Peter A Levine, PhD on Shame - Interview by Caryn Scotto D'Luzia

Peter A. Levine・2 minutes read

Shame, linked to physiological responses similar to trauma, can be externalized and resolved by returning it to its source like a teacher or parent. Therapy sessions shifting into the blame game may hinder progress by projecting negative feelings onto the therapist instead of addressing them internally.

Insights

  • Shame, as described by Stephen Porges, can overwhelm higher cognitive functions and lead to physiological responses similar to trauma, underscoring its significant impact on individuals' well-being.
  • The process of externalizing shame by returning it to its source, like a teacher or parent, can aid in resolving this emotion, suggesting a practical approach to addressing and overcoming feelings of shame in therapeutic settings.

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Recent questions

  • What is the relationship between shame and disgust?

    Shame and disgust are closely linked, with disgust serving as a way to externalize shame and protect against internalizing it.

  • How can shame be resolved in therapy sessions?

    Shame can be resolved in therapy sessions by returning it to its source, such as a teacher or parent, to help externalize and address the underlying issues.

  • How can movement practices aid trauma survivors?

    Movement practices like yoga and dance can help trauma survivors reconnect with their authentic selves through inner movement awareness.

  • What role does proprioception play in healing trauma?

    Proprioception, linked to healing trauma, can be utilized in therapy to help clients move out of shame postures and into healthier physiological states.

  • How can mindfulness help in addressing trauma and shame?

    Mindfulness, or "embodiment," is crucial in addressing trauma and shame, requiring more than just awareness but also active shifts in mindset.

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Summary

00:00

Exploring Shame and Healing Trauma Through Movement

  • Karen Scott, a somatic therapist and author, speaks with Peter Levine, a pioneer in somatic therapy and founder of somatic experiencing.
  • Shame is defined by Stephen Porges as a parasympathetic response that can overwhelm higher cortical function.
  • Shame can manifest as agitated or collapsed states, with chronic shame leading to similar physiological responses as trauma.
  • Disgust is linked to shame, with disgust serving as a way to externalize shame and protect against internalizing it.
  • Returning shame to its source, such as a teacher or parent, can help in externalizing and resolving shame.
  • The blame game in therapy sessions can indicate a shift from positive progress to externalizing negative feelings onto the therapist.
  • Base shame, related to attachment wounding, can be addressed by accessing playfulness and spontaneity.
  • Proprioception, linked to healing trauma, can be utilized in therapy to help clients move out of shame postures and into healthier physiological states.
  • Movement practices like yoga and dance can help trauma survivors reconnect with their authentic selves through inner movement awareness.
  • Inner movement in therapy involves exploring the origins and sensations of gestures and movements, rather than simply exaggerating them for catharsis.

19:51

Inner movements and energy: overcoming shame sustainably.

  • Authentic movement and somatic experiencing focus on inner movements and energy wells within individuals.
  • Progressing from a contracted state like shame to pride should occur gradually to be sustainable energetically.
  • The nervous system can only absorb one new concept at a time to prevent interference.
  • Shame often arises in military contexts due to perceived inability to protect oneself and others, leading to a sense of helplessness.
  • Neurofeedback technology is valuable for creating new neural pathways, particularly in cases like ADHD.
  • Mindfulness, or "embodiment," is crucial in addressing trauma and shame, requiring more than just awareness but also active shifts in mindset.
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