Understanding trauma and its impact on the nervous system is crucial for anyone on a healing journey. Trauma can come in many forms, from a single overwhelming event to ongoing, chronic stress. It's important to differentiate between big 'T' traumas, such as physical abuse or violence, and little 't' traumas, which can include experiences like emotional neglect or constant criticism. Both types of trauma can have a lasting impact on our nervous system, shaping our responses to stress and threat. By recognizing the various forms of trauma, we can better understand our own reactions and begin to work towards healing.

When we experience trauma, our nervous system kicks into gear, often engaging in one of the four common stress responses: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. These responses are automatic and can influence how we perceive and react to the world around us. Understanding these different states can help us make sense of our own behaviours and coping mechanisms. By recognizing when we are in a heightened stress response, we can begin to develop strategies to regulate our nervous system and bring ourselves back to a state of calm. This awareness is an essential step in the healing process.

To support our healing journey, it can be helpful to explore the four pillars of reparenting: self-soothing, self-protection, self-compassion, and self-expression. Reparenting involves nurturing and caring for ourselves in a way that may have been lacking in our past. By incorporating these pillars into our daily lives, we can begin to create a sense of safety and security within ourselves. Additionally, there are various tools, tips, and strategies available to aid us on this journey, such as therapy, mindfulness practices, creative outlets, and self-care routines. By actively engaging in our healing process and seeking support when needed, we can gradually release the grip of trauma on our nervous system and move towards a more balanced and resilient state of being.