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Dear Ones,

It is time again to offer my “The Art of Healing Series” again.  My intention for this offering is to meld my Trauma-Informed Yoga training with my Somatic Therapy training, as it has been my experience that mind and body are not separate, a calm body is a calm mind.

The gentle yoga practice will integrating Somatic Experiencing® techniques with a focus on how the specific postures feel in the body, what variations feel good in the body rather than getting each posture “right’.  This is to build the somatic experience, and what choice feels like when you can free the body into the experience of each posture without evaluation of.  

Following the practice there will be an experience of Transforming Intentional Touch® supporting the nervous system and the body to come into the possibilities of some settling.   This will feel much like a meditation with the intention of supporting and nurturing the body to rest and restore. 

Details:

When: Sundays, October 20 & 27th, November 10 & 17, 2024

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Location: Shift Power Yoga, 2370 Bering Road, West Kelowna

Cost: $180 per series

Yours in Healing,

Caroldean Jude

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Somatic Experiencing Practitioner

Transforming Touch Practitioner

Internal Family Systems Therapist

Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher

Dear Ones,

Information is powerful. Understanding the way the body and mind work together is an important piece of mental health issues.  They are not separate from each other and are linked through a complex system of neuropathways that are designed for survival.

⁃ Neuroception of safety – social, engaged, connected.  

⁃ Neuroception of danger – mobilized, action taking, fight and flight.

⁃ Neuroception of life-threat – immobilized, shut down, collapsed.

Gently notice where your nervous system lives and/or fluctuates to. Practice bringing awareness to your senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell) to ground your body and mind to the present moment. Slow the breath, exhale longer than inhale x2. Staying in the present offers you the space to separate yourself from any triggers that that may arise.  The ability to slow down, recognize and differentiate the truth from the triggers, is the path towards nervous system restoration and health.

Practice  gentle awareness of your nervous system in slow short amounts (30 seconds). Stay curious, open and self-compassionate. You are not alone, there is hope to regain your sense of safety in the world. 

Please contact me to book an appointment to see how Somatic Therapy can help you become more embodied, present, and vital again.

Yours in Healing,

Caroldean Jude,

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner

Transforming Touch ® Practitioner

Internal Family Systems® Therapist

Dear Ones,

Why would anybody try to please or go along with someone that is hurting them? This is not a conscious decision and rather a trauma response within the Polyvagal Theory. This is a defensive state that is called upon in times of severe duress. These appeasement behaviors come from unique autonomic states and part of our body’s mission-driven desire to keep us alive. Unfortunately, the Fawn state often comes with some shame, as it seems that this lack of being able to “fight” in the physical sense is judged and internalized by ourselves as a sign of “weakness”.

It is unique as it a combination of Dorsal Vagal (essentially the brake) and the Sympathetic (gas pedal). This also involves an activated Social Engagement System (Ventral Vagal). This allows the us to give off signals of safety and co-regulation to the assailant, and being on “the same side”. This might be the difference between life and death as maybe the aggressor has a weapon, is physically bigger, is blocking our escape etcetera.

This behavioral adaptation (known neural pathway ) sometimes starts early on in life, creating a sense of safety in the diminishing of self. I celebrate anyone that has used this to survive, either through the experience of a Big T trauma or a little t trauma, as there is no quantifying a life threatening or scary experience. The getting to the other side of these life altering experience is the thriving, to feel the joy in the adaptability and strength of the human body and spirit.

Turn gently towards that part of you that survived, practice sending love and gratitude for it’s bravery and resilience.
Healing is possible in the practice of self compassion, and the start of building new neural pathways of safety, self-agency and thriving, can be nurtured, and strengthened. Love the survivor, now it is time to be more and Thrive.

Yours in Healing,

Caroldean Jude

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Transforming Touch® Practitioner

Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner

Internal Family Systems® Practitioner

Dear Ones,

I have learned much from my experiences of listening in to my body and its reactions to people and places.  It has been the key piece in my journey to self knowledge, healing, and self compassion.

