“As human beings, we are meant for connection.“
I see you.
I believe you.
Sometimes, those are the exact words that survivors of sexual assault and violence need to hear. Genuinely affirming a survivor’s experiences, feelings, and responses are the first steps to entering into a space that the survivor has never let anyone else into before.
Oftentimes, those who experience trauma seem to have lost touch. Sometimes they appear checked out, forget to eat, and even lose their spatial awareness. On the other end of the spectrum, some survivors become hypervigilant and notice everything: the way someone holds himself when he walks into a room, small changes in expression or energy, and anything else.
In this episode, Robert Cox talks about this subject. He provides insight into the various responses that survivors have to their environment and new relationships. Robert discusses the importance of sitting in that vulnerable space with a survivor, listening to them, and helping them rewire their brains back to a healthy state.
Take a listen to learn more about how Robert Cox uses somatic exercises and active listening skills to help trauma survivors begin living once again.
About Robert Cox, LPC:
Robert Cox is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri and owner of Life Recovery Counseling. He specializes in trauma, addictions, and autism. He works extensively with survivors of sexual abuse, trafficking, and childhood trauma. One of his main focuses, too, is mindfulness training to help patients create their own pathways to emotionally regulate through the difficult processes of trauma recovery.
Resources:
Life Recovery Consulting Website
Mindful Recovery Podcast
The Life Recovery Method: Autism Treatment From A Trauma Perspective by Robert Cox
“The feminine is about the connection among all things.”
Where are you in life? Where are you headed?
Traditionally, there have been four faces of femininity: Maiden, Mother, and Crone. These archetypes define the feminine mindset: wants, needs, and what is required for fulfillment.
Our culture places a certain value on each of these stages. Oftentimes, this value is based on desirability rather than one’s personal desires. Traditionally, femininity is overwhelmingly undervalued. Now, that’s beginning to change.
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Anita Johnston. She breaks down all three of these archetypes and adds in a fourth: the Queen. Anita explains each stage, what it means, and even includes some of her own personal experiences within each stage. Together, we discuss the social value placed on each individual stage, and how those values are swiftly transforming today.
Take a listen to learn more about the true value in your past, present, and future self in relation to your sacred femininity.
About Dr. Anita Johnston:
Anita Johnston is a clinical psychologist and a certified eating disorder specialist and supervisor. She has done some incredible work in the field of women’s issues and eating disorders for the last 35 years. In Guam, where she was raised, she experienced life in a matriarchal culture. She experienced the power and value of femininity, which shaped her worldview and desire to help others.
Currently, Dr. Anita Johnston is the clinical director of Ai Pono Hawaii Eating Disorder programs. She is also co-creator of The Light of the Moon Café, which is a series of online, interactive courses, women support circles, and soul hunger workshops. Additionally, she is also the author of the bestselling book Eating in the Light of the Moon.
Some Questions I Ask:
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Resources:
Episode 59: Cracking the Hunger Code Through Storytelling and Metaphor
Eating in the Light of the Moon by Dr. Anita Johnston
Circle of Stones: Woman’s Journey to Herself by Judith Duerk
New Crescent Moon Course with Dr. Anita Johnston
Tour of Light of the Moon Café