The Body Keeps the Score: Understanding How Trauma Lives in the Body and Mind

If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to “just get over” a painful experience, the answer may lie in the way trauma affects the brain and body. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk’s bestselling book, The Body Keeps the Score, explains that trauma doesn’t only impact our thoughts and emotions — it can also leave a lasting imprint on our nervous system, muscles, and overall health.

For many people searching for a trauma therapist near me, learning about this mind-body connection is the first step toward healing.

What Does “The Body Keeps the Score” Mean?

When you go through a traumatic event — whether it’s abuse, neglect, loss, or chronic stress — your body activates its fight, flight, or freeze response. In a healthy recovery, the nervous system eventually calms down. But after trauma, this alarm system can get “stuck” in overdrive, causing ongoing symptoms such as:

• Chronic muscle tension or pain

• Digestive problems

• Trouble sleeping

• Anxiety or panic attacks

• Overreacting to triggers or stress

  
  

Even years later, the body may react as if the danger is happening right now. This is why survivors often feel like they can’t “move on” despite their best efforts — their body is still protecting them from a past threat.

Why Trauma Recovery Involves the Body

Traditional talk therapy can be helpful, but research shows that healing trauma often requires body-based approaches as well. Effective treatments can include:

• Somatic therapy to increase body awareness

• EMDR therapy to reprocess traumatic memories

• Mindfulness and breathwork to calm the nervous system

• Yoga or movement therapy to release stored tension

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These methods work by creating a sense of physical safety and helping the brain and body learn that the danger is over.

Healing Is Possible

The powerful message of The Body Keeps the Score is that trauma can be healed. By combining emotional processing with body-focused strategies, people can:

• Regain a sense of control over their lives

• Reduce anxiety, stress, and physical pain

• Improve relationships and trust

• Feel more present and connected in daily life

Taking the First Step Toward Recovery

If you’ve been searching for a trauma therapist, know that you’re not alone and that healing is possible. The first step is finding a therapist who understands the mind-body connection and uses trauma-informed, evidence-based care.

📞 Call (860)483-0360 to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward feeling safe, whole, and empowered again.