Transgenerational trauma is the genetic passing on of emotional, physical, or social pain down through the generations.
It’s not new. In fact, the concept of transgenerational trauma originated in the after WWII. It was then that various studies proved that children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors demonstrated certain symptoms of trauma. Nightmares and emotional and behavioural problems showed that the original trauma of the grandparent or parent had far-reaching effects.
Family Constellations conceived by Bert Hellinger in response to all the intergenerational trauma of two world wars he saw all around him in Germany.
Often traumatized generations just have to get on with life. They just toughen up and soldier on. Their trauma goes under-ground in the family subconscious. Only to surface in their children or grandchildren.
Unmanaged and repressed trauma can result in post-traumatic stress symptoms, chronic depression, anxiety, sleep disorders or difficulty with intimacy.
Family Constellations are one of the best ways of healing intergenerational trauma. Although it is not a substitute for other therapies it is so helpful that even one session can make lasting change. and can shorten the duration of other therapy.
What people say about Family Constellations:
“It helped me to forgive myself and the person that hurt me. And to know that my Dad is always with me.”
“Every time I do a Constellation it changes my life for the better.”
“The Constellation Day helped me to be more comfortable with being open and vulnerable with people.”
Huge ramifications
The ramifications of transgenerational trauma effect not only individuals, but families, communities and even whole nations. Brazil has recognised the power of Family Constellations in healing these issues in the legal system.
