Do any of us know what we are saying, or are we just mimicking others?

This might come across as a stream of consciousness avalanche, but I trust that someone who reads this will connect with what they find useful.

In the digital realm of social media based communication, I stumble upon a greater and increasing amount of “experts” using the word TRAUMA. As well as other concepts about being triggered, doing shadow work, and the list goes on.

Sometimes throwing these words around completely out of context, or stretching the meaning and origin of what actually defines them. I genuinely do not believe there is any intentional harm, manipulation or foul play behind the trend, but I get concerned as to the increasing frequency of the use of terms that are given broad strokes and have (in some ways) become attention grabbing keywords.

The specific word I am addressing here is: TRAUMA

To preface, I am not an expert to the basis of diagnosing and defining a person’s mental or emotional status.

However, I have experience in working around this subject, and try to be mindful of such sensitive topics of discussion and study.

If I were to describe what trauma is to a five year old, I would say something like this:

Trauma is a very scary or upsetting experience that can cause long-term emotional harm. For example, if someone was in a car accident or saw a bad guy with a weapon, they might have trauma. Trauma can make people feel sad, scared, or confused, and they might have trouble sleeping or eating. It's important to talk to a grown-up you trust if you are experiencing trauma so they can help you feel better.

Makes sense, I hope!

Another aspect of why this subject weighed on my mind has to do with the popular trend I continue to witness on social platforms that encourage or even sometimes enforce forms of spiritual bypassing. There is a whole section on platforms like TikTok that have been dubbed WitchTok for those in the loop. I don’t have a great deal of personal experience with it, but it does exist, and there is a mixture of responses from occultists, witches, and spiritual practitioners who either praise, criticize, or even go as far as to try and cancel or gatekeep information being shared by others.

When it comes to a person’s spiritual journey, I am of the mindset that it is none of my business to tell another individual how to explore the mysteries. I do though expect others to treat traditions, folklore, and cultures with respect, and refrain from misrepresenting or appropriating. Spiritual bypassing does pop up in almost every category on social media. From Wicca to Buddhism, etc.

If you aren’t familiar with the term:

Spiritual bypassing is the use of spiritual practices and beliefs to avoid dealing with difficult emotions, social problems, or psychological wounds. It's essentially a way of using spirituality as a way to avoid facing and dealing with difficult issues in your life. Some people do this because they believe that spirituality will automatically solve their problems, or because they don't want to face the uncomfortable truths about themselves or their lives. However, this can be harmful because it prevents people from dealing with the root causes of their problems and can lead to further emotional pain and suffering.

I am not saying that a spiritual practice or personal relationship with the theology of your choice is invalid.

However, what I am trying to convey is that one screwdriver in your tool belt cannot build you a new house.

You still have your physical, mental/emotional systems that deserve being explored, refined, and healed. Without a healthy balance of these interconnected parts of you working together you are more likely to run into a variety of chaotic experiences.

But, what do I really know? Again, this is just my interpretation and viewpoint after all. Take what you will.

Here’s a list of some tips I have picked up over the years when diving headfirst toward my own trauma(s).

• If or When you are experiencing trauma, it's important to seek professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor. They can provide you with the support and guidance you need to work through your trauma and begin the healing process.

• One effective way to release trauma from your body is through a practice called somatic experiencing. This involves using your body's natural responses to stress and trauma to release tension and restore balance. A trained therapist can guide you through this process and help you learn techniques to regulate your body's responses to trauma.

• Professional massage therapists I have known in my own life have shared similar stories about how clients they worked with burst into tears or have intense emotional reactions while their muscle tissues are being manipulated. This is apparently a normal occurrence for some individuals, and can really release stored emotions or memories they might not have been aware of. I recommend the book called “The Body Keeps The Score” by, Bessel van der Kolk.

• Another way to release trauma from your body is through physical activities and exercises. Engaging in regular physical activity can help to reduce stress and improve your overall physical and emotional well-being. This can include activities like yoga, dancing, or even just taking a walk outside.

• Mindfulness and meditation can also be helpful in releasing trauma from your body. These practices can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings and can provide a sense of calm and relaxation. You can try a variety of meditation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or body scanning, to help release tension and promote healing.

• Finally, it's important to take care of yourself and practice self-compassion. This can include taking time for yourself to relax and recharge, engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and reaching out to supportive friends and family members for emotional support. Or finding groups or community circles that share a commonality. Remember too, that virtual meetings can be an optional substitute if necessary.

There are most certainly other paths that I may have missed, but they exist for you.

Magical Creatures,

any type of healing from trauma takes time, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself as you work through it. Seeking professional help can be an important step in this process, and it can provide you with the tools and support you need to begin the journey of healing.

I hope for the highest good to come from your situation.

May the spirits guide you, protect you, and keep you.

Oh, and don’t be a piece of sh*t.

- ZTW 2022