Episode Transcript
Jae had spent years in and out of medical offices.
Some of the procedures were necessary.
Others felt rushed or poorly explained.
There were times when Jae’s pain was dismissed, and their concerns were minimized.
After so many experiences of not being heard, Jae began to disconnect from their own body.
Touch felt foreign.
Even simple self-care routines became difficult or anxiety provoking.
Jae described feeling numb and guarded, as if their body was no longer a safe place to be.
When Jae found the SOFT approach, things began to shift.
SOFT practitioners listened to Jae’s story without judgment.
The process began with permission—permission to move slowly, to say no, and to set boundaries at every step.
Jae was introduced to gentle self-touch practices, but only when they felt ready.
Sometimes, that meant placing a hand on their chest for a few breaths.
Other days, it meant just sitting quietly and noticing what it was like to be present.
There was no pressure to relax or feel anything specific.
Jae learned to check in with themselves, asking: “Is this okay right now?”
If the answer was no, they moved away or stopped the practice.
Gradually, Jae started to notice small sensations—warmth, tingling, or even comfort—returning to their body.
Moments of trust became more frequent.
Self-care began to feel possible again.
Jae’s relationship with their body was no longer defined by what had happened to them in medical settings.
Instead, it was shaped by their own choices, boundaries, and gentle attention.
If you are healing from medical trauma, try this simple practice:
Place your hand somewhere on your body that feels accessible.
Ask yourself, “Is this okay right now?”
If it is, stay for a few breaths.
If not, move your hand or stop completely.
Let your body guide the process.
Each moment of choice and respect helps rebuild trust.
SOFT reminds us that true healing happens at your own pace.
If you’re a therapist, yoga instructor, or bodyworker who is interested in learning more about SOFT Certification, take a look at our Level 1, 2, and 3 training programs on our website, thesoftapproach.com
