In 2018, after spending years searching for stress management modalities that didn’t involve pharmaceutical intervention, I decided to enrol in the 100 hour Trauma Sensitive Yoga Teacher training offered through YogaFit Canada.
In the first 20hr training, YogaFit for Warriors (PTSD) , we were introduced to the role that vagus nerve has in the body’s physiologic response to stress. If you have experienced any sort of trauma or are looking to help someone who has, an understanding of the polyvagal theory will be very helpful.
One of the core training materials in this course is Peter Levine’s book In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma. Peter Levine received his doctorate in medical biophysics from the University of California at Berkeley.
In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma is a book written by Peter Levine that explores the mechanisms of trauma in the body and how it can be released using various techniques. Trauma is a term used to describe an event that is emotionally or physically overwhelming for an individual. It can range from experiencing a natural disaster to being a victim of abuse, and its effects can last for years or even a lifetime.
The book emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma as a physical experience rather than just an emotional one. According to Levine, the body’s natural response to trauma is to activate the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares it for fight or flight. However, if the individual is unable to fight off the danger or escape from it, they may freeze or dissociate, disconnecting from their body and sensations.
Levine argues that trauma is not permanent and that the body has the capacity to heal itself. He uses techniques like Somatic Experiencing, which focuses on exploring sensations in the body and identifying patterns that may be associated with past traumatic experiences. The goal of this technique is to help individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions, releasing the stored up energy associated with the trauma.
The book is written in simple language and is accessible to readers who are not healthcare professionals. It includes real-life examples that highlight the benefits of somatic therapy and how it can help individuals overcome their traumas. The author also provides a self-assessment guide to help readers identify whether they may be experiencing trauma symptoms.
Overall, In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma is an informative read that highlights the importance of understanding the physical nature of trauma and how it can be treated using somatic therapy. It is a helpful resource for anyone who has experienced trauma or is seeking to learn more about how to support those who have.
Nourish Your Body, Mind + Soul 