
16. Transforming Trauma: How to Process and Integrate Painful Experiences
05/14/23 • 48 min
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this Episode Dr. Eleni Toumarides unravels the intricacies of trauma and its profound impact on our brain, body, and nervous system. She discusses how trauma disrupts our sense of self, safety, and trust and reveals how to better understand and support those who have experienced it.
Dr. Eleni Toumarides, reveals the varying reactions to trauma as one embarks on a journey through the healing process; emphasizing the importance of sitting with discomfort and pain as being part of the healing process.
By tuning in you can gain valuable insights about how noticing triggers can be the first step in helping identify and process the trauma which is stored in the body.
In the episode we explore the importance of attending to and respecting all parts of ourselves, including the difficult ones, as we discuss trauma's ability to undermine our basic human needs.
Finally, the conversation reveals effective self-care strategies for healing and processing of traumatic experiences. You will learn about the power of affirmations and mantras for emotional regulation, and the importance of creating a personalized self-care plan that truly works for you.
By understanding and managing trauma reactions, we can foster resilience and integration, ultimately becoming our best selves.
Don't miss this enlightening and transformative conversation!
HIGHLIGHTS
0:01:34 - Understanding Trauma (74 Seconds)
0:09:29 - The Journey of Healing and Pain (105 Seconds)
0:18:08 - Repetitive Work for Emotional Needs (58 Seconds)
0:20:57 - Self-Care Strategies and Triggers (92 Seconds)
0:28:23 - Creating Believable Change With Affirmations (62 Seconds)
0:35:02 - Understanding Trauma's Impact (165 Seconds)
0:40:39 - Trauma Responses and Behaviors (123 Seconds)
''The world breaks everyone, and afterward many are strong at the broken places.''
Ernest Hemingway
You can find out more About Dr. Elena Toumarides' work at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleni-toumarides-phd-lcsw-58560247/
Dr. Eleni Toumarides' reading recommendations around the topic.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23546925-it-s-not-you-it-s-what-happened-to-you
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693771-the-body-keeps-the-score
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12987966-the-trauma-tool-kit
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30649235-loveable
Get in touch at: [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/midweekinsights/?
The information provided in Midweek Insights is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Listeners should seek professional advice relevant to their specific circumstances before making any decisions.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the dynamic nature of certain topics may result in changes or updates. Midweek Insights does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of information discussed in the episodes.
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this Episode Dr. Eleni Toumarides unravels the intricacies of trauma and its profound impact on our brain, body, and nervous system. She discusses how trauma disrupts our sense of self, safety, and trust and reveals how to better understand and support those who have experienced it.
Dr. Eleni Toumarides, reveals the varying reactions to trauma as one embarks on a journey through the healing process; emphasizing the importance of sitting with discomfort and pain as being part of the healing process.
By tuning in you can gain valuable insights about how noticing triggers can be the first step in helping identify and process the trauma which is stored in the body.
In the episode we explore the importance of attending to and respecting all parts of ourselves, including the difficult ones, as we discuss trauma's ability to undermine our basic human needs.
Finally, the conversation reveals effective self-care strategies for healing and processing of traumatic experiences. You will learn about the power of affirmations and mantras for emotional regulation, and the importance of creating a personalized self-care plan that truly works for you.
By understanding and managing trauma reactions, we can foster resilience and integration, ultimately becoming our best selves.
Don't miss this enlightening and transformative conversation!
HIGHLIGHTS
0:01:34 - Understanding Trauma (74 Seconds)
0:09:29 - The Journey of Healing and Pain (105 Seconds)
0:18:08 - Repetitive Work for Emotional Needs (58 Seconds)
0:20:57 - Self-Care Strategies and Triggers (92 Seconds)
0:28:23 - Creating Believable Change With Affirmations (62 Seconds)
0:35:02 - Understanding Trauma's Impact (165 Seconds)
0:40:39 - Trauma Responses and Behaviors (123 Seconds)
''The world breaks everyone, and afterward many are strong at the broken places.''
Ernest Hemingway
You can find out more About Dr. Elena Toumarides' work at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleni-toumarides-phd-lcsw-58560247/
Dr. Eleni Toumarides' reading recommendations around the topic.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23546925-it-s-not-you-it-s-what-happened-to-you
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693771-the-body-keeps-the-score
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12987966-the-trauma-tool-kit
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30649235-loveable
Get in touch at: [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/midweekinsights/?
The information provided in Midweek Insights is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Listeners should seek professional advice relevant to their specific circumstances before making any decisions.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the dynamic nature of certain topics may result in changes or updates. Midweek Insights does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of information discussed in the episodes.
Previous Episode

15. Transforming Toxic Work Cultures: Finding Joy, Purpose, and Empowerment in Your Career
Feeling drained and disillusioned by the toxicity of the work culture which she was immersed in, it seemed that joy and purpose were simply unattainable for Maria Pouroullis Carpenter. That's when she began her journey of becoming a fearless leader on a quest to transform work environments and help others find fulfillment in their careers. Her journey as a business strategist and leadership mentor is truly inspiring, and in this episode, we dive deep into her story and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.
Maria candidly shares her personal experiences navigating toxic work environments, and how she's managed to create a healthier, more fulfilling work life for herself and her clients.
In our chat we explore the importance of leading with self, leading with clarity, and leading others in revolutionizing the way we approach our work environment. Additionally, we discuss the concept of choosing joy in work and how a perspective shift can create a more adventurous and joyful life.
Finally, we delve into the power of empowerment and mindset shifts for both our personal and professional lives. Maria shares her experiences with cold plunging in the Cape Town ocean, as a way to prove to her mind she can do hard things and to receive the benefits of nervous system regulation.
This episode left me feeling inspired to embrace self-reflection, courage, and an authentic approach to taking on new challenges.
Chapter Summary:
(0:00:01) - Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Work
(0:03:53) - Entrepreneurial Journey and Family Expectations
(0:13:46) - From Hunting Safaris to Leadership Consulting
(0:17:55) - Navigating Toxic Work Culture
(0:22:40) - Changing a Toxic Work Environment
(0:32:39) - Revolutionizing Toxic Work Environments
(0:42:35) - Choose Joy in Work Perspective Shift
(0:55:08) - Empowerment and Mindset Shifts
(0:58:56) - Appreciation for Authenticity
To connect and find out more check out the links below:
https://www.mariapcarpenter.com/fearlessfemale
https://www.instagram.com/mariapcarpenter/
Get in touch at: [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/midweekinsights/?
The information provided in Midweek Insights is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Listeners should seek professional advice relevant to their specific circumstances before making any decisions.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the dynamic nature of certain topics may result in changes or updates. Midweek Insights does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of information discussed in the episodes.
Next Episode

17. Reflections
I almost let fear and resistance stop me from starting this podcast, but thankfully, with the support of my mentor and my interest in personal development and growth, I pushed past the discomfort and launched it. Now, after 16 episodes, I'm incredibly grateful for the amazing conversations I've had and the connections with friends and guests that have come from it.
In today's episode, I reflect on my journey and share the power of genuine conversations and curious exploration in our lives. I encourage you to check out the range of topics covered in previous episodes and invite you to reach out with feedback, suggestions, or even your own interest in being a guest.
Stay curious, take action, and find joy in the little things along the way.
See you next time!
Get in touch at: [email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/midweekinsights/?
The information provided in Midweek Insights is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Listeners should seek professional advice relevant to their specific circumstances before making any decisions.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the dynamic nature of certain topics may result in changes or updates. Midweek Insights does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of information discussed in the episodes.
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