The Vagus Nerve and Fainting as a Survival Response

The Vagus Nerve and Fainting as a Survival Response

Have you ever felt light-headed at the sight of blood, or dizzy when you feel overwhelmed by stress? Fainting might feel dramatic, or even embarrassing, but it’s actually one of the ways your body tries to keep you safe.  You are not weak or broken, your body is doing...
Why Boundaries Are So Hard After Trauma or Abuse

Why Boundaries Are So Hard After Trauma or Abuse

Why Boundaries Are So Hard After Trauma or Abuse For survivors of abuse (neglect, emotional, psychological, physical, sexual) saying “no” and setting boundaries can be extremely difficult.   This is because your nervous system may still be stuck in childhood...
What are Implicit and Explicit Memories?

What are Implicit and Explicit Memories?

Is it possible to heal if you are unable to remember traumatic events? When it comes to trauma and PTSD, many people think that there are always vivid flashbacks, lots of painful memories, or disturbing images from the past. But for some people, trauma symptoms are...
Trauma and Reciprocity in Relationships

Trauma and Reciprocity in Relationships

Do you sometimes feel a bit short-changed in your relationships? When you think about your relationships do you tend to give more or receive more? The quality of your relationships has a powerful impact on your nervous system.  The traumatic experiences you hold...
What is Nervous System Regulation?

What is Nervous System Regulation?

Interest in nervous system regulation is really growing, particularly in the context of mental and physical wellbeing.  People are becoming more aware that their nervous system plays an essential role in how they experience stress and how their body responds to...
Trauma Healing Through Connection

Trauma Healing Through Connection

The best and worst thing for your nervous system can be the people around you. Who you spend your time with impacts your nervous system. Who makes you feel anxious? Who makes you feel shutdown? Who helps you to feel connected, calm and safe? You are biologically...