The Body Keeps The Score - Bessel Van der Kolk
A Meditation Series
Understanding Trauma's Impact on the Brain and Body
The first few chapters introduce the concept of trauma as a deeply pervasive force that affects both the brain and body. Dr. van der Kolk explains how traumatic experiences—especially those from childhood—leave lasting imprints on the nervous system, creating a "fight, flight, or freeze" response that can persist long after the threat has passed. Using case studies and his experiences in psychiatry, he explores how trauma disrupts normal brain functioning, particularly the balance between the rational, emotional, and survival-focused parts of the brain. Traumatised individuals often struggle to regulate emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and feel safe in their own bodies.
The Role of Memory and the Body's Retention of Trauma
The book delves into the ways trauma is stored in the body. While the conscious brain might repress or distort traumatic memories, the body retains them, as evidenced by physical sensations, flashbacks, or hypervigilance. This concept ties into the title, emphasising that the body "keeps score" of traumatic events through physiological patterns, stress responses, and chronic health conditions. Dr. van der Kolk also introduces the distinction between explicit and implicit memory, showing how trauma can exist in an unconscious, embodied state that resists traditional talk therapy.
The Importance of Safety, Connection, and Alternative Therapies
As the chapters progress, van der Kolk shifts focus to healing. He highlights the foundational need for safety and connection in trauma recovery, emphasising the therapeutic power of relationships, both in therapy and personal life. He critiques the limitations of conventional treatments like medication and talk therapy, arguing for alternative, body-centered therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), and neurofeedback. These approaches aim to reintegrate the mind and body, helping people reclaim their sense of agency, presence, and safety.
You are the Expert in You.
I am not assuming you have experienced severe trauma, but I know each one of us suffers and struggles and has experienced hardships and challenges. We know that life is inherently unsatisfying and that our drive to move beyond this is an important part of our survival. One of the keys to living a contented life is to be grounded in the present moment.
I am leading the sessions from a perspective of trauma to keep the space as safe for everyone as I can.
There’s no right or wrong way of doing these practices. We’re learning to take great care of ourselves.
Be interested, and curious and as best you can bring a non-judgemental approach to your experiences
We’re learning to observe our habits and tendencies. To live life well. To be content and fulfilled.