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SAFETY IS ESSENTIAL FOR HEALING

In order to process and integrate our sexual trauma stories, we need to feel safe. Writing about sexual trauma is very difficult and overwhelming and requires support and compassion from self and from others. If you find the writing prompts in this workshop too difficult, it is okay to take a break and come back later. It is also okay to stop. Caring for yourself compassionately is essential.

Safety Resources: Text

SELF-COMPASSION

One way we can bring healing to our sexual trauma stories is to bring compassion and understanding to our experience. It can be challenging to be loving to ourselves because trauma often produces shame, and shame is the feeling that there is something wrong with us. It can help to imagine a friend or loved one who has a difficult story to share, how would you respond to this friend or loved one as they explored and shared their story with you? How would you show support and compassion? What would this friend or loved one need to hear to feel safe and understood? Try to bring this same understanding and compassion to yourself and your own story.

Dr. Kristen Neff is a leading authority on the benefits of self-compassion. She has developed helpful meditations and practices to help individuals develop more self-compassion in their lives. Click on the link below to visit her website and learn more.

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SAFETY RESOURCES

THE BUTTERFLY HUG

This a video of a grounding exercise where you use alternating shoulder taps or knee taps and deep breathing to calm the nervous system.
By The Younique Foundation

PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION

This is a video of a guided meditation where you will be asked to tighten and relax your muscles, starting with your face and moving through the rest of your body. 
By Janine Halloran

SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE

This is a link to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline Live Chart, where you can talk with a counselor for emotional support or other services. The Lifeline phone number is
1-800-273-8255

Safety Resources: List

GETTING SUPPORT

This workshop is not meant to replace the support that comes from a licensed, trauma-informed therapist or medical provider. The exercises in this workshop could bring up triggers and intense emotions. Please seek the support you need to navigate this workshop in a safe and gentle way. 
You can search for local resources and support here:

Safety Resources: Image

RECLAIMING VOICE WORKSHOP WRITING EXERCISES

Safety Resources: Text
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