Trauma affects us deeply, shaping not only our emotional experiences but also how our bodies and minds respond to the world around us. One way this happens is through the concept of activation energy. Activation energy refers to the heightened state of readiness or arousal that trauma imprints on our nervous system. This lingering energy, while protective in moments of danger, can become trapped, creating challenges long after the traumatic event has passed.
Understanding Activation Energy
When a traumatic event occurs, the body instinctively enters a fight, flight, or freeze response. This reaction is meant to help us survive by mobilizing all available energy toward dealing with the threat. Heart rates spike, breathing quickens, and muscles tense, ready for action.
In many cases, once the danger has passed, the body naturally returns to a state of calm. However, when trauma is unresolved, this energy can remain "stuck." It’s as if the body continues to hold onto that readiness for survival, even when there’s no immediate threat. This lingering activation can manifest in the form of anxiety, hypervigilance, or chronic stress.
Where Is Activation Energy Held?
Trauma doesn’t just live in our memories—it’s held in the body. Research shows that traumatic energy is often stored in the nervous system and muscles. Tight shoulders, clenched jaws, or an unrelenting sense of restlessness might all be signs of this stored activation energy.
For some, this energy can feel like a heavy weight in the chest or a constant fluttering in the stomach. Others might experience it as an inability to relax or a feeling of always being "on edge." These sensations are the body’s way of signaling that it hasn’t yet released the energy from the trauma.
The Role of the Nervous System
Our nervous system plays a central role in how activation energy is held. Trauma often disrupts the balance between the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for arousal) and the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for relaxation). In a healthy state, these systems work together to help us respond to stress and recover.
However, trauma can cause the sympathetic nervous system to remain overactive. This creates a constant state of hyperarousal, where the body feels like it’s perpetually bracing for impact. Over time, this imbalance can take a toll, leading to issues such as chronic fatigue, digestive problems, or even autoimmune conditions.
The Emotional Weight of Activation Energy
Emotionally, activation energy can feel like a constant undercurrent of unease. Even in moments of safety or joy, there might be a sense of waiting for the other shoe to drop. This happens because trauma alters the way the brain perceives danger.
The amygdala, which is responsible for processing threats, becomes hypersensitive after trauma. This heightened sensitivity means that even small stressors can trigger an exaggerated response. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or to react strongly to situations that others might find minor. This isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s the body’s way of trying to protect itself.
How Activation Energy Impacts Daily Life
When activation energy is held in the body, it can influence nearly every aspect of daily life. Relationships might feel strained because it’s difficult to trust or feel safe. Sleep might be elusive, as the body struggles to shift out of alert mode. Even moments of relaxation can feel uncomfortable, as the mind races with "what-ifs."
For some, this stored energy can lead to patterns of avoidance. Certain places, people, or situations may feel triggering, leading to a shrinking of the world around them. Over time, this can create a cycle of isolation, where the unresolved trauma continues to hold power.
Releasing Activation Energy
Releasing activation energy begins with creating safety—both physically and emotionally. Practices like deep breathing, grounding exercises, or gentle movement can help signal to the nervous system that it’s okay to relax. These techniques work by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps counteract the hyperarousal caused by trauma.
Therapeutic approaches like somatic experiencing or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are also highly effective in addressing stored trauma. These methods focus on helping the body process and release the energy held within, rather than simply talking about the experience.
For example, somatic experiencing involves tuning into the body’s sensations and allowing the energy to discharge naturally. This might look like noticing a tightness in the chest and allowing it to soften through intentional focus. EMDR, on the other hand, uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge.
The Importance of Professional Support
Most people find that healing from trauma is almost impossible to do alone. A trauma therapist can provide the tools, guidance, and support needed to begin to heal and recover from the trauma you’ve been through. They can help create a safe space for exploring and releasing activation energy in a way that feels manageable.
Therapy also helps address the root causes of trauma, rather than just its symptoms. This can lead to deeper healing, greater self-awareness, and a renewed sense of empowerment. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming control over your life.
Self-Compassion in the Healing Process
One of the most important aspects of healing is practicing self-compassion. Trauma can leave behind feelings of shame or self-blame, but it’s crucial to remember that your responses are not your fault. The body and mind are doing their best to protect you, even if those responses no longer serve you.
Give yourself permission to move at your own pace. Healing is not linear, and it’s okay to have setbacks. Celebrate the small victories—whether it’s noticing when your shoulders relax or feeling a moment of peace. These are signs that your body is learning to release the activation energy it’s been holding.
Building a Foundation for Resilience
As the body begins to release stored trauma, resilience grows. This doesn’t mean the past is forgotten, but rather that its grip loosens. You might find yourself better able to handle stress, connect with others, or feel present in the moment.
Incorporating practices like mindfulness, yoga, or creative expression can further support this process. These activities help rebuild the connection between mind and body, fostering a sense of wholeness. Over time, the nervous system learns that it’s safe to let go of the activation energy and embrace a calmer state.
A Journey Toward Freedom
The energy caused by trauma doesn’t have to stay stuck forever. With the right tools, support, and patience, it’s possible to release this energy and move toward a life of greater peace. Whether through therapy, self-care practices, or simply taking small steps each day, healing is within reach.
Releasing activation energy is not about erasing the past—it’s about transforming it. It’s about reclaiming your power and creating a future where you feel safe, grounded, and free. And most importantly, it’s about knowing that you deserve this healing, every step of the way.
If you’re ready to let go of the activation energy of trauma you have experienced, reach out to the expert trauma therapists at Therapy Cincinnati. We specialize in helping people heal from trauma, and we utilize cutting edge types of therapy, such as EMDR, Somatic therapy, and parts work/IFS.