The Body Keeps the Score:
Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M. D.
Did you ever wonder why
someone flies off the handle at the slightest provocation? There may be good
reason. In this book Dr. Van Der Kolk clearly explains the imprint of trauma on
our lives and offers ways to combat negative forces that shaped us in ways that
disrupt relationships.
Our experiences affect our
minds and our bodies. Our thinking and emotions are shaped by our past,
according to Van Der Kolk.
This book was more
detailed than I expected, but using case studies, the author clearly made his
points in every chapter. The book delves deeply into the misbehavior of
children and the post-traumatic-stress symptoms of veterans. But the analysis and case
studies make it helpful to anyone seeking to understand their own reactions or
the reactions of others. It was very understandable and enjoyable reading.
Van Der Kolk’s insight
makes sense: “If trauma is encoded in heartbreaking and gut-wrenching
sensations, then our first priority is to help people . . . manage
relationships. Where traumatized children are concerned, the last things we
should be cutting the from school schedules are the activities that can do
precisely that: chorus, physical education, recess and anything else that
involves movement, play, and other forms of joyful engagement.”
Broken into five parts,
the book looks at what constitutes trauma and its effect on the brain. Part 5
offers “Paths to Recovery” with chapters on various approaches including the
benefits of participating in theater. In a day that promotes quick fixes
through medications, this man makes a strong case for alternate routes to
healing.
Published by Penguin Books,
the book includes an appendix, extensive notes and an index, which I found helpful.
I especially recommend this book for school teachers, Sunday school teachers
and veterans’ family members, but it will be very helpful to anyone seeking to
better understand others and themselves.
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