Shame and Trauma

Course Cut-OutMore Than Your Past - Shedding Shame and Guilt
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: Shame and Trauma - More Than Your Past Session 2

Course: More Than Your Past - Shedding Shame & Guilt

Speakers: Cathy Loerzel

The Body's Language of Shame: Clues to Unhealed Wounds

Shame isn't just an emotion; it's a physical experience. Think about your own "shame response" – a flush, sweating palms, a nervous habit. Our bodies often manifest shame before our minds fully process it. This connection highlights that shame is deeply tied to our stories, particularly where we've experienced harm or accusation.

Why do some things trigger shame while others don't? Shame is often directly linked to our past experiences of harm and mockery. Our physical reactions can be "tells," indicating the presence of shame even when we try to suppress it.

The Body as a Compass: Guiding Us to Unhealed Trauma

These bodily responses can act as a compass, pointing us towards unhealed trauma and underlying beliefs about ourselves that may not be true. Shame often surfaces when a situation bumps against a deep-seated fear we hold about ourselves.

Consider your own triggers. What physical sensations arise when you feel shame? These reactions can illuminate tender, scared places in our hearts where accusations still linger. Shame, in this sense, can be a teacher, showing us where deeper healing is needed.

The Weight of Complicity: A Root of Profound Shame

Shame can take particularly deep root when we believe we were complicit in our own harm. This is a sensitive issue, especially for trauma survivors who may grapple with feelings of responsibility or involuntary responses during harmful experiences. Untangling these feelings is crucial for finding release from deep-seated shame.

While avoidance might seem like a natural response to shame, true healing comes from facing it and understanding what it reveals about our vulnerabilities and fears. Shame can be a powerful catalyst for growth if we are willing to listen to its message.

 

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.

 

More Than Your Past

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More Than Your Past 〰️

Session 1

Session 2

Session 3

Session 4

Session 5

Session 6

 

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 Shame Affects Us