Instinctive-Brain?
We have built in mechanisms for responding and moving toward a natural resolution of trauma. Some of these we share with animals; some are uniquely human, particularly our highly developed thought and language processes.
Sensation is the language of the reptilian brain. Biologically and physiologically, the reptilian brain is essential to all animals, including humans. It is encoded with instinctual behavioral plans to ensure the survival of the species.
Involuntary changes that regulate the body’s vital functions are controlled from this part of the brain. It is the template from which all higher life has evolved.
While its function can seemingly be overridden in humans, the behaviors that originate in the reptilian brain are the key to unlocking the mysteries of trauma.
These behaviors are what allow us to experience ourselves as human animals. The instinct-dominated life is simple. The lizard has nothing to remember, nothing to plan for, nothing to learn, instinct handles it.
