Myth #2: Trauma is all in your head
Nope. Trauma lives in your body, too. That racing heart when you hear a sudden noise, the tension in your shoulders, or even the way you avoid certain places – those can all be signs that your nervous system is…
Alexander-Ashley
Belinda Alexander-Ashley, Ph.D., is an author and independent researcher with a focus on the concept of new beginnings and a commitment to the mantra, “It’s never too late to forge a new future.” After more than twenty-two years in the federal probation system, she has gained experience with second chances and adaptability. Upon retirement, she transitioned to writing, addressing topics such as generational trauma and lesser-known historical events. Her work explores strategies for overcoming barriers, including therapy, meditation, engagement with nature, and various supportive activities. She combines historical events with fictional narratives to encourage readers to consider new opportunities.
Myth #1: Trauma is only about “big” events
Yes, major life-threatening events can cause trauma. But so can things like growing up in a home where you never felt safe, constantly being criticized, or losing someone you love. Trauma isn’t measured by the size of the event –…
What is generational trauma?
Generational trauma, also called intergenerational trauma, occurs when the effects of a traumatic event experienced by one generation is passed down to their descendants. This trauma may be the result of war, slavery, colonization, forced migration, abuse or systemic oppression.…
Understanding Generational Trauma: How the Past Shapes Our Present
Trauma does not always begin with us. Many of the emotional struggles, behavioral patterns, and even physical health challenges we face today can be rooted in events that occurred long before we were born. This is known as generational trauma—the transmission…
BrightWord Podcast
Coming Soon! The Third of Three BrightWord Podcast will release on September 3, 2025.
Second BrightWord Book Podcast
The second of three BrightWord Book Podcasts featuring Belinda Alexander-Ashley and Faces in the Smoke is now available.
Battle of Cabin Creek
Battle of Cabin Creek The Battle of Cabin Creek, which occurred on July 1–2, 1863 in Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma), marked a significant milestone in United States history. It was the first instance in which African American soldiers—specifically, the First…
BrightWord Books Podcast
BrightWord Books Podcast – Part 1 Featuring Belinda Alexander-Ashley
Rising to the Challenge
On Sunday, June 28, 1863, the sight of Black men marching to war against Confederate forces was still new in southern Pennsylvania. Unlike their comrades, the men digging trenches were not a formal military unit but volunteers in the home…
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