Zumba Triggers Flashbacks

[Brittany Gonord]

I am extremely active and have a passion for fitness! I enjoy weightlifting, sprinting, and regular walks. This evening, I decided to try and zumba class with my sister and I abhorred it. I could not seem to let my guard down and shake and move my body like that. It was extremely stressful and uncomfortable. Before I knew it, there came the intrusive thoughts...it was a miserable experience. My trauma is partially due to sexual abuse (4 years of sadomasochism), so there could be the connection. I do not want to feel sexy. What I love about weights and running is you build yourself up and grow stronger...with zumba, I feel vulnerable...and I cannot feel that way!

 

[cat-lady]

I had the same issue with yoga. It can be very triggering.

 

[AngelKeeperJ]

Bravo, when you can quickly "name" your trigger, and call a halt!

 

[lostforgottensoul]

Dont do Zumba. We need to stir clear of triggers that bad that trigger a flashback so I say dont do Zumba.

 

[Brittany Gonord]

Dont do Zumba. We need to stir clear of triggers that bad that trigger a flashback so I say...

Not going back to that anytime soon!

 

[Brittany Gonord]

I had the same issue with yoga. It can be very triggering.

Yoga would be difficult for me... I cannot seem to completely relax...

 

[Renestel]

I am a person that deals with complex PTSD from mollestation, rape, assault and domestic abuse so I hear you on what you are saying. I also have tried meds but as long as I can stick to it, daily workouts are a better "medication" than drugs. I've been triggered by this before. (Zumba and other dance classes) The hard part is I was a dancer for 15 years and try to fight through it. BUT- some times you just need ( as others have suggested) to avoid things that are obvious triggers and if you really want to challenge yourself in the future build up slowly in your own time. (I do online Zumba classes in house because it feels safer to me) But for now- just do the things that are positive for you. Lifting weights as you said is empowering- you feel in control. The biggest thing I want to get across-if and when you ever get triggered at a class, be it yoga or anything- LEAVE!! It may seem rude to a few people but SO what. You need to protect yourself. That is way more important than social courtesy. Protect yourself gal- we have to have our health and safety first in mind in order to heal. Good luck and keep working out the way you feel is safest to you <3

 

[Brittany Gonord]

I am a person that deals with complex PTSD from mollestation, rape, assault and domestic abuse so I he...

Thank you for the reply! And encouragement! I wish you the best in your efforts to fight this same battle!