DA Summer24 Magazine

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Unlocking the Mysteries of Past Lives: A Journey to Self-Discovery

How healing my inner child improved my life from guest contributor Kerry Majchrowski

Trauma in the city: How Trauma Presents Itself in the Workplace

Editorsnote.

Welcome to the vibrant and transformative summer issue of Divine Ambition Magazine.

As the “warmth” of summer envelops us, or is supposed to - I find myself reflecting on and embracing the concept of selfcare like never before. This season has been a remarkable journey of introspection and growth for me, marked by profound realisations and personal healing.

One of the most significant experiences was a retreat I attended in the picturesque Cotswolds. During this retreat, I delved deep into my past lives and uncovered traumas from previous lives that I had unknowingly carried into my present. These revelations have been both enlightening and liberating, allowing me to clear the blocks that had been holding me back.

In addition to these past life traumas, I have also been exploring the impacts of childhood trauma and how these early experiences can create barriers in our adult lives. It's astounding how much of our behaviour and emotional responses are influenced by unresolved issues from our formative years.

This issue of Divine Ambition is dedicated to addressing these very themes with a collection of thought-provoking content that delves into the ways childhood trauma can shape our present, often without our conscious awareness.

The goal with this issue is to provide you with the tools and insights to identify your own blocks and to encourage you to dig deep into your past to uncover hidden wounds. Through personal stories, expert advice, and practical exercises, we aim to guide you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. We believe that by addressing these traumas, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and liberated life.

With these newfound insights and a lighter spirit, I am thrilled to announce the exciting plans I have in store for you. Among these is the much-anticipated return of a Meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation programme, the first since the prepandemic days. This initiative is designed to help you cultivate inner peace and resilience, drawing from the very practices that have been instrumental in my own healing journey.

I hope that this issue of Divine Ambition inspires you to embark on your own path of self-discovery and wellbeing. May the stories and guidance within these pages help you uncover and release the blocks that have been holding you back, enabling you to live your life to its fullest potential.

With warmth and gratitude, Nic x

Starting: Sat, 12 Oct 2024, 14:30 in Barton Le Clay.

Book via Eventbrite and get £10 off in August using the code: earlybird

UnseenWounds:Understandingand OvercomingChildhoodTrauma

Childhood trauma is a deeply impactful experience that can shape the trajectory of our life in profound ways. It encompasses a wide range of adverse experiences, including physical abuse, emotional neglect, sexual abuse, witnessing violence, or enduring a significant loss. These traumatic events, especially when experienced during the formative years, can leave lasting imprints on an individual’s psyche, influencing their emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

What is Childhood Trauma?

Childhood trauma refers to any event or series of events that cause significant emotional, psychological, or physical harm to a child. These traumatic experiences can overwhelm a child’s ability to cope and leave them feeling helpless and unsafe. The impact of such trauma can be long-lasting, often persisting well into adulthood, and can manifest in various forms.

Manifestations of Childhood Trauma

The effects of childhood trauma can manifest in numerous ways, often influencing behaviour, emotions, and physical health. Common manifestations include:

• Emotional Instability: Individuals may experience intense emotions, mood swings, or chronic anxiety and depression.

• Behavioural Issues: This can include aggression, substance abuse, self-harm, or difficulties in forming healthy relationships.

• Cognitive Impairments: Trauma can affect concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities.

• Physical Symptoms: Chronic health issues like headaches, stomach-aches, or autoimmune disorders can often trace back to unresolved trauma.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some individuals may develop PTSD, characterised by flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety related to the traumatic event.

Who is Likely to be Affected?

Childhood trauma does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or family background. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing trauma, including:

Dysfunctional Family Dynamics: Children in families with high levels of conflict, domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health issues are at greater risk.

Socioeconomic Challenges: Poverty, homelessness, and lack of access to resources can exacerbate the risk of trauma.

Community and Environmental Factors: Living in high-crime areas, experiencing natural disasters, or being part of marginalised communities can also heighten the risk.

How Childhood Trauma Holds You Back

Unresolved childhood trauma can create significant barriers to personal and professional growth. It can undermine self-esteem, leading to a pervasive sense of worthlessness or incompetence. This can hinder our ability to pursue opportunities, maintain healthy relationships, or achieve their full potential. Moreover, the chronic stress associated with trauma can have detrimental effects on physical health, contributing to a range of illnesses and reducing overall quality of life.

