Week 2: Lesson 2
The ABC's of our Autonomic Nervous System
Today, we're unraveling the mysteries of our body's trauma response. By the end, you'll grasp why and how we react physically to trauma, a crucial piece of our survival puzzle. This knowledge, coupled with a little patience and daily practice, empowers us to regain control.
Our journey begins by exploring the autonomic nervous system (ANS), not a biology lecture, just a friendly overview. The ANS boasts two main divisions—sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (calm, healing). The sympathetic, a survival champ in a wild world, prepares us for action but wreaks havoc when overstressed. Signs of activation include rapid breathing, a pounding heart, heightened senses, and muscle tension. In contrast, the parasympathetic, our calming hero, restores equilibrium. Signs of its activation are relaxed breathing, a regulated heart rate, and a serene energy.
Switching between these modes is key to balance, and we can consciously flip the switch. Slowing our breathing, relaxing muscles, and affirming safety are our tools. This process, grounded in mindfulness, becomes a habit through practice and patience. Ready to flip the switch and experience a calmer you? Let's dive into the next video!
Eva M Medcroft, TICC, CHC, CLC
Certified Trauma-Informed Coach
After years of struggling with my own trauma and the self-sabotage and people pleasing that comes with it, I decided to take control of my life and heal my body from the inside out. This led me to getting certified as a trauma -informed coach, life coach and health coach. Now I use those same powerful techniques to help others heal themselves and find their inner peace.