The Body Keeps the Score

Bessel van der Kolk, in his seminal work "The Body Keeps the Score," masterfully illustrates how trauma isn't just a mental phenomenon, but a deeply embodied experience. Traumatic events leave an imprint not just on our minds, but on our nervous system, our muscles, our very breath. This understanding has revolutionized trauma treatment, shifting the focus from cognitive processing to somatic experiencing.  

Central to this embodied perspective is the recognition that our "selves" – the inner critic, the frightened child, the driven achiever – are not merely abstract thoughts, but living energies within us. They hold emotions, memories, and sensations, shaping our perceptions and behaviors in profound ways. These selves, particularly those born from trauma, can become trapped in the body, perpetuating patterns of fear, anxiety, and disconnection.

The aware ego process, a powerful tool for self-exploration and healing, aligns perfectly with this embodied understanding of trauma. It invites us to move beyond the realm of the thinking mind and delve into the felt sense of our inner experience. By cultivating an awareness of our bodily sensations, emotions, and energetic patterns, we can begin to identify and understand the different selves that reside within us.

Imagine, for instance, the feeling of tightness in your chest when faced with a challenging situation. This could be the embodied energy of a fearful self, triggered by a past experience of helplessness. Or perhaps you notice a surge of anger in your belly when your boundaries are crossed, signaling the presence of a protective self.

The aware ego process encourages us to approach these embodied selves with curiosity and compassion, recognizing them as parts of ourselves that are trying to protect us, albeit in sometimes unhelpful ways. It's not about eradicating these parts, but rather about understanding their origins, acknowledging their needs, and integrating them into a more cohesive whole.

This process of embodiment resonates deeply with van der Kolk's emphasis on reconnecting with the body in trauma recovery. He highlights the importance of practices like yoga, mindfulness & awareness in helping individuals access and process traumatic memories held within the body.  

Just as "The Body Keeps the Score," the aware ego process recognizes the body as a source of wisdom and healing. By attuning to our embodied experience, we can begin to unravel the layers of trauma, cultivate self-compassion, and move towards a more integrated and fulfilling life.

This journey of self-discovery invites us to embrace the full spectrum of our being, acknowledging the interplay of mind, body, and energy. It is a path of deep listening, gentle exploration, and radical acceptance, leading us towards a profound sense of wholeness and liberation from the grip of trauma.