Inside Out Consult
03/23/2024
- JP Nagar 6th Phase Bangalore
- 090197 04252
Trauma can cast a long shadow over a person’s life. Whether it stems from a one-time event like an accident or a natural disaster, or prolonged experiences like abuse or living through conflict, trauma often leaves deep emotional scars. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one way these scars manifest – with symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and feeling constantly “on edge.” In India, conversations about trauma are only just beginning to gain traction, and many survivors don’t get the help they need.
At Arka Anugraha Hospital’s Integrative Psychiatry service in Bangalore, we offer a compassionate, comprehensive approach to healing from PTSD and trauma. Instead of focusing only on symptoms or relying solely on medications, we use an integrative healing model that addresses the mind, body, and spirit together.
In this blog, we’ll discuss how combining conventional therapy with holistic modalities – from nutrition and bodywork to cutting-edge brain therapies – can facilitate profound healing for trauma survivors. Whether you’re in Bangalore or anywhere in India, these insights into integrative trauma care can guide you towards hope and recovery.
Trauma is essentially a psychological injury. Just as a physical injury can take time and care to heal, so can trauma. When something overwhelmingly frightening or stressful happens, the mind may struggle to process it. The memory of the event (or multiple events) can get “stuck,” and the body continues to react as if the threat is still present. This is where PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) can develop.
PTSD is a condition where a person continues to experience intense fear, anxiety, or unwanted memories long after the traumatic experience. It can feel like you’re reliving the trauma (flashbacks or nightmares), or always on high alert (hyper-vigilance), or emotionally numb and disconnected. People with PTSD might avoid anything that reminds them of what happened, and they often have physical symptoms like poor sleep, irritability, and trouble concentrating.
Not everyone who goes through trauma develops PTSD; each person’s mind and body cope differently. Some may have milder trauma-related stress or symptoms that don’t fit the full PTSD diagnosis but still significantly affect their life. For instance, someone might not have full flashbacks but does have a pervasive sense of mistrust or anxiety due to past trauma.
Traditional treatment for PTSD often involves psychotherapy – especially techniques like CBT or specialized trauma therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) – and sometimes medication (like antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs to manage symptoms). These are very important tools. However, trauma often lives in the body as much as the mind, and purely cognitive or medication approaches might not fully resolve the deeper wounds. This is why an integrative healing approach can be so beneficial: it acknowledges that trauma impacts the whole person, so healing must come from multiple directions.
Think of trauma recovery like recovering from a serious physical injury – you might need multiple types of care. For a broken leg, you’d possibly need surgery, physical therapy, medication for pain, good nutrition for bone healing, and rest. Similarly, for trauma, you might need therapy for the mind, but also practices to relax the body, proper nutrition to support your brain, social support for your spirit, and perhaps medical innovations to rebalance brain function. Integrative healing brings all of these together in a coordinated way.
One key concept in trauma healing is that of the mind-body connection. When we experience trauma, our biology changes. The stress hormone system (HPA axis) can become overactive or blunted, brain areas like the amygdala (fear center) and hippocampus (memory center) can be affected, and even our immune and digestive systems can dysregulate. That’s why trauma survivors might also have issues like chronic pain, autoimmune symptoms, or gut problems. A holistic plan will consider all these aspects. For example, calming the body through yoga or vagal nerve exercises can directly reduce the intensity of traumatic stress responses. Improving gut health might lift some brain fog or anxiety, making therapy more effective. Using advanced techniques like neurofeedback can retrain the traumatized brain to become more stable and focused.
Another reason integrative healing is valuable is that it offers multiple entry points to recovery. Some survivors may not be ready to talk in detail about their trauma – that’s okay. We can start with something like massage therapy or acupuncture to help them feel safe in their bodies, or maybe nutritional supplements to improve sleep, before delving into deeper psychological work. Alternatively, someone might feel stuck in talk therapy because their body is constantly tense; adding a practice like Holotropic Breathwork or trauma-informed yoga could unlock emotional release that talking alone didn’t achieve. By having a variety of tools, we can tailor the healing journey to what each individual is comfortable with at each stage.
Lastly, an integrative approach is empowering. Trauma can make people feel helpless and out of control. Gaining skills like meditation or breathwork, or improving one’s physical health, gives back a sense of control and agency. It’s about healing from within, not just being “treated” from the outside. Our role as practitioners is to facilitate your innate capacity to heal – because yes, you do have that capacity, even if the trauma makes it hard to see.