Your automatic reactions/behaviors often begin as survival mechanisms in childhood, such as altering yourself to adapt to the surroundings/household that you are lived in.  The old saying;  “Children are to be seen and not heard”, is just one of the messages that can stick into your soma, and still show up in adulthood.  This may possibly look like: not feeling free to express yourself fully in relationships, work, socially ,as you internalized that message to mean:  “my words do not matter”. 

This practice of being with, and turn tenderly towards being present to your body’s reactions can give you clarity.  Inviting in curiosity instead of rejecting the feeling/behavior/reaction.  With clarity comes choice, and the possibility of something different.  A different reaction, a different way to live in, and experience yourself.

The practice of being present with self is a labor of love and patience.  Life is too short not to heal, not to feel.  Choose to be present with yourself, listen and then give yourself what you need.  Possibly the love and attention you were always meant to have and deserve right now in this present moment.

Yours in Healing,

Caroldean Jude

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Transforming Touch® Practitioner

Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner

Internal Family Systems® Practitioner

Dear Ones,

I am excited to announce an upcoming group therapy option that I am offering utilizing Transforming Intentional Touch®. This offering is to support nervous system health, to increase vitality, presence and connection with life. There will be some education provided and hand outs emailed. I will have a 20-minute phone call with each person prior to the beginning of the group sessions providing the opportunity to share their goals.

Session break down:

5:30 pm – 5:40 pm  – Welcome and a few questions.

5:40 pm – 6:15 pm  – Transforming Intentional Touch® Session.

6:15 pm – 6:20 pm  – Brief share time.

This will run for 6 weeks with opportunities to attend all sessions or Drop-in.

Frequently asked questions:

• Are sessions recorded? – Sessions will NOT be recorded.
• Can I turn my camera off? – Yes.
• What will each session look like? – i encourage people to feel comfortable, lying down with blankets if that feels supportive. It will feel like a guided meditation with gentle intentional support for the body and nervous system.
• Can I get support between sessions? –  I will be available for personal sessions between group sessions, and available by email for any concerns/questions that may arise.
• Who can benefit? – The intention of these sessions to provide stress reduction in a broad range of people and increase resilience. So everyone can benefit.
• Will refunds be an option? – Refunds will only be available after the first group session, for the remaining sessions. Drop-in refunds will only be available if cancelled 24 hours prior to session time of 5:30 pm PST.

For more information, please feel free to reach out by phone: 250-215-0080 or email: caroldean@bluebutterflyhealing.ca

The links to book:

https://calendly.com/bluebutterflyhealing12/somatic-group-healing-circle

Drop-In

https://calendly.com/bluebutterflyhealing12/somatic-group-healing-circle-clone

Dear Ones,

The healing journey is not linear. It has hills, valleys, and when you reach a mountain top, there is a sense of elation and self discovery. Admittedly, when you dip into a valley it does not feel great, triggering the tender younger parts of you to arise with their well meaning, but constricted thinking.

These younger versions of yourself were created at one time or another to help you survive, their managing roles are to keep you small and therefore safe. You can tell that they are younger as they have black and white thinking, “I have to be perfect, or I am worthless”, “I have to try really hard, or I’m lazy”, etcetera. Bring gentle awareness to their patterns, where they are in the body (usually a place of tension or even pain). Befriend the area of pain/constriction instead of pushing it away. Practice curiosity and ask the question: “what do you need me to know?”.

The negative messages that you received in childhood can be shed now, as they are not the truth. The simple question is: “How could a small baby or child be not worthy and deserving of love?” You are your greatest healer, and why not free yourself to begin again and BE YOUR MORE….

I have attached below, some Body Awareness Practices that I share with my clients.  Practice one thing for 30-60 seconds twice a day.  Slow is better as the body and the parts that live within it do not like change in the system, and new neural pathways built, need tender care and patience to build.

