Epigenetic Effects of Trauma Healing: A Pilot Study
July 2, 2025

In our epigenetic study with the Helmholtz-Zentrum in München and the University of Luxembourg, we are investigating the effects of the Timeless Wisdom Training (TWT) on epigenetic changes in participants. We measured the molecular impact of therapeutic interventions, using advanced DNA methylation analysis to explore potential gene activity changes related to stress, trauma, and resilience.
While the data analysis is still ongoing, first results are already out. The study examined DNA methylation changes over the course of the 1.6-year TWT program, which focuses on individual, ancestral, and collective trauma processing in a large group setting.
Initial findings revealed changes in over 3,000 CpG sites and 250 genes—many linked to nervous system function, immunity, metabolism, and cellular regulation. Although these are not known trauma-related genes, the results suggest a biological shift may accompany trauma healing practices. Participants also reported improvements in anxiety, depression, life satisfaction, and moments of deep connection. Also, epigenetic aging is predicted to slow down during training.
This research highlights the potential for long-term, trauma-informed group work to influence gene regulation and possibly slow biological aging.
The study is partially funded by the Pocket Project e.V.
🧠 Glossary Connection: Epigenetic Trauma