Fight, Flight or Freeze

"After a traumatic experience, the human system of self-preservation

seems to go onto permanent alert, as if the danger might return at any moment."

Judith Lewis Herman

It is our natural human instinct to have a fight, flight or freeze response, but it is extremely limiting to our growth process. Fear does not recognize the degrees of danger and harmful reactions can trigger dis~ease. Withdrawal leads to isolation which in return reduces immunity and triggers cognitive decline.

If our fear based ego sees a threat in what is currently happening, we lose touch with the essence of the moment. Actually, we are not in the moment, but rather in our heads. The ego mind will desire to remove the self which will shift us away from center. In certain circumstances, we may dissociate entirely. 

Developing a mixture of awareness, sensitivity, and centeredness, will help us to minimize these negative responses. Releasing the past, withdrawing from excessive projections of the future, and remaining in the moment, will help us maintain equilibrium. Life will then return spontaneity and childlike wonder triggering a more joyful life experience.

Hood Winked by Those in Power

"Many abused children cling to the hope that

growing up will bring escape and freedom."

Judith Lewis Herman

Conquering childhood issues is no easy matter, but we can heal and move beyond them.  As we build better boundaries and strengthen our core, we are able to participate in healthy relationships.  Some aspects of trauma, however, will never recede.

As an adult, I am triggered ... distrusting global events, doubting political integrity, and questioning motivation of those wielding power above the heads of those who struggle.  In one sense, I am revisiting the feelings of distrust from childhood, but this time I am grounded, healthy, and seasoned.

The uncertainty of society swirling around today does not diminish my self-worth nor does it corral me into an invisible line of dumbing down.  My eyes and heart are open and my heightened intelligence is listening and watching.  I overcame false images in my youth, and I am certain my integrity will not be confused by the falsehoods displayed in the actions of those in power.