Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma

In this chapter, Levine presents a four-phase protocol for preventing long-term trauma following accidents by helping individuals discharge stored survival energy. His approach reflects the influence of body-oriented psychotherapy pioneers like Wilhelm Reich and represents a significant departure from traditional talk therapy.

Phase I focuses on immediate intervention at the scene of the accident. The helper should keep the injured person warm, still, and lying down while encouraging them to experience bodily sensations such as shaking, trembling, and temperature changes. This phase challenges the common impulse to “do something” by emphasizing stillness and allowing natural discharge processes to occur. The helper’s role is to validate these physical responses and remain present throughout, which typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.

Phase II involves continued rest; Levine recommends taking one to two days off work even for seemingly minor injuries, arguing that this recovery time prevents complications like whiplash from worsening. During this phase, emotions such as anger, fear, grief, and anxiety may emerge alongside continued physical sensations. The helper should allow these emotions without judgment, recognizing feelings of denial and resistance to rest as common defense mechanisms against helplessness.

Phase III introduces the concept of accessing and renegotiating trauma by exploring peripheral details of the accident—not just the impact itself.