I was standing with a horse in the breezeway a few days ago when Magnet came running in. He threw himself at me, wanting to wrap his body around my legs. I said “what’s up?” and he looked up at me imploringly with his deep brown eyes, clearly needing comfort. In that moment I knew he was not OK.

Nervous System Regulation

I sat in a nearby chair and he jumped onto my lap (we are talking an adult border collie here). And he began to tremble. For several minutes I held him gently, I “turned on” Reiki and I grounded myself to offer him maximum support. After several minutes, waves of calm came in between the trembling. And this too continued for several minutes as the energy of whatever had put such great fear into him gradually dissipated.

Even after the trembling had subsided, his tail stayed tucked tightly between his legs. So we sat together a little longer until I felt his body start to relax further.

It was only then that I suggested we move a little, to regain homeostasis, and he followed me outside, looking very cautious. When I then suggested “home” he perked up, ran to the ute and jumped in.

Animal Emotions

Just like us, dogs, cats, horses – all mammals – have complex nervous systems capable of experiencing the full spectrum of sensations we simply call ‘emotions’. We don’t have sufficient words in the English language to singularly describe all the sensations or energy states we experience in our bodies. And perhaps we don’t need to, as when we start to pay attention to whatever is showing up and tend to it, the energy passes through at an appropriate rate.

Unfortunately, what happens all too often to us is that we are not able to allow completion of whatever the energy wave is. This can happen because we do not feel safe enough to do so (consciously or unconsciously), or because we are told ‘not’ to (eg “be quiet”, “not now” and so on.)

When the energy wave gets stuck inside us it will then continue to attract situations that will allow it to show up again, offering us the opportunity to allow discharge and completion. Except we have not been taught his – until now

Trauma Healing

With increasing awareness around trauma and the nervous system, we’re learning that trauma is an experience of overwhelm in the body. Once we recognise this, we can allow healing to begin, even for our deepest wounds. Those of us who have this knowledge have a duty to share it – for both human and animal wellbeing.

Learning to support our nervous systems isn’t just beneficial for us, but extends to our fur family too. By being present and attuned, we allow healing energy to flow freely and foster safety and balance for all beings.

Mindfulness and grounding techniques help bring you to the present moment and reduce the overwhelming feelings associated with past traumas.

• Mindfulness: You can practise mindfulness through meditation, focusing on your breath, or simply being fully engaged in whatever you’re doing.
• Grounding techniques: Techniques can include tactile methods like holding onto a piece of ice or touching various objects around you, listing things you see around you, or even eating something with a strong flavour to help bring your senses to the here and now.

Seek professional support

Often, the best way to deal with trauma triggers is to seek help from a professional who understands what you’re going through. Holistic therapists or counsellors trained in trauma can offer you personalised strategies and support.

• Therapy options: Consider therapies that are specifically designed for trauma, such as Holistic Therapy, Equine Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
• Professional guidance: A professional can also help you understand your triggers, work through the trauma behind them, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs or help you heal them once and for all.

Related articles:

What Is Somatic Therapy? – Guide

 

 

Educate yourself about trauma

Understanding trauma and its impact on your mind and body can be empowering. It can help you make sense of your feelings and reactions, providing a framework for understanding your healing process. Consider:

• Learning about trauma’s effects: Discover how trauma can affect your thoughts, emotions, and physical wellbeing. This knowledge can help you feel less alone and more in control.
• Seeking out resources: There are many books, online resources, and workshops available that can offer valuable insights and strategies for coping.

Be patient and compassionate with yourself/your pet

Healing from trauma is a process that takes time and self-compassion. Being patient and kind to yourself/ your pet is crucial, as (self-)criticism can be a trigger in itself.

• Self-care: Treat yourself/your pet with the same kindness you would offer a friend in distress. Remember, healing is not linear. It’s okay to have setbacks.
• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it seems. Each step forward is a victory in your journey to healing.

We’re just here when you’re ready to gently unpack and process your trauma.