How To Regulate Your Nervous System For Stress, Anxiety, And Trauma | Peter Levine

63 snips

Apr 29, 2024

In this conversation, Peter Levine, the creator of somatic experiencing and a leader in trauma therapy, shares insights from his decades-long work in the field. He delves into how our bodies can help heal trauma, contrasting somatic therapy with traditional talk therapy. Levine discusses practical techniques to regulate the nervous system and emphasizes the importance of bodily awareness. He also touches on the role of positive memories in cultivating resilience and the need to embrace mortality to live joyfully.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

INSIGHT

Trauma's Physical Roots

Trauma is stored physically and can manifest as chronic pain or anxiety.
Healing involves addressing these bodily sensations, not just thoughts.

ADVICE

The Voo Exercise

Practice the "voo" exercise: exhale with a "voo" sound from your belly.
Let the breath out fully, then wait for the next inhale naturally.

ANECDOTE

Dan's Voo Experience

Dan Harris tried the "voo" exercise and felt warmth in his body.
Despite feeling self-conscious, the physical sensation was noticeable.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

Trauma and Memory

Brain and Body in a Search for the Living Past

Peter A. Levine

In 'Trauma and Memory', Dr. Peter Levine addresses the controversial question of whether traumatic memories can be trusted. He argues that while explicit memories are well-studied, implicit memories stored in the body are crucial for healing. The book offers insights into how the interplay between brain and body affects our relationship with past trauma, helping individuals move towards a more balanced state of being.

An Autobiography of Trauma

A Healing Journey

Peter A. Levine

Peter Levine's "An Autobiography of Trauma" is a deeply personal memoir that intertwines his professional research with his own healing journey from trauma. The book explores the profound impact of trauma on the body and the power of mindful attention in guiding recovery. Levine shares his experiences with sexual assault and the development of Somatic Experiencing, a therapy focused on bodily sensations. He also recounts mystical encounters, including vivid dreams and interactions with Albert Einstein, which played a significant role in his therapeutic approach. The book offers a raw and vulnerable account of trauma and healing, inviting readers to explore their own experiences.

Waking the Tiger

Mark Wightman

Set in December 1939, 'Waking the Tiger' is a historical crime fiction novel that takes place in the British colony of Singapore. The story revolves around Inspector Maximo Betancourt, whose life has fallen apart after the disappearance of his wife. Demoted to the Marine Division, Betancourt is tasked with handling dockyard disputes and goods inspections. However, when a beautiful, unidentified Japanese woman is found murdered near a warehouse owned by one of Singapore's most powerful families, Betancourt defies orders to pursue the case. His investigation brings him into conflict with powerful enemies and forces him to confront his personal demons. The novel vividly captures the atmosphere of 1930s Singapore, delving into the social history and cultural tensions of the time[1][3][5].

In an Unspoken Voice

How the Body Remembers Trauma and How to Heal

Peter A. Levine

In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Remembers Trauma and How to Heal by Peter A. Levine explores the impact of trauma on the body and mind. Levine, the originator of Somatic Experiencing, details how trauma is stored in the body and how it can be released through specific techniques. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing the physical sensations associated with trauma rather than solely focusing on cognitive processing. It provides a framework for understanding and healing from trauma through body-awareness and gentle movement. Levine's work offers a path to recovery for individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma.

Our Share of Night

Mariana Enríquez

Our Share of Night is a complex horror epic that follows Juan and his son Gaspar as they navigate the sinister world of the Order, a cult obsessed with immortality. The novel explores themes of intergenerational trauma, love, and the supernatural against the backdrop of Argentina's tumultuous history. It delves into the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of violence and cruelty.

10% Happier

Dan Harris

In '10% Happier,' Dan Harris shares his personal journey of discovering the benefits of meditation. Initially a skeptic, Harris, a news anchor, found himself on a path of self-discovery after a nationally televised panic attack. He delves into the world of spirituality and self-help, encountering various figures including brain scientists, CEOs, and spiritual leaders. The book explores how meditation can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being without compromising one's ambition or edge. Harris emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in making one more resilient and better equipped to handle life's challenges, though it does not eliminate problems entirely[2][4][5].

The Body Keeps the Score

Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

Bessel van der Kolk

In this book, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma reshapes both the body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores various treatments, including neurofeedback, meditation, sports, drama, and yoga, which activate the brain’s natural neuroplasticity to aid in recovery. The book emphasizes the power of relationships in both causing and healing trauma and offers hope through descriptions of novel approaches to treatment. It is based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists in the field[1][2][5].