The Body Keeps the Score

Introduction

Bessel van der Kolk is a Dutch-born psychiatrist who has researched and treated trauma for decades. The Body Keeps the Score, published in 2014, explains how traumatic experiences affect the brain, body and relationships, and surveys approaches to recovery.

The book has spent years on bestseller lists and has shaped public conversation about trauma, while also drawing debate from researchers about some of its claims.

Who should read this book?

Readers who want to understand trauma and its effects, including survivors, family members and professionals. Survivors may find parts distressing and are best supported by a qualified professional.

Helps with: Heal and grow

The central message

Trauma is not only remembered in the mind but held in the body. Recovery often involves helping people feel safe in their bodies and relationships, not just talking about the past.

Key ideas and concepts

1. Trauma changes the brain

   Van der Kolk describes how trauma can affect brain systems involved in threat detection, self-awareness and memory, leaving people stuck in survival mode.

2. The body remembers

   Survivors may experience trauma through physical sensations, tension and reactions rather than clear memories.

3. Disconnection

   Trauma can cut people off from their bodies, emotions and others, making it hard to feel safe.

4. Relationships and safety

   Feeling safe with other people is central to healing.

5. Paths to recovery

   He discusses approaches including talk therapy, EMDR, yoga, neurofeedback, theatre and other body-based methods.

Deeper analysis

The Body Keeps the Score has helped many survivors feel understood and has brought attention to the physical effects of trauma and the importance of safety and connection. Its case stories are powerful, and it encourages readers to consider a wide range of therapeutic approaches.

Some scientists have criticized the book for overstating certain claims, such as the idea that trauma is literally stored in the body, and for promoting treatments whose evidence is still limited. Some readers find its graphic descriptions of abuse distressing. It should be read as one expert's perspective, not a treatment manual, and anyone struggling with trauma should seek trauma-informed professional support.

Practical applications

• Notice physical signs of stress in your body during the day.
• Try a gentle breathing or grounding exercise when you feel overwhelmed.
• Explore gentle movement such as walking or yoga.
• Spend time with people who help you feel safe.
• If trauma affects your life, look for a trauma-informed therapist.

Your 7-day action plan

1. Day 1

   Notice where you feel stress in your body.

2. Day 2

   Practise five minutes of slow breathing.

3. Day 3

   Take a gentle, mindful walk.

4. Day 4

   Reach out to someone you feel safe with.

5. Day 5

   Try a beginner yoga or stretching session.

6. Day 6

   Research trauma-informed support options near you.

7. Day 7

   Reflect gently on what helped, without pushing yourself.

Outcomes to expect

What readers who apply this book can realistically take away from it:

• A better understanding of how trauma can affect body and mind
• Awareness of physical stress signals
• Knowledge of a range of recovery approaches
• Greater compassion for yourself or others affected by trauma

Strengths and limitations

Reflection questions

1. How does stress show up in your body?
2. Where and with whom do you feel safe?
3. What helps you feel grounded?
4. What support might help you or someone you love?

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• The Power of NowEckhart Tolle

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• Feeling GoodDavid D. Burns

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About the author

Book details (title, author, year) are factual. Everything under the headings above is MindsetProdigy's own editorial analysis and interpretation, written to help you decide whether to read the book and how to apply it. It is not a substitute for reading the book itself. Last updated September 28, 2026.