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Waking the Tiger
288 pages, 1997
Nature, it turns out, has its own lessons in healing trauma. Waking the Tiger is a new and hopeful vision of this most pervasive human malady. It views the human animal as a unique being, endowed with an instinctual capacity to heal itself.
It asks and answers this intriguing question: why are animals in the wild, though threatened routinely and by fearsome creatures, rarely traumatized? By understanding the dynamics that make wild animals virtually immune to traumatic symptoms, the mystery of human trauma is revealed.
Waking the Tiger normalizes the symptoms of trauma and even reveals steps we can take to overcome them. Traumatic experiences—sometimes nothing more than seemingly ordinary ones—can leave deep scars; but by employing a series of exercises that help us focus on bodily sensations, we can finally achieve a healing breakthrough.
In 'Waking the Tiger', Peter A. Levine explores the concept of trauma. He explains that trauma is not just a mental condition but a physical one too. It's stored in our bodies, and if not addressed, it can lead to chronic health issues. So, it's crucial to understand and address trauma to maintain overall health.
Levine draws a fascinating comparison between humans and animals in dealing with trauma. He points out that animals naturally shake off their traumatic experiences, while humans tend to suppress them. This insight can help us learn from animals and find healthier ways to cope with trauma.
The book emphasizes the importance of self-healing. Levine suggests that by tuning into our bodies and understanding our physical responses to trauma, we can start the healing process from within. It's a powerful message that encourages us to take control of our own healing journey.
One of the key concepts in 'Waking the Tiger' is Somatic Experiencing. This is a therapy method developed by Levine himself, which focuses on releasing traumatic energy stored in the body. It's a unique approach that could be a game-changer for anyone struggling with trauma.
Finally, the book empowers readers with knowledge. It's not just about understanding trauma but also about learning how to deal with it. By the end of the book, you'll have a better understanding of your body's responses and how to navigate your way towards healing.
