The Journey to Healing: Taking a Break Matters

It shows up when you’re tired. When you're triggered. When life hasn’t gone the way you hoped. It whispers doubts… “What’s the point?” “You’ll fall back again.” “It never really gets better.”

That voice is not your truth; it’s your trauma echoing back in moments of vulnerability. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is push back. Even if it's just for one hour.

💥 The Power of an Active Break

When you're overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or spiraling into overthinking, one small act of defiance can change everything. Go move your body. Call a trusted friend. Meditate. Journal. Do something that focuses on you.

That “tiny break” is not insignificant; it’s a psychological pattern interrupt. You are not ignoring the pain. You’re choosing not to let it swallow you whole.

As Dr. Bessel van der Kolk writes in The Body Keeps the Score:

“Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then; it’s the current imprint of that pain, horror, and fear living inside people.”

When you take action, even small action, you’re reclaiming the present moment from your past conditioning.

Break the Spiral Before It Builds

One of the hardest parts of healing is staying the course, especially when expectations aren’t met. A disappointment quickly snowballs into a story. You might think: “I must’ve messed this up.” “This always happens to me.” “I’m not enough.”

Before you know it, you’re deep into a self-authored narrative that may not even be true. Here's the truth: You have the power to stop that story in its tracks.

Often, it starts with something simple like a mantra, a breath, a cold shower, or even a silent scream. A brief 10-minute walk can help, too. Don’t feed the spiral. Feed the facts.

Here's Your Practice This Week

To help you regain control, try the following:

1. Do something FOR YOU, even if you don’t feel like it. This could be as simple as enjoying a cup of tea or reading a page of a book.

   
   

2. Name the moment you start to spiral. Don’t run away from it. Just acknowledge it.

   
   

3. Use a mantra like: “I am not my thoughts. I choose what stays.” Repeating this can create a sense of grounding.

   
   

4. Do the most radical thing you can to shift your state. Whether it’s dancing, screaming into a pillow, praying, or calling a friend, take that step.

   
   

5. Return to the truth. Your healing isn't linear, but your effort compounds over time. Recognize each small victory.

   
   

Reclaim Your Time

The first window to healing is this:

You gave yourself a break. And that matters more than you know. You’re rebuilding. You’re not failing. You’re forging strength. Keep going. One hour at a time.

Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination. It requires courage and patience. Embrace each moment and honor your experiences.

Why Self-Care Is Essential

Taking breaks isn’t merely about stepping away from responsibilities. It’s essential for mental wellness. Self-care allows you to recharge and face challenges with renewed energy.

When you prioritize your well-being, you foster resilience. It’s easy to lose ourselves in daily obligations. This can lead to burnout and emotional fatigue. Remember, you are worthy of care and compassion.

The Significance of Support

Having a support system can dramatically alter your healing process. Reach out to friends or family. Share your feelings. You might find comfort in their understanding.

Sometimes, just talking about your struggles can lighten the load. You don’t have to isolate yourself. Connections with others can provide a vital lifeline.

Moving Forward

As you continue on your journey, remind yourself of the progress you've made. Each step forward is a testament to your strength. It’s okay to experience setbacks.

They are a part of life. Acknowledge them and allow yourself grace. Healing involves ups and downs, and that’s perfectly normal. You are not alone in this journey.

In resilience, The Risk to Rebirth Team

Further Reading: 📘 *The Body Keeps the Score* by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk