Episode 48 The Hidden Cost of Trauma: How It Fuels Chronic Pain, Autoimmune Disorders & Exhaustion
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In this latest episode, Dr. Nat Green dives deep into the powerful connection between trauma and invisible health conditions like chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and exhaustion. Discover the science behind the body’s trauma response, and why traditional healing methods often fall short, and, most importantly, what you can do to break free and move toward post-traumatic growth (PTG)
✨ Key Highlights & Takeaways
Understanding the Trauma-Body Connection
Trauma doesn't just affect the mind; it can deeply impact the body. Neuroscience and Polyvagal Theory provide the scientific basis for why our bodies hold onto pain long after traumatic events. Your body remembers trauma, and shows up in conditions like fibromyalgia, autoimmune disorders, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
The Hidden Link Between Trauma and Chronic Conditions
Trauma, especially childhood trauma, can increase inflammatory markers and disrupt and wreak havoc on the immune system, leaving lasting effects on physical health. Chronic illness may have deep roots in past trauma, requiring healing that involves the emotional and nervous system imbalances, not just the physical symptoms.
Why Traditional Medicine Misses the Mark
Many people suffering from chronic conditions are dismissed by doctors who only focus on treating physical symptoms. The frustrating reality is trauma’s impact on the nervous system is often overlooked. Traditional healing approaches often don’t get to the root cause, which is why symptom relief isn’t always enough.we must look at the trauma-body connection.
Holistic Approaches to Healing: Moving from Trauma to Post-Traumatic Growth
There are practical, science-backed solutions to help you release trauma and promote healing. Techniques like TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises), breathwork, and yoga can help activate the vagus nerve, release tension, and start rewiring your nervous system for healing. Self-care practices like journaling, EMDR, and expressive writing can play a powerful role in addressing the mind-body connection, allowing release of past trauma and move toward growth.
Rebuilding Trust in Your Body
Trauma often leaves us feeling unsafe in our own bodies. Rebuilding trust is key to moving forward using grounding techniques, and micro-moments of joy to reconnect with your body and promote safety. Creating small, loving moments of safety in your daily life can support long-term healing.
Post-Traumatic Growth: Thriving Beyond Survival
PTG is more than just surviving trauma—it’s about transforming it and using it as a source of strength. Dr. Nat encourages listeners to embrace the lessons learned from trauma and step into their fullest potential. Ask not “Why did this happen to me?” but rather, “What can I learn from this?” PTG is about growing, healing, and thriving.
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Intro and Outro music: Inspired Ambient by Playsound.
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be deemed or treated as psychological treatment or to replace the need for psychological treatment.
59 episodes