November 2, 2024 • 16 mins
Text the show a topic request (or just say hello)
What if the trauma experienced by your ancestors is still influencing your life today? Explore this compelling idea as we uncover how trauma can be passed down through generations via epigenetic inheritance, shaping our genes and emotional responses. This episode promises a transformative understanding of how not only trauma but also healing can create lasting effects across generations. Discover the power of neuroplasticity, where practices like mindfulness and somatic exercises can rewire our biological stress responses, setting the stage for a healthier legacy.
We also address the profound impact of cultural trauma, exploring how historical events continue to shape collective identities and worldviews. Our discussion introduces the Breath of Life Theory and a healing-centered engagement model, offering holistic frameworks to nurture balance across physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. These approaches encourage reconnecting with cultural practices to build resilience and foster a sense of community and identity. Tune in to participate in our Speak Out Advocacy series—a call to transform mental health services and advocate for meaningful change. Join us on this journey to recovery and growth, and find out how you can make a difference in your community.
Find Reframing the Membrane: Crossing Boundaries
- Online @ reframingthemembrane.com
- Instagram @ reframingthemembrane
Disclaimer: This podcast serves solely for informational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to replace professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it substitute for a relationship with a licensed mental health clinician. Always consult your physician before deciding about your physical or mental health.
Help Resources:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- National Helpline
- Find a Psychiatrist
- Find Treatment
- ANXIETY & DEPRESSION ASSOCIATION (ADAA) Find a Therapist
- FIND A CBT Therapist
- Self-Help Book Recommendations
References:
- American Psychological Association. (2020). Understanding the impact of trauma on brain and body. American Psychological Association.
- Blackstock, C. (2011). The emergence of the breath of life theory. Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 8(1).
- Brosschot, J. F., Gerin, W., & Thayer, J. F. (2006). The perseverative cognition hypothesis: A review of worry, prolonged stress-related physiological activation, and health. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 60(2), 113-124.
- Comas-Díaz, L., Hall, G. N., & Neville, H. A. (2019). Racial trauma: Theory, research, and healing: Introduction to the special issue. American Psychologist, 74(1), 1-5.
- Ginwright, S. (2022). Healing Centered Engagement Participant Guide.
- Nsamenang. (2006). Human Ontogenesis: An Indigenous African View on Development and Intelligence. International Journal of Psychology, 41(4), 293–297.
- Streeter, C. C., Gerbarg, P. L., Saper, R. B., Ciraulo, D. A., & Brown, R. P. (2012
#reframingthemembrane
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Kapri (00:00):
Hello and welcome.
I'm your host, Kapri, and I'mthrilled to have you with us as
we continue this journey ofhealing.
In our last episode, we delvedinto trauma as a full-body
experience.
Today, we're expanding thatconversation to explore how
trauma can be inherited acrossgenerations and why social and
emotional well-being areessential in the healing process
(00:22):
.
Well-being are essential in thehealing process.
This episode is all aboutembracing a holistic approach to
healing, where it's not justabout reducing symptoms but
creating a balanced andcomprehensive sense of
well-being across all dimensionsof life.
Let's dive in.
To begin, let's talk more aboutepigenetic inheritance, a
(00:44):
concept that we introduced lasttime that helps us understand
how trauma affects not just theindividual but future
generations.
When a traumatic event occurs,the body's stress response can
cause changes to gene expressionthrough DNA methylation, a
chemical modification thatinfluences gene activity without
(01:07):
changing the underlying DNAsequence.
These changes can affect howsensitive someone is to stress,
and if parents experience trauma, they may pass these altered
stress responses down to theirchildren, like we heard from
Mike in the previous episode.
However, the story doesn't endwith inherited trauma.
(01:27):
Neuroplasticity, which is thebrain's ability to reorganize
itself by forming newconnections, shows us that
healing practices such asmindfulness, somatic exercises
and therapeutic inventions canreshape our biological responses
to stress.
