Trauma is not in the event, but what happens in the body.
Something happens that triggers the flight/fight response i.e. a heated argument, fall, a car swerving into your lane. The usual response is to just get on with life, however, your nervous system is not ready to just get over it.
When a threatening event overwhelms our nervous systems normal flight/fight response the arousal cycle is not completed and the body does not realize it is out of danger. We become stuck in survival mode and the energy generated to protect us becomes stored in our body causing many seemingly unrelated symptoms such as:
* Chronic pain, including headaches/migraines
* Immune imbalances
* Gastrointestinal disorders
* Memory lapses
* Anxiety/panic attacks
* Nightmares/flashbacks
* Hypersensitivity, hypervigilance
* Repeated injuries or ones that don't seem to heal
* Addictions, OCD, repetitive destructive behavior
* Decreased vitality
* Insomnia
* Depression
* Reenactment
* Shame, feeling of failure
* Relationship difficulties
These are all common symptoms of incomplete physiological responses suspended in fear which can remain hidden for years after a triggering event, negatively affecting our lives on many levels.
These symptoms need not be permanent.
SOME CAUSES OF TRAUMA:
* Being involved in or merely witnessing violence or traumatic events
* Birth trauma
* Loss of a loved one
* Illness, high fevers, poisoning
* Physical injuries (falls, auto accidents)
* Emotional, physical and sexual abuse
* Natural disasters ie. earthquakes, fires, floods, etc.
* Medical and dental procedures
* Ongoing stress (job, illness of loved one)
Somatic Trauma Resolution (STR) therapy is a unique, body based technique for releasing the trauma-bound energy that may be responsible for the symptoms. A felt sense of self is developed through sensation which allows access to the frozen energy which then begins to move and release. Recent research in the field of neurology and trauma indicates that tracking sensation while controlling the activation level in the nervous system is one of the most effective approaches for long and short term healing. It opens neural pathways which allows safe discharge from the nervous system. The therapist creates a safe place, and helps the client move gracefully through the release leaving them with a sense of freedom and empowerment. Clients learn tools that will assist them whenever a challenge occurs.
Trauma happens. We are physical beings on a physical planet and therefore physically vulnerable. We have bodies, minds, egos, spirits and emotions that are subject to being wounded. But there is hope!
STR sessions last 1 1/2 hours and take place with the client fully clothed, mostly seated to facilitate developing a sense of self-empowerment. Other techniques may be employed in addition to provide a broad spectrum of care.
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