Unlocking healing: Overcoming explosive reactions with RTT

In 2018, my social media feed was inundated with a video depicting Kourtney and Kim Kardashian engaged in a full-blown physical altercation, screaming, hitting, and scratching each other. The incident, involving two grown women, was all the more surprising considering it escalated from a small comment into a physical fight. While the media was rife with witty remarks, with people taking sides and poking fun at the Kardashians, the truth is that many of us as adults have experienced explosive reactions or been on the receiving end of such behaviour.

Explosive reactions don't come from nowhere

Though it's easy to pass judgement and label such incidents, it's important to reflect on the underlying causes because they are much more commonplace than we would like to admit. Many of my clients and I,  have found ourselves in situations where we have been either on the receiving end of such a reaction or exploded ourselves. The important thing to remember is that explosive reactions do not arise out of nowhere; they often indicate deeper issues simmering beneath the surface.

Unbalanced relationships:

Explosive reactions can often be symptomatic of unbalanced relationships, where one feels burdened with responsibilities and sacrifices parts of themselves. Unacknowledged resentment can bubble up in explosive outbursts over minor issues, making finding gratitude or positivity in the relationship challenging. If experiencing such dynamics, it's crucial to reflect on how to rebalance the relationship and address underlying imbalances.

It is convenient to classify some people as givers or takers. Still, the truth is, if a dynamic has become imbalanced, we are also responsible for being a part of the dynamic and not setting boundaries for others and believing that we need to exceed the limits of what we are comfortable with. 

Navigating stress:

Our nervous system is designed to keep us safe. The sympathetic nervous system releases hormones like adrenaline, noradrenaline, and cortisol, priming the body for action when there is a perceived threat or attack, such as encountering a fire or a lion, for example. The amygdala, a key brain region for processing emotions, perceives threats and triggers instinctual responses. Stress levels trigger the fight or flight response, leading to impulsive reactions.

This reaction makes sense in situations where we feel directly threatened, such as encountering a physical danger. However, in modern life, stressors often manifest in different forms. We may experience constant stress at work or in other aspects of our lives, even when there's no immediate physical danger. As a result, our bodies can become primed for action even in non-life-threatening situations. This constant state of arousal can contribute to heightened reactivity and explosive responses. 

Implementing self-care practices and mindfulness techniques becomes essential for managing stress and preventing explosive outbursts during stressful periods and situations in our lives. By intentionally balancing our relationships and prioritizing our well-being, we can cultivate resilience and create a buffer against the triggering effects of stress.

Trauma and explosive reactions:

Trauma is a psychological term that refers to an individual's experience of emotional distress resulting from an event that overwhelms their ability to cope. This event can be a one-time occurrence or a series of events perceived as seriously harmful or life-threatening. The impact of trauma extends beyond the initial experience, affecting various aspects of an individual's life, including their physical health, emotions, and behaviour.

Traumatic experiences, especially during critical periods of development, can shape the brain's neural pathways and influence how individuals perceive and respond to their environment.

One significant effect of childhood trauma is the development of hypersensitivity to perceived threats. The brain's alarm system, centred around the amygdala, becomes hyperactive, leading to heightened reactivity to even minor triggers. As a result, everyday situations that resemble or evoke memories of past trauma can trigger intense emotional reactions and defensive responses. These triggers may be associated with specific sensory cues, such as sights, sounds, smells, or even certain words or gestures, that unconsciously remind individuals of their traumatic experiences.

Strategies for self-care: For the person having explosive reactions 

If experiencing explosive reactions, it's essential to offer oneself grace and acknowledge the overwhelm of the nervous system. Recognise bodily cues such as muscle tension and rapid heartbeat, and practice deep breathing and grounding techniques to regain control. Outside of the situation, explore the triggers and embark on a journey of deep healing to address underlying pain and trauma.

Techniques such as rapid transformational therapy (RTT) offer a path to resolving and reframing these situations through therapeutic conversations tailored to individual needs. By understanding and addressing the root causes of explosive reactions, individuals can cultivate healthier responses and foster emotional well-being in their relationships and lives.

Strategies for self-care: For the person on the receiving end of explosive reactions

When someone is being explosive towards you, the instinct to retaliate, or in some cases the impulse to pacify can be powerful. However, reacting impulsively in either way can often escalate tensions further and isn't conducive to healthy communication. It's crucial to recognize the potential harm in giving into these reactions. Once in a safe space, engaging in self-soothing techniques can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

It is essential to remember in all such cases that you are not responsible for how some acts or reacts. While you're not responsible for others' actions, you are accountable for your reactions to triggers. Establishing clear boundaries for your well-being and emotional safety is essential for long-term stability and peace of mind.

Unlocking transformation with rapid transformational therapy (RTT)

Rapid transformational therapy (RTT) offers a powerful tool for breaking free from this cycle by delving into the subconscious mind, through therapeutic techniques such as regression and hypnosis. RTT helps individuals uncover and reframe the root causes of their reactions. By addressing the underlying issues,  individuals are empowered to respond to present situations from a place of clarity, resilience, and self-awareness. In this way, long-lasting transformation is facilitated by allowing individuals to break free from the grip of their past and embrace a more empowered and fulfilling way of living.

When faced with intense emotions and explosive reactions, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless to be out of control. However, by empowering ourselves with tools and strategies for emotional regulation and self-care, we can gain greater control over our reactions and navigate challenging situations with resilience and grace.

Through mindfulness, self-awareness, and seeking support when needed, we can cultivate a sense of empowerment and regain control over our emotional well-being. Remember, while we may not have control over external events, we have the power to shape our internal responses and ultimately find peace within ourselves.