Because mindfulness practices may overwhelm a trauma survivor with mental images and flashbacks, there are some modifications to change the practice of mindfulness: 
- Open eyes and look around the room
- If lying down, sit up
- If sitting, stand up
- Use calming self-talk to orient to the here and now
- Move in place (e.g., stretch arms, adjust seated position, press palms together)
- Get up and walk around room
- Leave room and return when grounded 

University of Illinois at Chicago

Recent research suggests that mindfulness practices can sometimes cause distress and exacerbate symptoms of anxiety in individuals who have suffered trauma by becoming overwhelmed by flashbacks and heightening their emotional arousal. Sitting still is typical during meditation, however, trauma survivors may find it hard to stay still during this practice which can further worsen symptoms. 

Typical Mindfulness Can Cause Harm in Trauma Survivors

Kelly, A. (2015). Trauma-informed mindfulness-based stress reduction: A promising new model for working with survivors of interpersonal violence. Smith College Studies in Social Work, 85(2), 194-219.

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