When we think of sexual trauma, we often think of the most extreme violations—sexual assault, rape, sexual humiliation, or degradation. But sexual trauma for the body isn't always so obvious. It can manifest in more subtle and insidious ways, including:

• Someone ignoring your desires.

• Not staying true to your own heart’s desires.

• Acting on limiting beliefs around love and intimacy.

These experiences, while less visible, are still deeply impactful. They can leave us feeling disconnected from our bodies and truths, altering our relationship with pleasure, love, and sexuality.

The Body's Response to Sexual Trauma

As a result of sexual trauma, our bodies can shut down to pleasure, feel numb, or become overwhelmed by feelings of guilt, shame, and fear. We might find ourselves developing unhealthy desires or beliefs around love and sexuality, acting in ways that are not in alignment with our authentic selves. This disconnection from our bodies and our true desires can create a cycle of pain and confusion, further distancing us from our own sense of wholeness.

Reconnecting with Your Body

Healing from sexual trauma is a journey, one that requires patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to reconnecting with your body and its inherent wisdom. Here are five essential steps to begin this process:

1. Acknowledge

The first step is to acknowledge that things have happened in your life that were not in alignment with your true desires. This isn't about "playing the victim" or diminishing your strength; it's about recognizing and validating your experiences. Acknowledging your truth is the foundation of healing. It means giving yourself permission to feel, to remember, and to face the facts of what you experienced.

2. Create Safety

Healing cannot happen without safety. Find support in spaces where you feel secure, whether that's with a therapist, a support group, or trusted friends. It's important to remember that you cannot heal in a place where you do not feel safe. Be open to receiving support, and do not fall into the false belief that seeking help makes you "weak." Your willingness to seek safety and support is an act of courage and strength.

3. Release

Sexual trauma often brings with it a great deal of suppressed emotions—fear, anger, sadness, and confusion. These emotions can become trapped in your nervous system, causing physical and emotional pain. The goal is to release these emotions so that they no longer hold power over you. While the memories may remain, the emotional triggers can fade. Practices such as somatic therapy, breathwork, movement, or creative expression can help release the emotional energy stored in your body.

4. Forgive

Forgiveness is often the hardest part of healing, but it naturally unfolds as you release the trauma from your body in a safe space. Forgiveness is not about condoning what happened or forgetting it; it's about freeing yourself from the heavy burden of resentment and anger. To move forward, you need to forgive both yourself and others. Understand that forgiveness is a gift you give yourself—a way to reclaim your peace and power.

5. Grow

Even the most painful situations offer powerful lessons. Growth is about transforming pain into positive change, using your experiences to shape a more conscious, empowered future. You have the choice to either live in the past or use it as a catalyst for growth and transformation. This final phase is about recognizing your strength, celebrating your resilience, and choosing to live a life that honors your truth.

Moving Forward with Compassion and Courage

Healing from sexual trauma is not a linear journey; it is a spiral path that may take you back to familiar places, but always with deeper understanding and compassion for yourself. Remember, healing is a deeply personal journey that unfolds in its own time. Be patient with yourself, honor your experiences, and trust that every step you take is moving you closer to reclaiming your body, your pleasure, and your power.

You deserve to live fully in your truth, connected to your body, and open to the limitless possibilities of love and joy. If you're looking for support in your journey, let's connect.❤️