ABSTRACT
Traumatic experiences affect all aspects of mind and body function. A paradigm of trauma, based on the disruption of rhythmic processes, enables the practitioner and client to identify and understand affective distress and behavior cycles to engage in effective, holistic trauma self-regulation strategies. Understanding the psychobiology and physiology of the stress response informs appropriate treatment choices. Anxiety and hyperventilation are hallmarks of traumatic stress. Yoga exercises and pranayama for PTSD help reestablish control over autonomic function, and special exercises help clients reestablish a rhythm to their mind and bodily functions. Gaining control over automatic processes that contribute to their feeling out of control is a core component of integrative medicine for trauma. Acupuncture and moxibustion help many trauma symptoms like cutting, self-mutilation, and self-harm. Integrative medicine for mental health and traumatic stress incorporates the heart, mind, and body to reestablish coherence and the rhythms of life.