Pathways to Healing

Healing from childhood trauma is a complex and deeply personal journey, but it is entirely possible with the right support and resources. Here are some steps towards recovery:

Therapy including Emotional Freedom Technique: Engaging with a qualified therapist, particularly those specialising in trauma, can provide a safe space to process and heal from past experiences.

Support Groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can offer validation, support, and shared strategies for coping and healing.

Self-Care Practices: Mindfulness, meditation, and physical exercise can help in managing stress and improving emotional resilience.

Education and Awareness: Understanding the nature of trauma and its effects can empower individuals to seek help and make informed choices about their healing journey.

Childhood trauma may leave unseen wounds, but with recognition, understanding, and support, those affected can embark on a path to healing and reclaim their lives. By addressing these past traumas, individuals can break free from their constraints and move towards a future filled with potential and well-being.

UnravellingtheImpactofChildhood Trauma

You may have heard the phrase "childhood trauma" being used quite a lot recently, but what is it exactly, and how does it impact us? As someone who has grappled with this question personally, I've come to understand that childhood trauma is far more pervasive and influential than many of us realise.

Childhood trauma encompasses a range of adverse experiences during our formative years, including abuse, neglect, loss, or witnessing violence. For years, I struggled with my own challenging issues, never connecting these issues to my past. It wasn't until I began my healing journey that I recognised how profoundly my childhood experiences were shaping my adult life.

The effects of childhood trauma often manifest in adulthood in various, unsuspecting ways. We may find ourselves repeating harmful patterns, feeling inexplicably stuck, or battling with mental health issues. Yet, many of us struggle to connect our current challenges with our past experiences. I know I did, often wondering why I couldn't "just get over" certain challenges.

Through my research and personal growth work, I've since discovered something even more startling: trauma's impact begins even earlier than we once thought. Recent scientific studies suggest that our experiences in the womb can significantly influence our later development and well-being. Maternal stress, nutrition, and environmental factors during pregnancy can all contribute to what we might consider "pre-childhood" trauma.

When I first learned this, I felt overwhelmed. How could I possibly heal from wounds inflicted before I was even born? However, as I delved deeper into this field, I realised that this understanding actually opens up new avenues for healing and personal growth.

The good news is that trauma, regardless of when it occurred, doesn't have to define us. Our brains possess remarkable plasticity, allowing us to rewire neural pathways and heal from our past hurts.

By acknowledging and addressing our traumas, we can not only overcome their negative impacts but also use them as catalysts for profound personal transformation.

In my own healing journey, I've found that several key elements are crucial:

1. Awareness: Recognising the impact of past experiences on our present lives.

2. Acceptance: Acknowledging our wounds without judgment or shame.

3. Professional support: Seeking help from therapists or counsellors trained in trauma-informed care.

4. Self-compassion: Treating ourselves with kindness and understanding throughout the healing process.

5. Mindfulness: Developing present-moment awareness to break free from trauma-induced patterns.

6. Healthy relationships: Surrounding ourselves with supportive, nurturing connections.

As I've worked through my own trauma, I've discovered unexpected strengths that have emerged from my struggles. Resilience, empathy, and a deep appreciation for life are gifts I never anticipated receiving from this challenging journey.

GlobalSummerRitualsand Traditions.

ScandinavianMidsummer:

Celebrated in Sweden and Finland.

Involves dancing around a maypole, singing traditional songs.

Feasting on seafood, new potatoes, and strawberries.

Celebrates the summer solstice.

JapaneseSummerFestivals(Matsuri):

Feature fireworks, traditional music, and dancing.

Gion Matsuri in Kyoto includes grand float processions.

"Hanabi" fireworks symbolize joy and fleeting beauty.

Indian Holi Festival:

Celebrated in early spring, heralds the arrival of summer.

Involves throwing coloured powders and water.

Celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Mango festivals celebrate the seasonal fruit.

IndianHoliFestival:

Celebrated in early spring, heralds the arrival of summer.

Involves throwing coloured powders and water.

Celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Mango festivals celebrate the seasonal fruit.

