Releasing our Burdens: A Guide to Healing Individual, Ancestral and Collective Trauma

Brought to you by Penguin.

‘Trauma can cause our parts to take on burdens. Yet, when we bring the spiritual values of curiosity, gratitude, and kindness to these burdened parts, we discover incredible opportunities for healing and awakening’

A radical approach to collective healing, restoring wholeness and reclaiming your true self.

When we focus only on our own trauma, we cannot see how other types of trauma – ancestral, cultural, social, and spiritual – contribute to our present pain and suffering. But when we step back to consider how different parts of our identities are connected, we have a much more complete and coherent picture of our pain. And with awareness comes healing.

In this powerful collaboration, Richard Schwartz – creator of Internal Family Systems – and fellow trauma expert Thomas Hübl expand the map of healing. Through practical exercises such as meditation and reflections, this book will help you release the beliefs and emotions that are burdening you. Using an integrative approach, the authors will not only help you understand the roots of your trauma, but offer you the practical tools to end the cycle of harm for good.

‘The authors’ definition of trauma is valuably broad and complex, and their concepts are unpacked in nonjudgmental terms. It’s a solid addition to the rising tide of literature on trauma.’ Publishers Weekly

‘A lantern that illuminates the complex path of healing layered trauma.’ Dr. Mariel Buqué, bestselling author of Break the Cycle

‘This is an innovative, bold, and immensely helpful book. Read it to heal yourself, your loved ones, and the entire human community.’ Martha Beck, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of Beyond Anxiety and The Way of Integrity

© Richard Schwartz and Thomas Hübl 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025