The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
#1 New York Times bestseller
“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 bestseller
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 over 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.
“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 bestseller
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 over 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.
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Community Reviews
Bessel van der Kolk's The Body Keeps the Score is an extensive exploration of trauma’s effects on both the mind and the body. As a psychiatrist and researcher, van der Kolk has contributed to the field of trauma studies, but his work, and this book, are not without controversy.
The book is research-heavy, which can make it challenging. Van der Kolk dives deep into complex topics such as the neurobiology of trauma, the role of the vagus nerve, and the importance of body-based therapies like yoga and EMDR. While his insights are compelling, the volume of scientific information can make it a hard read for those without a background (or interest) in the subject.
There’s also some controversy surrounding the author’s methods and theories. Additionally, van der Kolk’s support for the Polyvagal Theory and his discussion of mirror neurons have sparked debate, with some critics questioning the validity of these ideas in the context of trauma treatment.
That said, if you're someone who enjoys a dense, research-heavy read, this book can be a gateway into the world of trauma research. It's a comprehensive look at the field, offering both scientific and anecdotal perspectives. However, be prepared for a challenging read that will require patience and focus.
this read was immensely eye-opening, it explores the complex research surrounding various forms of trauma and its impact on both the mind and body. While I wouldn’t recommend the audiobook version—simply because the medical terminology can be quite overwhelming—I found the content to be absolutely enlightening.
I can't wait to get my hands on a hard copy so I can highlight and annotate the parts that truly resonated with me. If you’re interested in understanding the depths of trauma and its effects, this read is definitely one to consider!
Insightful on traditional and non-traditional ways to treat trauma. I recommend to any who want to go into the field of psychology or social work
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