Скачать или смотреть 179 The Many Faces of Trauma | Dissociation: The Mind’s Emergency Exit (Intro-Level)

Send a text (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/tex...)


Dissociation is often misunderstood, but for many people it’s a protective nervous-system strategy—a way the mind and body reduce overwhelm when something feels too much to stay present for. In this intro-level episode, we explore dissociation as a spectrum: from spacing out and going blank to numbness, unreality, time loss, and feeling detached from the body or emotions. Using simple polyvagal-informed language, we connect dissociation to shutdown protection, discuss common triggers (conflict, overwhelm, feeling trapped, sensory load), and outline what helps—especially gentle, body-first ways to return without shame. We close with a grounding practice using texture and temperature cues to support a soft “coming back.”


In this episode, you’ll learn

• A clear definition of dissociation and how it differs from ordinary distraction
• Why dissociation is a protection strategy (not a character flaw)
• A polyvagal lens on dissociation as shutdown/freeze protection
• Common triggers: conflict, overwhelm, feeling trapped, sensory load, exhaustion
• How dissociation can impact memory, relationships, and self-trust over time
• What helps: gentle return, reduced stimulation, body-first orientation, naming without shame, building safety
• A grounding practice designed specifically for dissociation

Grounding practice (2–3 minutes): “Texture + Temperature Return”

• Touch a textured object (fabric, chair, sleeve)
• Name 3 qualities (smooth/rough/cool/warm)
• Notice one temperature cue
• Press feet into the floor (twice)
• Phrase: “I’m here now. I’m coming back gently.”

Check the website for the free resources offered for both those affected by trauma and those supporting them.


What’s next: How Trauma Can Affect the Body


Support the show (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2004945/su...)


💡 If today’s episode touched you, please share it with someone who might need it.


🤝 Become a supporter of the show! (https://www.buzzsprout.com/2004945/su...) Starting at $3/month & leave a review (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/podcas...) .


Stay Connected


• 🌐 Visit nathaliehimmelrich.com (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/)

• 💌 Subscribe to the newsletter for resources and updates

• 🎧 Never miss an episode—follow the podcast!

• 💛 Socials Instagram (  / griefandtrauma  ) Facebook (  / nathaliehimmelrich  )


Find Support Resources


• 💜 For Grievers – Resources (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/grief-...)
https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/grief-...

• 💜 For Supporters – Supporting someone (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/suppor...) https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/suppor...

• 💜 Books – Explore books on grief and healing (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/books/) https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/books/

• 💜 Support – Offers - free and paid (https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/free-r...)
https://nathaliehimmelrich.com/free-r...