How does the ‘self’ emerge from neural function? How do our nervous system adaptations keep us safe from future harm? How can it be that these early adaptations might also prevent us from grief, forgiveness and hope? Is it possible our beliefs of self (e.g. I did something wrong, I am unworthy, I am unlovable) are normal interpretations of our nervous system in response to overwhelming, painful experiences? While answers to questions of self might never be fully answered, this session will consider how early nervous system development informs the function of our brainstem, our bodily sensations and our feelings.

We will use these concepts of nervous system development to explore how our earliest experiences become encoded in our neural networks of survival and emotional regulation, and how that ultimately allows for the emergence of one’s awareness of particular sensations or feelings, cognitive capacities and behaviors. Through this lens, we can reconsider ideas of trauma, healing, grieving and hope.