Can the trembling in the client's shoulders be an ancient river trying to flow again? Perhaps yes. In some cases, it may be due to stress, anxiety, muscle tension, or physical pain. But it could also be related to the release of stored energy from the body's fight-or-flight response. When humans are exposed to sudden danger or extreme fear, they experience what is known as the sympathetic nervous system activation. This results in increased heart rate, breathing, and hormone secretion that prepare them for action. The shaking associated with this can last long after the threat has passed. It is called postural instability.
In some individuals, however, it might be more than just physical symptoms. It may reflect an attempt to reconnect with repressed emotions, memories, or desires. According to Carl Jung's theory, archetypes can be understood as psychological patterns embedded in the collective unconscious, inherited through generations. They represent universal ideas and images that guide human behavior. These archetypal energies emerge during periods of transition, such as birth or death, illness or crisis.
A woman who experiences shaking while giving birth may be manifesting the primordial power of creation. Similarly, someone who feels their body quiver at the sound of a loved one's voice may be channeling the instinctual force of sexual attraction. By exploring these underlying forces, therapists can help clients process trauma, heal wounds, and strengthen relationships. Such practices include guided imagery, deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, art expression, and bodywork.
On a symbolic level, trembling can be seen as a creative force trying to break free. Ancient cultures viewed the world as alive and dynamic, with natural phenomena like rivers having consciousness and agency. If our bodies are nature-made, then perhaps we share those powers too. We need not fear the trembles but rather listen carefully, observe intently, and follow them where they lead us.
Can the trembling in the client's shoulders be an ancient river trying to flow again?
The trembling in the client's shoulders could represent several things. It could be a physical response to stress or anxiety, indicating that the client is feeling overwhelmed by something in their environment. Alternatively, it could be related to trauma or past experiences that have left a lasting impact on them. It may also be related to cultural expectations or beliefs about how one should behave in certain situations, such as during periods of high emotion or when interacting with authority figures.