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Published Jan 25, 2021

#130: Healing Our Nervous System with Nicole Lohse

Nicole Lohse, a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, delves into the power of somatic therapy for healing the nervous system, offering insights into stress regulation, the body's language, and co-regulation's transformative impact on relationships.
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  • Stuck States

    Understanding the concepts of being "stuck on" or "stuck off" is crucial for recognizing stress and relaxation patterns. explains that being "stuck on" involves a constant state of vigilance and anxiety, akin to the fight-or-flight response, while "stuck off" is akin to a freeze state, where emotions are numbed and engagement with the world is minimized 1. notes that many people live in a state of dysregulation, unable to differentiate between various stressors in their lives, leading to a survival mode where rest and digestion are not prioritized 2.

    We're either stuck on or stuck off, where there is a sense of always having to be on, not being able to really rest and connect.

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    Recognizing these states is the first step towards achieving a balanced nervous system.

       

    Regulation

    Regulating the nervous system involves strategies that help transition from dysregulation to a state of balance. emphasizes the importance of co-regulation, where interaction with a regulated individual can help stabilize one's own nervous system 3. This process allows individuals to move from a constant state of alertness to a more relaxed and responsive state. adds that a healthy nervous system can adapt to threats and return to a state of rest, highlighting the importance of somatic practices in achieving this balance 4.

    Just holding that space of, I'm here with you and it's okay.

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    Such practices enable individuals to navigate stress more effectively and maintain a state of well-being.

       

    Trauma Impact

    Trauma significantly influences nervous system dysregulation and the body's response mechanisms. explains that the body doesn't perceive time, so past traumas can manifest as present stress responses 5. This means that survival patterns developed in response to past events continue to affect current behavior and emotional states. highlights the importance of observing and understanding these patterns without judgment, as they are the body's way of coping with perceived threats 2.

    Our survival patterns, ultimately, as our allies. It's like, you've helped me, right? You've helped me, and I am not you.

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    Acknowledging these patterns can lead to greater self-awareness and healing.

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