Healing Trauma Through Dance

Our Central nervous system operates all of our body - a control Centre. 

You have probably heard of two parts of our nervous systems: 

Sympathetic Nervous System: Responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, preparing the body for action.

Parasympathetic Nervous System: Responsible for 'rest and digest' functions, promoting relaxation and recovery.

When we engage in self-abandonment behaviours—putting others' needs before our own, ignoring our inner thoughts and feelings, downplaying our emotions, and disconnecting from ourselves—the nervous system involved is primarily the sympathetic nervous system. However, there is also significant involvement of the dorsal vagal complex, a part of the parasympathetic nervous system associated with the freeze response: 

Dissociation - this is a common response to trauma, where individuals disconnect from their physical and emotional experiences as a coping mechanism.

Emotional Numbing - ignoring instincts, downplaying emotional experiences, and the fragmentation of self are indicative of the dorsal vagal response, leading to a sense of numbness or emotional shutdown.

Low Energy Depression and a sense of helplessness or hopelessness.

When we think about healing from complex trauma, dance might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, the practice of dance therapy harnesses the transformative power of movement to address the deep-seated impacts of trauma.

Reconnecting with the Body: Trauma often leads to a disconnection from the body. One may feel numb, dissociated, or out of touch with their physical self. Dance helps bridge this gap, encouraging individuals to become more aware of their bodies and re-establish a positive relationship with them. This reconnection is vital for overcoming the sense of disembodiment that trauma can create.

Emotional Expression and Release: Words often fall short when it comes to expressing the depth of trauma. Dance, however, offers a nonverbal outlet for these pent-up emotions. Through movement, individuals can release anger, sadness, fear, and other intense feelings, paving the way for emotional healing.

Regulating the Nervous System: Chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system, the body's 'fight or flight' mode, is a common consequence of trauma. Dance can help regulate this by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and calm. The rhythmic nature of dance soothes the body and mind, helping to break the cycle of chronic stress.

Cultivating Mindfulness: Dance brings one into the present moment, fostering mindfulness. This focus on the here and now can alleviate symptoms of hypervigilance and anxiety. Being present in the body helps to ground the mind, providing a sense of stability and peace.

Building Social Connections: Isolation is a frequent companion of trauma. Dancing with others fosters social connections and support, which are crucial for recovery. Whether in group classes or therapeutic settings, these connections provide a sense of community and belonging, reducing feelings of loneliness.

Empowerment and Agency: Dance empowers individuals by giving them control over their movements and their bodies. This regained sense of agency is a powerful antidote to the helplessness that trauma often instils. Through dance, individuals reclaim their power, one step at a time.

The tools to be more embodied on a Dance Floor are deep Breaths and Awareness to bring us back to the Now constantly. 

Listen to the Music, explore, and allow the energy to move through you… All it takes is your openness and a willingness to be moved. 

“Dance, when you’re broken open.

Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage off.

Dance in the middle of the fighting.

Dance in your blood.

Dance when you’re perfectly free.”

Rumi