The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
“Essential reading for anyone interested in understanding and treating traumatic stress and the scope of its impact on society.” (Alexander McFarlane, director of the Centre for Traumatic Stress Studies)
A pioneering researcher transforms our understanding of trauma and offers a bold new paradigm for healing in this New York Times best seller.
Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans has been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, has spent more than three decades working with survivors. In The Body Keeps the Score, he uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores innovative treatments - from neurofeedback and meditation to sports, drama, and yoga - that offer new paths to recovery by activating the brain’s natural neuroplasticity. Based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists, The Body Keeps the Score exposes the tremendous power of our relationships both to hurt and to heal - and offers new hope for reclaiming lives.
Cover image: 2020 Succession H. Matisse / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York Courtesy of the Archives Henri Matisse, All rights reserved.
©2014 Bessel van der Kolk (P)2021 Penguin Audio
"The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk: A Profound Exploration of Trauma's Impact and Healing
In his groundbreaking work, "The Body Keeps the Score," Bessel van der Kolk delves into the profound and lasting effects of trauma on the brain, mind, and body. Drawing upon decades of clinical experience and cutting-edge research, van der Kolk weaves together a compelling narrative that sheds light on the complex interplay between trauma and our physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Key Themes Explored in the Book:
- The Neurobiology of Trauma: Van der Kolk meticulously examines the physiological and neurological changes that occur in response to traumatic experiences, including the dysregulation of the nervous system, heightened stress responses, and impaired memory formation.
- Somatic Impact of Trauma: The author emphasizes the profound impact trauma has on the body, highlighting physical symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, digestive issues, and immune dysfunction that can stem from unresolved trauma.
- The Mind-Body Connection: Van der Kolk bridges the gap between mind and body, demonstrating how trauma can lead to changes in cognitive processes, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. He underscores the importance of integrating somatic experiences into the healing process.
- Healing Approaches: Van der Kolk presents a comprehensive overview of evidence-based treatments for trauma, ranging from somatic therapies like yoga and meditation to cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. He highlights the significance of creating a safe and supportive environment for healing to take place.
- Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth: The book also explores the remarkable resilience of the human spirit and the potential for post-traumatic growth. Van der Kolk shares inspiring stories of individuals who have emerged from trauma with renewed strength and resilience.
The Body Keeps the Score: A Valuable Resource for Healing and Understanding
With its compassionate and informed approach, "The Body Keeps the Score" offers a profound understanding of the impact of trauma and provides valuable insights for healing and personal growth. It is a must-read for mental health professionals, trauma survivors, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the intricate relationship between the mind, body, and trauma.
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