From a Place of Calm

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 - From a Place of Calm - Trauma Session 2

Course: Moving Through Trauma

Speakers: Matthias Barker

Finding Calm: A Grounding Exercise for Navigating Emotional Content

We recognize that as you engage with this course, you might encounter moments where difficult emotions rise to the surface. Perhaps you notice your heartbeat quickening, you start to feel sweaty, fidgety, uncomfortable, or agitated. You might even experience a racing heart or shortness of breath. In these moments, we strongly encourage you to pause and return to this grounding exercise. Taking a break to ensure you feel a sense of calm before continuing is a crucial principle for making this a safe and constructive experience. The only way this material will be truly helpful is if you navigate it from a place of calm and safety.

A Simple Grounding Technique

Let's go through this exercise together. First, touch each finger to the pad of your thumb, one hand at a time. Practice this gentle movement until it feels comfortable. Then, try doing it with both hands simultaneously, like so. You can adjust the speed to whatever feels right for you – some find a quicker pace helpful, while others prefer a slower rhythm.

Activating Your Brain for Calm

This simple action helps activate centers in your brain that tend to decrease in activity when you feel stressed. By focusing on the dexterity of your fingers and being present in your body, you're encouraging these parts of your brain to come back online. This is a helpful trick to regain focus and a sense of being grounded.

The Power of Breath

Next, let's focus on your breath. Take a breath in slowly through your nose. Hold that breath for a brief moment. Then, exhale slowly through your mouth.

Finding Your Center

Take your time and repeat this breathing exercise and the finger-to-thumb movement for as long as you need. Pay attention to how your body feels, noticing the shift from any agitation, fidgetiness, or a racing heartbeat. Wait for that feeling of inner calm and groundedness to arrive before you decide to continue further in the course. Prioritizing your sense of safety and calm is paramount throughout this journey.

 

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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