Why Burping is Good
Burping in Therapy: A Curious Sign of Healing
Today, I wanted to talk a little bit about burping. I know that’s a wild thing for me to be talking about, but I’ve noticed a trend. And it’s based on science. I’m wondering if anybody else has seen this for themselves.
The Helpers Among Us
A lot of our clients tend to be people who are really caring and helping in some way, whether it’s professionally, within their families, or through volunteering. This is just something that we’ve noticed. Our clients have this inherent desire to put good out into the world. So, I think that some of you might have experienced what I’m about to describe.
A Healing Shift During EMDR
One of the fascinating things I’ve noticed, especially when doing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with clients, is the appearance of burps during significant moments of healing. We’ll reach a point in the session where there’s a noticeable shift for the client—a deep, healing moment—and suddenly, they start burping.
The Science Behind the Burps
So, what’s going on here? There’s a scientific explanation! As a trauma therapist with a keen interest in the interplay between body and mind, I understand this as a sign of the parasympathetic nervous system coming back online.
The Role of the Vagus Nerve
According to the polyvagal theory, our vagus nerve plays a crucial role in our parasympathetic nervous system. This system is our “calm and connected” state, where we can engage with the world in a safe and socially active way. When we’re in this state, our body and mind feel safe, and our digestive system starts working again.
From Fight-or-Flight to Calm
When we’re in fight, flight, or freeze mode, our digestive system shuts down. You might notice symptoms like dry mouth. However, as we move towards a state of healing, the return of digestive function is a positive sign. This is why burping during a session can be seen as a good thing.
Embracing the Unexpected
Clients often feel embarrassed when they start burping during a session. But I always reassure them that it’s a positive sign of progress. This usually leads to laughter and a moment of celebration, highlighting the surprising yet natural responses our bodies have during healing.
Your Experiences?
I’m curious if you’ve had this experience or if you start noticing it moving forward. Please share your thoughts in the comments or ask any questions you might have. And remember, go out and do some good today!
I can’t wait to hear about your experiences!
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