What Does It Feel Like When Trauma Is Released From The Body?

Trauma can deeply impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from physical pain and tension to anxiety, depression, and insomnia. While trauma therapy can help to process and heal these experiences, it can also trigger a process known as trauma release, which can bring about a range of intense and often overwhelming sensations.

Physical Sensations

As trauma is released from the body, you may experience a variety of physical sensations, including:

• Tingling or numbness: This can occur in different parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, or face. It can be a sign that the nervous system is calming down and releasing tension.
• Heat or cold: You may feel sudden waves of heat or cold throughout your body. This is due to changes in blood flow and circulation as the body enters the relaxation response.
• Shaking or trembling: This is a natural response to the release of intense emotions and stress. It can also be a sign that the body is trying to discharge excess energy.
• Pulsations or vibrations: You may feel pulsations or vibrations throughout your body. This can be a sign that the body is releasing trapped energy and emotions.

Emotional Sensations

Alongside the physical sensations, you may also experience a range of emotional sensations, such as:

• Crying: Crying is a common response to the release of trauma. It can provide a cathartic release of pent-up emotions.
• Laughter: While it may seem counterintuitive, laughter can also be a response to trauma release. It can be a sign of the body and mind finding relief and release.
• Anger: Anger is a common emotion that arises during trauma release. It can be a sign that the body is trying to process and expel the feelings of injustice and violation experienced during the traumatic event.
• Sadness: Sadness can be a response to the recognition of the losses and pain associated with the trauma. It can be a sign that the body is grieving and letting go of the trauma.

Cognitive Sensations

The release of trauma can also impact our cognitive processes, leading to sensations such as:

• Disorientation: You may feel confused or disoriented as your body and mind attempt to integrate the newly released memories and emotions.
• Derealization or depersonalization: You may feel detached from your body or surroundings. This can be a temporary response to the overwhelming nature of the trauma release.
• Sensory overload: You may experience intensified senses, such as heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or touch. This can be a sign that the nervous system is becoming more responsive.
• Increased alertness: You may feel more alert and aware of your surroundings. This can be a positive sign that the body is feeling safer and less threatened.

Spiritual Sensations

For some individuals, trauma release can also trigger spiritual experiences, such as:

• Connection with nature: You may feel a deep connection to the natural world, as if the earth is supporting and healing you.
• Sense of purpose: You may feel a renewed sense of purpose or direction in your life.
• Inner peace: You may experience a sense of calmness and peacefulness within yourself.
• Transcendence: You may feel a sense of transcending your physical body and connecting with something greater than yourself.

Integration and Healing

The process of trauma release can be challenging and overwhelming, but it is also an essential part of healing. As you experience these sensations, remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself. Allow your body and mind to process and integrate the newly released memories and emotions. Seek support from a therapist or other trusted person if needed.

With time and support, the sensations of trauma release will gradually diminish, and you will begin to feel more grounded, balanced, and whole. The process of healing from trauma is not linear, but by embracing these sensations and allowing your body to release the trauma, you are taking a significant step towards reclaiming your life and well-being.

Questions and Answers

1. Why does trauma release trigger such intense sensations?

   • Trauma release triggers the release of pent-up emotions, energy, and memories that have been stored in the body and mind. This can lead to a range of physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual sensations.

2. Is it dangerous to experience trauma release?

   • No, it is not dangerous to experience trauma release. While the sensations can be overwhelming, they are a sign that the body is trying to heal and process the trauma.

3. How long does it take for the sensations of trauma release to subside?

   • The duration of the sensations can vary widely depending on the individual and the nature of the trauma. For some individuals, the sensations may subside quickly, while for others they may linger for a longer period of time.

4. What can I do to support myself during trauma release?

   • Be patient and compassionate with yourself, allow your body and mind to process the newly released memories and emotions, seek support from a therapist or other trusted person, and engage in self-care practices that promote relaxation and well-being.

5. Is trauma release a sign that I am getting better?

   • Yes, trauma release is generally a sign that you are making progress in your healing journey. It is a courageous and transformative process that allows you to process and let go of the trauma that has been holding you back.