The body and mind are intricately connected, and their connection is a powerful force. The mind and body are designed to work together to support physical and mental health, but sometimes their relationship becomes complicated, and they can work against each other. Our memories, thoughts, and attitudes directly affect our biological functions, linking mental state to bodily health. Likewise, how we care for our bodies—through diet, exercise, sleep, and substance use—impacts mental health. Strengthening this mind-body connection through certain techniques can help maintain and improve overall health. During the healing process, the body can help in the following ways:
- Understanding your body’s response to traumatic experiences
The more we know how our body and brain respond to traumatic events, the better we can navigate them. Different parts of our brain serve various functions. For instance, the older, more primitive part of our brain that acts like an alarm system, initiates the fear response of fight, flight, or freeze when we encounter a threat. Whenever this happens, the thinking part of our brain doesn’t function well. However, our reaction depends on our type of fear response. Some people lash out at others whereas others avoid that situation/person or shut down. In the case of past, unresolved traumas, such reactions can occur without a threat as the brain’s alarm system becomes hypersensitive to perceived threats.
- Grounding yourself with your 5 senses
While traumatic memories tend to pull us into the past, anxiety and hypervigilance project fear into the future. To distance yourself from unwanted thoughts, connect your body to the present moment, as it’s the only place for creating change. Ground yourself by focusing on objects around you that engage your five senses: sight, touch, hearing, smell, and taste. You can also hold a grounding object, like a worry stone, bracelet, or fidget toy, or use a strong, pleasant scent, such as essential oils or a diffuser.
- Creating body awareness
By getting in touch with our body sensations, we can understand more what triggers us. This enables us to catch our responses sooner and assess which calming techniques are the most effective. Body signals like jaw, shoulder, or stomach tension, as well as frequent stomach pain or migraines, reveal how we respond to our environment. Though often unpleasant, listening to these sensations can help soothe both body and mind.
- Connecting with a safe person or pet
This involves physical contact with a person you trust, such as hugging or holding hands and it can be a very effective way to regulate emotions. Looking at the face of a beloved person or pet also helps your body calm down.
Remember, traumatic events can happen to anyone, and responses vary widely. Each treatment plan should be unique, tailored to fit an individual’s specific needs.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Johanna Cutajar is a Master in Counselling graduate from the University of Malta. She works with children and adolescents as a counsellor within the education sector on a variety of issues including relationship issues, trauma, bereavement, transitions, and general mental health.
References
Blumberg Islam, G. (2020). Trauma recovery: 6 ways your body can be an ally. Retrieved from https://www.highfocuscenters.com/6-ways-your-body-can-be-an-ally-and-not-the-enemy-in-trauma-recovery/