208. When Therapy Fails: Anna Runkle on Escaping Trauma's Grip & the Spiritual Battle for Mental Health

The Screwtape Letters is a Christian apologetic novel written in a satirical, epistolary style. It consists of 31 letters from Screwtape, a highly placed assistant to 'Our Father Below' (the Devil), to his nephew Wormwood, a novice demon tasked with securing the damnation of an ordinary young man. The letters provide advice on various methods of undermining God's influence and promoting abandonment of God, while offering insights into human nature and the Bible. The book is a profound and striking narrative on spiritual warfare and the power of the devil, highlighting the subtle forms of sin such as vanity, pride, and distraction that can lead humans away from God.

A Course in Miracles is a three-volume set consisting of the Text, Workbook for Students, and Manual for Teachers. It aims to undo the illusion of separation from God and others by teaching forgiveness, releasing the past, and cultivating higher guidance. The Text presents the theoretical foundation, the Workbook provides 365 daily lessons to change the student's mind and perception, and the Manual for Teachers addresses practical questions and clarifies key terms. The course emphasizes the importance of spiritual vision, the unity of all, and the correction of misperceptions to achieve inner peace and happiness.

In "Connectability," Anna Runkle delves into the subtle yet pervasive ways individuals distance themselves from meaningful relationships. The book examines how past traumas and ingrained patterns can lead to isolation, even when a person desires connection. Runkle offers practical guidance and tools for recognizing and breaking these patterns, fostering genuine intimacy, and building supportive relationships. The book emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and vulnerability in overcoming barriers to connection. It also underscores the role of healthy communication and boundary-setting in maintaining fulfilling relationships. Through relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, "Connectability" provides a roadmap for readers seeking to overcome isolation and cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections with others.

Anna Runkle (the Crappy Childhood Fairy) provides a trauma-healing framework focused on neurological regulation. The book teaches readers to identify dysregulation patterns, implement daily practices for emotional stability, and break free from self-defeating behaviors. It combines personal experience with coaching insights to help trauma survivors achieve lasting calm and connection.