Unveiling the Hidden Wounds: Healing Trauma Through Body-Mind Connection

Trauma often leaves a lasting imprint, not just on our minds but also on our bodies. It’s like carrying an invisible burden that occasionally manifests as physical ailments—persistent headaches, chronic fatigue, or even digestive issues. These symptoms are your body’s way of signalling that something is amiss. When we experience trauma, it’s not uncommon for it to embed itself within our physical being, causing what are known as psychosomatic symptoms. The body and mind are intrinsically connected, and unresolved emotional trauma can lead to ongoing physical discomfort. Over time, these somatic manifestations can become a source of continual stress, creating a vicious cycle of pain and emotional turmoil.

Somatic therapy and polyvagal therapy are therapeutic approaches that recognise and address the physical manifestations of trauma. Somatic therapy focuses on releasing the trauma stored in the body by increasing awareness and facilitating the expression of physical sensations. It encourages individuals to engage in activities such as deep breathing, movement, and touch to help the body process and release trapped emotions.

Polyvagal therapy, on the other hand, works by calming the autonomic nervous system and fostering a sense of safety. By targeting the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in regulating stress responses, this approach helps individuals shift from a state of fight-or-flight to one of calm and connection. Both therapies aim to break the cycle of trauma by addressing its physical roots, thereby promoting holistic healing.

Harvest Therapy is here to help you every step of the way! Browse our mind-body healing focused practitioners.