Somatic Experiencing

Summary

Trauma is a deeply impactful event that can leave lasting scars on the body and mind. While traditionally associated with physical injury or life-threatening events, trauma also encompasses psychological and emotional experiences that overwhelm the body's ability to cope. These experiences can range from major events, such as accidents, abuse, or natural disasters, to more subtle forms of chronic stress and neglect. Regardless of the cause, trauma has profound effects on the nervous system and the way individuals experience the world around them.

When a person faces a traumatic event, their body enters a state of heightened alertness, preparing to respond with fight, flight, or freeze reactions. These responses are governed by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is responsible for managing involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, respiration, and digestion. In a traumatic situation, the ANS activates the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), triggering the fight or flight response to protect the individual. If neither response is possible, the freeze response takes over, which can lead to feelings of paralysis or disassociation. These instinctual reactions are designed to protect, but when the trauma is unresolved, the nervous system may remain stuck in a heightened state of alertness.

The effects of trauma are not just psychological but are also deeply physiological. When the body remains in this heightened state of arousal, it can disrupt the normal functioning of various bodily systems, leading to symptoms such as chronic pain, tension, digestive issues, or sleep disturbances. This state of dysregulation can also affect the brain, impairing areas responsible for memory, emotional regulation, and decision-making. The longer this state persists, the more difficult it becomes for the individual to return to a sense of normalcy, and the trauma can become entrenched in both the body and mind.