BY LOUISA LOPEZ
Dr. Gabor Maté defines trauma as a psychic wound that impacts psychological growth, emphasizing that trauma is not merely what happens to you but rather what happens inside you as a result of those experiences, often beginning in childhood and potentially revealing unhealed hurts in seemingly perfect childhoods.
Identifying trauma is the first step towards healing it, as it enables a deeper understanding of its roots and offers various therapeutic approaches, including body-centered methods and trauma-informed therapies, for achieving true healing.
"Dopamine detoxing" is a term often used for resetting dopamine levels, although it's not scientifically accurate since dopamine production is ongoing; however, Dr. Andrew Huberman recommends avoiding stacking dopamine-inducing activities, taking breaks from them, and refraining from using substances like cocaine or methamphetamine to maintain a healthy dopamine response.
Dr. Maté's perspective on the mind-body connection challenges the traditional Cartesian split, while embracing practices like exercise, healthy living, saunas, and ice baths, which have demonstrated significant physical and mental well-being benefits, but it's important to consult with a doctor, especially if you have a heart condition, before trying new approaches.
Loneliness, a growing issue in modern society, can have detrimental effects on well-being and the immune system, and addressing it involves expanding your social circle, stepping out of your comfort zone to make new friends, and improving self-esteem and communication skills to foster meaningful connections.
Dr. Mia Leijssen, a psychologist and existential well-being therapist, emphasizes the importance of meaning and purpose in life, defining it as a profound sense of significance and connectedness; she suggests practical steps such as self-exploration, authenticity, nurturing relationships, setting meaningful goals, and embracing life's challenges to enhance well-being.
Seeking to enhance well-being, consider daily gratitude journaling, recognizing your strengths, engaging in small acts of kindness, appreciating the little moments, setting achievable goals, practicing positive affirmations, and finding meaningful work or hobbies as recommended by pioneers in Positive Psychology.