Breath and Bilateral Stimulation

Course Cut-OutMoving Through Trauma
Written By Austin Cavaliere

If you need help seeing Jesus in the middle of your struggle, or just feel like you are stuck, ready to move into growth and healing, connect with a Christian coach.

Excerpt: Grounding Exercise - Breath and Bilateral Stimulation - Trauma Session 3

Course: Moving Through Trauma

Speakers: Cathy Loerzel

Finding Your Ground: A Simple Exercise for Engaging with Difficult Emotions

Engaging with the topic of trauma can understandably bring up difficult feelings. Your body's natural response might be to resist these emotions as a form of self-protection. However, healing doesn't require being overwhelmed. This exercise can help you gently connect with your body and create a sense of safety as you navigate this material.

Connecting with Your Body: A Grounding Exercise

  1. Connect with the Ground: Place both feet flat on the floor. Take a moment to feel the sensation of the ground beneath you. Pay attention to your toes and the soles of your feet.

  2. Notice Your Breath: Bring your awareness to your breath. Simply observe the rhythm of your inhales and exhales. Consciously take a slow breath in... and then a slow breath out... Repeat this a few times. Focusing on your breath can help calm your body.

  3. Find a Safe Position: If you don't feel safe in your current environment, try to find a more comfortable and secure position. If needed, you can also pause this material to tend to your immediate sense of safety.

  4. Gentle Touch: Place your hands on your thighs, noticing the feeling of your body. Then, cross your hands over your shoulders, giving yourself a gentle hug.

  5. Bilateral Tapping: Begin to gently tap your hands on your shoulders, alternating from one side to the other. This rhythmic movement, known as bilateral stimulation, can help regulate your nervous system.

Utilizing Simple Tools for Grounding

Use these simple tools whenever you need them: conscious breath, gentle tapping, mindful movement, and finding a safe space. Remember, engaging with the stories you're exploring requires gentleness and kindness. The experiences you're addressing may have been harsh, but your journey toward healing doesn't need to be. Approach yourself with the same compassion you would offer someone you deeply care about. I truly hope this exercise is helpful as you continue on your path.

 

If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…

  • 1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.

  • 2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.

  • 3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.

 

Moving Through Trauma

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Moving Through Trauma 〰️

Session 1

Session 2

Session 3

Session 4

Session 5

Session 6

Session 7

Session 8

 

Share The Struggle Courses

Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.

 

What Share The Struggle Believes

Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.

We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.

Austin Cavaliere
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How Trauma Functions in our Emotions, Brain, and Body
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