Transforming Trauma With Lifestyle Medicine

A common misconception is that trauma—“injury” to the mind, body, and spirit—comes only to those individuals who have experienced threats of death, sexual violence, or serious injury. The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and the widespread disruption, anxiety, and stress it has left in its wake have shown us that this is not the case; trauma is universal. Left unaddressed, trauma can have long-term physical and psychological consequences. It appears that the consequences of trauma can also be transmitted from generation to generation through modifications in the DNA of the exposed individual that alter the function of one or more genes. Meditation and other practical, evidence-based mind-body skills can reverse what has been damaged by traumatic events and long-term stress. The Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM), established in 1991, has developed a comprehensive, innovative, and evidence-based model that has been used by diverse populations to heal psychological trauma and promote resilience. Comprehensive, easily available programs of self-care and group support, such as The CMBM’s Mind-Body Skills Group Model, can ensure that children and adults everywhere have the psychological skills they need to address the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic.