Steps to Breaking Ties To PTSD and C-PTSD

OVERVIEW

While it is true that there is no cure for completely stopping post-traumatic stress disorder or complex post-traumatic stress disorder, I have found through my healing journey from C-PTSD, which I deal with as a result of spiraling downward for over two decades, that it can be managed and greatly lessened through the below process.  Once you begin to be able to have enough ‘healthy adult’ through doing your inner work, you’ll be able to begin to recognize (through being in awareness) the ‘knot in the stomach’.  This step is the beginning of being able to do the necessary self-love induced self-care ‘in the moment’ that is needed to bring you back into the ‘now’.   A simple method is to take deep breaths and begin gently massaging the occipital bone to the right and to the left on both sides at the base of your skull.   This will re-set your vagus nerve and consequently lower your cortisol ‘fight or flight’ response which will put you ‘back into your body’ from dissociation. 

Steps to Breaking Ties To PTSD and C-PTSD

1.       Trigger happens (there is no time in emotional space)

2.        Observe, recognize, and physically feel that there is a knot in your stomach (or other area of your body)

3.       Ask yourself, “Right now I am feeling _____________________ because ___________________.

4.       Ask yourself, “Is the feeling I’m feeling right now based on something that is actually happening right now or in my past?

5.       If, no, take some deep breaths and say calming words from your grounded, healthy adult to the part of you that is activated from a past trauma.

6.       Begin to massage occipital area to re-set vagus nerve.

7.       Repeat above steps as needed.

Summary

After spiraling downward for over two decades, I was left with severe complex post traumatic stress disorder.  The C-PTSD told me that I was damaged goods, and my life was worthless.  But my commitment to healing and to my Savior gave me the strength to tackle each hurdle, one-by-one, until the Light shone brightly upon me.  I have found that healing from C-PTSD IS complex but doable.  The above is a simple, but very effective process/technique that will get you where you want to be – in your true self – free of limiting beliefs and ruminations from your traumas.  Try it and see yourself begin to SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS OF BEING!