This page will look at specific techniques, skills, information and exercises that assist with settling overcharged or shutdown physiology, due to traumatic responses to shock/trauma and developmental trauma.

The image above reflects the human physiological need for grounding. Like the tree roots we need a felt sense of the ground which helps us be in the body (embodied). This helps significantly regarding symptoms of trauma. Often a persons energy is above them or in the head and shoulders due to shock/trauma and the attendant dissociation that can result. Bringing this energy back down to the ground helps it discharge and settle and brings relief.

Lets take a simple exercise to explore the difference you feel physically and emotionally after you try this: Either sitting or standing, rock your feet slowly, with the heel pressing into the ground and then the ball of the foot. Feeling the stretch in the arch of your foot and in your calves and thighs. Do this slowly for 5-10 minutes. Keep your attention on feeling the sensation of this through your legs and feet, as if you are thinking about something else as you do it, it will not be effective.

You will feel warmth and a tingling as blood flow, oxygen and energy is restored to the legs. You will feel your breathing slow and deepen as you do this. The nice thing about this exercise is that it can also be done anywhere; under the desk as you work, at the bus stop while you're waiting, and so on. Although it does need your attention as you do it. This is a beginning exercise that is resourcing and safe to do by yourself.