Hey everyone, Dr. Cristie here,

Today, I want to talk about something close to my heart: healing from past wounds.

We all carry baggage, right? Sometimes it’s a backpack, sometimes it’s a whole suitcase set. But here’s the thing: you’re not broken. You’re not something to be “fixed.” You’re a whole, resilient person who’s developed incredible coping mechanisms to survive what you’ve been through.

The first step to healing isn’t some grand gesture. It’s simply becoming aware. When something triggers you, what goes on inside? Notice your thoughts, your body sensations, your emotions. We often focus on changing reactions, but that’s like putting a bandaid on a bullet wound. We need to understand the root cause first.

Speaking of bodies, let’s talk about this mind-body connection. Our bodies hold onto trauma in ways our minds might not even remember. That tightness in your chest, those butterflies in your stomach – they’re all telling a story. Spend some time getting to know your physical self. It’s a powerful tool for understanding your past and navigating your present.

Now, this journey gets messy. We might have complicated feelings about our caregivers, especially when it comes to childhood attachment wounds. It’s okay to feel angry, hurt, even resentful. But here’s the key: give yourself grace. Our parents did the best they could with what they had. Healing isn’t about blaming; it’s about acknowledging the impact of the past and letting go of the need to protect ourselves from it.

There’s a new wave in psychology that emphasizes this mind-body connection. We can be intellectually aware of our past struggles, yet still feel unsafe in the present. That’s why I encourage you to tune into your feelings. Learn what safety and security feel like in your body now. It’s a crucial piece of the healing puzzle.

Healing isn’t about feeling happy all the time. It’s about moving from overwhelming pain and fear to manageable emotions like annoyance, frustration, or even sadness. It’s about recognizing the discomfort and learning to navigate it. You are strong, you are capable, and you are worthy of healing.

So, my friends, be kind to yourselves. Embrace the duality of your experiences. Use your newfound awareness to rewrite your story. This journey is yours, and I believe in you. Take good care, and remember, I’m always here cheering you on!