Understanding Trauma Responses: Unlocking the Freeze and Finding Freedom
In the labyrinth of trauma, our responses can vary greatly, each bearing its weight on our psyche and body. Among these responses, the freeze response often flies under the radar, silently shaping our experiences and relationships. As a relational and holistic trauma counselor, I've seen how complex and complicated coming out of the freeze response can be. In this blog post, we'll unravel the complexities of trauma responses, with a spotlight on the freeze response, and offer practical tips to navigate its grip towards healing and resilience.
Exploring Trauma Responses:
Trauma responses are the body and mind's instinctive reactions to overwhelming stress or threat (they are like our brain’s emergency toolkit- they kick in when things get rough). These responses are deeply ingrained survival mechanisms designed to protect us in moments of danger. The fight response propels us into action, the flight response drives us to escape, the freeze response immobilizes us, and the fawn response compels us to appease or submit. Each response serves a purpose, yet when prolonged or unresolved, they can morph into patterns that hinder our ability to live fully.
Understanding the Freeze Response:
At the heart of freeze lies a profound sense of immobilization—a numbing paralysis that seeps into our being. When confronted with an overwhelming threat, our nervous system can shift into freeze mode, halting our ability to fight or flee. In this state, we may feel disconnected from our bodies, emotionally numb, or trapped in a cycle of avoidance. While freeze served as a survival strategy in the past, it can become a prison, constraining our capacity to engage with life authentically.
Tips for Overcoming Freeze Trauma:
1. Name and Normalize: Recognize that the freeze response is a natural reaction to trauma. Acknowledge and validate your experiences without judgment or self-blame. Understanding that you're not alone in experiencing freeze can alleviate feelings of isolation and shame.
2. Connect with the Body: Reconnect with your body and its sensations. Engage in gentle movement (walking, stretching), breathwork (just focus on your breathing), or body scans to cultivate awareness of bodily cues and release pent-up tension. Somatic practices like yoga or tai chi can be particularly beneficial in grounding and centering the body.
3. Create Safety: Foster a sense of safety within yourself and your environment. Establishing routines, setting boundaries, and surrounding yourself with supportive relationships can create a nurturing container for healing. Explore techniques such as grounding exercises or creating a safe space within your mind to anchor yourself during moments of distress.
4. Seek Professional Support: Reach out to a trauma-informed therapist who specializes in relational and holistic approaches. Through therapy modalities such as somatic experiencing, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), or mindfulness-based interventions, you can delve into the roots of freeze trauma, process stored emotions, and cultivate resilience.
5. Practice Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself on this healing journey, it takes time. Offer yourself the same kindness and understanding you would extend to a loved one. Celebrate your progress, however small, and honor your resilience in navigating the complexities of trauma recovery. Remember that you're worthy of love and healing.
Conclusion:
Navigating the freeze response is a profound journey of self-discovery and empowerment. By understanding the intricacies of trauma responses and embracing holistic approaches to healing, you can unlock the grip of freeze trauma and reclaim your agency and vitality. Remember, healing is not a destination but a continuous process of growth and integration. As you embark on this journey, know that you are worthy of love, support, and freedom from the shackles of trauma.
Navigating trauma responses?
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