The Body Keeps the Score - Insights from Bessel van der Kolk

In a nutshell, what’s the book about, and why did you choose it?

This book explores how trauma is stored in the body and how it affects both physical and mental health. Van der Kolk, a leading expert in trauma research, explains how experiences - especially those from early life - can shape the nervous system, influence behavior, and even contribute to chronic pain and illness. I chose this book because it bridges the gap between mind and body, showing how unresolved trauma can manifest physically, which is highly relevant to my work in chiropractic care.

What was your biggest takeaway or “aha” moment?

One of the biggest takeaways for me was how trauma isn’t just a psychological issue - it’s deeply embedded in the body. The nervous system adapts to trauma, often in ways that keep people stuck in cycles of tension, pain, and dysfunction. It reinforced the importance of addressing the body when working through emotional and psychological healing.

Has this book changed your perspective or approach to health, wellbeing, or the mind-body connection? If so, how?

Absolutely. It highlighted how physical symptoms - like chronic pain, muscle tension, and fatigue - can often be linked to past experiences rather than just structural issues. It’s made me even more mindful of the emotional and neurological aspects of spinal functioning and has reinforced the importance of a holistic approach to care.

Which specific concept or chapter stood out to you the most?

The discussion on the vagus nerve and how it plays a crucial role in regulating stress responses was particularly fascinating. It showed how trauma can keep the body stuck in a fight-or-flight state, leading to chronic health issues. The idea that movement, breathwork, and body-based therapies can help regulate this system aligns closely with chiropractic and overall physical wellbeing.

How might this book benefit your patients, or how could they apply its principles?

Patients who struggle with chronic pain, tension, or stress-related symptoms may find this book eye-opening. It helps connect the dots between emotional stress and physical health, encouraging people to explore both body-based and psychological approaches to healing. Understanding that unresolved trauma can contribute to their symptoms may also empower them to seek care beyond just conventional treatments.

If you could recommend just one key idea from the book for daily life, what would it be?

The body and mind are deeply connected, and healing often requires addressing both. Practices like movement, breathwork, and mindfulness aren’t just beneficial - they’re essential for long-term health and resilience.

Are there any passages or quotes that really resonate with you that you’d like to share?

“As long as you keep secrets and suppress information, you are fundamentally at war with yourself… The critical issue is allowing yourself to know what you know. That takes an enormous amount of courage.”

Book Review by Dr Tommy-Lee McCafferty DC