Unlocking Whole Health: Addressing Emotions and Stored Traumas Through Functional Medicine and Holistic Health
In functional medicine and holistic health, we embrace the truth that the body, mind, and soul are intricately connected. Symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, headaches,or even digestive issues often stem from more than physical imbalances—they can be expressions of unresolved emotions and stored traumas. As Dee Davidson, FDN-P, reminds her clients:
"You can't trick the body. It will always communicate its needs; it's up to us to listen."
The Body Speaks: Symptoms as Signals
Dr. Gabor Maté, in his groundbreaking book When the Body Says No, emphasizes:
"The body’s manifestations are often direct reflections of emotional experiences."
Similarly, The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk highlights how trauma is stored in the body and can express itself through physical symptoms, such as:
Chronic pain
Digestive issues (e.g., IBS, bloating)
Migraines or frequent headaches
Autoimmune diseases
Persistent fatigue or insomnia
In The Emotion Code by Dr. Bradley Nelson, he states:
"Trapped emotions are like balls of energy that become stuck in the body, distorting tissues and interfering with normal function."
These imbalances disrupt harmony within the body and can even lead to diseases if left unresolved.
Examples of Emotional Manifestation
Chronic Shoulder Tension: Often associated with carrying emotional burdens or the “weight of the world.”
Gut Issues: Commonly tied to unresolved anxiety or a "gut feeling" ignored.
Lower Back Pain: Linked to financial stress or lack of support.
Thyroid Symptoms: Frequently connected to struggles with self-expression or feeling silenced.
The Path to True Healing
Healing isn’t just about addressing physical symptoms; it requires a holistic approach that incorporates the mind and soul. Functional medicine practitioners like Dee Davidson, FDN-P, focus on identifying hidden stressors, vital voids, and restoring balance to the whole person.
As Dr. Maté shares:
"The essence of trauma is disconnection from the self. And the healing must include reconnecting with ourselves."
10 Tips to Gently Release Stored Emotions
Releasing emotions and trauma doesn’t happen overnight, but small daily shifts can create profound changes over time.
Breathwork: Incorporate 5-10 minutes of deep, intentional breathing daily to calm your nervous system.
Journaling: Write freely about your emotions without judgment. Start with prompts like, “What am I holding onto today?”
Movement: Gentle yoga, tai chi, or even a 10-minute walk can help release stored tension.
Grounding Exercises: Spend time barefoot in nature or practice mindfulness techniques to reconnect with your body.
Therapy or Counseling: Work with a professional trained in somatic therapy or trauma-informed care.
Energy Healing: Modalities like Reiki or acupuncture can help release blocked energy.
Castor Oil Packs: These promote relaxation and detoxification while supporting physical and emotional healing.
Affirmations: Speak kind words to yourself daily. Example: “I am safe, I am whole, I am healing.”
Creative Expression: Engage in art, music, or dance to channel emotions constructively.
Connection: Share your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or support group.
Embracing the Journey
Healing isn’t linear. It’s a process of understanding, releasing, and growing. By addressing stored traumas, acknowledging emotions, and supporting the body, mind, and soul, you can pave the way for transformative change.
As The Body Keeps the Score reminds us:
"Trauma leaves the body when it is processed, not ignored."
If you’re ready to explore how your emotions may be influencing your health, reach out to Dee Davidson, FDN-P. With functional lab testing, personalized protocols, and compassionate support, Dee can help you uncover root imbalances and guide you toward whole health.
Every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to balance. Begin today with one intentional action, and trust that healing is possible when you address the whole self—mind, body, and soul.
Dee Davidson is a Functional Health Practitioner, hormone health expert, and advocate for personalized health and integrative care. With a focus on functional health and functional nutrition, Dee provides bio-individualized solutions to help clients restore balance. To learn more about how functional lab testing, functional medicine, and a holistic health approach can support your wellness journey, listen to her Confidently Balance Your Hormones podcast or schedule a discovery call at ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com.