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“This groundbreaking book offers a compelling understanding of inherited trauma and fresh, powerful tools for relieving its suffering. Mark Wolynn is a wise and trustworthy guide on the journey toward healing.” —Tara Brach, PhD, author of Radical Acceptance and True Refuge
A groundbreaking approach to transforming traumatic legacies passed down in families over generations, by an acclaimed expert in the field
Depression. Anxiety. Chronic Pain. Phobias. Obsessive thoughts. The evidence is compelling: the roots of these difficulties may not reside in our immediate life experience or in chemical imbalances in our brains—but in the lives of our parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents. The latest scientific research, now making headlines, supports what many have long intuited—that traumatic experience can be passed down through generations. It Didn’t Start with You builds on the work of leading experts in post-traumatic stress, including Mount Sinai School of Medicine neuroscientist Rachel Yehuda and psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score. Even if the person who suffered the original trauma has died, or the story has been forgotten or silenced, memory and feelings can live on. These emotional legacies are often hidden, encoded in everything from gene expression to everyday language, and they play a far greater role in our emotional and physical health than has ever before been understood.
As a pioneer in the field of inherited family trauma, Mark Wolynn has worked with individuals and groups on a therapeutic level for over twenty years. It Didn’t Start with You offers a pragmatic and prescriptive guide to his method, the Core Language Approach. Diagnostic self-inventories provide a way to uncover the fears and anxieties conveyed through everyday words, behaviors, and physical symptoms. Techniques for developing a genogram or extended family tree create a map of experiences going back through the generations. And visualization, active imagination, and direct dialogue create pathways to reconnection, integration, and reclaiming life and health. It Didn’t Start With You is a transformative approach to resolving longstanding difficulties that in many cases, traditional therapy, drugs, or other interventions have not had the capacity to touch.
Publisher : Penguin Life
Publication date : April 25, 2017
Edition : Reprint
Language : English
Print length : 256 pages
ISBN-10 : 1101980389
ISBN-13 : 978-1101980385
Item Weight : 8.4 ounces
Dimensions : 7.76 x 5.08 x 0.44 inches
Customers say
Customers find the book insightful, with one noting how it broadens understanding of personal and psychological issues, and many saying it changed their lives. The book is well-written and easy to follow, with compelling stories that make it a great read for personal growth. While customers appreciate the value for money, they note it’s not suitable for victims of childhood trauma. The pacing receives mixed reactions, with some finding it spot-on while others mention it becomes repetitive at the end.
DEY –
This book stopped me from going down an ineffective path.
This book changed my life. I had gone in circles for many years and could never figure out what was wrong. After reading 3 chapter of this book, I had my answer. I am so glad to have been advised to read this great book. If you have been disconnected from your family for any reason, and especially due to trauma or abuse, read this book and take your time.
Carli –
I love it
This book is for the adults who are wanting to take a look at your family of origin, and how generational trauma may be impacting your day to day life. This book has an approach that traumatic legacies can be passed down in families over generations including: depression, anxiety, chronic pain, phobias, obsessive thoughts, etc. This book is one that also pairs great with The Body Keeps the Score if you’re familiar with that one.I recommend buying the actual hard copy of this book, there are exercises where you write things down and it’s helpful to have a hard copy. I would say after reading this book, it really just helped me understand myself better. Helped me understand why I may do certain things, or have a certain viewpoint. It builds on the topic of generational trauma, and how we can overcome that. I have loved this book and it’s one I recommend to clients as well if they are wanting to explore topics like this in therapy. It’s very informative, and one that I would say you can’t just casually read.
Margaret –
POWERFUL INSIGHTS
I believe this book/process will be a game-changer for me, and I’m excited to see how it will continue to benefit me in the future.I wanted to express my gratitude for creating such a fantastic, clear and well laid out process to follow and implement. I’ve recommended it to several friends and family, and I’m confident they’ll have the same positive experience.
Destini D Payne –
Good read!
Breaks down perfectly.
RikG –
It Didn’t Start With You
Excellent book in easy to understand terms.
Amanda*C –
Groundbreaking!
“It Didn’t Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle” by Mark Wolynn is a groundbreaking exploration of the impact of inherited family trauma on our personal lives and behaviors. Wolynn, a leading expert in the field, delves into the complex interplay between genetics, emotional health, and family history, revealing how trauma can be transferred across generations. Through the use of compelling case studies and accessible psychological insights, the book offers a compelling argument for the profound influence of familial past on our present and future selves.One of Wolynn’s most significant contributions is his development of a methodology to uncover and address inherited trauma. He presents practical tools and techniques that readers can use to trace the roots of their emotional issues back to unresolved traumas in their family histories. This approach not only broadens the understanding of personal and psychological issues but also provides a clear and actionable path towards healing and breaking the cycle of suffering.The book is highly accessible, aimed not only at professionals in the fields of psychology and psychiatry but also at anyone interested in understanding the deeper determinants of their behavior and emotional well-being. It’s thought-provoking and potentially transformative, challenging readers to reconsider the origins of their issues and empowering them with the knowledge to enact change.While some may find the concept of inherited trauma difficult to grasp or even controversial, Wolynn supports his claims with a rich blend of scientific research, clinical experience, and narrative. “It Didn’t Start with You” stands out as a compassionate guide towards understanding and overcoming the burdens we carry from our ancestors, encouraging a journey of self-discovery and healing.It’s a must-read for anyone looking to explore the hidden dimensions of their family history and its impact on their life.
petrapetra –
Deep knowledge, mind blowing
I must say this, is my favorite read. Facilitating family constellations and healing sessions, the knowledge of this book is profound. If you want to learn more about yourself, if you are looking for inner peace, go get this book. Through a deeper understanding and awareness, your life will look different.
Aynur Jafar –
It is a great book!
It is a groundbreaking exploration of how inherited trauma shapes our lives in ways we often don’t realize. The author brilliantly connects science, psychology, and personal stories to show how the emotional wounds of previous generations influence our behaviors, relationships, and health today. Strongly recommended!
Cliente de Amazon –
Lo leí antes de este boom que están teniendo las constelaciones familiares. Me ayudo a confirmar muchas dudas/teorías que yo estaba teniendo sobre mi persona y de cómo lo estaba relacionando con la forma de ser de mis papas, tíos y abuelos. Me dio calma al saber que no me lo estaba imaginando ya que si existe el impacto que dejan y forman tu persona.
Deeb Store –
cool book
Amazon Customer –
I loved this book and have lent it out to a couple of friends who have also enjoyed it. Gave me some much needed “ahh-ha!” moments.Helped me look at things from a different angle and be more compassionate. Definitely helped me have some breakthroughs. I will read it again one day.
Mark –
Recommend who what to read it.
Katia Nancy Borges –
Comprei esse livro quando ainda não havia a tradução para o português. Me ajudou muito nos meus estudos em Constelação Familiar.