How Trauma Affects Your Body (and How Your Body Can Help)
Category: Anxiety
Understanding how trauma in the body works is a powerful step toward healing – and your body can actually help you in the process.
Topic Of Discussion
For many of us, trauma can feel like something that only happens in our heads – something we can try to push past. But sooner or later, trauma shows up in the body in ways that might be hard to even identify at first.
Have you ever felt tense for “no reason,” had trouble sleeping, or felt like your body just wouldn’t settle down? Chances are you’re experiencing a physical response to trauma.
The good news? Understanding how trauma in the body works is a powerful step toward healing – and your body can actually help you in the process.
The Body Keeps the Score
If you’ve ever felt like your body reacts before your brain can catch up, you’re right. The phrase “the body keeps the score,” coined by psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk, means that your body holds onto trauma, even when you think you’ve moved on. Whether with tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or a stomach full of butterflies, your body remembers what it’s been through.
Body and Mind
If a random noise or a tough memory makes your heart race or your muscles tighten, that’s your body going into “protect mode,” even if there’s no real danger. Remember: You have the power to remind your body it’s safe. Gentle breathing, grounding exercises, or just moving in a way that feels good can tell your nervous system, “Hey, we’re safe now.” You’re in control.
Work It Out
Still struggling? Things like yoga, walking, dancing, or even stretching can help release the tension your body has been holding onto. And, your workouts don’t have to be fancy or perfect. The goal isn’t performance – it’s connection. Every small movement is a step toward healing.
Wrapping it up
Body and mind work together. If you’re having trouble getting your head in the game, our counselors here at Tri-Star Counseling believe in you and are here to help you progress.
