Summer brings a much-needed pause for many of us. It’s a break from packed schedules, school stress, and the constant buzz of responsibilities. Families are taking vacations, kids are out of school, and there’s finally space to breathe.
But here’s the thing: even when life slows down, our brains don’t always follow.
At Trauma Healing NW, we know that truly resting – mentally, emotionally, and physically – often takes more than time off. It requires intention, nervous system support, and sometimes, therapeutic care to help the mind actually unplug and be in the moment.
Why It’s Hard to “Just Relax”
If you’ve ever been on vacation but still felt anxious, distracted, or irritable, you’re not alone. For many people (especially those carrying chronic stress or trauma) the nervous system remains on high alert, even in peaceful settings.
Signs your brain might still be “on”:
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Constant overthinking or racing thoughts
- Feeling edgy, impatient, or emotionally flat
- Difficulty being present with loved ones
- Persistent physical tension or fatigue
These aren’t just bad habits – they’re signs your nervous system might need support.
Simple Ways to Support Presence
Before jumping into therapeutic tools, here are a few simple ways to start re-centering your mind and body this summer:
- Slow down your routines: Give yourself permission to move slower, talk slower, and breathe slower.
- Create screen-free zones: Step away from the digital noise to reconnect with nature or family.
- Practice sensory grounding: Focus on what you see, hear, feel, or smell around you – a beach, a breeze, a quiet evening.
- Make time for unstructured rest: Not everything has to be productive. Let quiet moments be just quiet.
And if being present still feels out of reach, that’s where professional support can help.
Therapeutic Tools to Help Your Brain Unplug
At Trauma Healing NW, we offer therapies that go above and beyond, addressing the brain, body, and emotional memory systems directly to help reset and regulate your inner world.
Neurofeedback: Recalibrate Your Brainwaves
Neurofeedback is a powerful way to help your brain return to a state of calm and focus. It uses real-time brainwave feedback to train your nervous system toward better self-regulation.
Common reports include:
- Better sleep and mood
- Reduced anxiety
- Increased sense of calm and clarity
- Improved ability to stay present
It’s especially helpful for kids and teens during the summer, when they’re not under the constant pressure of school.
EMDR: Clear Emotional Clutter
If you’re finding that old memories, emotional patterns, or intrusive thoughts are keeping you from being in the moment, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help process and release those deeper blocks.
By working with your brain’s natural healing mechanisms, EMDR helps create emotional spaciousness so your present isn’t always hijacked by the past.
Exposure Therapy: Rebuild Comfort with the Here and Now
For people who’ve learned to avoid emotions, sensations, or situations due to anxiety or trauma, exposure therapy can gently reintroduce safety and trust in the present moment.
Over time, this approach reduces avoidance behaviors and helps clients feel more confident and connected in their everyday lives.
Use the Season for Healing
Summer offers a unique opportunity to reset – not just physically, but emotionally. It’s a time when routines shift, families reconnect, and space opens up for healing.
If you or your child has been struggling with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, or trauma responses, this quieter season can be the perfect time to start (or deepen) your healing journey.
Get Started Today
Whether you’re looking for support in being more present, calming your nervous system, or processing what’s getting in the way of rest, we’re here to help.
Healing your brain helps you experience your life more fully. And summer is a great place to begin. Reach out today to find out how our services can help you.