One of the things that is really interesting to me is the concept of Post-Traumatic Growth. It is an understudied area, and it develops the potential for individuals to expand their capacity for growth and learning.
"Trauma is hell on earth. Trauma resolved is a gift from the gods.” --Peter Levine, Founder of Somatic Experiencing.
There is a beauty in watching people expand beyond what they thought possible. This is part of post-traumatic growth. Some ways growth can happen are:
Increased sense of purpose. I often see people transitioning into more meaning for themselves in life. Their own deeper life path moves to the foreground in an important and impactful way.
Greater appreciation of life. Gratitude comes as people become more present or more mindful in their lives.
Seeing new possibilities. What can break us open can also open us more to life.
Having increased intimacy in relationships. As we fully explore our trauma and discover our strengths, we do this alongside people who love and care about us; these relationships are often deepened through more authentic sharing and heart-felt communication.
More spiritual. Many people develop a deeper sense of real and connected spirituality as they journey through trauma recovery.
We will be exploring post-traumatic growth in the July workshop (two and a half days). I do hope you can join us. Look out for 3 more emails in the coming weeks that cover different topics to be addressed in the Integration of Trauma workshop.