Mindfulness is finding the quiet space between the crashing waves. It's noticing the coolness of the air against your skin, the rhythm of your breath, the solid earth beneath your feet.  It's the knowledge that, even amidst chaos, a part of you remains untouched, observant, and at peace.

Trauma can leave you feeling adrift, battered by waves of overwhelming emotion and the echoes of the past. Mindfulness offers an anchor, a way to ground yourself amidst the chaos and begin the journey of healing.

How Mindfulness helps.

Tame the Overactive Mind: Trauma can leave your mind in a constant state of fight, flight, or freeze. Mindfulness teaches you to step back, observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, and break the cycle of reactivity. (Citation:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5747539/)

‍Anchor in the Present: Mindfulness gently brings your attention back to the here and now – the feeling of your breath, the sensations in your body. This anchors you in safety, reminding you that you can find moments of peace even when the past feels overwhelming. (Citation: https://psychcentral.com/health/trauma-informed-mindfulness)

‍Befriend your Body: Trauma can disrupt your connection to your own body. Mindfulness helps you compassionately reconnect – not with the story of the pain, but with the simple reality of being present. This fosters a sense of safety and embodied calm. (Citation: https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-how-mindfulness-relieves-post-traumatic-stress/)

‍Take the First StepMindfulness is a powerful tool, but it's a skill to be learned. Here's how to begin:

‍Guided Meditations: Explore guided meditations for trauma survivors. These are tailored to provide a safe and supportive introduction to mindfulness.

‍Short, Grounding Practices: Even one minute of focusing on your breath, or noticing five things you see around you, can create a sense of grounding.

‍Seek Guidance: Work with a therapist experienced in trauma-informed mindfulness. They can offer guidance and adapt the practices for your specific needs.Mindfulness won't erase the scars of the past, but it can create a safe haven within you, a place where healing can begin.