Why Holistic Care is Essential for Healing Trauma
By Sadaf Naji
"Trauma is not what happens to you. It’s what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you."
This poignant definition by Gabor Maté highlights the profound impact trauma has on individuals. Trauma isn't merely an event; it's the deep-seated emotional and physical response that lingers long after the event itself. Understanding this helps us see why healing from trauma requires more than conventional talk therapy. Holistic care, which integrates various therapeutic modalities, offers a comprehensive approach to trauma recovery, addressing the intricate interplay between our mental, emotional, and physical experiences.
One of the most significant revelations in recent trauma research is the intricate connection between the mind and body. Trauma is not just stored in the brain as a memory but is also imprinted on our bodies. This manifests in various ways, from chronic pain and fatigue to autoimmune disorders and digestive issues. The body's physiological response to trauma can lead to long-term health consequences if not properly addressed.
Holistic Approaches to Heal Trauma
To truly heal from trauma, it's essential to engage in therapies that recognize and work with this mind-body connection. Here are some modalities that exemplify the wisdom of the body:
1. Body-Centered Approaches of Therapy (Bottom-Up) such as Compassionate Inquiry
Body-centered approaches focus on the body’s wisdom to inform us by recognizing that the body and mind are deeply interconnected. Techniques often involve body awareness, breathwork, and movement to help release stored trauma. Compassionate Inquiry, a psychosomatic approach by Gabor Maté, explores the underlying emotional and psychological patterns contributing to a person's distress and is a powerful complement. By fostering presence, safety, and compassionate and curious exploration of one's inner world, individuals can uncover and heal the deep-seated roots of their trauma.
2. Breathwork
Breathwork is a powerful technique that involves conscious control of breathing patterns to influence physical, emotional, and mental states. One effective method is conscious circular breathing, where the breath is connected in a continuous loop without pausing between the inhale and exhale. This practice can induce an altered state of consciousness without the need for medicinal interference. In these altered states, individuals can access deep layers of unconscious information and insight, facilitating the release of trauma and helping to move past experiences of "stuckness." By regulating the breath, we can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and facilitate profound emotional healing.
3. Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
While still emerging, psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promising results for trauma recovery. Using medicines like MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine in a controlled, therapeutic setting can help individuals access and process traumatic memories in a way that traditional therapy might not. These experiences often lead to significant emotional breakthroughs and a deeper understanding of one's trauma.
Healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Each person's experience and needs are unique, and so should be their path to recovery. Integrating modalities such as massage therapy, craniosacral therapy, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and working with a naturopathic doctor into a comprehensive treatment plan can provide a more personalized and effective approach to healing.
Any step that you are taking, my invitation is to ensure you are:
Listening to Your Body
A fundamental aspect of holistic care is learning to listen to the body. Trauma often disrupts our ability to feel safe within ourselves. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, and body-centered psychotherapy can help rebuild this sense of safety. By tuning into bodily sensations and emotions without judgment, individuals can begin to reconnect with their inner selves and foster healing from within.
Holistic care also emphasizes the importance of community and connection in healing trauma. Group therapies, support networks, and community engagement can provide a sense of belonging and validation, which are crucial for recovery. Sharing experiences with others who understand can alleviate the isolation that often accompanies trauma.
Healing is about reconnecting to our essence and integrating mind, body, and spirit. I recognize that true healing requires addressing all aspects of a person's being. By embracing therapies that honor this complexity, we can create a more compassionate and effective approach to trauma recovery. Healing is a journey, not a destination. Knowing this, we can navigate this journey with greater awareness, resilience, and hope, moving towards a state of wholeness and well-being.
About Sadaf
Sadaf Naji, a Registered Trauma Informed Clinical Counsellor, is dedicated to guiding individuals through transformative healing journeys. With a profound commitment to understanding the complexities of trauma, Sadaf embodies a holistic approach that integrates principles of safety, trust, and empowerment. Her extensive expertise allows her to create nurturing environments where clients feel secure to explore their experiences and emotions. Through collaborative efforts and compassionate support, Sadaf empowers individuals to reclaim their sense of agency and embark on a path towards healing and resilience.
