One Day at a Time
What is trauma?
It has been a challenge to find a comprehensive definition of trauma perhaps because of its particularly subjective nature. Two people who go through the same traumatic event, such as losing employment, may not necessarily endure similar levels of distress. One may spiral into depression and develop unfavorable coping behaviors. While the other may recover easily because of the type and amount of support available.
There are times when trauma takes hold of the steering wheel and dictates how our days go. There are times when it stays for many years and draws us to whichever direction it wishes to take.
Have you looked at what traumatic experiences you may have? How do you cope? How do these events shape your days? Are you in the driver’s seat of your life and in control of the steering wheel?
Based on his personal experiences, one man defines trauma as a long-term psychological response triggered by an overpowering adverse event. Unfortunately, the nature of a lot of these psychological responses are compulsive and unfavorable, which ultimately compromises the quality of life for many.
Discover how one man’s traumatic experiences became his biggest steppingstones to finding the key to that one thing we all desire.
Fundamentally, our emotions are forms of energy that require expression. When emotions are repressed it creates mental and physical fatigue which can lead to a host of health issues. In his book, Francis highlights the significance of engaging in healthful activities that are channels for expressing emotions.
This website complements the book by providing access to an international network of professionals and volunteers, who can offer guidance and information on different activities that can be healthy avenues for emotional expression.
These activities include arts and music, physical exercises such as weightlifting and yoga, creative writing, journalism, floral design, graphic design, reading, gardening, dancing, and more. These activities need not be intricate or expensive to be effective.
Please note that the information provided regarding these activities are no more than humble suggestions and are not intended to address health conditions.
About the Author
Community development is the primary focus of Francis Baltazar’s work. Francis works as the Chief of Staff for a nonproft in San Francisco. For over twenty years now, he continues to support and contribute to the advancement of the fields of social work, supportive housing, child and family services, employment, and education.
He finds that providing services to and working alongside underprivileged families, the homeless population, formerly incarcerated individuals, individuals with developmental challenges, and the unemployed is both humbling and rewarding.
When not at work, Francis spends quality time with family. The activities he engages in for emotional expression include playing the drums, traveling, cooking, graphic design, and photography.
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