How to Use CrossFit to Support Trauma Recovery

About this episode

This episode discusses how CrossFit can aid in trauma recovery through physical training and community support.

What if trauma recovery is not just about talking, but about training? In this episode, host Jocelyn Rylee sits down with Dr. Stephanie Arel , whose work bridges religion and psychology. She holds a master’s degree in religion and psychiatry, and a Ph.D. in theology and trauma studies, along with clinical training and experience working at an eating disorder hospital. Drawing on her academic research, clinical work with trauma survivors, and personal journey as a CrossFit athlete, Arel explores how CrossFit’s methodology intersects with trauma recovery. Arel explains how trauma permanently alters the stress system and why trauma recovery must involve the body, not just the mind. They unpack big T and little T trauma, how triggers show up in the gym, and why high-intensity training can help recalibrate the nervous system when paired with agency, trust, and appropriate scaling. The conversation explores the parallels between EMDR therapy and constantly varied functional movements, the role of competence in reducing fear, and why community is essential for recovery. This is not about turning coaches into therapists. It is about becoming trauma-informed, understanding how stress and…

People in this episode

Host: Jocelyn Rylee

Guest: Dr. Stephanie Arel

Topics covered

• trauma recovery
• CrossFit
• mental health
• nervous system regulation
• community support

Keywords

• trauma
• CrossFit
• mental health
• nervous system
• high-intensity training
• community
• EMDR therapy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CrossFit, eating disorder hospital

Books & works: EMDR therapy

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