The Body Keeps The Score - Bessel Van der Kolk
A Meditation Series
The Body Keeps The Score
In part one of *The Body Keeps the Score* Dr. van der Kolk introduces how trauma as a force that deeply affects both the brain and body. He explains how childhood trauma leaves lasting imprints on the nervous system, triggering a persistent "fight, flight, or freeze" (and, more recently fawn) response. Using case studies, he shows how trauma disrupts brain function, impairing emotional regulation, relationships, and bodily safety. Essentially, the antidote is neurofeedback to help rewire the brain and restore a sense of control.
Uncovering secrets
This week we move into Part Four, the Imprint of Trauma.
Our memory is fickle, constantly revised and updated, leading to differing recollections even among siblings who may feel they grew up in different families. Over time, events tend to lose their intensity, but those who have experienced severe challenges and trauma often retain vivid and intact memories. Whether we remember an event accurately depends on its personal significance and the emotions we felt at the time, with arousal being a key factor. Certain people, songs, smells, and places create lasting impressions, and significant events—such as those of September 11, 2001—remain vivid, while ordinary days like September 10th fade into obscurity.
Memories, the corners of our minds.
The mind naturally seeks to create meaning from what it knows, and the way we interpret our lives shapes both how and what we remember. Ordinary memories, such as a wedding, a birth, or winning a prize, follow a clear sequence with a beginning, middle, and end. In contrast, memories of challenging experiences and struggles tend to be fragmented and disorganised, with events lacking a clear order and crucial details often missing. Instead of a structured narrative, these memories are often recalled as a collection of images, sensations, emotions, and scattered information.
Negativity Bias
We all long for a world that feels safe, manageable, and predictable, but reality often proves otherwise. However, amidst the chaos, overstimulation, and overwhelming access to information in modern life, there are ways to support ourselves. By staying present in the moment, acknowledging our experiences without resisting or clinging to them, we can cultivate a sense of balance and resilience.
The mind naturally gravitates toward negative experiences. Notice any recent thoughts, worries, or criticisms that have taken up space in your mind. This is how my brain is wired, but I can choose where I place my focus.
Working on our negativity bias can help us develop a more balanced and realistic perspective, reducing some of the stress and anxiety we experience. Since our brains are wired to focus on threats and negative experiences, consciously shifting our attention to positive moments fosters resilience and well-being. By practising gratitude, reframing challenges, and acknowledging both the good and the bad, we can create a healthier mindset and improve our overall quality of life.
We’re hardwired for survival, to strive and to care.
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. We also know that one of the keys to living a contented life is to be grounded in the present moment, and this is what we’re practising.
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. There’s nothing to fix, We’re exploring how to soften the edges and find safety
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.