Mindful & Somatic Monday: Week 3 The 12-Steps Re-imagined
- waltercombs
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Step 3: The Sensation of Trust—Learning to "Lean Back"
Last week, we found the "Pilot Light"—that spark of Self-Energy that exists even in the middle of a storm. This week, we move to Step 3: Trust.
Our re-imagined Step 3 is: “We made a decision to open our hearts and bodies to the guidance of our Higher Power and the leadership of our Self.”
Surrender vs. Collapse
In the body, there is a big difference between Collapse and Surrender.
Collapse is when our parts give up. It feels heavy, numb, and "dark." This is often a state of Dorsal Vagal shutdown.
Surrender (Trust) is a conscious "leaning back." It is the feeling of a tight muscle finally letting go because it realizes it is being held by something stronger.
Today’s Practice: The "Internal Lean"
Take 5 minutes today to practice the physical "shape" of Step 3.
Find the Bracing: Sit in a chair with your back away from the seat. Notice the muscles in your core, your neck, and your back that are working to "hold you up." This is the somatic signature of your Manager parts—the parts that feel they must stay on guard 24/7 to keep you safe.
Invite the Lean: Slowly, intentionally, allow your back to rest against the chair. As you feel the chair take your weight, notice what happens in your breath.
The Heart Opening: As you lean back, notice if your chest feels slightly more open. This is the "Decision" of Step 3—opening the heart and body to a Power greater than your own effort.
Acknowledge the Fear: If a part of you "jerks" back or feels anxious about letting the chair hold you, just notice it. Say to that part: "I see you. You've been holding us up for a long time. It’s okay to just experiment with leaning back for a few seconds."
The Somatic Shift
Trust begins when we move from "I have to do this" to "I am being supported." When we lean back into Self-leadership and a Higher Power, our nervous system moves into a state of Social Engagement and Calm.
Today’s Mantra: "I don't have to hold it all together. I am learning to trust the support of my Self and my Higher Power."
Reflect on this today:
As you move through your day, notice when you are "leaning forward" into stress or control. Can you take one breath and physically "lean back" into the moment, trusting that you are held?
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