Hello again my beautiful wild souls. Thank you for being here. As you know by now, I talk a lot about different modalities to support the mind, body & soul in grief. I would be remiss if I did not mention the potential of some of these modalities to retraumatize people. This is not meant to scare you off but to educate you and prepare you should you find yourself feeling worse instead of better after trying out a new practice. As we go about figuring out ways to heal ourselves the best tool we can have is awareness. There is no one size fits all and it’s called trial and error for a reason. Especially if you are new to many of these healing therapies just go slowly and be aware.
Grief is a tender and heavy experience that often leaves us feeling fragile and vulnerable. As we navigate through the overwhelming emotions and physical symptoms of loss, it can be tempting to seek solace in mindfulness practices such as breathing exercises, meditation, and somatic practices. While these practices can be incredibly healing, it is important to approach them with care and caution, especially for those who have experienced trauma.
Trauma can have a profound impact on the mind and body, leaving deep wounds that can take time to heal. In some cases, practicing mindfulness, meditation, breathing or somatic exercises can retraumatize a person and exacerbate the existing wounds. This is because mindfulness practices require us to confront our thoughts, emotions or physical sensations in a very direct way, which can be overwhelming for those who have experienced trauma. You might not be quite ready yet, and that is totally ok.
It is important to approach these practices with awareness and sensitivity, especially if you are still in the early stages of healing. It is recommended to work with a therapist who is trained in trauma-informed practices, has experience with the modality you are exploring and can guide you through these exercises in a safe and supportive manner. A therapist can also help you understand the underlying causes of your trauma and provide you with tools to manage any triggers that may arise. Do not underestimate the support of a therapist when it comes to integrating these experiences. On the flip side you may have experience with these modalities and be at a point in your healing journey where you know you can safely approach many of these very healing arts on your own.
If you do find that a mindfulness practice retraumatizes you, it is important to take a step back and seek support. This can be as simple as talking to a friend, reaching out to a support group, or seeing a therapist. If you feel like you are not okay, and are worried you may be in danger, please seek support immediately. It is also important to remember that healing is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and patience to heal, and there will be setbacks along the way. Be kind and gentle with yourself and remember that you are not alone.
In conclusion, mindfulness practices can be incredibly healing for those who are grieving, but it is important to approach them with care and caution. If you are experiencing trauma, it is recommended to work with a trained therapist and to seek support if needed. Remember that healing is a journey, and take each step with love and compassion for yourself.