A review by clairedevo
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk

4.0

This book was a complex journey. First there was the awareness after I bought the book that it’s author has SA allegations, and that many readers found his writing incredibly triggering. The topic of trauma is in and of itself difficult, and I’d advise anyone who reads this to be ready to face beasts of their past. But beyond that, I also found some parts triggering. Some descriptions of patients’ unedited stories and the way he would write about women and sexual violence was off putting. In saying all of this, “The Body Keeps The Score” is incredibly informative and transformative. I have done a lot of my own healing before reading this, but it was still impactful for me. It inspired me to start yoga, which has already been awesome for my mental and physical health. My suggestions for someone interested in reading this would be read part five (section on healing) first, then start at the beginning and read to the end. Also, be wary of serious and potentially triggering stories or information. Otherwise, I’ve learned so much on a personal and a career level.