In my lived experience of recovering from childhood trauma. Learning to regularize time set specially for myself, was and is important. Otherwise, it can be quite easy to forget about my own needs. I will notice my well-being and physical health dipping. It can become hard to focus, and get anything practical done.

Trauma causes the mind to work much harder than one without trauma. While other minds are resting, people with trauma often avoid triggers, and unwanted thoughts about trauma. Which can automatically lead to flight, fight or freeze responses in the body. These can be worse if the people who caused harm are still around, and or there was no justice. It can cause feelings of over-stimulation, which causes exhaustion.

I found that a spa visits helped me relax, after the first one, where i had the giggles. Massage therapy treatments within the spa facilities also helped to calm my body, and ease fatigued muscles. I never thought I would ever like massages. I do not like being touched much at all. Nonetheless, massages have been a blessing in disguise. I would highly recommend trying a spa day, sauna and massage treatments if you have trauma.

The treatments I usually go for are full body massages, which include your shoulders, neck, and back. With either your legs & feet or arms & hands. I also have had the head massages, which are good for headaches, and tension build up. I have had one facial, but i find the earlier mentioned treatments more beneficial for my trauma symptoms. Though a head massage can help with tension and stress built up in the head. Honestly when I had my first massage, I realized how much bodily tension I had. I totally recommend trying one for trauma or stress tensions.

I also like having therapy, I find it helps with racing thoughts and daily triggers. As I get to speak about it in detail to my therapist, rather than hold it in my brain. My therapist understands trauma, so I can focus on healing, and gaining understanding, from a specialist. Which helps with managing the healing, and impacts of abuse.

It did take a long time to find my therapist. I am dreading the day I have to find a new one, as therapy does not last forever. For me having therapy is an important part of my life, because I need the outside me space.

Finally I love to plant and grow flowers and vegetables. I find it relaxing and it also gives me time. The solitude and relaxing nature of gardening, eases racing thoughts. It also gives you something beautiful back in the summer and throughout the warmer months that you can enjoy. Something that shows the beauty in a world, when it can seem full of trauma and disappointment. Its a partnership that always is graceful and fruitful.

What is your special way of spending recovery me time? What things do you do to help your body & mind relax?