Stress and Trauma
Overwhelming experiences can set off traumatic reactions. These experiences include physical and sexual violations, accidents, falls, medical interventions and emotionally abusive relationships in childhood or adulthood. Political oppression, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and other discriminatory practices, can also evoke traumatic responses.
Our bodies and minds respond to very frightening events through fight, flight, or freeze, instinctive behaviors that protect us from harm. When self-defense isn’t possible or is unsuccessful, we stay stuck in patterns that may not serve us. When we are on guard, checked out, and/or shut down, our bodies don’t have the energy for growth and repair.
The good news is – there are ways to recover from traumatic experiences, whether recent or past – and there are ways to develop greater resilience, even in the face of ongoing challenges.
Resilience
Resilience, the capacity to bounce back from difficult situations, is wired into your system. Developing a trusting relationship, working on your concerns, and supporting the body’s capacity to heal from overwhelming experiences all foster resilience. Once you’ve discovered how resilience is a muscle you can grow, it can become a source of ongoing healing in your day-to-day life.