Body Awareness Practices to Support Regulation

Breathing Techniques: Begin by exhaling fully, lowering your shoulders, breathing slowly and deeply, allowing your belly to rise and fall completely. Practice the 4 x 4 breath technique, also known as “box breath,” to maintain balance in your system. Inhale for 4 counts, pause for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts, and pause for 4 counts before the next inhale. Try the 4-7-8 breath technique to suit your needs. A longer exhale helps shift your system into a more relaxed state (rest and digest- parasympathetic). 

Exhalation Methods: Exhale with your mouth slightly open, lips almost touching as if blowing out a candle. Exhale through your nostrils while contracting the back of your throat, like saying “ha” with closed lips. This technique is known as ujjayi breath in yoga. 

Working with Shortness of Breath: When your breath feels restricted, your body may signal danger due to its survival instincts. Approach your breath with curiosity, identifying if it is shallow (only filling the upper chest) or if you’re holding your breath. If your breath feels stuck, exhale completely before inhaling.

Orienting Technique: Take a moment to slowly scan the room you’re in, consciously observing the light, colors, preferences, and sensations in your body with gentle self-compassion. Allowing the information from the eyes to inform your body to know, where your body is in the space it occupies, and where your body is in the room.

Adrenal Support Work: The adrenal glands sit atop the kidneys and play a vital role in flushing stress hormones out of our bodies, particularly after prolonged periods of stress. These glands are part of our fight-or-flight response system. If the adrenals are not functioning optimally, leftover stress hormones can accumulate and become harmful, resulting in various physical symptoms and health issues. Working on the adrenals helps the body recall its parasympathetic response, ultimately training it to prioritize settling over tension. Support can be provided with laying down or leaning against a heating pad or hot water bottle. This action encourages the kidneys to release and lower the adrenal glands, promoting better nervous system regulation. This practice fosters an understanding and building trust between you and your body.

Supporting Vagal Tone –  The vagus nerve is the cranial nerve X (CNX) or your tenth cranial nerve. It is also known as the “wandering nerve” because it is the longest parasympathetic nerve in the body. It has been compared to the conductor of the orchestra because it takes the lead in almost every autonomic function in the body. Science has confirmed that the vagus nerve is the key to wellness as it stimulates the “rest and digest” side of our nervous system, as opposed to the sympathetic “fight or flight” side of the nervous system.

Seated: bring right ear towards right shoulder, head in line with body. without changing head position, look down as far as the eyes will go, to right shoulder. without changing head position, look up to the left as far as the eyes are comfortable. Pause and notice any changes. Repeat on other side.

This is a lot of information, notice any tendencies to want to try harder or do more.  Invite in the practice of less is more, being gentle with yourself, and embracing the wisdom of the body.

Yours in healing,

Caroldean Jude,

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Somatic Experiencing® Therapy

Transforming Touch® Therapy

Internal Family Systems® Therapy

Dear Ones, 

We are all aware of the impact of developmental trauma on our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being, and how it can affect the quality of life. I strongly believe in the healing potential within each individual. Let’s explore the importance of a regulated nervous system and how it can significantly enhance life. 

The human nervous system, with its intricate complexity, serves a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. It acts as a communication network, transmitting signals between the brain and the body to control functions such as heartbeat, thoughts, and emotions. Maintaining a well-regulated nervous system is essential for optimal physical and mental health. Let’s delve into the remarkable benefits of a balanced nervous system and how it can elevate overall well-being and resilience.

Stress Reduction: 

• A well-regulated nervous system plays a crucial role in helping our bodies effectively manage stressors in life. It enables a smooth transition between heightened alertness (fight or flight) and a calm, relaxed state (rest and digest), aiding in coping with life’s stressors and reducing the impact of chronic stress. 

Physical Well-Being: 

• Cardiovascular:  Nervous system regulation enhances the ability to cope with stress, leading to lower blood pressure and reduced risks of stroke and vascular dementia. 
• Digestion: A balanced nervous system supports digestion by ensuring proper blood flow and energy utilization, benefiting food sensitivities, regular elimination, hunger cues, and food enjoyment. 
• Immune System: Nervous system regulation boosts the body’s immune response and healing efficiency. 