This means that we can reframe.
(01:48):
Just as trauma can have agenerational impact, so can
healing the steps to take towardrecovery not only benefit us,
but also create a healthierlegacy for future generations.
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
(02:09):
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma.
Trauma experienced by acollective which affects their
shared identity and worldview.
For instance, the lingeringeffects of historical events
like colonization, slavery orgenocide go beyond those who
directly live through them.
They continue to impactsubsequent generations.
(02:29):
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma trauma experienced by a
collective, which affects theirshared identity and worldview.
Trauma experienced by acollective which affects their
shared identity and worldview.
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
(02:53):
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma Trauma experienced by a
collective which affects theirshared identity and worldview.
For instance, the lingeringeffects of historical events
like colonization, slavery orgenocide go beyond those who
(03:15):
directly lived through them.
No-transcript.
Addressing cultural traumarequires recognizing that
healing isn't just abouttreating individual symptoms.
It must also encompass socialand emotional well-being.
This involves fosteringenvironments that support
healthy relationships, emotionalregulation and a sense of
(03:37):
belonging.
When trauma affects multiplegenerations, a comprehensive
approach is necessary, one thatpromotes healing at both
individual and community levels.
Creating supportiveenvironments that encourage
resilience and connection canhelp break the cycle of trauma
and lays the foundation forlong-term well-being.
(03:59):
To effectively address trauma,it's crucial to consider the
entire spectrum of well-being.
The Breath of Life Theoryoffers a framework for healing
that emphasizes balance across.
To effectively address trauma,it's crucial to consider the
entire spectrum of well-being.
The Breath of Life theoryoffers a framework for healing
that emphasizes balance acrossphysical, mental, emotional and
spiritual dimensions.
According to this theory,achieving well-being involves
coordinating these aspects tocreate harmony, not only within
(04:20):
ourselves, but also in ourrelationships and communities.
Not only within ourselves, butalso in our relationships and
communities.
Similarly, the healing-centeredengagement model goes beyond
trauma-informed care byaddressing the historical and
cultural factors that shapeexperiences of trauma.
For many communities, thisincludes reconnecting with
cultural practices, land andspiritual traditions, which are
(04:41):
essential for buildingresilience and fostering a sense
of identity.
The holistic approach ensuresthat healing is not just
symptom-focused, but addressesthe deeper causes of trauma,
guiding both individuals andcommunities toward recovery and
growth.
More on these healingapproaches and frameworks in the
show notes.
Speak Out (05:13):
Are you ready to make a difference in your community
In our Speak Out Advocacy seriesand frameworks in the show
notes.
If advocating for better care,breaking down barriers or
transforming mental healthservices speaks to your heart,
this is the perfect space tolearn and take action.
Do you have a topic you'repassionate about or need support
advocating for yourself orothers?
(05:33):
We'd love to hear from you.
Text the show to share yourthoughts.
Just check the details in theshow notes.
Together, let's build acommunity that fosters change.
Keep enjoying Reframing themembrane.
Kapri (05:48):
Now that we've established the importance of a
holistic approach to healing,let's look at some practical
techniques that address not onlyphysical well-being but also
social and emotional health.
These methods can help create abalanced and comprehensive
recovery.
So techniques such as yoga, taichi and dance therapy they all
can help to release tensionthat's stored in the body and
(06:09):
strengthen the connectionbetween mind and body.
These practices encouragenervous system regulation and
can alleviate trauma-relatedsymptoms by fostering relaxation
and resilience.
Engaging in somatic practicescan bring a sense of grounding
and safety back into the body.
Methods like deep breathingthat engages the diaphragm for
(06:31):
optimal oxygen flow or pacebreathing which is a slow,
controlled rhythm can activatethe parasympathetic nervous
system, which is the body's restand digest mode.
Breath work can also help toshift the body from a state of
heightened stress to one ofcalmness, reducing anxiety and
supporting emotional stability.
