Discover how trauma healing works and learn practical steps for beginning your recovery journey with insights from trauma coach and author Judy M. Esteves.

As a trauma and spiritual coach, one question I'm often asked is, "Can we truly heal from trauma?" The answer is yes – and I know this not just as a coach, but as someone who has walked this path herself. Recent studies show that up to 40% of people recover from PTSD within a year with proper support and guidance. With my book "Standing in My Truth" launching tomorrow, I want to share some fundamental insights about trauma healing that every woman should know.

Understanding Trauma's Impact
The journey of healing begins with understanding. According to recent statistics, women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD, with a lifetime prevalence of 10-12% compared to 5-6% in men. This impact manifests in three key ways:

• Mental Impact: Recurring thoughts, anxiety, and hypervigilance
• Physical Response: Sleep disruption, tension, and energy depletion
• Spiritual Connection: Feeling disconnected from self and purpose

For powerful women in leadership positions, these effects can be particularly challenging, often complicated by cultural expectations and professional demands.

The First Steps of Healing

The path to recovery starts with these essential steps:

Recognition and Acknowledgment:

• Accepting that trauma's impact is real
• Understanding that seeking help is a sign of strength
• Recognizing that healing is possible

Creating Safety:

• Establishing physical and emotional boundaries
• Developing daily grounding practices
• Building a supportive environment

Building Support Systems:

• Finding qualified trauma-informed professionals
• Connecting with understanding peers
• Creating a healing-focused routine

Practical Healing Techniques

 Drawing from my military background and professional training, here are proven techniques for trauma recovery:

Breathing Exercises:

• Deep belly breathing for immediate grounding
• 4-7-8 breathing for anxiety management
• Mindful breath awareness for present-moment focus

Daily Affirmations:

• "I am safe in this moment"
• "My feelings are valid"
• "I choose my healing journey"

Energy Healing:

• Introduction to Reiki principles
• Understanding the Aroma Freedom Technique
• Connecting mind, body, and spirit

Moving Forward

The journey of healing is unique for each person, but these elements are crucial for sustainable recovery:

Setting Boundaries:

• Identifying personal limits
• Communicating needs effectively
• Maintaining healthy relationships

Rebuilding Self-Trust:

• Small daily commitments
• Celebrating progress
• Honoring personal wisdom

Creating New Narratives:

• Reframing past experiences
• Building future vision
• Embracing personal growth



Ready to start your healing journey? Join my community of powerful women embracing transformation. Book a free consultation to discuss your path to healing, and learn more about my upcoming 4-week program "Finding Yourself."