Gravity Commons Podcast Susan Carson: Learning Contemplative Healing from Julian of Norwich and Neuroscience
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Jul 14, 2026 Susan Carson, spiritual director and author who founded Roots and Branches, explores contemplative healing informed by Julian of Norwich and neuroscience. She describes shifting from directive ministry to deep listening and creating safety for trauma. Topics include embodied regulation, the vagus nerve, refiling traumatic memory, kenosis, and imaginative practices that restore trust and connection.
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From Expert To Listening Presence
- Susan Carson shifted from a top-down direction style to a listening-centered approach that trusts the person's wisdom and Christ's presence.
- After years of spiritual direction she intentionally emptied herself, practiced silence, and followed rather than led clients.
Prioritize Safety And Coregulation
- Create safety first when working with trauma by bringing a regulated, nonjudgmental presence into the room.
- Regulate your own nervous system so clients can coregulate with you and gradually bring hidden parts into healing connection.
Use Silence As A Healing Practice
- Do less verbally in spiritual direction; prioritize silence and listening as therapeutic actions.
- Trust that being a shame-free, accepting witness often helps more than offering fixes or tasks.
