the power of slowness

In the landscape of trauma recovery, a profound but often overlooked approach lies in practicing slowness. We can feel how our nervous systems are deeply impacted by traumatic experiences but it is not always clear how to recover. As we started our own healing journeys, we discovered that embracing a deliberate slowness allows the nervous system to learn and change at the pace it likes to go - which is much slower than we might first imagine!

Moving slowly post-trauma allows the nervous system to recalibrate. Trauma can induce a state of hyperarousal or hypervigilance on one end of the spectrum or shut down and paralysis on the other end. By engaging in slow movement practices, such as gentle Qi Gong or Tai Chi, we can guide our nervous systems into a state of relaxation, promoting restoration and balance.

Learning at a slower pace aligns with the brain's natural processes of adaptation. Trauma is disruptive but our bodies still have amazing healing capacities within. By taking small, deliberate steps in learning the language of our bodies, we give ourselves the time and space needed to integrate the gradual changes and healing happening inside of us.  

We live in an increasingly fast-paced and distracted world. By embracing slowness on the healing journey, we give ourselves a gentle gift, fostering resilience and paving the path towards recovery.

Andreanna

Embodiment Institute Somatic Healing Programs

Somatic Movement Teacher and Coach