The body keeps the score. Brain mind and body in the healing of trauma by Bessel van der Kolk
This is one of my rare gems, a most treasured possession that I have in both hardcopy and audio formats. I initially delved into this book for my work with clients but soon found myself immersed in the depths of exploring my own story. It’s quite an intense read, and I took my time navigating through it. The author, founder, and Medical Director of the trauma center, is also a professor of psychiatry and a practicing therapist. He discusses the brain-body connection and how our memories reside in our bodies, cultivating their own environment and providing impactful pieces to create various stories and situations.
The book uncovers the secrets of trauma imprints and offers elaborate ideas on how to heal them. The author explores tools such as yoga and meditation, along with EMDR and Neurofeedback. The theater aspect was surprisingly comforting to me and unexpected.
If I had the power, I would make it mandatory reading for every professional in the fields of education, coaching, and counseling. I envision myself referring to it again and again. For my next read, I’m looking forward to Antonio DiMascio’s ‘The Feeling of What Happens: Body and Emotion in the Making of Consciousness’ or ‘Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff’ by Richard Carlson.