October 9, 2003
Awakened Woman's Circle is working for peace
Self-help for the trauma of modern life
A book review of We are all in shock: How overwhelming experiences shatter you and what you can do about it By Stephanie Mines New Page Books, 2003
reviewed by Carmen Freeman
Ultimately, there are many variables in the "grand scheme" of a human being's life that determine who we become. This book addresses one of those variables, the experience of shock, and the diverse neurological adaptations and behavioral characteristics that result from shocking experiences. However, this enlightening book goes further than merely acknowledging and educating us about how to identify shock, in that Dr. Mines includes instructions for using Jin Shin TARA (a form of energetic medicine similar to acupressure) to actually resolve the effects of shock.
The premise, "we are all in shock," for me, was initially a foreign construct. However, through the assorted case histories presented by this passionate author, psychologist, teacher and healer, we come to understand that shock is more ubiquitous than we initially realized, and is commonly encountered through: injuries and accidents, prenatal and birth experiences, physical challenges and disabilities, abandonment, AIDS, adoption, abuse, earthquakes and natural disasters, relationships, toxic environments and pollution, as well as many other areas of the human experience. We learn that unresolved shock usurps our power to live our lives freely and creatively. It can damage our self-image, and birth mechanical responses to life events that do not serve us. The well-chosen case histories and accompanying treatments for each presentation of shock convinced me that Dr. Mine's material holds a key for perplexing behaviors we sometimes find ourselves exhibiting, without knowledge of the origins of those behaviors. Before I had finished the book, not only was the premise "we are all in shock" acceptable; I was also self-administering some of the treatments.
The style of the book is both narrative and instructional. In addition to case histories, Stephanie teaches us about the identifiable symptoms of shock, and then instructs the reader as to which points on the meridians to hold to begin to resolve specific issues. In this way, the reader can begin to treat oneself, in a 'learn-as-you-go' format. It works very well, and sufficient charts are provided to facilitate the process.
A sufficient amount of time and space in the book are also allocated to acquaint us with the two presentations of shock, sympathetic and parasympathetic, in layman's terms. We learn practical tools for recognizing and addressing each type, including the language that can assist the process of resolution. As we engage in the healing journey with Dr. Mines, we become aware that perhaps, through Jin Shin TARA, we have simple, practical tools, with which we can treat ourselves, as well as members of our families and communities.
We Are All In Shock empowers you with knowledge and the tools to heal. Dr. Mines skillfully mentors you along the path. I highly recommend the journey…
More INFORMATION about the Tara Approach may be found at
Stephanie Mines' web site: www.Tara-Approach.org
Carmen Freeman, M.S., CHT &endash; Freestyle Life!
clfreeman@freestyle-life.com
www.freestyle-life.com