(06:52):
Regular practice promoteshealthier stress responses and
enhances overall well-being.
Building strong socialconnections is crucial for
healing.
Participating in communitypractices like storytelling,
cultural rituals or groupactivities helps foster a sense
of belonging and sharedresilience.
(07:12):
These practices not onlysupport individual recovery, but
can also contribute to thecollective healing of
communities.
Strong social networks are keyto long-term well-being and help
individuals feel understood andsupported in their healing
journey.
Trauma doesn't occur inisolation.
It is deeply influenced bybroader social, cultural,
(07:33):
political and historical factors.
Structural inequalities, suchas those stemming from
colonization, systemic racism oreconomic disadvantage, can
contribute to persistenttraumatic stress environments
situations where ongoingadversity disrupts daily
functioning and well-being.
Healing from such traumarequires addressing the root
(07:56):
causes of these inequalitiesthrough systemic change and
creating healthier environmentsthat promote resilience.
The breath of life theoryunderscores the idea that true
healing is achieved by restoringbalance across all levels of
experience.
This means addressing not onlyindividual symptoms but also the
social determinants of health,such as access to health care,
(08:18):
educational opportunities andeconomic resources.
These dimensions into healingpractices ensures a
comprehensive approach thatrecognizes the full scope of
trauma's impact and aims tocreate sustainable recovery
pathways.
For many communities,spirituality and cultural
traditions play an integral rolein healing.
(08:40):
Practices like ritual dances,traditional ceremonies and
spiritual teachings offer morethan just emotional support.
They provide a sense of purpose, identity and connection to
something greater than oneself.
The healing-centered engagementmodel emphasizes that healing
goes beyond the individual toinclude connections with
(09:01):
community, land and ancestralknowledge.
This approach acknowledges thevalue of cultural and spiritual
traditions in fosteringresilience and recovery.
Integrating culturally relevantpractices into healing ensures
that the process resonates withthe person's lived experiences
and cultural history.
These practices help validateindividual experiences while
(09:24):
offering pathways to healingthat are grounded in community
values.
When traditional healingmethods are combined with
contemporary practices, itcreates a more comprehensive
approach to addressing thephysical, emotional and
spiritual aspects of well-being.
Let's take a short break topractice a relaxation technique
and when we return, we'llcontinue our discussion on
(09:47):
healing-centered engagement andpost-traumatic growth.
Speak Out (09:51):
If you're able, begin by sitting or lying down
comfortably.
Focus on one muscle group at atime, starting with your feet.
Tense the muscles for 5 to 10seconds, then release.
Move up the body, repeatingthis process for each muscle
group.
Notice how your body feelsafterward and observe any
changes in relaxation or tension.
(10:12):
Now let's try a quick breathingexercise.
You may already be familiarwith the 4-7-8 technique, but if
this is new for you, keep yourmouth closed and breathe in
through your nose while countingto 4.
Hold your breath for sevenseconds, then now slowly exhale
(10:39):
through the mouth for eightseconds.
Repeat once more.
Try these quick exercises overthe next week and let me know
how you're doing.
Find these exercises in theshow notes.
Now let's continue ourdiscussion.
Kapri (10:59):
Healing from trauma isn't only about alleviating
immediate symptoms.
It's also about cultivatingemotional resilience the ability
to adapt, grow and thrivedespite adversity.
Engaging in activities thatsupport emotional growth, such
as mindfulness, meditation,therapy or community building
efforts, can help individualsand families break the cycle of
(11:21):
generational trauma.
These practices address notonly past challenges, but also
prepare individuals for futurewell-being by enhancing coping
skills and social support.
A healing-centered approachdoes more than manage symptoms.
It encourages post-traumaticgrowth, positive changes that
can arise after overcomingadversity.
(11:42):
This involves shifting fromwhat happened to you to what
strengths have you developed asa result.
Shifting from what happened toyou to what strengths have you
developed as a result.
