Trauma and the Body: More Connected Than You Think

As a psychotherapist, I often find myself talking to clients about how trauma isn’t just something that lives in our minds—it’s something that resides in our bodies too. Now, I know that might sound a bit out there to some, but bear with me. There’s actually some fascinating science behind it, and understanding this connection can be a game changer for anyone working through trauma.

So, let’s break it down. When something traumatic happens—whether it’s a car accident, a tough breakup, or even childhood adversity—your body experiences it in a very real way. Your heart races, your muscles tense, your breath becomes shallow. These are all natural responses to stress and danger, managed by the part of our brain called the amygdala. But here’s the kicker: when trauma doesn’t get processed, that physical tension doesn’t just go away. It stays with you.

You’ve probably heard the phrase "fight or flight" in relation to stress. Well, imagine you’ve been in a constant state of "fight or flight" because of unresolved trauma. Your body becomes like a pressure cooker, and if you don’t release that tension, it can lead to a whole host of physical symptoms—like chronic pain, digestive issues, or even sleep problems.

But here’s where it gets even more interesting: it’s not just about tension. Trauma can affect the way you move and hold yourself. You might start to notice that you’re slumped over more often, or maybe your shoulders are perpetually hunched up to your ears. Your body becomes like a map of your experiences—storing those emotions in every muscle, joint, and nerve.

So, what can we do about it? Well, first things first—getting in touch with your body is a huge step. I often encourage clients to do some simple body scans. This means pausing for a moment to check in with yourself and noticing where you’re holding tension. Are your fists clenched? Are your jaw muscles tight? Getting curious about these sensations can help you begin to release the grip trauma might have on your body.

Another powerful tool is mindfulness or relaxation techniques. The beauty of these practices is that they help bring your body back to the present moment, which is exactly what trauma often tries to pull you away from. By focusing on your breath, or even doing a few stretches or yoga poses, you can send a signal to your body that it’s safe to let go.

And, of course, therapy itself is an excellent way to process trauma—especially trauma that’s lodged in the body. Talking through your experiences with a trained professional can help you make sense of what happened and how it’s affected you. It’s like giving your body permission to finally exhale after holding its breath for far too long.

So, next time you catch yourself feeling tense or stiff, take a moment to consider the possibility that your body might be holding onto something from the past. Your body and mind are inextricably linked, and healing one can help heal the other.

Let’s make peace with our bodies—one breath, one stretch, one step at a time.