Trauma can be a debilitating experience that affects your mind, body, and soul. While everyone copes with it differently, there are certain activities that have been proven to alleviate the symptoms of trauma. In Tampa, Florida, there are plenty of activities to engage in that can help you cope with trauma.

 From exploring the outdoors to seeking professional help, here are 10 example activities that can be beneficial for survivors of trauma. Each suggestion is unique and caters to a variety of interests. Try them out and see if any help out in your journey of healing from trauma..

Visit the Tampa Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is a beautiful path that stretches alongside the Hillsborough River. It's a great place to go for a walk, run, bike, scooter, or just a place to sit and take in the sights of the city. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve your overall mood.

 Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness in its basic form is deliberately focusing your attention on the present.  This is done by clearing out the “noise” from your mind.  It can allow you to focus on the reality of the moment including thoughts, feelings, sights, and sounds. Yoga is an example that has been proven to be an effective coping mechanism for trauma. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and helps to alleviate physical pain. In Tampa, you can find yoga studios that offer different styles and levels of classes. Paul tells us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2) and to practice thoughts that honor God (Philippians 4:8).

Seek Individual Therapy

It's important to have a mental health counselor who can help you navigate the healing process. There are plenty of therapists in Tampa that specialize in trauma and offer services on a sliding scale based on income.  We have options in both our South Tampa and Northdale locations.

Take a Specialty Class

Art classes or workshops can provide a safe space for individuals to express their emotions, find healing, and deepen their relationship with God. You can even incorporate scripture or Christian images into your art by choosing messages that speak to your journey and healing process.  Another option is cooking classes. They can be a therapeutic way to relieve stress and engage the senses. There are many cooking classes in Tampa that range from beginner-level to advanced. You can learn how to make a specific dish or take a class that focuses on a particular cuisine.

Try Journaling

Find a place indoors or outdoors near your home and write in a journal regularly as a way to process and reflect on your thoughts and emotions.  These can also be used as talking points with your therapist in sessions.  You may find it easier to write out your thoughts and emotions than you do expressing out loud to someone.

Visit the Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a great place to take your mind off things and explore the underwater world. Studies show that watching aquatic life can lower your heart rate and reduce stress levels.  It may help to search for their least busy times to attend to avoid large crowds.

Attend a Support Group

It's helpful to be around others who have gone through similar experiences as you. In Tampa, there are a variety of support groups that cater to different types of trauma. One example that can be found around the Tampa Bay area is Celebrate Recovery.

Take a Day Trip to the Beach

Trips to the beach can help you disconnect from the world and connect with nature. The Tampa Bay area has plenty of beaches that are within driving distance, such as Fort De Soto Park, Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Honeymoon Island.

Explore Nature

Visit scenic locations like Lettuce Lake Park, Flatwoods Conservation Park, or the Hillsborough River State Park to immerse yourself in nature and find tranquility. Trails, both paved and unpaved, can be found across the Tampa Bay area.

Volunteer at Local Organizations

One option is to volunteer at an animal shelter. Animals have a way of bringing joy and comfort to those in need. Volunteering at a local animal shelter can be a great way to engage with animals and help those in need. If animals are not a desired option, there are many other local organizations that would love your support and that can benefit you by giving back to the community and others.

There are countless ways to cope with trauma, and the activities listed above are just a few examples. It's important to find what works for you and stick with it. Remember to be gentle with yourself and take it one day at a time. Healing is a journey, not a destination. In Tampa, there are plenty of resources/coping skills available to help you on that journey.

Check out this blog on 5 signs you may need a Trauma Therapist in Tampa, FL.

INTERESTED IN GETTING STARTED WITH A THERAPIST IN TAMPA, FL?

Healing from Trauma can be a long and lonely road built with slow progress. This can lead to stress, anxiety, fear, and a negative impact on our daily lives. Our therapists can help you identify your triggers and guide you in overcoming them from our South Tampa, FL and  North Tampa, FL office located in the Northdale neighborhood. To start grounding yourself and managing your symptoms, follow these simple steps: 

Contact Christian Counseling of Tampa or call us at 813-254-3200

Schedule to meet with one of our counselors at our North or South office.

Start learning to manage symptoms associated with your trauma.

OTHER SERVICES OFFERED WITH CHRISTIAN COUNSELING OF TAMPA 

Our Tampa, FL-based therapy practice offers a wide range of services to meet your specific needs.

We understand the many ways your mental health may be impacted in life. As a result, our team is happy to also offer play therapy, anxiety treatment, premarital counseling, Christian counseling, counseling for teens and young adults, and therapy for depression. We use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, EFT, grief therapy, and more! Feel free to learn more about us by visiting our FAQ or blog today.