By focusing on strengths andresilience, the healing-centered
engagement model createsenvironments that support
healing at multiple levelspersonal, social and systemic.
Healing is not simply aboutreturning to a state of
(12:02):
equilibrium.
It's about discovering newmeaning and purpose in life.
When healing practices addressthe full range of experiences
physical, social, emotional andspiritual they foster growth
that extends beyond theindividual, impacting families
and communities.
Today, we explored how traumaaffects not only the body and
(12:23):
mind, but also our social,cultural and spiritual
dimensions.
We discussed holistic healingstrategies, such as somatic
practices, breath work, culturaltraditions and community
support, which all contribute toa more comprehensive approach
to recovery.
Healing is an ongoing journeyand by embracing a holistic
approach we can create lastingpathways to wellness.
(12:45):
Take a moment to reflect on thepractices we discussed.
How might you integrate theminto your routine?
Remember, healing is not linear.
It's okay to take things onestep at a time, until we meet
again.
Explore healing practices thatfeel meaningful to you, whether
they involve cultural rituals,physical activities or
(13:06):
connecting with supportivecommunities.
Share your experiences bytexting the show, check the show
notes for details and tune infor our next episode, where
we'll delve into the neuralconnection between the mind,
brain and mental health.
Until next time, take care.
Hello and welcome.
I'm your host, Kapri, and I'mthrilled to have you with us as
we continue this journey ofhealing.
In our last episode, we delvedinto trauma as a full-body
experience.
Today, we're expanding thatconversation to explore how
trauma can be inherited acrossgenerations and why social and
emotional well-being areessential in the healing process
(00:22):
.
Well-being are essential in thehealing process.
This episode is all aboutembracing a holistic approach to
healing, where it's not justabout reducing symptoms but
creating a balanced andcomprehensive sense of
well-being across all dimensionsof life.
Let's dive in.
To begin, let's talk more aboutepigenetic inheritance, a
(00:44):
concept that we introduced lasttime that helps us understand
how trauma affects not just theindividual but future
generations.
When a traumatic event occurs,the body's stress response can
cause changes to gene expressionthrough DNA methylation, a
chemical modification thatinfluences gene activity without
(01:07):
changing the underlying DNAsequence.
These changes can affect howsensitive someone is to stress,
and if parents experience trauma, they may pass these altered
stress responses down to theirchildren, like we heard from
Mike in the previous episode.
However, the story doesn't endwith inherited trauma.
(01:27):
Neuroplasticity, which is thebrain's ability to reorganize
itself by forming newconnections, shows us that
healing practices such asmindfulness, somatic exercises
and therapeutic inventions canreshape our biological responses
to stress.
This means that we can reframe.
(01:48):
Just as trauma can have agenerational impact, so can
healing the steps to take towardrecovery not only benefit us,
but also create a healthierlegacy for future generations.
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
(02:09):
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma.
Trauma experienced by acollective which affects their
shared identity and worldview.
For instance, the lingeringeffects of historical events
like colonization, slavery orgenocide go beyond those who
directly live through them.
They continue to impactsubsequent generations.
(02:29):
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma trauma experienced by a
collective, which affects theirshared identity and worldview.
Trauma experienced by acollective which affects their
shared identity and worldview.
Trauma isn't confined toindividual experiences.
It extends to families,communities and entire cultural
(02:53):
groups.
This is known as culturaltrauma Trauma experienced by a
collective which affects theirshared identity and worldview.
For instance, the lingeringeffects of historical events
like colonization, slavery orgenocide go beyond those who
(03:15):
directly lived through them.
No-transcript.
Addressing cultural traumarequires recognizing that
healing isn't just abouttreating individual symptoms.
It must also encompass socialand emotional well-being.
This involves fosteringenvironments that support
healthy relationships, emotionalregulation and a sense of
(03:37):
belonging.
When trauma affects multiplegenerations, a comprehensive
approach is necessary, one thatpromotes healing at both
individual and community levels.
