Did You Grow Up Or Shrink Down? Childhood Trauma: Deep Dive
by Ana Mael
Childhood Trauma, Covert Abuse & Somatic Signs No witness → no words. Children in covertly abusive homes lack mirroring and language, so adult grief becomes “grief without an event.” Authenticity loss. Repeated micro-betrayals teach the child: My truth is unsafe. Adult self-alienation follows (imposter feelings around family, dread of holidays, authority-triggered shrinking). Somatic (body) lens Body keeps the score in real time. On the “walk back home”: heavy legs (freeze/immobilization), compressed chest (bracing), collapsed posture (shame), shallow breath (threat). These are neurophysiological cues of shutdown or hyperarousal. Postural collapse ≠ weakness; it’s strategy. Disclaimer: This track contains sensitive and potentially triggering content, including references to trauma, PTSD, abuse, war. Please listen at your own pace. If you find this material distressing, consider pausing the track and seeking support from a trusted resources.
