The Power of Understanding and Addressing the Root Causes of Unconscious Habits and Behaviours
- Feb 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 21
`
Many individuals mistakenly believe that willpower and determination are the primary keys to overcoming unhealthy habits and behaviors. While these qualities are undeniably important, they often prove inadequate when addressing the deeper issues rooted in our unconscious mind and stored trauma. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why relying solely on willpower is insufficient and how trauma imprints can significantly impact our behaviors. Additionally, we will discuss why traditional talk therapy may not effectively resolve these underlying issues.
The Role of the Unconscious Mind in Unhealthy Habits and Behaviours
Your unconscious mind plays a crucial role in shaping your behaviors and habits. It controls around 95% of our thoughts and behaviours. Our unconscious mind operates below the level of conscious awareness, influencing your thoughts, feelings, and actions without you even realizing it. Many unhealthy habits, such as overeating, smoking, or procrastination, often stem from unconscious patterns formed in response to past experiences.
These patterns can be deeply ingrained, making them challenging to change through sheer willpower alone. For instance, someone who developed a habit of emotional eating in response to childhood trauma may find that no amount of determination can stop them from reaching for food when they feel stressed or anxious. This is because the unconscious mind triggers these behaviors as coping mechanisms, rooted in an attempt to manage unresolved emotions.
The Impact of Stored Trauma on Our Behaviours
Trauma can profoundly affect our lives, often leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. When we experience trauma—whether it's a single event or a series of events—our brains and bodies respond by creating imprints of that experience. These imprints can manifest as emotional pain, physical tension, or behavioral patterns that we struggle to change.
For example, someone who has experienced abandonment may develop a habit of self-sabotage in relationships, pushing people away before they can be hurt. This behavior is not a conscious choice but rather an unconscious response to past trauma. Willpower alone cannot erase these deeply embedded patterns; they require a more comprehensive approach to healing.
Why Traditional Talk Therapy Often Falls Short
Many individuals turn to talk therapy as a means to address their unhealthy habits and the trauma that underlies them. While talk therapy can be beneficial for gaining insight and understanding, it often fails to resolve the core issues that drive these behaviors. Here are some reasons why:
Limited Access to the Unconscious: Talk therapy primarily engages the conscious mind, which can limit the therapist's ability to access the unconscious patterns that influence behavior. Clients may discuss their feelings and thoughts, but this does not necessarily address the underlying trauma imprints.
Intellectual Understanding vs. Emotional Healing: Talk therapy often focuses on intellectual understanding rather than emotional healing. While clients may gain insights into their behaviors, this does not always translate into lasting change, especially when trauma is involved. We can't think ourselves out of trauma because trauma is stored in the body and subconscious mind, not just in our thoughts.
Temporary Relief: Talk therapy can provide temporary relief from symptoms, but it may not address the root causes of unhealthy habits. Clients may leave sessions feeling better in the moment, but without addressing the underlying trauma, old patterns often resurface.
Alternative Approaches to Healing Unhealthy Habits
To effectively overcome unhealthy habits rooted in trauma, it is essential to explore alternative approaches that go beyond traditional talk therapy. Here are some methods that can help:
Somatic Experiencing: This body-oriented approach focuses on the physical sensations associated with trauma. By tuning into the body and releasing stored tension, individuals can begin to heal from the effects of trauma and change their behavioral patterns.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): EMDR is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals process traumatic memories. By using guided eye movements, clients can reprocess these memories and reduce their emotional charge, leading to healthier coping mechanisms.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to recognize when unconscious patterns are triggered. This awareness can empower them to make conscious choices rather than defaulting to old habits.
Trauma-Informed Therapy: This approach recognizes the impact of trauma on behavior and focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment for healing. Therapists trained in trauma-informed care can help clients navigate their experiences and develop healthier coping strategies.
Conclusion
While willpower and determination are valuable traits, they are often insufficient in overcoming unhealthy habits rooted in the unconscious mind and stored in our bodies. Traditional talk therapy may provide some benefits, but it often fails to address the deeper issues at play. To effectively heal from trauma and change behaviors, individuals may need to explore alternative approaches that focus on both the mind and body.
By understanding the role of the unconscious and the impact of trauma, we can begin to develop more effective strategies for overcoming unhealthy habits. Healing is a journey that requires patience, compassion, and the willingness to explore the deeper layers of our experiences.
Experience the transformative potential of the trauma healing modality, which facilitates profound healing, enhances mental health, and fosters deeper self-awareness.
Explore a few common examples, showcasing how this innovative approach can make a difference in your life. Click the button below to learn more.
What has helped you on your healing journey?
Love,
Akvile
Comments