Self-Care Strategies for Trauma Survivors
Practical Tips for Healing and Growth after Trauma
As a Trauma Therapist, I often work with clients to help them find ways to practice self-care. Self-care is an important part of the healing process, and can help to reduce stress, increase energy levels, and promote overall wellbeing. Here are some of the basic self-care strategies for trauma survivors.
First, it is important to develop a self-care plan. Make sure to include the basics of regular exercise, healthy eating, and plenty of sleep. Probably a lot more sleep than you might expect. Trauma survivors can often suffer from an over-taxed nervous system resulting in extreme fatigue. Exercise can help to reduce stress and boost your mood, while healthy eating can help to improve energy levels and promote overall wellbeing. Getting enough sleep can help to improve focus and reduce fatigue.
It’s important to engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as listening to music, reading a book, or spending time in nature. It can also be helpful to practice mindfulness and meditation. Mindfulness can help to increase awareness of the present moment and how you feel within your body and reduce intrusive thoughts or memories. Meditation can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Guided meditation can be especially helpful for trauma survivors as it can provide a sense of safety and support. It’s important to build a supportive network of friends and family. Building supportive relationships can help to provide emotional support and a sense of connection with those around you.
Recent research has shown that engaging in self-care activities can help to reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Exercise has been found to increase endorphins, the hormone associated with pleasure, while healthy eating can help to boost serotonin, the hormone associated with happiness. Mindfulness and meditation have been linked to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain associated with decision making and emotion regulation. Additionally, building supportive relationships has been linked to the release of oxytocin, the hormone associated with feelings of connection and trust.
If you are looking for additional support in your healing journey, I am here to help. I am a Licensed Trauma Therapist & Coach. If you would like to learn more about my services or book a consultation or session, please visit my website at www.thecorekelowna.com , by phone at 1 (250) 862-2673 or contact me directly at bri@thecorekelowna.com. Together we can create a safe and supportive space for you to heal and grow.
Please note that this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitution for diagnostic or therapeutic care. If you are in need of therapeutic care, please contact a licensed therapist or mental health professional.
