How Do I Trust Again
Short Answer
It feels like being trapped in a dark room with no windows. You can start by breathe in through your nose, hold for a count of four, and exhale slowly through your mouth. repeat this for one minute..
What This Means
It feels like being trapped in a dark room with no windows. Your heart races as if you're running from something unseen. Your gut tightens, your jaw clenches, and every breath feels heavy. You can't shake the feeling of constant vigilance.
Why This Happens
Your nervous system has been on high alert for too long, interpreting common situations as potentially dangerous. This mechanism helped you survive in a past where threats were real. Now, it's time to retrain your brain and body that these situations are safe.
What Can Help
- Try right now: Breathe in through your nose, hold for a count of four, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for one minute.
- Find a quiet space where you can lie down or sit comfortably. Close your eyes and focus on the sensations in your body. Notice the feeling of your skin against the fabric of your clothing, the sound of your heartbeat, and any other physical sensations.
- Move your body in a way that feels safe. Go for a light walk or do some gentle stretching exercises. The movement can help release tension and redirect energy away from fear.
- Connect with something tangible around you. Hold an object like a pillow or a book. Focus on the texture, weight, and feel of it. This grounding exercise can help calm your nervous system.
- Listen to soothing music or nature sounds. Let the melody wash over you, helping to shift your focus from fear to peace.
When to Seek Support
If you find that these sensations persist for more than a month or if they significantly impact your daily life and relationships, it's important to reach out to someone who can provide professional support.
Ready to Reset Your Nervous System?
If this resonates, you don't have to figure this out alone. The Nervous System Reset program provides structured guidance for completing your stress cycle and finding calm.
Start Your Nervous System Reset →Research References
This content is grounded in scientific research on trauma and nervous system regulation:
- Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking.
- Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. W. W. Norton.
- Felitti, V. J., et al. (1998). "Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults." American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245-258. (ACE Study)
- Levine, P. (2010). In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness. North Atlantic Books.
Note: This content is educational and for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health care.