Today, I'm opening up about a journey that's both deeply personal and universally relevant—the path of healing from trauma and stepping into the light of self-actualization. As someone who has walked this path, I've learned that healing isn't just a process; it's an ongoing journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and transformation.
The Somatic Experience: Healing from Within
Trauma has a way of embedding itself in our bodies. For years, I was unaware of how my body held onto past traumas, manifesting through tension, pain, and emotional blockages. It was only through somatic practices—yoga, deep body awareness, and breathwork—that I began to unlock these hidden chambers of pain and start the healing process.
Somatic experiencing taught me that our bodies are not just witnesses to our lives but active participants in our healing. By turning inward and paying attention to the sensations within, I learned to recognize and release the emotional energies trapped in my body. This was more than just a physical practice; it was a spiritual awakening to the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul.
Yoga: A Pathway to Healing and Strength
At 65, I stand in awe of the miraculous expressions my body is capable of. Yoga has been more than just a physical practice for me; it's a conduit to spiritual embodiment. It's through the conscious awareness of my body that I've connected the spiritual and physical realms of my experience. Each asana, each breath, is a step towards deeper self-understanding.
The physiological benefits of yoga—improved mindset, reduced depression, enhanced focus—are just the tip of the iceberg. The real magic lies in its ability to transform how I see myself. The self-perception that was handed down to me in childhood, which I long viewed as an immutable truth, has begun to shift. Through yoga, I've learned that I can redirect my neurological pathways through conscious actions, radical self-acceptance, and an abundance of gratitude and love.
Empathy and Teaching: Turning Pain into Purpose
Living through childhood trauma left me with a heightened sense of empathy. I can sense emotional energies in others, a skill that has been both a blessing and a curse. My past need to please, once a source of self-detriment, has transformed into a gift when applied with boundaries. It's made me a relatable and authentic teacher, allowing me to connect deeply with my students.
As a teacher, I've realized that my self-worth is not tied to my ability to please others. This has been a challenging but necessary lesson in untangling my desire for approval from my genuine desire to help others.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Autonomy through Service
I've always been driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, a love for self-sufficiency, and autonomy. This spirit has fueled my passion for creating value for others, especially through teaching. My attention is devoted to optimizing flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination through yoga and movement dynamics. In this practice, I find energy, release, and a deeper understanding of who I am.
Trauma Healing Modalities: A Comprehensive Approach
Trauma healing is not a one-size-fits-all process. It's a tapestry woven from various practices and modalities. Alongside yoga, I've explored and benefited from somatic experiencing, polyvagal work, breath work for emotional regulation, and even the insights of quantum physics in spirituality. Each of these modalities has contributed to my healing and self-actualization in unique ways.
The Vision for the Future: Teaching and Empowering
Looking ahead, my vision is clear. I am committed to using my skills and experiences to create joyous value in the world through online teaching. My focus is on empowering people, especially as they age, to realize the incredible capabilities of their bodies. I aim to help them foster a deeper connection to themselves through yoga and movement, understanding the profound impact these practices can have on their physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
I invite you all to join me on this journey. Whether you're healing from trauma, seeking self-actualization, or simply looking to deepen your connection with yourself, know that you are not alone. Together, let's explore the infinite potential of our bodies and minds, and step into a future where we are all fully embodied, empowered, and at peace.