Trauma lives in the body, so healing has to include it
Gabor Maté explains how unresolved trauma lives in the body, Nicole LePera says trauma stored in the body shapes belief, Mel Robbins' therapist teaches a somatic 'slithering' practice for morning dread, and Paul Conti describes processing trauma rather than avoiding it. Talking alone often isn't enough when stress is held physically.
How does Gabor Maté define trauma? Show answer
As what happened inside you as a result of what happened to you, not the event itself. He compares it to a concussion, which is the injury left by a blow to the head.
What physical effects does Maté link to unresolved childhood trauma? Show answer
Higher inflammatory markers, a dysregulated stress system that releases more cortisol and adrenaline, and changes in which genes are switched on.
Why does Nicole LePera say affirmations alone do not work? Show answer
If you tell yourself you are worthy while your heart is racing and your thoughts are spiraling, the nervous system will not believe it. Belief has to follow regulation and lived evidence.
What does LePera call the fastest tool for nervous system regulation? Show answer
Breathwork. She says to practice it every day, outside of panic, so it is available when you need it.
What did Anne Davin call Mel Robbins' lifelong morning dread? Show answer
A somatic residue of unresolved trauma, meaning a physical leftover of childhood events that waking up had become tied to.
What are the steps of the slithering practice? Show answer
Notice the heaviness, let its weight carry you out of bed onto the floor, move slowly until it starts to break apart, crawl toward the bathroom and stand only when ready.
How long did Robbins practice slithering, and what was her one rule? Show answer
Every morning for six weeks, needing less and less over time. Her rule was never to get back in bed.
How does Paul Conti define trauma? Show answer
As something that overwhelms our coping skills and leaves us different as we move forward. A bad memory alone does not qualify unless the way you function has changed.
Why do people avoid facing trauma, according to Conti? Show answer
It almost always brings a reflex of guilt and shame, which leads people to hide it. Hiding keeps the past dominating the present.
What does Conti recommend instead of avoidance? Show answer
Looking directly at the trauma by putting words to it with a professional, a trusted person or on paper, and allowing yourself to cry.
Where do Robbins and Conti differ on talking? Show answer
Robbins and Davin say sensations stored in the body need movement, not just talk. Conti puts words first. The article reads both as ways of turning toward the trauma instead of away from it.
When does the article say self-guided practice is not enough? Show answer
With thoughts of suicide, past abuse, persistent panic or physical illness. In those cases it says to work with a qualified clinician and keep medical care in place.