Dr. Gabor Maté on COVID-19 & Trauma Response
The other day I had a full on day parenting. I found myself really needing to hermit and unwind after Ori went to sleep. As an HSP mama routine alone time is so important for me. I basically cannot function or interact with people if I am lacking in alone and quiet downtime…unless you want the El Groucho version of me…not fun.
Last night after Ori went to sleep, Joris came home and we had dinner, I went into a darkened bedroom, accompanied with a slice of low carb chocolate cake I made for a play date that afternoon, and a cup of steaming hot rooibos. I curled up with an Instagram live of Dr. Gabor Maté and his daughter Hannah Maté on COVID-19 and trauma responses.
I think you all know by now that I deeply respect his work and am a total fan girl of Dr. Maté’s!
And, yes, this is my idea of a fun Friday night!) #HSPlife #projectormama
There are so many strong opinions and reactions out there on so much that is COVID-19 related these days: Mask wearing, the vaccine debate, COVID-19 exists, it doesn’t exist, conspiracy theories, etc. I really appreciated how Dr. Maté framed the context of these strong reactions we see from ourselves, and see with others, as indeed responses rooted in childhood trauma.
I loved what Dr. Maté and Hannah discussed in this live. I found it very succinct and very profound—and something key to remember when we find ourselves engaged or amidst a heated debate.
So, how do we reflect on our own trauma and hold space for others?
This was Dr. Mate’s response:
Forgot your opinions. Forget what you think.
Check in with your body.
What are the emotions you’re experiencing?
That’s where your trauma is.
It’s not always about what we think…it’s about the trauma that’s being triggered in us.
I hope they do another Instagram live soon. I really enjoyed it. You can watch it here:
Much love,
Lia