“Trauma Recovery Tips” for Play
Theme of the Month: Play. This post highlights simple, playful ways to support trauma recovery, including trying new activities, bilateral music, good mood foods, the benefits of social connection, and an expert perspective on trauma.
This is a list of monthly Trauma Recovery Tips from a trauma specialist, designed to help reduce the effects of trauma and chronic stress so you can live from a place of healing, hope, and happiness.
Healing from trauma looks different for each person. As a trauma-focused therapist, I do not recommend strategies I haven’t personally tried or regularly use. What I share here reflects years of experience, research, client feedback, and insights from other professionals—combining both cutting-edge and time-tested approaches to healing.
Trauma Recovery Tips
Trauma Tip #1: Try Something New
Trying new activities is great for both the brain and the spirit. Novel experiences support brain flexibility and can bring a sense of joy and playfulness back into daily life.
Consider creating a list of activities you’ve always wanted to try—such as zip lining, taking a pottery class, learning an instrument, or exploring a new hiking trail. Each month, choose one new adventure. What matters most is staying curious, creative, and open to play.
Trauma Tip #2: Use Bilateral Music
Bilateral music can help reduce stress and anxiety by gently engaging both sides of the brain. This type of music is often used in trauma therapies to support nervous system regulation.
Try
BioLateral Music by David Grand, PhD
.
Trauma Tip #3: Eat Good Mood Foods
The food you eat affects your mood. Using food as medicine can support emotional regulation and energy.
Consider reducing processed foods, sugar, refined carbohydrates, fast food, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, and excess caffeine. Focus on whole foods instead.
Support balanced blood sugar and energy by including protein with every meal. Eat plenty of colorful vegetables and fruits, dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, and healthy fats. Use nourishing oils such as olive oil or coconut oil.
Trauma Tip #4: Strengthen Social Connections
Strong social connections support healing. Being socially engaged increases oxytocin—a hormone associated with safety, bonding, and well-being.
Try working out with a friend, attending community or faith-based gatherings, joining a hobby or interest group, or spending time with family and friends. Social engagement benefits both emotional and physical health.
Trauma Tip #5: What Is Trauma?
Trauma can be understood as a disconnection from self. To explore this perspective, watch this video by trauma expert Gabor Maté:
About These Trauma Recovery Tips
This information is provided by Lemecia Lindsey, LICSW, who has dedicated her private counseling practice to helping clients heal from trauma. She specializes in EMDR therapy, neurofeedback, and integrative mental health care.
These tips are not a substitute for medical care. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine what approaches are appropriate for you.
Support for Trauma Recovery
If trauma or chronic stress continues to impact your life, therapy can offer personalized support beyond self-guided strategies.
Vancouver EMDR Therapy PLLC
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