Trauma is a deeply personal experience, often leaving invisible scars that can affect your emotional and physical well-being. It can stem from a single event, such as an accident or loss, or from ongoing situations like chronic stress or neglect. When you think about trauma, it’s essential to recognize that it doesn’t just reside in...
The freeze response is a natural, instinctive reaction that occurs when we perceive a threat. It’s a part of our survival mechanism, designed to protect us in moments of danger. When faced with overwhelming stress or trauma, our bodies may enter a state of immobility, where we feel paralyzed or unable to act. This response...
In our fast-paced world, productivity often feels like a badge of honor. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of striving for more—more tasks completed, more goals achieved, and more accolades earned. Yet, beneath this relentless pursuit lies a deeper truth: a dysregulated nervous system can significantly impact your ability to function effectively. When...
The concept of the Window of Tolerance is a vital framework for understanding how you experience and respond to stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm. Imagine it as a comfortable zone where you can navigate your feelings and reactions without becoming overwhelmed or shutting down. Within this window, you can engage with your emotions, think clearly,...
The vagus nerve is a remarkable and intricate part of your body’s nervous system, often referred to as the “wandering nerve” due to its extensive reach throughout your body. It is one of the longest cranial nerves, extending from the brainstem down through the neck and into the chest and abdomen. This nerve plays a...
The nervous system is a complex network that plays a crucial role in how you experience the world around you. It is responsible for regulating your body’s responses to various stimuli, including stress and trauma. At its core, the nervous system consists of two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain...
As a somatic therapist, I often find myself reflecting on the intricate dance of our human responses to stress and trauma. The terms “fight,” “flight,” “freeze,” and “fawn” may sound clinical, but they represent deeply human patterns that we all experience in various forms. These responses are not just psychological; they are woven into the...
