Welcome back to "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now," the podcast where your host, Jen Ginty, explores the pivotal moments that spark change and transformation in our lives. In this deeply moving episode, Jen engages in a powerful conversation with Michelle Holling-Brooks, a trauma-informed specialist, who shares her incredible journey of healing and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Michelle's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit. She recounts her origin story, detailing her battle with severe illness at a young age that tragically left her deaf, blind, and paralyzed. This profound experience became a pivotal moment, highlighting how transformation often begins with such a moment. Through her vulnerable sharing, Michelle discusses the devastating impact of trauma on identity, a central theme in understanding her long journey toward healing.
The conversation delves into the remarkable role of equine therapy in Michelle's recovery. This unique approach highlights how healing can be facilitated through connection with animals, offering a powerful and non-verbal pathway to emotional and physical well-being. Michelle's experiences underscore the importance of self-discovery as an essential element for personal growth, a process that was deeply intertwined with her therapeutic work with horses. She emphasizes the value of exploring holistic approaches to wellness, recognizing that healing encompasses mind, body, and spirit.
Michelle's journey also illuminates the critical importance of finding balance and purpose in life after experiencing significant trauma. She shares her insights on the struggle of reclaiming identity after her illness and the profound impact it had on her sense of self. The conversation touches on the cost of ignoring our bodies and the significance of paying attention to our physical and emotional needs. Michelle also bravely discusses her journey of breaking free from people-pleasing, a common challenge for those who have experienced trauma. In a powerful revelation, she shares how cancer became a catalyst, a wake-up call that further propelled her on her path of healing and self-discovery.
Key Learnings from This Episode:
•Transformation often begins with a pivotal moment, even amidst immense challenges.
•Trauma can profoundly erase one's sense of identity, requiring a dedicated journey of reclamation.
•Healing can be powerfully facilitated through connection with animals, such as in equine therapy.
•Self-discovery is essential for personal growth and navigating the complexities of healing.
•Holistic approaches can significantly enhance healing processes, addressing various aspects of well-being.
•Balance is crucial in navigating life's challenges, especially in the aftermath of trauma.
Episode Highlights:
[02:10] The Impact of Trauma on Identity: Michelle discusses how her illness and subsequent trauma affected her sense of self.
[03:25] Michelle's Life-Altering Illness: A candid account of the severe illness that led to profound physical changes in Michelle's life.
[13:09] The Role of Equine Therapy in Healing: Insights into the therapeutic benefits of working with horses in Michelle's recovery.
[20:03] Finding Purpose Through Connection: Michelle shares how connecting with others and animals has helped her find renewed purpose.
[24:57] The Struggle of Reclaiming Identity: Michelle's personal experience of rebuilding her sense of self after trauma.
[36:09] The Cost of Ignoring Our Bodies: The importance of listening to and honoring our physical and emotional well-being.
[40:30] Breaking Free from People-Pleasing: Michelle's journey of setting boundaries and prioritizing her own needs.
[43:13] The Wake-Up Call: Cancer as a Catalyst: How a cancer diagnosis served as a turning point in Michelle's healing journey.
Resources Mentioned:
This episode of "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now" is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for profound healing even after experiencing significant trauma. Michelle's story is one of courage, self-discovery, and the transformative power of connection.
Be sure to listen to this inspiring episode of "When Not Yet Becomes Right Now" to hear Michelle's remarkable story in her own words and gain valuable insights into healing, transformation, and the importance of embracing your journey. You can find this and all other episodes on your favorite podcast platforms.
