Nature & the Healing of Trauma
For the past twenty years, I have explored the effects of trauma on our lives, our relationships and health. And with this exploration comes the question: What is needed to completely transform the often debilitating effects of trauma?
I have seen that trauma can result not only from catastrophic events such as abuse, violence and death but also from natural disasters and everyday incidents. Imprinted in our body, brain and spirit, trauma, particularly our earliest trauma, can dwell in a place so deep that no ‘talking therapy’ can reach them.
While talking therapies certainly have their place, many therapists are realizing the importance of incorporating body-centred practices in their treatment. Practices such as movement, sound, breath-work, art, ritual and meditation, each offer a rich resource for awakening the ordinary miracle of healing.
One area that has been little researched is our relationship with Nature and the healing process. All trauma creates a ‘split’ between body, mind, emotions, spirit and one’s environment. This ‘split’ truncates our ability to deeply inhabit our bodies, live in the moment, experience trusting relationships and feel at home in the world. We live our lives with an underlying tension and fear that we often think is normal.
True healing requires an atmosphere of love and feeling of safety. The many wonderful therapies and practices that are available to us today help us to understand the ‘anatomy’ of trauma, access our hidden emotions and fears, and re-inhabit our bodies. Once this occurs there is often a natural desire to reconnect more deeply with Nature.
Why? Because without this vital connection I believe that complete healing can never occur.
The Earth is our home. We are born from the Elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth. In a sense, we are the children of the Elements. While it is essential to make peace with our genetic parents and reclaim the inherent love that is a part of that relationship, it is equally important to reawaken our love of the Earth and each Element – our first parents. Only when this relationship is alive and well can we feel truly safe. Held in a love far greater than ourselves, we have solid ground to stand upon – and to heal upon. It is now safe to open our hearts and spirits to the deepest parts within and allow the healing balm of love to wash away the wounds and allow the magnificence of who you are to emerge.
As spring unfolds and the Earth sprouts the hope of new life, take time to be outside. Enjoy the nourishment that Nature so freely offers us – no strings attached. Let yourself bathe fearlessly in the warming sun and listen, with heart, to the wisdom of Nature as she guides you back home to wholeness.
Wishing you great joy and fulfillment.