Life’s journey is marked by unexpected events and experiences. Sometimes those experiences can leave lasting marks on our heart, mind, and body. Trauma can have many faces – from the loss of a loved one to the distressing event that lingers in the mind. The effects of trauma can catch us in unexpected moments which causes us to fear or avoid certain aspects of our history or present life. Trauma can infiltrate every aspect of daily life, affecting relationships, work, or your sense of self.
The effects of trauma can be experienced as flashbacks, avoidance of things that remind you of the event, fear of connection or vulnerability, persistent anxiety, and negative beliefs about yourself and the world. Your body carries the effects of trauma and it can manifest through a racing heart when you’re triggered by a reminder, a knot in your stomach, tightness in your chest, the desire to run or freeze, and even cutting off feeling physical sensations. Coping with trauma isn’t about forgetting; it’s about finding the strength to reshape your narrative, navigate a path toward healing, and reclaim the peace that was once lost.
