A Journey of Empowerment and Healing: How Boxing and Writing Help Survivors Reclaim Their Lives
After years of battling with the symptoms linked to her childhood sexual abuse, Dr Donna Lyon (PhD), a senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne and a survivor herself, embarked on a journey that led to the creation of Left Write Hook. This innovative eight-week program, which combines boxing and writing, offers a unique and powerful path towards healing for survivors of child sexual abuse and other complex trauma.
The Genesis of Left Write Hook: A Fusion of Passion and Personal Experience
Dr Lyon's passion for the arts and storytelling began at a young age. This passion, which she considers may have saved her life, unknowingly helped her process her past trauma in her early short films. Later, as she delved deeper into her recovery journey, she found solace in the physicality and embodiment of boxing. This unexpected connection with the sport allowed her to safely reconnect with her body and mind, overcoming years of dissociation.
However, Dr Lyon's journey wasn't solely about personal healing. She felt a deep desire to help other survivors navigate their own paths to recovery. This led to the creation of Left Write Hook, a program that seamlessly integrates boxing's physicality with the cathartic power of writing, offering survivors a space to reclaim their narratives, express their emotions, and connect with others who have shared experiences.
The Power of Left Write Hook: A Research-Backed Approach to Healing
The effectiveness of Left Write Hook has been rigorously studied through a mixed-methods research project that included a psychological study, a collection of survivor stories, and a documentary film. The program has been shown to significantly improve assertiveness, wellbeing, and decrease PTSD symptoms in participants.
Empowering Narratives: How Participants Found Their Voices
Thematic analysis of the participants' creative writing entries revealed three prominent themes: empowerment, connection/disconnection, and validation. The women who participated in the program found a sense of agency and control over their bodies and narratives, experiencing a positive shift in their sense of self and their relationship with their trauma.
One participant, Khale McHurst, poignantly described the transformative impact of Left Write Hook in her final session: "It’s been such a jarring experience each week to get so deeply entrenched in our collective trauma, to hear each other and cry for one another, then immediately exorcise the sadness from my body." She goes on to explain how she felt more empowered and capable of controlling her narrative, no longer feeling like a victim but rather a survivor reclaiming her power.
Beyond the Ring: Building a Community of Support
Left Write Hook has evolved beyond a research project into a registered survivor-led charity, providing ongoing support to survivors. The program has touched the lives of over sixty individuals, with many returning for multiple sessions. The program's success is a testament to its unique approach, offering a safe space for survivors to connect, heal, and rebuild their lives.
The Future of Left Write Hook: Expanding Reach and Making a Lasting Impact
Dr Lyon and her team are dedicated to expanding the reach of Left Write Hook and ensuring its long-term impact. They are currently conducting a randomized controlled trial comparing Left Write Hook to a boxing-only program, with the goal of further validating the program's efficacy and its potential to become a valuable resource for survivors worldwide.
The Left Write Hook documentary, which premiered at the Melbourne International Film Festival, is another crucial step in raising awareness about the program and the importance of supporting survivors. This powerful film, which has been praised for its poignant portrayal of the program's impact, is set to be released in cinemas in October.
A Legacy of Empowerment: Leaving a Lasting Mark on the Lives of Survivors
Left Write Hook stands as a testament to the transformative power of combining physical and creative modalities in supporting survivors of trauma. The program's success is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of profound adversity, healing and empowerment are possible. Through its unique blend of boxing, writing, and community, Left Write Hook is empowering survivors to reclaim their narratives, find their voices, and forge a path towards a brighter future. It's a program that not only helps survivors heal from the past but also provides them with the tools and support they need to live fulfilling and empowered lives.
