Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN) — In an era when technology allows for easier communication between people on a large scale, why do so many of us feel isolated?
Thomas Hubbell, author of Attuned: Practicing Interdependence to Heal Our Trauma — and Our World, sees this growing pattern of personal isolation, alienation, and division on a global scale as “a manifestation of collective trauma.”
He calls on each of us to process our trauma to restore balance and promote healing.
How can the trauma of our ancestors exist within us today?
Despite the age written on our passports, our bodies are built on hundreds of thousands of years of living, with all of our ancestors adding something to our being today.
All of their accomplishments, Hubel explained, lie within us: rational thinking, emotional complexity, physical function, self-healing, and more.
Intergenerational learning helps us learn about dangers in the world.
However, traumas that are not incorporated can translate into hypervigilance, stress, and constant fear.
Where are trauma stored in our bodies?
Trauma is often mistaken for adversity itself, but it is the way our nervous system responds to a traumatic experience.
“This response has a smart protective function,” Hobel said. “Our nervous system is trying to keep us safe.. But if we don’t learn how to integrate trauma, symptoms can sometimes lead to severe side effects.”
What are the signs that grandparental trauma could be affecting you?
Shock is often an overreaction. This can include aggression and attacking those we blame as the source of our discomfort. Another symptom can be numbness, which leads to withdrawal and separation from others.
How can we know if the symptoms we are experiencing come from our own lives or the lives of our ancestors?
Hubbel explained that developing a curiosity about our triggers is more important than knowing the source of our trauma.
Instead of creating stories and attributing our experiences to many situations, it’s best to get in touch with our bodies.
For example, try to connect with the stress you feel, and identify where it is located in your body.
In fact, you may be able to be more aware of your body in moments when you aren’t feeling any stress or tension.
What is the consequence of trauma treatment?
Hubbell considers that trauma can be best healed with others, especially with people who are trained to stay in touch with the physical, emotional, and mental experiences of themselves and others through the practice of listening.
How can we better communicate with those around us?
We often try to avoid difficult interactions or situations. But, Hubel explained, the tough moments will eventually teach us. It is a good practice to be curious about these situations.
What practices can help us heal?
Hobel advises taking notes every time you’re faced with a difficult situation.
For example, if you had a difficult conversation with your boss, or something happened with one of your clients. In the evening, think about the difficulties you faced in your day. And listen to your body about the feelings you had.
2023-08-14 14:14:53
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