In this episode, Gregory explores mindfulness techniques specifically designed for trauma survivors, offering a nuanced approach that respects the unique challenges faced when trying to be present in bodies and minds affected by complex trauma. Moving beyond simplified wellness advice, he unpacks how trauma-informed mindfulness practices can help build a different relationship with thoughts, feelings, and sensations—creating more space to breathe and more choice in how we respond. The episode features powerful listener stories that illustrate both struggles and breakthroughs with mindfulness for trauma healing.

Key Takeaways
• Traditional mindfulness approaches often need modification for trauma survivors to prevent retraumatization • Safety comes before awareness—practices should include "escape hatches" and permission to stop • Start with external focus or brief practices before gradually moving to internal awareness • Mindfulness creates space between stimulus and response, allowing more choice in trauma reactions • Consistent short practices are more effective than occasional longer sessions for building capacity

What You'll Discover
• Practical grounding techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory awareness exercise • How mindfulness physically changes the brain's trauma response patterns • Ways to adapt meditation for those who struggle with sitting still or closing eyes • The connection between mindfulness and expanding your window of tolerance • How "stealth mindfulness" can be incorporated into everyday activities

Resources Mentioned
• "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk • "Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness" by David Treleaven • 2018 study in Biological Psychiatry on mindfulness and amygdala reactivity • Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory research on nervous system regulation • 2019 study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience on mindfulness and vagal tone

Next Episode Preview
Next time, we'll be diving into managing negative self-talk in CPTSD, exploring how to recognize harsh inner critics that developed as protective mechanisms and respond to them with mindfulness.

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