UnlockingtheMysteriesofPast Lives:AJourneytoSelf-Discovery

This ancient belief spans many cultures and spiritual traditions, suggesting that the experiences and memories from previous lifetimes can influence our present behaviours, relationships, and life patterns. Exploring past lives can provide profound insights into our current struggles, talents, and personality traits, offering a unique pathway to self-discovery and healing.

What Are Past Lives?

Past lives refer to the idea that our souls have experienced multiple incarnations, each with its own set of experiences, lessons, and karmic debts. These past experiences are believed to be stored in our subconscious mind, influencing our current life's choices and challenges. The belief in past lives is prominent in various religions and spiritual philosophies, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Spiritual practices.

How to Discover Your Past Lives

Uncovering past life memories can be a transformative experience, often achieved through various techniques and practices:

Past Life Regression Therapy: This is a guided process, usually facilitated by a trained therapist, where hypnosis or deep meditation is used to access memories from previous lifetimes. Clients are guided to recall and relive these memories, which can provide insights into current life issues.

Meditation and Mindfulness: Deep meditation practices can sometimes bring spontaneous memories or flashes of past life experiences. These practices help in quieting the mind and accessing deeper layers of consciousness.

Dream Analysis: Some people experience vivid dreams or recurring themes that seem out of context with their current life but may be remnants of past life memories.

Intuitive Readings: Consulting with a psychic or spiritual guide who specialises in past lives can also provide insights. These practitioners use their intuitive abilities to tap into your soul's history.

What Past Lives Can Reveal About You

Exploring past lives can shed light on various aspects of your current existence, such as:

Patterns and Behaviours: Understanding recurring patterns or unexplained fears in your life can often be traced back to experiences from past lives.

Talents and Interests: Unusual skills or strong interests that feel innate may be carried over from previous lifetimes.

Relationship Dynamics: Insights into significant relationships can reveal karmic connections and unresolved issues that stem from past interactions.

identifying and Moving Beyond Past Life Blocks

Past life traumas and unresolved issues can create emotional or psychological blocks in your current life. Identifying and addressing these blocks is crucial for personal growth and healing:

Acknowledgment: The first step is recognising and acknowledging the presence of past life influences. This often happens during regression therapy or through intuitive insights.

Healing and Release: Techniques such as energy healing, visualisation, and forgiveness exercises can help release the emotional charge associated with past life traumas.

Integrative Practices: Incorporating practices like journaling, affirmations, and mindfulness can aid in integrating past life insights into your current life, promoting healing and personal development.

Moving Forward

By exploring and understanding past lives, individuals can gain a deeper awareness of their soul's journey, allowing them to break free from old patterns and move forward with greater clarity and purpose. The process of uncovering past life memories can be both enlightening and liberating, offering valuable lessons and healing opportunities that can profoundly impact your current life. Embrace the journey of discovering your past lives, and let the insights guide you towards a more harmonious and fulfilling present.

Howhealingmyinner childimprovedmylife.

I was 38 years old when my two children received their diagnoses of asd and adhd. I started researching and reading up on triggers and traits, this made me realise I had to parent them differently. I had to be one step ahead in every situation because they needed help with their emotional regulation. My husband had always been well regulated but now I could see I had some neurodivergent traits too, one being my emotional regulation. I was often running in a fight or flight state which is more highly stressed, this led me to become triggered easier.

I had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and trigeminal neuralgia, then later endometriosis and had surgery for an abscess. I was often in a lot of pain to the point where I could not walk and would be exhausted, dizzy and needed to sleep in the day. I also had extremely bad negative self talk and I had to give up my business after years of hard work. The surgery helped me to not be in extreme pain, but I was still low.

I spoke to a respected friend of a friend who recommended a book by Simon Chappell called ‘How to heal your inner child’. She explained often undiagnosed neurodivergence leads to our needs not being met, particularly in the school setting and it doesn't necessarily mean you had a ‘bad’ childhood.

I made it my mission to complete this book with my full focus. I took the book on a trip to France; I journaled daily, and I finished it along with the exercises in the book. I came back feeling much more regulated as I had started to put things into practise. I saw things from a different perspective, we all have our own story. I learned how my own child having a meltdown was not always something I had to solve, I had to focus on regulating myself.