Any trauma healing journey must begin by establishing safety and support. Trust is crucial – trust in your therapist or doctor, and re-learning to trust yourself and your surroundings. At Arka Anugraha, our first priority with PTSD patients is to create a safe, compassionate therapeutic environment. We go at the patient’s own pace. In early sessions, it might simply be about learning grounding techniques (ways to feel present and safe in the here-and-now when panic or memories surge) and stabilizing acute symptoms like severe anxiety or insomnia.
Trauma-focused therapy is a cornerstone. Therapists skilled in PTSD will often use methods like EMDR, which involves guided eye movements while recalling traumatic events in a controlled way, helping the brain reprocess the memories and reduce their emotional charge. Another technique is Trauma-Focused CBT, which is CBT adapted to challenge unhelpful beliefs stemming from trauma (like self-blame or seeing the world as entirely dangerous) and gradually desensitize triggers. There’s also something called Narrative Therapy, where the person can gently reshape their personal story, seeing themselves not just as a victim, but as a survivor and ultimately a thriver.
Group therapy or support groups can also be profoundly healing. Meeting others who have gone through similar experiences and hearing their journeys can break the isolation and shame that often accompany trauma. In our integrative program, we sometimes host therapeutic group sessions (in-person in Bangalore or via online forums for pan-India participants) where people can share, learn coping skills together, or even engage in group mindfulness activities. Many survivors say, “I thought it was just me, but hearing others, I realize I’m not alone and not ‘crazy’ for feeling this way.”
We can’t overstate the importance of supportive relationships. If you have a friend or family member you trust, having them involved (with your permission) is helpful. We often educate loved ones about PTSD, so they understand what the survivor is going through (for example, why you might startle easily or want to avoid crowds). This helps them support you without judgment. Building or rebuilding a social support system is part of integrative healing – humans heal in community, not in isolation.
Renowned trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk famously said, “The body keeps the score,” meaning our bodies hold on to traumatic stress. Ever notice someone who, when talking about something painful, hunches or wraps their arms around themselves? The body remembers. Therefore, somatic (body-centered) therapies are key for trauma recovery.
One such therapy is Somatic Experiencing (SE). It’s a gentle method where the therapist guides you to notice what’s happening in your body, and helps you release pent-up “fight or flight” energy in small, manageable doses. For example, a person might realize that when talking about their trauma, their leg starts shaking or their chest tightens. Instead of suppressing that, the therapist might encourage them to pay attention to the sensation, maybe even exaggerate the shaking a bit, then slowly let it settle. This can discharge stress that was locked in the nervous system, completing the body’s natural response that was interrupted during the trauma (when you couldn’t fight or flee, your body froze). Over time, this leads to fewer physical symptoms and a reduction in triggers.
Yoga for trauma is another powerful approach. This isn’t a regular yoga class at the gym, but rather trauma-informed yoga, which emphasizes choice, safety, and body awareness. The poses and movements help release tension, and the focus on breathing and present-moment awareness helps re-connect the mind with the body. Many trauma survivors feel “detached” from their bodies or even hate their bodies (especially in cases of physical or sexual abuse). Yoga can gently rebuild a loving, or at least neutral, relationship with one’s own body. Plus, as a form of exercise, it releases endorphins and regulates stress hormones, contributing to overall improvement in mood and sleep. We might recommend starting with simple stretches or guided yoga videos if someone is shy to join a class. In Bangalore, there are also studios and practitioners who specialize in yoga therapy for mental health, and we collaborate with them or integrate yoga sessions into our treatment plans.
Holotropic Breathwork (and other forms of deep breathwork) deserve a special mention for trauma. Holotropic Breathwork, developed by Dr. Stanislav Grof, involves a specific pattern of accelerated breathing in a safe setting, often accompanied by evocative music, with facilitators present. This process can lead to a sort of non-ordinary state of consciousness where individuals might access and release deep emotions or even suppressed memories. It’s not uncommon for someone in a breathwork session to spontaneously cry, yell, or physically move as they let out trauma that’s been stored inside. While intense, many people find it cathartic and freeing – like “clearing out” emotional wounds without having to use words. At Arka Anugraha, our integrative psychiatry unit sometimes incorporates breathwork sessions for patients who are ready and willing, as part of their healing journey. Of course, it’s always voluntary and done under supervision with proper preparation and follow-up, because trauma release needs to be handled with care.
Another body-centered modality is Massage or Bodywork. Simply receiving a therapeutic massage in a safe environment can be healing for trauma survivors who may have a high baseline muscle tension. It also gently reintroduces positive, safe touch experiences, which can be especially important for those who have experienced interpersonal trauma where touch was associated with harm. Some forms of massage like myofascial release claim to also release emotional tension along with physical knots. While the science is still emerging, anecdotally many find bodywork to significantly reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
Finally, Acupuncture can be beneficial. In traditional Chinese medicine, trauma might be seen as a disturbance in the body’s energy flow. Acupuncture needles placed at specific points can help rebalance this energy. Studies have shown acupuncture can reduce PTSD symptoms and help with insomnia and depression associated with trauma. It’s another non-verbal, body-level way to signal to your system that it’s okay to relax and heal.
