and heal trauma. Ego state therapy, meanwhile, addresses the different 'parts' or subpersonalities within a person, facilitating a holistic approach to healing.
Each of these modalities offers unique pathways to recovery, acknowledging the complexity of trauma and the individual's journey toward healing.
Self-Care and Resilience
During the 'Healing Era,' self-care and resilience-building are paramount. Self-care practices involve activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health. These can include joyful movement, intuitive eating, engaging in hobbies, and ensuring adequate rest. Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing exercises can also be beneficial, helping to regulate emotional states and reduce stress. And, if you’re like me, don’t forget your emotional support water bottle for hydration!
Building resilience is about developing the ability to cope with and recover from difficulties. This can involve practicing positive self-talk, setting realistic goals, and seeking social support. Remember, resilience is not about never facing challenges, but rather learning how to navigate them effectively.
Mindfulness Meditation: Check out Insight Timer as a free resource for sleep, anxiety, and stress.
Physical Activity: Try yoga, Tai Chi, walking, and dance. Music and dance can be especially healing for your inner child. Hula hooping and jumping on a trampoline can also be somatic release tools.
Journaling for Emotional Expression: Journaling provides a safe space to express emotions and reflect on your healing journey. Bullet journaling can be particularly helpful for those with ADHD.
Gratitude Practices: Ask me about some Polyvagal Theory-related skills related to glimmers, like Savoring and SIFTing!
Enjoying Hobbies and Creative Pursuits: How about a puzzle or a diamond painting kit? If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider horseback riding. Horseback riding can be great for improving mental health.
Engaging in Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation are a great place to start.
Seeking Professional Support when Needed: Contact us if you want to explore your own ‘Healing Era’ through therapy in Dallas.
Setting Healthy Boundaries in Personal Relationships: Try Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab.
Practicing Self-Compassion and Positive Self-Talk: Kristin Neff and Tara Brach both have wonderful resources for cultivating self-compassion.
These practices not only provide immediate relief and a sense of control but also contribute to long-term resilience. They empower individuals to navigate their ‘Healing Era’ with strength and self-awareness. Self-care isn't selfish; it's an essential part of the healing process.
Community and Support
The role of support systems in the trauma healing process cannot be overstated. A healthy support system provides emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging, all of which are crucial in the journey of healing from trauma. To cultivate a healthy support system, start by reaching out to trusted friends or family members who are understanding and supportive. Joining support groups, where you can connect with others who have similar experiences, can also be incredibly beneficial.
The goal is to surround yourself with people who are empathetic and understand the complexities of trauma. Building a support system tailored to your needs and experiences is a powerful step in your healing journey.
As we conclude our exploration of the 'Healing Era,' remember that this period is a profound journey towards self-discovery and renewal. Embracing your healing process, nurturing supportive relationships, and engaging in self-care practices lay the foundation for a transformative experience. The road to recovery may have its challenges, but with resilience, support, and self-compassion, this era can become a powerful chapter in your story of growth and empowerment.
If you’re ready to explore your ‘Healing Era,’ learn more about how Amanda works with trauma. Check out some of the techniques you can expect in therapy with Amanda, like Brainspotting and the Safe and Sound Protocol.
You can also learn more about how Crescent Counseling works with anxiety, adulting, couples counseling, and disordered eating.
