What sanctuary elephants teach us about healing | Kara Edwards | TEDxFolsom

Sanctuary Impact - Sanctuary has a profound impact on elephants healing from mental, physical, and emotional traumas [5] - Sanctuary aims to restore autonomy to elephants, creating conditions for them to rediscover who they are [9] - Sanctuary provides a culture of respect, deep listening, and autonomy, departing from systems of control [24] Elephant Behavior & Healing - Elephants' healing can begin in connection with others [11][12] or independently [12] - Elephants' individual needs and preferences regarding space and companionship should be respected [19][20] - Elephants' healing requires the freedom to decide when to rest, where to roam, and how to be [23] Case Studies - Maya and Gita, after experiencing hostility in captivity, formed a special friendship in the safety of the sanctuary [6][7][11] - Hana, after years of isolation, became a master of relationship and welcomes new elephants [12][17] - Lady, fiercely independent, found joy and connection while maintaining her preferred solitude [18][21] Industry Call to Action - Countries are starting to ban performing elephants [4] - Zoos are voluntarily relocating elephants to sanctuaries due to growing awareness [5] - The industry should impose less, listen more, and restore what's been lost for elephants [25]