Our last blog post focused on the power of presence and how acceptance of the present moment contributes to healing trauma. This time, we will focus on mediums through which to encourage yourself to be present. These can be implemented either during mundane or challenging life moments, but especially when it comes to healing trauma.
Breath: Taking a mindful breath is often the easiest, fastest and most accessible way to become present. The breath is always here and it only takes a second to become aware of one’s inhale and exhale. Next time you find yourself in an idle moment or a difficult moment, become aware of your breathing. Observe your chest rising and falling with each inhale and exhale.
Anchor object: Next time you find your mind and emotions hijacked by painful traumatic memories, gently hold one of your hands with the other. Notice how your hand feels. Perhaps give your palm a light squeeze. This will encourage your mind to focus on the present moment and where you currently are. Alternately, your anchor object can be a necklace, a small stone, the chair you’re sitting in or even your hands in your lap. Notice how the object feels under your fingers. Do not judge or criticize what arises, just accept it as it is.
Movement: Stretching is another pathway to presence. This can be as simple as arm stretches or neck rolls while sitting at your desk, or as involved as a workout at the gym, taking a walk around the block or doing yoga on an exercise mat. Like the anchor object, movement encourages you to connect to the present moment.
Ultimately, we have the choice of whether or not to be present, but these pathways can encourage us to get out of our mental movies/traumatic flashbacks and into the present moment.
Blog post contributed by: Hannah