n this episode of the podcast, we delve into the complex and intriguing topic of dissociation, inspired by Donald Kalsched’s book “Trauma and the Soul.” Hosts explore how extreme trauma can split the psyche, leading to dissociative states, and discuss how this defense mechanism operates in everyday life. They share personal experiences, insights on the interplay between dissociation and presence, and practical strategies for grounding and healing. Whether you’re interested in psychological theories, personal growth, or trauma recovery, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.








Timestamps:








00:00:00 - Intro



00:01:12 - Discussion on Donald Kalsched’s book “Trauma and the Soul”



00:02:30 - Mechanisms of personality split and extreme trauma



00:04:45 - Dissociation as a defense mechanism



00:06:20 - Dissociative Identity Disorder vs. everyday dissociation



00:08:15 - Personal experiences with dissociation



00:09:35 - Dissociation and its impact on daily functioning



00:11:50 - The usefulness and drawbacks of dissociation



00:13:15 - Antidotes to dissociation: Presence and meditation



00:15:00 - Public speaking and dissociation



00:17:25 - Expanding the comfort zone to reduce dissociation



00:19:40 - Grounding practices for nervous system regulation



00:21:30 - The connection between dissociation and the freeze response



00:24:00 - Polyvagal theory and dissociation



00:25:45 - Survival responses and dissociation in extreme situations



00:28:10 - The role of grounding in mitigating dissociation



00:30:25 - The importance of recognizing triggers



00:32:00 - Behavioral and exposure therapies



00:34:20 - Dissociation as a tool in high-pressure situations



00:36:45 - Revisiting stressful situations in safe environments



00:38:15 - Finding the edge of comfort and presence



00:40:50 - Analogy of cold showers and the point of surrender



00:43:30 - Depersonalization and its relation to dissociation



00:45:25 - Differentiating useful dissociation from harmful depersonalization



00:47:10 - The importance of consent and agency in depersonalization



00:49:00 - Meditative detachment vs. pathological dissociation



00:51:15 - Personal experiences of depersonalization



00:53:30 - Reality shifts post-psychedelic experiences



00:55:00 - Bridging altered states and everyday reality



00:57:15 - Maintaining a fluid perspective on reality



00:59:30 - The role of ego in dissociation and realization



01:01:45 - The impact of mindset on experiencing depersonalization



01:04:00 - Strategies for surrender and acceptance



01:06:00 - Addressing unprocessed triggers for better regulation



01:08:15 - Grounding and openness as preparation for challenging situations



01:10:25 - The paradox of control and surrender



01:12:50 - The power of acceptance in influencing experiences



01:14:30 - Sailing analogy: Working with the flow for better control



01:16:00 - Closing thoughts and reflections on dissociation and surrender