Gentle Practices for Trauma and PTSD
Trauma can affect us in many different ways. Sometimes our bodies and nervous systems continue to respond to experiences that happened in the past, even when we are no longer in danger.
For some people, gentle practices such as meditation, breathing, grounding and becoming more aware of the body can provide moments of calm and help develop a greater sense of safety and connection.
However, trauma is different for everyone. For some people with PTSD or a history of significant trauma, closing the eyes, becoming still or focusing inward can actually feel uncomfortable or overwhelming.
If a practice doesn't feel right for you, you don't need to push through it. You can stop, open your eyes, look around the room, move your body or simply return your attention to what feels safe and familiar.
These practices are offered as gentle resources that you may find helpful. They are not intended to replace professional trauma-informed therapy. For many people living with PTSD, appropriate professional support can be an important part of healing.
You are always welcome to choose what feels supportive for you and to go at your own pace.
A Meditation
Healing Trauma: The Light Shines Through the Broken Places
With Tara Brach
Most of us have encountered trauma, either through our own experiences or through someone close to us. In this talk, Tara Brach explores some of the shame and suffering that can arise from trauma and how meditation practices may support healing.
The talk explores practices that can help us connect with a sense of love and safety, while gently developing our capacity to be present with experiences that may have been held in the body.
As with all meditation practices, you can listen at your own pace and take what feels useful to you.
Suggested Reading
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
Trauma and Recovery — by Judith Herman