How Trauma lives in our Bodies.

Have you ever felt like your body was trying to tell you something? Like there's this weight you can't quite explain, or tension that won't go away? Well, today, let's talk about something that affects more of us than we realize - how trauma lives in our bodies.

You know, trauma isn't just about the memories in our minds. It's like an unwelcome guest that makes itself at home in our physical being. Sometimes it shows up as constant muscle tension, especially in our shoulders and jaw. Other times, it's that knot in your stomach that appears when you least expect it. Maybe you've noticed yourself holding your breath without realizing it, or feeling inexplicably jumpy at sudden noises.

Let me paint a picture of what trauma feels like in the body. Imagine you're carrying a backpack filled with rocks, but you can't see them or take them off. Some days, the weight feels manageable, and other days, it's like you're being crushed. You might experience random headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain that doctors can't quite explain. Your sleep might be affected - either you can't stay asleep, or you find yourself needing to sleep all the time.

The fascinating thing about our bodies is how they respond to trauma. It's like having an overprotective security system that never turns off. Your nervous system stays on high alert - think racing heart, shallow breathing, sweaty palms. This is your body's way of trying to keep you safe, even when the danger has long passed. Some people feel disconnected from their bodies altogether, like they're watching life happen from behind a glass wall.

But here's something important to understand: these responses aren't random, and they're not "all in your head." Your body is doing exactly what it's designed to do - protect you. When trauma happens, our bodies keep the score, creating a physical record of our experiences.

The good news is that understanding this connection between trauma and our bodies is the first step toward healing. Just like your body has learned to hold onto trauma, it can also learn to release it. Think of it like slowly untying knots in a rope - it takes time, patience, and gentle care.

Remember, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you're not alone. Millions of people carry trauma in their bodies, and there's no shame in reaching out for help. Whether it's through therapy, body-based practices like yoga or somatic experiencing, or simply learning to listen to your body with compassion, healing is possible.

Your body's responses to trauma aren't character flaws or weaknesses - they're survival mechanisms that helped you get through tough times. By understanding how trauma shows up in our bodies, we can begin to make sense of our experiences and start the journey toward healing, one gentle step at a time.