Description

The anthropological turn of trauma-informed research and teaching, considers epistemic injustice, inclusion and decolonisation (Tantam, 2024), following the steps of the US trauma-informed approach working with vulnerable populations with experience of childhood abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, discrimination or the carceral system (SAMHSA, 2014), and more recently trauma-informed mental health care in the UK (Sweeney et al., 2016, GOV UK 2022), to prevent re-traumatisation and vicarious trauma. Considering the risks of intellectualising, individualising, or becoming discursive, we would like to offer a collaborative workshop that provides embodied tools for learning about what trauma is, ways of protecting and knowing with the body, and creating connection with others. We argue that trauma-informed research and learning methodologies to have liberatory potential must be practiced together in on-going basis among anthropologists communities. This workshop creates a community space for learning and practice. We will agree on ways of working together safely and joyfully. In preparation for co-producing an understanding of what trauma is for us, we will share a mindfulness breathing exercise and the five-senses exercise (Miguel-Lorenzo & Osborn, 2025). Trauma splits bodyminds (Levine 2005). We will provide techniques for being present in your body and knowing through the body. Carolina will offer a Butoh-inspired movement practice (2025), and Xandra will conclude the workshop by sharing simple body-affirming boundaries techniques (Levine 2005). You will have a chance to reflect throughout the workshop. Specialising in GSBV anthropology, Carolina and Xandra, draw on lived experience, co-production and peer work methodologies to co-deliver this non-clinical workshop.