The Body Keeps the Score Summary

An innovative researcher and one of the top authorities on traumatic stress provides a radical new theory in trauma recovery. Everyone has or will experience some level of trauma. Unfortunately many veterans and their families must endure the mental and emotional pain we call PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). One out of every five Americans has experienced molestation. One in four people were raised around alcoholics. Three out of ten couples have physically abused one another. These encounters invariably leave scars on our minds, emotions, and even biology. Tragically, trauma survivors frequently let their partners and kids feel their stress. Bessel Van Der Kolk is a renowned trauma expert who has worked with survivors for more than three decades. He completely changes the way we think about traumatic stress in “The Body Keeps the Score.” He demonstrates how trauma rewires the brain in locations specifically designated to pleasure, engagement, control and trust. Van Der Kolk shows how these areas can be reactivated through new modern treatments including neurofeedback, mindfulness techniques, play, yoga and other therapies. Based on Dr. Van Der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists, “The Body Keeps the Score” offers proven alternatives to Big Pharma and talk therapy. It’s an exciting way to reclaim lives. In Part One the book talks about understanding what trauma is and the latest science in mind and brain. Part Two talks about the body brain connection and the affects of trauma on both. Part Three talks about how trauma affects children and shapes their minds as they get older. Part Four talks about how traumatic memories from the past affect us in the present. Part Five talks about multiple paths to recovery. This book is insightful and an absolute must read or listen for trauma survivors, professionals who work with them, as well as family members of those who have gone through extreme distress and hardship. First book I have listened to on this topic Very intriguing and educational. Highly recommended.