The Body Keeps the Score
by Bessel van der Kolk
Key Concepts
Body Memory
Trauma is stored in the body's tissues and nervous system, not just the mind, leading to physical symptoms and automatic reactions.
Brain Rewiring
Traumatic experiences alter brain structures, particularly those involved in emotion, memory, and self-awareness, impacting regulation.
Lost Self
Trauma can fragment one's sense of self, making it difficult to feel present, whole, or connected to one's own body.
Somatic Healing
Engaging the body through movement, touch, and sensory awareness is crucial for processing and releasing trapped traumatic energy.
Interoception Restore
Reconnecting with internal bodily sensations is vital for self-regulation, emotional processing, and regaining a sense of safety.
Action Items
Explore body-oriented therapies like yoga, EMDR, or somatic experiencing to release stored trauma.
Practice mindfulness and interoception exercises to reconnect with your body's internal signals.
Understand that trauma responses are physiological adaptations, not personal failings.
Seek therapists who integrate bottom-up (body-based) and top-down (talk therapy) approaches for comprehensive healing.
Prioritize creating environments of safety and connection to rebuild trust in self and others.
Core Thesis
Trauma profoundly reshapes the brain and body, manifesting as physical and emotional symptoms that require integrated, body-centered healing approaches.
Mindset Shift
Healing from trauma isn't just about talking through memories; it's fundamentally about restoring the body's capacity for self-regulation and safety.