Better Relationships: 

• A regulated nervous system enhances our ability to connect deeply with others, fostering empathy and emotional attunement for improved communication and harmonious relationships. 

Enhanced Mental Clarity & Creativity: 

• A balanced nervous system aids mental clarity and focus, enabling better concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making. A balanced nervous system allows the body to utilize more energy in the creative process, whatever that entails. Mindfulness practices and time spent in nature can also help regulate the nervous system, enhancing mental acuity. 

Better Sleep: 

• A balanced nervous system promotes high-quality sleep by facilitating the transition from wakefulness to relaxation, essential for physical and mental health. 

Self-Regulation: 

• Self-regulation is a vital skill supported by a well-regulated nervous system, empowering individuals to manage emotional and physiological responses, enhancing self-awareness and self-mastery for daily life and personal goals. 

Longevity and Overall Well-Being: 

• A well-regulated nervous system is linked to longevity and overall well-being by reducing stress effects, promoting health, and contributing to a vibrant and fulfilling life. It unlocks a higher quality of life by improving stress management, emotional resilience, relationships, and physical and mental well-being. 

In conclusion, a regulated nervous system goes beyond personal well-being, offering a path to a more fulfilling life. By reducing stress, enhancing resilience, improving relationships, and boosting health, a well-regulated nervous system paves the way for vitality, connection, and joy. Through practices like Transforming Touch®, mindfulness, yoga, and somatic therapies, individuals can embrace these benefits, leading to holistic well-being and resilience. 

Sources:  “Nurturing Resilience:  Helping Clients Move Forward from Developmental Trauma, An Integrative Somatic Approach, Kathy Kain, PhD, and Stephen J. Terrell, PsyD.  “Waking the Tiger”, Peter A. Levine, PhD,,  Mia Bolte TTPS

Dear Ones,

I have reflecting on this as I have just become a Grammy for the first time, and sharing my daughter’s pregnancy, delivery and early days at home with her new son.  I was heartened by the encouragement of skin to skin contact from the nurses, with a message of “bringing moms and babies back together”.   A much-needed change for the future of our society, a coming back to recognizing how necessary nurturing babies is, and the vital importance of motherhood (fatherhood).

Human babies are very vulnerable and totally dependent on mom’s or dad’s constant tending to their cries, diaper changes, feeding, and love.  These early days and months of being in close contact with our caregivers sets the foundation for life, our experience of the world as being either safe or dangerous, and creating healthy attachment bonds.

I know from my family history, my own mother’s unexpected pregnancy, at the age of 19, in the early 1960’s, and how that affected her nervous system.  There was shock, judgment, and rejection she experienced from her family, and the subsequent stress of needing to get married quickly to legitimize the pregnancy.   So right from my conception I was exposed to her shame, fear, uncertainty, and her lack of maturity as well.   As I look back on my life and my early struggles with anxiety, it is no wonder that I felt unsafe, as my mom did not have the nervous system capacity to regulate herself, let alone me.   As I have studied this work and experienced my own healing from it, I appreciate the preciousness of motherhood and the early days of being born on this beautiful planet.

I will invite all the pregnant women, and new mothers, to ponder this for themselves and their precious little ones. To be a safe haven for your babe shapes their future, and how they interpret the world as being safe or dangerous.  This will affect their ability to thrive, to be confident that no matter how far they reach, you would be there to catch them. There are no boundaries to how much you hold, pick up and sleep with your little ones, as you are building their early life experiences.


A profound and beautiful role, as there is such potential to make a difference in the life of a child, and therefore the future of the planet. Relish your role as a mother/caregiver, as it is the most precious one you will play.

This has led me to expand my offerings to include pregnant women and babies in my practice.  To support mother’s to be and their new infants to find nervous system regulation, resilience and adaptability in the shared experience of being a family.  I love the work that I do, and I hope that you will share this new offering to anyone who might be interested and/or need the support.

With warm appreciation,

Caroldean Jude

Somatic Trauma Therapist

Somatic Experiencing Practitioner

Transforming Touch Practitioner

Internal Family Systems Therapist