Overcoming Patterns of Submission

"The best way to overcome patterns of submission is to restore a physical capacity to engage and defend." ~Bessel Van der Kolk

Empowerment requires PHYSICALITY!⁠

Being free to speak, walk and play in authentic power alluded me, especially in the dominating game of corporate life. ⁠

I was ambitious, always going for something big. I was determined and hardworking. Inevitably though, I would freeze up/choke in the spotlight. ⁠

I didn't understand that my biology had been stuck in a trauma pattern for years. I didn’t know then, that no amount of cognitive therapy or emotional processing would resolve it sustainably, because it wasn't living in my emotions or my mind. It was mapped in at the body level.⁠

I refused though to accept that I lacked the fortitude to show up in my authentic strength and leadership, so I just kept going while continuing to process my rage and shame over this ongoing failure.⁠

Then in 1999, I discovered Moving Theatre with Camille Maurine. Camille encouraged us to creatively push the bounds of our known reality, especially our movement, breath, and sound.⁠

Low and behold, I discovered my wild, undomesticated self. Like magic it stabilized me in the ability to ENGAGE AND DEFEND MY BIRTHRIGHT to think, feel and stand up intelligently, articulately and confidently; when it mattered most. ⁠

My life changed quickly. I became a successful corporate executive, rooted in authentic power and joy. ⁠

Not only was I winning, but how I was winning was getting the attention of CEO's who began to seek me out for help in shifting culture at their companies. ⁠

20+ years later, what's still key for me in OVERCOMING SUBMISSION? Conscious Movement, Breath and Sound practice. ⁠🧡🔥⁠

About the Author

Gina Carlson Gina Carlson is a meditation teacher and mindset coach. Gina created EMBODITATE to help people access their heart intelligence -- essential for building the mental, emotional and physical agility needed to thrive in the modern world.