In some parts of the country, it is already beginning to warm; flowers are sprouting and the birds seem more active and plentiful. In other parts, ice is coming down and snow is falling. Whether it’s snowing or sunny, it is so nice to be outside and walking.
As we write this, we remember that EMDR started with a walk in the park. Francine Shapiro had just received scary news, and she was walking, trying to calm. She thought of the research about eye movements, knowing that when people think of upsetting things while moving their eyes from side to side, crossing the midline, they begin to settle. She did it, and was surprised to feel relief. This walk was the beginning of EMDR.
Since that time, we have learned so much. We know that eye movements are powerful. We believe it is because eye movements help to overwhelm our active working memory, making it impossible to maintain our rigid, automatic loops of negative thoughts and co-occurring uncomfortable sensations and emotions. As this looping is blocked, new thoughts, sensations and emotions emerge, often allowing us to settle and feel calmer, and perhaps other things, such as braver.
Perhaps a walk will be helpful for you too. As you walk, try doing bilateral movements; it can be awkward at first. Sometimes it is easier to tap. As you’re walking and moving your eyes, notice if you feel yourself settle. Even just a bit makes a difference.
We’d love to hear from you. Please let us know what you notice.
And as always, we hope to see you at one of our training sessions!
Take good care, Kathleen and Liz
