Disability

Chronic Disability and Body Perception

“…We have to be mindful of anytime that we’re talking about embodiment, that not all bodies feel like a welcoming home to the person that is living in it.”

  • Someone’s perception of their body is very subjective
  • If they feel their body is failing them, this can cause a barrier in connection with themselves and others
  • Culturally, “normal” functioning bodies are privileged 
  • Sometimes, we hear that we should just be grateful because it’s the only body we’ve got 
  • Additionally, people with invisible disabilities may struggle because you can’t see what’s “wrong” with them 
  • Culturally, we tend to be averse to aging and breaking down 
  • The “Just World Theory” (9:51)
  • Trauma has a big impact on the body that can manifest as disorders and diseases 

Repairing Our Relationship With Our Bodies 

“Tell yourself the truth, on every level, about not only what is happening in your body, but also what are you telling yourself about the fact that it’s happening. What meaning are you making out of it? And looking at that story and asking: does this story have to be THE story?”

  • The impact of trauma can feel different to our bodies, hearts, and minds 
  • But we can bring both insight and validation to our feelings
  • It’s important to remove the shame surrounding disabilities 
  • Because shame prevents us from connecting
  • Finding a community or support group can be very validating 
  • Even on days where pain is present, have a practice of pleasure.
  • There are painful aspects in our relationships with our bodies
  • But there are also pleasurable and joyful things 
  • “Our body is not something to be fixed or perfected” (32:02)

Did you know?  After full completion of Beyond Healing Institute’s Somatic Integration and Processing training, each participant can receive 21 NBCC hours. 

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  • Not therapy capped at a certain number, but an open-ended relationship with a highly qualified therapist in the BHC network. 

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Credits 

Executive Directors: Jennifer and Ryan Savage, Melissa Bentinnedi, Bridger Falkenstein
Hosts: Jennifer Savage, Melissa Benintendi, and Bridger Falkenstein
Filmographer: Tyler Wassam
Podcast Editor: Jamie Eggert
Original Music Composers: Bridger Falkenstein and Caleb Boston
Show Notes: Jordan Murray