07/14/2022
✨Why TRUAMA RECOVERY and FITNESS go hand in hand.✨
Here’s what I know from 30 years of experience as a trauma informed mental health and fitness professional.
I have never worked with a woman who does not identify as a sexual abuse or harassment survivor.
I have never worked with a woman who has not experienced “Big T” or “little t” trauma, nor have I ever worked with a woman who does not significantly downplay her traumatic experiences.
I have never worked with a woman who does not identify as an empath, is not deeply effected by the pain of the world around her, and is not triggered in her trauma often…especially lately.
I have never worked with a woman who has a lifelong healthy relationship with food and has not used food to “feed” an emotional need. Food may have been the only constant comfort or “companion” she has had.
I have never worked with a woman who has not used her weight as a protective shield from intimacy or unwanted sexual attention at one point in her life.
I have not met a woman who has not needed emotional support or trauma recovery work as she embarked in a new weight loss or wellness journey because it is terrifying to be visible.
All this to say that if you are feeling like a “simple” decision to get fit or lose weight causes a roller coaster of emotions and a healing crisis, you are not alone.
It is not simple.
It is as complex as the systemic problems in our society.
For example, many women fight against diet and weight loss culture publicly at the same moment they body shame themselves for weight gain privately.
Many women want to look a certain way for themselves and are terrified of the unwanted attention that will bring from men. Weight loss often becomes a safety issue.
It’s far from simple.
It is normal to need extra help.
It is brave to ask for help.
It is brave to fight for better, healthier, and stronger, whatever that means for you.
And as hard as it is, the work is worth it.
You are worth it.
Please share with a friend or loved one who may need to feel seen in this struggle or may need extra support. Thank you.