Trauma can cause certain patterns in the brain – for example, the fear centers might become overactive, while areas responsible for memory and emotion regulation might under-function. This is where technology-based interventions like Neurofeedback and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) come into play as part of integrative trauma therapy.
We discussed Neurofeedback earlier in the context of anxiety; it’s equally (if not more) useful in PTSD. Through neurofeedback training, trauma survivors can learn to shift their brain activity towards a calmer state. For instance, some PTSD brains show excess high-beta waves (associated with anxiety and hypervigilance) and low alpha waves (associated with relaxation). Neurofeedback can train the brain to produce more alpha waves and reduce those high-beta surges. It’s done in a game-like format, which can even be empowering and fun. Over sessions, people often report improved emotional regulation – meaning, they can face triggers without automatically going into a panic or dissociative state. It’s like giving your brain a workout to become stronger at handling stress.
At our Bangalore center, we have had trauma clients who, after neurofeedback, said things like, “I still remember what happened, but it feels more distant now, like it’s not controlling me. I can notice my triggers and calm myself down easier than before.” Neurofeedback doesn’t erase memories, but it can reduce the brain’s exaggerated alarm response to those memories or related cues.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is another advanced option. While TMS is best known for depression, researchers and clinics (including ours) are exploring its use for PTSD. TMS can be targeted to specific brain regions – for example, the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which in PTSD might be underactive (this area helps regulate emotions and extinguish fear responses). By stimulating it, TMS may enhance the brain’s ability to form new, non-fearful connections and dampen the fear circuitry. Though as of now TMS for PTSD might be considered off-label (not a primary approved use yet), early studies and anecdotal results are promising. For patients with severe PTSD who have not found relief through therapy and medication alone, we offer TMS therapy in Bangalore as part of an integrative plan. It’s painless and each session is relatively quick (about 20-30 minutes). Over a few weeks of sessions, some individuals experience reduction in nightmares, improved mood, and less hyper-arousal. We always combine it with therapy, as TMS can “open a window” of neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to rewire), and therapy then helps make the most of that window to build healthy coping patterns.
Another treatment to mention is Ketamine therapy. While primarily used for depression, ketamine (in low, controlled doses) has shown benefit in some PTSD cases, particularly for quickly reducing suicidal thoughts or severe dissociation. It can facilitate trauma therapy by providing temporary relief from overwhelming symptoms, almost like giving a glimpse of what it feels like to not be haunted by trauma – and that glimpse can be very motivating for further healing work. Some also report that during a ketamine session, they achieve new insights or perspectives on their trauma. At Arka Anugraha, we do consider ketamine infusions for PTSD patients on a case-by-case basis, especially if they have co-occurring depression or severe distress. It’s one more tool in our integrative arsenal to be used judiciously and in conjunction with psychotherapy.
While working on therapy and advanced treatments, we also pay attention to basic health factors that can bolster trauma recovery. Healing from trauma can be physically taxing – it’s like running a marathon emotionally – so your body needs proper fuel and rest.
Nutrition: Traumatic stress can deplete certain nutrients in your body. The constant state of high alert may consume more vitamins (like B vitamins and vitamin C, used in stress-hormone production) and minerals (like magnesium and zinc). Many trauma survivors also have irregular eating patterns – some lose appetite, others may stress-eat unhealthy foods. Part of integrative care is gently guiding back to a balanced diet.
A nutrition-rich, anti-inflammatory diet can support brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds) are particularly known to support brain function and may help with mood stabilization. Antioxidant-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts) combat oxidative stress, which is often elevated in PTSD. We also check for deficiencies – it’s not uncommon to find low vitamin D or B12 in our patients, which we then supplement, because low levels can worsen fatigue and mood issues.
Sometimes, specific supplements can aid trauma recovery. Omega-3 supplements have some evidence of reducing anxiety and improving mood. Vitamin B complex might help with energy and brain chemistry. Magnesium can aid sleep and relaxation. And as mentioned, adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha could support the adrenal system to prevent burnout from chronic stress. We tailor recommendations individually – for example, if someone is having a lot of tension and can’t sleep, a magnesium glycinate supplement at night plus some herbal tea like chamomile or tulsi might be suggested as a routine.
