Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel A Marriage Organized Around Trauma
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Oct 30, 2023 A harrowing journey unfolds as a veteran shares his battles with PTSD and addiction, revealing the weight of caregiving that his partner endures. The discussion shifts to revitalizing intimacy, emphasizing the need for playful communication and mutual care. They dive into the emotional toll of trauma on relationships, exploring how to reclaim erotic energy and individual identities. The struggles of job transitions and emotional recovery are examined, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and connection to navigate the complexities of love and trauma.
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Veteran's Struggles and Impact on Intimacy
- A veteran, deployed to Fallujah in 2004, struggles with PTSD and alcohol dependence, impacting intimacy.
- His wife acts as his caregiver, sacrificing her own needs and desires, leading to an unerotic dynamic.
Shifting Focus from Trauma to Erotic Recovery
- The session aims to shift the couple away from trauma and towards erotic recovery.
- The goal is to move beyond the veteran-caregiver dynamic into a more sensual partnership.
Breathing and Grounding Techniques
- Use breathing exercises to address trauma-related anxiety and stiffness.
- Grounding techniques, like pressing feet to the ground and raising arms, can help regulate the nervous system.