Gatherings: a vital part of the healing process
“Each time a women comes to a community gathering, her brain, body and soul gradually heal as she has repeated experiences of healthy relationships where she practices self-regulation and focuses intently on using self-reflection.”
WE ARE MADE TO CONNECT
In childhood our brain, body and soul needed the close, loving and protective relationship of a caregiver to help us grow well, learn about ourselves and the world around us. We still need caring relationships as an adult and research now shows that having someone in our life that we trust and who will be vulnerable and present with us can help our brain, body and soul heal from our trauma. This is the power of presence.
SHE HEALS
Each time a women reaches out to a NAOMI leader for support, attends a group with other women or comes to a community gathering; her brain, body and soul gradually heal. Areas of her brain that were damaged start to have new growth and work with other areas of her brain as she has repeated experiences of healthy relationships where she practices self-regulation and focuses intently on using self-reflection.
SHE REALIZES CHANGE IS POSSIBLE
As a woman heals, she becomes able to make different choices. She is self-aware and able to regulate her feelings. She is no longer overwhelmed and controlled by the pain of her past trauma. She now has the ability to think critically about how her actions will affect her future.
SHE FLOURISHES
She is able to build relationships that support her as she takes responsibility for her well-being.
Her community walks with her as she pursues choices that will give her life sustainable change.
Her energy now goes towards creating wholeness instead of constantly managing her pain or harmful behaviors.
Other resources and services that she receives become more effective.
Now she is empowered and has hope for the future.
