Building Bridges of Empathy: Step 9 of the NLP-Powered Journey – Greetings, fellow seekers of self-discovery and personal growth. As we continue our odyssey through transformation, we find ourselves at Step 9 of our 12-step program: “Building Bridges of Empathy.” In this pivotal stage of our journey, we delve into the profound realm of empathy and connection. Utilizing the potent tools of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to foster understanding and compassion within ourselves and toward others.
For those who have served in the military, the transition back to civilian life can be fraught with challenges, especially when dealing with the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this article, we’ll explore how NLP techniques can help bridge the gap of empathy and understanding, offering solace and support to those who have or are serving as we all grapple with the struggles of PTSD.
As I have coached with my clients and groups, my mindset has changed on the term PTSD. Short and quick, “Post Traumatic.” After we experience intense moments, we are all different human beings; each moment is unique to us. Now, “Stress Disorder,” instead of a label, take it literally. You respond to those moments in the wrong (Dis) order or sequence. Even more, what if you changed the entire term PTSD in your mindset to PTG? Post Traumatic Growth.
You’ve heard the saying, “What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.” I encourage you to visit the fantastic resource center for this at BoulderCrest.org. I have had the opportunity to meet and talk with the founder, former Navy EOD specialist SEAL Ken Falke; his research and support teams are incredible.
Understanding the Pain Points of PTSD
Before we dive into the NLP techniques, it’s essential to acknowledge the struggles that many ex-military personnel experience as they navigate life with PTSD.
These may include:
- Flashbacks and Nightmares: Vivid recollections of traumatic events can intrude upon daily life, causing distressing flashbacks and nightmares.
- Hypervigilance: Constantly being on high alert, always scanning for potential threats, can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
- Emotional Numbing: Difficulty experiencing or expressing emotions, feeling detached from loved ones, and a sense of emotional numbness are common symptoms of PTSD.
- Avoidance: When we actively avoid situations, places, or people that trigger memories of the trauma, which can lead to social isolation and withdrawal.
- Hyperarousal: Experiencing exaggerated startle responses, irritability, and difficulty sleeping due to heightened arousal levels.
Understanding these struggles is crucial in offering empathy and support to those affected by PTSD.
1. Submodality Shift: Rewriting Traumatic Memories
Submodality Shift is an NLP technique that involves modifying the sensory qualities of traumatic memories, thereby diminishing their emotional impact and providing relief from distressing symptoms.
- Identify Traumatic Memory: Start by pinpointing a specific traumatic memory that continues to cause distress.
- Alter Submodalities: Examine the sensory qualities of the memory—such as its brightness, size, distance, and associated sounds—and intentionally modify them. For example, dimming the brightness, shrinking the size, or moving the memory further away can reduce its intensity.
- Introduce Positive Elements: Incorporate positive elements into the modified memory, such as a sense of safety, support, or empowerment. Visualize these positive aspects overlaying the altered memory.
- Reframe Perception: Encourage the individual to revisit the modified memory and notice how the changes in submodalities and the introduction of positive elements alter their emotional response.
With repeated practice, the memory loses its emotional charge, allowing for greater emotional regulation and healing. Through the Submodality Shift, individuals can reclaim agency over their traumatic memories, facilitating a sense of empowerment and emotional resilience.
2. Future Pacing: Cultivating Hope and Resilience
Future Pacing is an NLP technique that involves mentally rehearsing positive outcomes. It fosters hope, resilience, and a sense of agency over one’s future.
- Identify Desired Outcome: Encourage individuals to envision an optimistic future scenario in which they have overcome the challenges of PTSD and are leading fulfilling lives.
- Engage the Senses: Guide them to vividly imagine this future scenario, engaging all their senses to create a multisensory experience. Please encourage them to visualize, hear, feel, smell, and taste the details of their desired outcome.
- Anchor the Experience: Have them anchor the positive emotions and sensations associated with this future scenario by linking them to a physical gesture or sensation. This serves as a powerful reminder of their resilience and capacity for growth.
- Reinforce Through Repetition: Encourage regular practice of future pacing, reinforcing the positive neural pathways associated with resilience and hope. With each repetition, the envisioned future becomes more attainable and tangible.
By cultivating hope and resilience through Future Pacing, individuals can shift their focus from past traumas to future possibilities, reclaiming agency over their lives and fostering a sense of empowerment.
Conclusion and Invitation to Step 10
Step 9: “Building Bridges of Empathy” has equipped us with powerful NLP techniques to offer support and understanding to those grappling with the struggles of PTSD. Through Submodality Shift and Future Pacing, we can rewrite traumatic memories, cultivate hope, and foster resilience in the face of adversity.
As we conclude this article, I extend a heartfelt invitation to join me next month for Step 10: “Empowering Transformation.” In this step, we’ll explore how NLP techniques can empower individuals to embrace change, unlock their full potential, and embark on a journey of profound transformation.
Are you ready to continue the journey of self-discovery and empowerment? Join me and the phenomenal experts here at Best Holistic Life magazine next month on our shared journeys of growth and healing. Please reach out to those around you who may need a hand-up and bring them here next month.
- Connect with Scott:
- More articles from our VIP Executive Contributor, Scott Gates.