Creating supportiveenvironments that encourage
resilience and connection canhelp break the cycle of trauma
and lays the foundation forlong-term well-being.
(03:59):
To effectively address trauma,it's crucial to consider the
entire spectrum of well-being.
The Breath of Life Theoryoffers a framework for healing
that emphasizes balance across.
To effectively address trauma,it's crucial to consider the
entire spectrum of well-being.
The Breath of Life theoryoffers a framework for healing
that emphasizes balance acrossphysical, mental, emotional and
spiritual dimensions.
According to this theory,achieving well-being involves
coordinating these aspects tocreate harmony, not only within
(04:20):
ourselves, but also in ourrelationships and communities.
Not only within ourselves, butalso in our relationships and
communities.
Similarly, the healing-centeredengagement model goes beyond
trauma-informed care byaddressing the historical and
cultural factors that shapeexperiences of trauma.
For many communities, thisincludes reconnecting with
cultural practices, land andspiritual traditions, which are
(04:41):
essential for buildingresilience and fostering a sense
of identity.
The holistic approach ensuresthat healing is not just
symptom-focused, but addressesthe deeper causes of trauma,
guiding both individuals andcommunities toward recovery and
growth.
More on these healingapproaches and frameworks in the
show notes.
Speak Out (05:13):
Are you ready to make a difference in your community
In our Speak Out Advocacy seriesand frameworks in the show
notes.
If advocating for better care,breaking down barriers or
transforming mental healthservices speaks to your heart,
this is the perfect space tolearn and take action.
Do you have a topic you'repassionate about or need support
advocating for yourself orothers?
(05:33):
We'd love to hear from you.
Text the show to share yourthoughts.
Just check the details in theshow notes.
Together, let's build acommunity that fosters change.
Keep enjoying Reframing themembrane.
Kapri (05:48):
Now that we've established the importance of a
holistic approach to healing,let's look at some practical
techniques that address not onlyphysical well-being but also
social and emotional health.
These methods can help create abalanced and comprehensive
recovery.
So techniques such as yoga, taichi and dance therapy they all
can help to release tensionthat's stored in the body and
(06:09):
strengthen the connectionbetween mind and body.
These practices encouragenervous system regulation and
can alleviate trauma-relatedsymptoms by fostering relaxation
and resilience.
Engaging in somatic practicescan bring a sense of grounding
and safety back into the body.
Methods like deep breathingthat engages the diaphragm for
(06:31):
optimal oxygen flow or pacebreathing which is a slow,
controlled rhythm can activatethe parasympathetic nervous
system, which is the body's restand digest mode.
Breath work can also help toshift the body from a state of
heightened stress to one ofcalmness, reducing anxiety and
supporting emotional stability.
(06:52):
Regular practice promoteshealthier stress responses and
enhances overall well-being.
Building strong socialconnections is crucial for
healing.
Participating in communitypractices like storytelling,
cultural rituals or groupactivities helps foster a sense
of belonging and sharedresilience.
(07:12):
These practices not onlysupport individual recovery, but
can also contribute to thecollective healing of
communities.
Strong social networks are keyto long-term well-being and help
individuals feel understood andsupported in their healing
journey.
Trauma doesn't occur inisolation.
It is deeply influenced bybroader social, cultural,
(07:33):
political and historical factors.
Structural inequalities, suchas those stemming from
colonization, systemic racism oreconomic disadvantage, can
contribute to persistenttraumatic stress environments
situations where ongoingadversity disrupts daily
functioning and well-being.
Healing from such traumarequires addressing the root
(07:56):
causes of these inequalitiesthrough systemic change and
creating healthier environmentsthat promote resilience.
The breath of life theoryunderscores the idea that true
healing is achieved by restoringbalance across all levels of
experience.
This means addressing not onlyindividual symptoms but also the
social determinants of health,such as access to health care,
(08:18):
educational opportunities andeconomic resources.
These dimensions into healingpractices ensures a
comprehensive approach thatrecognizes the full scope of
trauma's impact and aims tocreate sustainable recovery
pathways.
For many communities,spirituality and cultural
traditions play an integral rolein healing.
(08:40):
Practices like ritual dances,traditional ceremonies and
spiritual teachings offer morethan just emotional support.
They provide a sense of purpose, identity and connection to
something greater than oneself.
The healing-centered engagementmodel emphasizes that healing
goes beyond the individual toinclude connections with
(09:01):
community, land and ancestralknowledge.
This approach acknowledges thevalue of cultural and spiritual
traditions in fosteringresilience and recovery.
Integrating culturally relevantpractices into healing ensures
that the process resonates withthe person's lived experiences
and cultural history.
These practices help validateindividual experiences while
(09:24):
offering pathways to healingthat are grounded in community
values.
When traditional healingmethods are combined with
contemporary practices, itcreates a more comprehensive
approach to addressing thephysical, emotional and
spiritual aspects of well-being.
Let's take a short break topractice a relaxation technique
and when we return, we'llcontinue our discussion on
(09:47):
healing-centered engagement andpost-traumatic growth.
Speak Out (09:51):
If you're able, begin by sitting or lying down
comfortably.
Focus on one muscle group at atime, starting with your feet.
Tense the muscles for 5 to 10seconds, then release.
Move up the body, repeatingthis process for each muscle
group.
Notice how your body feelsafterward and observe any
changes in relaxation or tension.
(10:12):
Now let's try a quick breathingexercise.
You may already be familiarwith the 4-7-8 technique, but if
this is new for you, keep yourmouth closed and breathe in
through your nose while countingto 4.
Hold your breath for sevenseconds, then now slowly exhale
(10:39):
through the mouth for eightseconds.
Repeat once more.
Try these quick exercises overthe next week and let me know
how you're doing.
Find these exercises in theshow notes.
Now let's continue ourdiscussion.
Kapri (10:59):
Healing from trauma isn't only about alleviating
immediate symptoms.
It's also about cultivatingemotional resilience the ability
to adapt, grow and thrivedespite adversity.
Engaging in activities thatsupport emotional growth, such
as mindfulness, meditation,therapy or community building
efforts, can help individualsand families break the cycle of
(11:21):
generational trauma.
These practices address notonly past challenges, but also
prepare individuals for futurewell-being by enhancing coping
skills and social support.
A healing-centered approachdoes more than manage symptoms.
It encourages post-traumaticgrowth, positive changes that
can arise after overcomingadversity.
(11:42):
This involves shifting fromwhat happened to you to what
strengths have you developed asa result.
Shifting from what happened toyou to what strengths have you
developed as a result.
By focusing on strengths andresilience, the healing-centered
engagement model createsenvironments that support
healing at multiple levelspersonal, social and systemic.
Healing is not simply aboutreturning to a state of
(12:02):
equilibrium.
It's about discovering newmeaning and purpose in life.
When healing practices addressthe full range of experiences
physical, social, emotional andspiritual they foster growth
that extends beyond theindividual, impacting families
and communities.
Today, we explored how traumaaffects not only the body and
(12:23):
mind, but also our social,cultural and spiritual
dimensions.
We discussed holistic healingstrategies, such as somatic
practices, breath work, culturaltraditions and community
support, which all contribute toa more comprehensive approach
to recovery.
Healing is an ongoing journeyand by embracing a holistic
approach we can create lastingpathways to wellness.
(12:45):
Take a moment to reflect on thepractices we discussed.
How might you integrate theminto your routine?
Remember, healing is not linear.
It's okay to take things onestep at a time, until we meet
again.
Explore healing practices thatfeel meaningful to you, whether
they involve cultural rituals,physical activities or
(13:06):
connecting with supportivecommunities.
Share your experiences bytexting the show, check the show
notes for details and tune infor our next episode, where
we'll delve into the neuralconnection between the mind,
brain and mental health.
Until next time, take care.
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