Help Your Body Heal Emotional Trauma
Healing emotional trauma is not just about addressing the mental and emotional aspects of your experience; it also involves tending to the physical effects that trauma can have on your body. When trauma occurs, it leaves a lasting imprint on the body, manifesting as chronic tension, pain, or other physical symptoms. By focusing on the body and engaging in practices that promote physical and emotional healing, you can help release the trauma stored within and support your overall well-being. Here are five things you can do to help your body heal emotional trauma:
1- Engage in Somatic Practices:
Somatic practices involve focusing on the body’s sensations to process and release trauma. Techniques such as Somatic Experiencing or body-oriented mindfulness practices can help you become more aware of how trauma is stored in your body. By gently guiding your attention to areas of tension or discomfort, you can begin to release the physical effects of trauma. These practices encourage a connection between your mind and body, helping to integrate and resolve traumatic experiences.
If you are curious on how this can look like for you, email me: info@noushasalimi.com and book a quick call to chat more. Alternatively if you are in Los Angeles on Sept 15th, please join us for an in person “Monthly Reset”.
2- Incorporate Regular Physical Activity:
Physical activity is a powerful tool for releasing trauma from the body. Exercise, particularly activities like yoga, dance, or even walking, helps to release endorphins, the body’s natural stress-relievers, and promote relaxation. Movement allows your body to process and release pent-up energy and emotions that may be stored as a result of trauma. Regular physical activity can also help you feel more connected to your body, fostering a sense of control and empowerment as you heal.
3- Practice Deep Breathing Exercises:
Breathwork is a simple yet effective way to calm the nervous system and promote healing. When you experience trauma, your body may become stuck in a state of fight-or-flight, leading to shallow breathing and increased tension. Practicing deep, conscious breathing can help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and healing. Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, where you breathe deeply into your abdomen, can help release tension and bring a sense of calm to your body and mind.
4- Seek Out Therapeutic Touch:
Therapies that involve physical touch, such as massage, craniosacral therapy, or acupuncture, can be incredibly beneficial for healing emotional trauma. These therapies work by releasing tension and promoting relaxation in the body. Therapeutic touch helps to calm the nervous system, allowing the body to let go of trauma stored in the muscles and tissues. Additionally, these therapies can provide a sense of safety and support, which is essential for healing.
5- Connect with Nature:
Spending time in nature is a powerful way to heal the body and mind. Nature has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Whether it’s walking in a park, hiking in the woods, or simply sitting by a body of water, being in nature can help you feel more grounded and connected. The natural world provides a soothing environment where your body can relax and begin to heal from the effects of trauma. One of the most accessible ways to do this is go outside first thing in the morning and get some sun in your face and eyes.
Healing emotional trauma is a journey that involves caring for both the mind and body. These practices help create a foundation for healing, allowing you to move forward with greater resilience and peace. Remember, healing is a process that takes time, so be gentle and patient with yourself as you explore these methods.
Looking for more support, nourishing your body and building a strong and healthy foundation?
Email me: info@nousahsalimi.com
Much love,
Nousha