She Strengthens

Rewiring Your Nervous System: Breaking Free from Trauma and Anxiety

Trauma, dysregulated emotions, and chronic stress can drastically alter your nervous system, leading to disease, self-harming behaviors, and a multitude of life-altering consequences. However, there is hope for transformation. By retraining your autonomic nervous system and reframing your relationship with your experiences, you can break free from the cycle of trauma and anxiety.

Unpacking the Science of Trauma

I had the privilege of sitting down with renowned trauma and addiction therapist, Polyvagal Institute Course Developer, and author Jan Winhall to discuss the intricacies of trauma and its impact on our nervous system. With over four decades of experience, Jan has uncovered profound insights into the human body’s response to trauma.

The Body’s Response to Trauma: A Fight for Survival

When faced with traumatic experiences, our bodies instinctively react with fight, flight, fold, or freeze responses. These coping mechanisms serve as a survival strategy, designed to protect us from perceived threats. However, they can also lead to a perpetual state of hypervigilance, making it challenging to relax and enjoy life.

Polyvagal Theory: Understanding Your Nervous System

The Polyvagal Theory proposes that our nervous system plays a crucial role in determining how we experience moments. By grasping this concept, we can begin to shift our focus from reacting to our environment to responding with intention.

Embodied Practices for Transformation

Jan shared two embodied practices that can help rewire our nervous system: focusing on partnerships and connectivity, and attuning to our needs. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can break free from the trauma feedback loop and cultivate a deeper sense of connection with ourselves and others.

Clearing Space Backwards: A Path to Self-Awareness

Jan’s practice of Clearing Space Backwards offers a powerful tool for recognizing and releasing emotional triggers. By acknowledging and working through these triggers, we can develop a greater understanding of our needs and desires.

Gratitude and Connection: The Keys to Transformation

Jan’s three gratitudes serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of connection and community in our journey towards healing. By embracing these principles, we can begin to rewire our nervous system and unlock a life of greater freedom and joy.

Resources for Further Exploration

To delve deeper into the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, visit Jan’s website at janwinhall.com. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn and Instagram @janwinhall.