How Trauma Impacts Your Body: Insights Inspired by Bessel van der Kolk

When we think of trauma, it’s easy to imagine it as something that happens in our minds. Memories, feelings, and thoughts might seem like the main battleground. But here’s the thing: trauma doesn’t just live in your head. It’s in your body too.

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a renowned psychiatrist and author of The Body Keeps the Score, has done groundbreaking work on how trauma impacts the body. And trust me, the title of his book says it all. Your body really does keep the score when it comes to your life experiences—the good, the bad, and the downright difficult.

Let’s explore how trauma (big or small) shows up in your body and what you can do to start healing.

Trauma and Your Nervous System

Trauma has a direct line to your nervous system, which is your body’s command center. When something stressful or threatening happens, your nervous system jumps into action to protect you. It’s the classic fight, flight, or freeze response. But what happens when the danger is over, and your body doesn’t get the memo?

In his research, van der Kolk explains that trauma can leave your nervous system stuck in overdrive. This means your body might stay on high alert, even when you’re safe. That’s why people who’ve experienced trauma often feel anxious, jittery, or exhausted. Your body’s working overtime, bracing for impact that never comes.

Where Trauma Hides in the Body

Ever notice how your shoulders creep up toward your ears when you’re stressed? Or how your stomach twists into knots before something nerve-wracking? Trauma doesn’t just float around as an abstract idea. It lands in specific parts of your body, often without you even realizing it.

• Muscles: Chronic tension in areas like your neck, back, or jaw could be your body’s way of holding onto unresolved stress. I clench my jaw so tightly that I grind my teeth; tell me your throat chakra is blocked without telling me your throat chakra is blocked...

• Gut: Your gut and brain are besties, constantly chatting through the vagus nerve. When trauma hits, this connection can go haywire, leading to digestive issues, nausea, or that dreaded pit-in-the-stomach feeling.

• Breath: Many people with trauma take shallow breaths without realizing it, as if they’re subconsciously preparing to run or fight.

Van der Kolk describes this as the body’s way of "locking" the trauma inside. It’s not just emotional; it’s physical too.

Trauma’s Link to Chronic Health Issues

Over time, unaddressed trauma can contribute to chronic health issues. Conditions like autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and even heart problems have been linked to prolonged stress and unresolved trauma. It’s as if your body is carrying around a heavy backpack filled with the weight of the past.

The connection between mental and physical health is undeniable, and van der Kolk’s work has been pivotal in showing just how intertwined they are.

Healing the Mind-Body Connection

Here’s the good news: your body is also where healing begins. By reconnecting with your body and learning to release stored trauma, you can begin to feel lighter, freer, and more present in your life.

• Breathwork: Deep breathing sends a signal to your nervous system that it’s okay to relax. Start small with a few slow, intentional breaths each day.

• Movement: Yoga, dance, or even a simple walk can help you reconnect with your body and release stored tension. In fact, van der Kolk often highlights yoga as a powerful tool for trauma healing.

• Energy Healing: Practices like Reiki or chakra balancing can help shift stuck energy and bring harmony back to your body.

• Therapy: Working with a trauma-informed therapist can guide you through the deeper layers of healing. Somatic therapy, in particular, focuses on the connection between your body and emotions.

Trauma is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to define you. Your body—the very same body that’s carried the weight of your experiences—also holds incredible power to heal. By listening to it, caring for it, and seeking support, you can rewrite your story.

As Bessel van der Kolk so beautifully puts it: "Trauma is not what happens to you, but what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you." Remember, healing is always possible—and your body is here to help you every step of the way.

Looking for support on your healing journey? Explore how our holistic services can help you reconnect with your mind and body. Together, we can help you find balance, peace, and a sense of wholeness again.

Elleni

xox