Escaping a toxic relationship may feel like freedom, but what comes next can be just as challenging. Survivors of narcissistic abuse don’t just walk away from the person, they must also break free from the self-doubt, guilt, and emotional wounds that linger long after. The voice of the abuser often stays in their minds, making them question their worth and decisions. Rebuilding from this pain isn’t just about moving on, it’s about learning to trust yourself again, reclaim your identity, and show yourself the compassion you were once denied. True healing isn’t about forgetting the past; it’s about embracing yourself with kindness as you step into the future.
Sherry Lou Canino understands this journey deeply. As a holistic trauma healer, coach, and author, she helps survivors rebuild their sense of self. Through her books, coaching, and online community, she provides practical tools to support recovery and empower survivors to take back their lives.
Sherry’s work comes from personal experience. After surviving emotional abuse, she faced overwhelming doubts and self-blame. She asked herself the same questions many survivors do: Why didn’t I leave sooner? Could I have done something differently? Will I ever be okay? Her turning point came when she realized that healing wasn’t about erasing the past, it was about learning to move forward with self-love. She began writing, leading to her books, The Silent Abuse and Reclaiming Your Life, which have helped countless survivors understand their experiences. But she knew survivors needed more than words. They needed steps to follow and a community that truly understood. That’s why she founded Soulfully Wild, a space where survivors can find coaching, courses, and emotional support as they heal.
One of the biggest struggles survivors face is self-blame. Narcissistic abuse conditions victims to believe they are at fault. Even after leaving, many replay the past, wondering if they could have prevented the abuse. Sherry teaches that self-blame is learned, not true. She encourages survivors to replace thoughts like “I should have seen the signs” with “I did my best with what I knew.” This shift is the first step to self-forgiveness and healing.
She also emphasizes the importance of boundaries. Many survivors struggle to say no, fearing rejection or conflict. Years of emotional manipulation have convinced them that their needs don’t matter. Learning to set limits isn’t selfish, it’s an act of self-respect. Protecting your peace is not only necessary but essential for healing.
Trauma doesn’t just affect the mind, it leaves a lasting impact on the body. Many survivors experience chronic stress, anxiety, muscle tension, and exhaustion. Sherry incorporates somatic healing techniques into her work, helping survivors reconnect with their bodies. Breathwork, grounding exercises, and movement help release stored trauma and bring a sense of calm. Breathwork regulates the nervous system, lowers cortisol levels, and signals to the brain that the danger has passed. Grounding exercises, like walking barefoot or focusing on physical sensations, help survivors feel present and safe. Movement therapy, such as yoga or stretching, allows the body to process emotions without words. Healing happens when the body and mind work together.
For many survivors, traditional talk therapy isn’t enough. Sometimes, emotions are too complex or painful to express with words. Creative outlets like art, journaling, and music provide a powerful way to process emotions safely. Before becoming a trauma coach, Sherry worked in art therapy, helping individuals use creativity to release emotions. She saw how painting, journaling, and other forms of expression could unlock feelings buried for years.
She encourages survivors to use journaling as a healing tool. Writing down thoughts and emotions can bring clarity and relief. Some survivors find comfort in writing letters, to themselves, to their past selves, or to those who hurt them (without sending them). Putting emotions on paper can be incredibly freeing. The goal isn’t to create something perfect, it’s to give emotions a place to be acknowledged.
Healing from narcissistic abuse isn’t just about surviving, it’s about building a life where self-love comes first. Many survivors struggle with putting themselves first, fearing they’ll be seen as selfish. Sherry teaches that self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s survival. She encourages survivors to reconnect with things that bring them joy, whether it’s spending time in nature, painting, listening to music, or simply resting without guilt. Joy isn’t something to wait for, it’s part of the healing process.
Beyond coaching, Sherry is working to launch a foundation to support survivors, providing financial aid, housing assistance, and legal resources. She is also compiling a book of survivor stories to ensure that those who have endured narcissistic abuse are heard and validated.
Healing is a journey, and there is no perfect roadmap. But every act of self-care, no matter how small, is a step forward. If you’re ready to start your healing journey, visit Soulfully Wild to explore resources and connect with a community that understands. Join the conversation, share your story, ask questions, and take the first step toward reclaiming your life. You don’t have to do this alone.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. Readers are encouraged to seek support from qualified healthcare professionals for personal guidance and treatment.