Sleep and Rest: PTSD often wreaks havoc on sleep. Nightmares can wake someone up in terror; hyperarousal can make it hard to fall asleep. Yet, good sleep is when our brains process memories and do a lot of healing work. Breaking the insomnia-nightmare cycle is important. In therapy, techniques like rewriting the script of a nightmare (imagery rehearsal therapy) can help reduce nightmare frequency. From a holistic view, we also employ natural sleep aids: establishing a consistent bedtime routine, using relaxation techniques (like listening to calming music or a guided sleep meditation), and ensuring the sleep environment is soothing. For some, weighted blankets provide a sense of security (mimicking a gentle hugging pressure) and reduce anxiety, improving sleep.
Additionally, Far Infrared Sauna therapy, which we mentioned earlier for detox, can be deeply relaxing before bed. The gentle warmth relaxes muscles and can promote better sleep. Some patients with trauma also like the feeling of being in the enclosed, warm space of a sauna as it can feel womb-like and secure (always at a comfortable temperature, nothing overwhelming).
Mindfulness and spirituality: Many trauma survivors find comfort in mindfulness practices or spiritual practices. Mindfulness meditation can help anchor you in the present when traumatic memories try to pull you into the past. Practices such as prayer, or attending spiritual gatherings, can provide solace and a sense of meaning. We respect all backgrounds – whether one finds meaning in religious faith, or in connecting with nature, or in creative expression – all these can be part of healing. Journaling is another introspective practice: writing down feelings or even dialogue with your past self can be therapeutic (and it’s something you can do privately, at your own pace).
Arun, a 58-year-old business analyst from Karnataka, came to us after surviving a traumatic accident in which he tragically lost a close loved one. Though he escaped with minor physical injuries, the emotional aftermath left deep scars. The grief and shock took over his life—he experienced intense anxiety, recurring nightmares, and an overwhelming fear of death and loneliness. As weeks turned into months, Arun found it harder to function. He avoided social situations, could no longer concentrate at work, and eventually lost his job. His health took a toll—he gained significant weight, developed gut issues, and began showing signs of metabolic imbalance. He described his life as “a fog I can’t get out of” and came to our clinic saying, “I’m not sure I can ever feel normal again.”
Our team reassured Arun that healing was possible, and that what he was experiencing was not a personal failing—it was a natural response to overwhelming trauma. We adopted an integrative approach that addressed both his mind and body.
Therapeutic Foundation & Somatic Work:
We began with trauma-informed psychotherapy, helping Arun learn grounding techniques without pushing him to revisit the traumatic memories until he felt ready. A simple practice like the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method (noticing 5 things he could see, 4 he could feel, 3 he could hear, 2 he could smell, and 1 he could taste) helped him manage panic and stay present during difficult moments. Alongside talk therapy, we introduced somatic healing, which involved body-based techniques to help release stored trauma and tension from the nervous system—particularly in his chest, gut, and shoulders, where he carried chronic pain and tightness.
Healing from PTSD and trauma is undeniably challenging. There is no quick fix or erase button for the past. However, the human spirit is remarkably resilient, and with the right support, survivors can and do heal and even grow in incredible ways (a concept known as “post-traumatic growth”). Integrative trauma therapy offers a path to not just reduce symptoms, but to truly transform pain into strength and reclaim your life.
At Arka Anugraha Hospital in Bangalore, our Integrative Psychiatry team walks alongside you through this journey. We bring together the best of modern psychiatry, psychotherapy, and complementary therapies to create a safe, effective healing experience. Whether it’s through therapy sessions, yoga and meditation, nutritional support, or advanced treatments like TMS, we tailor the plan to your needs, respecting your pace and preferences. Our approach is collaborative – you’re an active participant in your healing, not just a patient receiving treatments. We believe that by addressing mind, body, and soul together, we tap into your innate healing potential.
Importantly, we aim to make these services accessible to those in need. If you’re reading this from outside Bangalore, we offer initial consultations online and can guide you on available resources in your area, or arrange for you to visit us for specific treatments like neurofeedback or TMS if suitable. Trauma knows no boundaries, and neither do we in extending our care across India.
Remember: You are not defined by what happened to you. With compassion, perseverance, and the right holistic support, you can find peace and rebuild a fulfilling life. It’s okay to seek help – in fact, it’s a brave and powerful step.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the weight of trauma or PTSD, we encourage you to reach out. There are brighter days ahead, and help is available.
Take the courageous step towards healing – Book a Free Discovery Call with Arka Anugraha Hospital. Our empathetic team is here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and support you in your journey from surviving to truly thriving. You deserve to heal, and we’re here to help make that possible.
Discover recipes that blend taste with health, crafted by our experts for your well-being.
Discover groundbreaking diagnostic services exclusive to India, now available at Arka Health, Bangalore