The Neurophysiology of Trauma

Trauma is not just psychological—it physically changes the brain and body. Key Brain Structures Involved Structure Role in Trauma Amygdala Detects threats; hyperactive in trauma → fear, hypervigilance, emotional reactivity Hippocampus Contextualizes memories; trauma can reduce volume → fragmented, intrusive memories Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) Executive function, emotional regulation; trauma → impaired top-down control Anterior Cingulate Cortex… Read More The Neurophysiology of Trauma

HRV Biofeedback Cheat Sheet for Self-Regulation

1. Tools You’ll Need Tool Purpose Tips Chest strap HR monitor (Polar H10, Wahoo, Garmin) Most accurate HRV measurement Comfortable, wear snug but not tight Smartwatch or ring (Apple Watch, Oura, Garmin) Convenient HRV tracking Best for daily trends, not precise metrics HRV Biofeedback app (Elite HRV, Inner Balance, HeartMath, Kubios) Real-time feedback & guided… Read More HRV Biofeedback Cheat Sheet for Self-Regulation

What Is Trauma‑Informed Care?

At its core, trauma‑informed care (TIC) means understanding how trauma affects a person’s brain, body, behaviour, and relationships — and using that understanding to shape how support is offered. Instead of asking: “What’s wrong with you?”A trauma‑informed approach asks:“What happened to you, and how can we help you feel safe?” This shift changes how people are seen,… Read More What Is Trauma‑Informed Care?

Top Trauma Healing Books to Explore

🧠 Why These Matter ✔ They blend neuroscience and psychology — not just theory, but how trauma actually affects the brain and body. ✔ Many combine scientific insight with practical healing strategies you can explore alongside therapy. ✔ There’s a mix of scientific texts, personal memoirs, and tools — so you can choose based on what feels right for your stage of healing. 

Trauma, Healing, and the Brain: Why Your Choices Change

When you experience trauma, your brain doesn’t just “feel bad.” Neuroscience shows that trauma can disrupt the prefrontal cortex — the part of your brain responsible for rational thinking, decision-making, and impulse control — and heighten the amygdala, the fear and threat center. This combination makes you more likely to react on instinct, fear, or old patterns, rather… Read More Trauma, Healing, and the Brain: Why Your Choices Change

Focus on Healing

If you receive information or concerns that are distressing or unsettling, it is appropriate to pause and prioritise your own wellbeing. Discuss the situation with your psychologist or mental health professional, particularly if it triggers fear, stress, or past trauma. Their role is to support emotional regulation, clarity, and recovery — not to investigate or… Read More Focus on Healing