Biofeedback wand Trauma & Acupuncture

Video Link: Biofeedback with Aletha Williams and Trauma & Acupuncture with Jill Richards

Survivor Advocacy Network Webinar Series: Biofeedback & Acupuncture In the first presentation, Ms. Aletha Williams (USNA ’94) will discuss biofeedback and how it can support healing from trauma. When we have experienced a trauma, are under current stress or have pain, our body changes: our heart rate may increase, we may breathe faster, our blood pressure may rise, and our muscles tighten. Over time these reactions can cause a host of chronic health problems.

Biofeedback therapy helps individuals learn to control body reactions like these through changes in one’s thoughts, feelings or behaviors. Aletha is a certified Integrative Wellness Coach (IWC) and

Biofeedback and is currently completing a Ph.D. focused on Mind and Body Medicine (MBM). Her specialties include helping clients with stress management, organizational leadership, teambuilding, cultivating mindful awareness, trauma recovery, reiki, spiritual transformation, equine assisted learning, equine facilitated psychotherapy, biofeedback, and personal and professional change.

In the second presentation, Dr. Gillian Richards, DAc, LAc (USNA '94) will discuss acupuncture and acupressure. Acupuncture is a millennia-old style of medicine practiced by Licensed Acupuncturists who use tiny, sterile needles inserted in specific locations (acupoints) to restore balance to a system in body, mind, and spirit. Acupressure at these same acupoints, especially when coupled with mindful diaphragmatic breathing, is a powerful way for anyone (and especially trauma survivors) to self-treat. Using tools you already have, this seminar will teach acupressure protocols to help manage anger, grief/sadness, flashbacks, breaking out of incessant thought patterns, nightmares/sleep disturbances, and other symptoms commonly experienced in the wake of a trauma, as well as providing ways to positively support your system (e.g. boundary support, finding your voice, etc.) as you journey towards whole health.

Jill is the Outreach Officer for the USNA Women’s Shared Interest Group and active with the Survivor Advocacy Network (SAN).