So, I would take a breath, count to 5 and then help regulate my child, just by being present, breath work, name and validate the emotion they are experiencing. I realised this was part of healing my own inner child. The part I was missing. I needed to name my own emotions, validate and sit with them, in the past I would not have done this I would have turned to something to soothe me if I had uncomfortable emotions, for example food.

I made time to educate myself through podcasts and I looked up meditations where I connected with my younger self as well as visualising how I wanted my future self to be. I now practice daily mindfulness and gratitude. I undertook other activities such as watching movies I would watch as a child, remembering my interests as a child, I would sit and draw flowers then colour them in. I explored my boundaries and my core values which made me more self aware in turn boosted my self-esteem. It occurred to me I needed to fill my own cup before filling everybody else’s, because I could not give from an empty cup. Who was I before I was everything to everybody else?

All I knew was I had to give my dream of running my own business due to my ill health, I was miserable, in pain and unhealthy. My body deserved to be treated with love and kindness.

About to turn 40 I signed up to a program called bodyslims which focused on mindset and how the brain works, it covered the Sigmund Freud belief of the three sides of the personality. The id, ego and super ego which I really got on board with after all of my inner child work. I started walking every morning, which not only helped physically but mentally as walking realises dopamine and endorphins, which lack with neurodivergence.

I have gone onto to lose 4 stone in 6 months reaching a healthy bmi, I believe my inner child work played a big part in my success as I now parent myself, I understand feelings and how to process, I prioritise self care and I find my morning ritual vital for my mental fitness. I honestly wake up excited for the day now and have so much gratitude for the privilege in my life.

I highly recommend connecting with your inner child, just 10 minutes a day could change your life.

A little about Kerry. Kerry Majchrowski is Business owner of Voodoo Nails. Her goal is to empower herself and others through running shadow workshops. Her biggest achievement is turning her health around for the benefit of her family who are another of her biggest achievement.

She loves mindfulness and meditation, yoga, early morning walks, journaling, live music and her dog. She doesn’t like talking about the weather. You can follow Kerry on Instagram: mindfulmrsmajick

AdditionalnotesfromEditor...How to Connect with Your Inner Child

Connecting with your inner child involves acknowledging and embracing this vital part of yourself. Here are some effective methods to establish this connection:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Engaging in mindfulness practices can help you access deeper parts of your psyche. Guided meditations specifically designed to connect with the inner child can be particularly effective.

Journaling: Writing letters to your inner child or maintaining a journal can facilitate communication. Expressing your feelings and thoughts in writing allows you to explore your inner child's needs and desires.

Creative Activities: Engaging in playful, creative activities such as drawing, painting, or playing games can help you reconnect with the joy and spontaneity of your inner child.

Therapy: Professional guidance from a therapist, especially those trained in inner child work, can provide a safe space to explore and heal past wounds.

Moving Forward

Nurturing your inner child is a journey of self-discovery and healing. By acknowledging and embracing this integral part of yourself, you can address past wounds, foster emotional well-being, and unleash a more authentic, joyful version of yourself. Whether through mindfulness, creative expression, or professional therapy, connecting with your inner child can lead to profound personal growth and fulfilment.

By understanding the what, how, when, and who of inner child work, you can embark on this transformative journey with clarity and purpose, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and unlocking the potential for a richer, more fulfilling life.

mindfulmrsmajick

HowTraumaPresentsItselfinthe Workplace

Trauma is an unseen burden that many carry into their professional lives, impacting their performance, relationships, and overall well-being in the workplace. Recognising the signs of trauma, understanding how trauma can be exacerbated by workplace practices, and knowing how to address it is crucial for creating a supportive and productive work environment.

How Trauma Presents Itself in the Workplace

Trauma can manifest in various ways within the workplace, often subtly influencing behaviour and interactions. Some common signs include:

Decreased Productivity and Focus:

Trauma can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory issues, and a lack of motivation, resulting in decreased productivity.

Increased Absenteeism:

Employees struggling with trauma may take more sick days or exhibit patterns of lateness as they cope with their emotional distress.

Emotional Outbursts or Withdrawal:

Unresolved trauma can cause heightened emotional responses, such as anger, frustration, or sadness. Conversely, some individuals may become withdrawn and detached.

Difficulty with Relationships:

Trauma can affect trust and communication, leading to conflicts with colleagues, difficulties in teamwork, or challenges in maintaining professional relationships.

Hypervigilance and Anxiety:

Individuals may exhibit signs of hypervigilance, always being on edge, or display high levels of anxiety, which can affect their decision-making and interactions.

Tactics That Can Make Work Life Traumatic

Certain workplace behaviours and practices can exacerbate trauma or create a traumatic work environment such as:

Micromanagement:1.

Excessive control and scrutiny over an employee's work can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.

Unrealistic Expectations: 2.

Imposing unattainable goals or excessive workloads can overwhelm employees, leading to chronic stress and burnout.

Lack of Support: 3.

Failure to provide necessary resources, feedback, or assistance can leave employees feeling isolated and undervalued.

Workplace Bullying: 4.

Verbal abuse, harassment, and intimidation by colleagues or supervisors create a hostile work environment, deeply impacting mental health.

Job Insecurity: 5.

Constant threats of job loss or sudden layoffs can install fear and anxiety, affecting overall job performance and well-being.

Lack of Recognition: 6.

Failing to acknowledge achievements and hard work can demoralise employees, making them feel unappreciated.

Inconsistent Policies: 7.

Arbitrary enforcement of rules or favouritism can create confusion and resentment, undermining trust in leadership.

How to Recognise Trauma in the Workplace

Recognising trauma in the workplace requires a keen observation of behavioural changes and emotional cues. Here are some steps to help identify trauma:

Observe Behavioural Changes: 1.

Pay attention to sudden changes in an employee’s behaviour, such as a normally punctual employee becoming consistently late, or a typically sociable person becoming isolated.

Listen to Emotional Cues: 2.

Be mindful of expressions of stress, anxiety, or frustration. Employees might openly talk about their struggles, offering clues to underlying trauma.

Encourage Open Communication: 3.

Create a safe environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their challenges without fear of judgment or repercussions.

Provide Training: 4.

Educate managers and HR on recognising the signs of trauma and how to approach employees who might be affected.

Strategies for Recovery and Support

Supporting employees who are dealing with trauma involves creating a compassionate and flexible workplace. Here are some strategies:

Promote a Trauma-Informed Workplace:

Implement policies and practices that acknowledge the presence of trauma and seek to support affected employees through understanding and empathy.

Offer Professional Support:

Provide access to mental health resources, such as counselling services or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which offer confidential support.

Foster a Supportive Environment:

Encourage peer support groups where employees can share their experiences and coping strategies in a safe and supportive setting.

Encourage Self-Care Practices:

Promote activities that support mental well-being, such as mindfulness sessions, stress management workshops, or relaxation spaces within the office.

Implement Flexible Work Options:

Offer flexible working hours, remote work possibilities, or personal leave options to help employees manage their recovery while balancing work responsibilities.

By understanding how trauma can affect employees and taking proactive steps to recognise and address it, organisations can create a healthier, more supportive workplace. This not only aids in the recovery of those affected but also encourages a culture of empathy and resilience, benefiting the entire workforce.

JargonBuster

1

Trigger: An event, situation, or stimulus that causes a person to recall or re-experience a traumatic event. Triggers can be sensory reminders such as sights, sounds, smells, or even emotions that bring back memories of the trauma.

2 PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): A mental health condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

3

Dissociation: A mental process where a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. It can occur during or after a traumatic event as a coping mechanism.

4 Hypervigilance: A state of heightened awareness and alertness to potential dangers or threats. It is common in individuals who have experienced trauma and can lead to anxiety and exhaustion.

Contributors.

Are you a professional woman who has faced and triumphed over adversity?

Have you found strength and guidance through your spiritual connections on your journey?

Have you always fancied doing some writing but not sure where to start?

We invite you to share your inspiring stories with us for our online magazine.

We are seeking contributors who can offer unique perspectives, insights, and personal experiences about navigating challenges while maintaining a strong connection to your holistic ethics.

Whether you've overcome career setbacks, and personal obstacles, or have found success by following your intuition and spiritual guidance, your story has the power to inspire and uplift others in our community.

Join us in creating a platform where the voices of resilient, spiritually-aligned women are celebrated and shared. Contact the editor at hello@wellnessmasterysociety.co.uk

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