See my YouTube video  demonstration or follow the instructions in the pictures below.

Trauma disrupts our information processing system that helps us to integrate, adapt, and understand our experiences.  Memory is simply a reactivation of the original network encoding. We don’t really remember, we neurologically re-fire what is already stored (we react based on the repressed traumatic memories from the past which trigger perceived threat in the present). Trauma results in an interruption of the natural flow of neural information processing. Memory can become repressed and fragmented and we continue to repeat/ re-experience the unconscious loops of memory and display physiological (eg endocrine/ hormonal) and neurological dysregulation; as well as  abreaction/ over-reaction in our beliefs, thoughts, and behaviours which have become associated with the trauma) in real time in the present. Abreaction and dysregulation is triggered by improperly processed trauma memory (perceived threat). So, trauma holds our present emotions, sensations, thoughts and beliefs hostage...Trauma is re-experienced when it is triggered and we live in a heightened state of distress, anxiety,  dis-ease, dysregulation, dissociation and reactivity.

 

The good news is, the brain is not hard-wired, it is flexible and adaptive and changes (Neuroplasticity) via experience and learning throughout the lifespan. It is said, “What is fired, is wired”so the more we repeat a pattern, the more it becaomes a “habit’ or even ”trait”. That said,we can also extinguish trauma patterns and process memories and re-wire our brains to be more flexible adaptive, resilient and cope more effectively. We can learn to live in a state of comfort and relaxation in the present rather than (unconsciously) (over)reacting to, or defending ourselves against perceived threat (based on earlier, repressed traumatic events, experiences, and memories).Trauma- informed therapy is much more than “talk therapy”. It is based on the recognition that trauma is prolific and affects individuals on a somatic (physical) and neuro-psychological level, causing dysregulation and abreaction. Treatment needs to rebalance body and mind and provide hope, peace, intentional/ clear thinking, building resilience, competence and the ability to live with conscious authenticity in the present.