The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk — My Body’s Been Trying to Talk to Me All Along

Let me start by saying — The Body Keeps the Score is one of those books that everyone seems to whisper about like it’s a secret manual for understanding yourself. And honestly… it kind of is. Written by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a world-renowned trauma expert, this book is all about how our bodies remember what our minds try to forget. Sounds deep, right? But hang with me — it’s not as heavy as it sounds. In fact, it’s fascinating.

As I read, I kept thinking, Ohhh, so that’s why I do that thing when I get stressed! It’s like Dr. Bessel was gently explaining that my body isn’t betraying me — it’s been protecting me all along. He shares incredible stories of healing, from veterans with PTSD and abuse survivors to everyday people learning to feel safe again in their own skin.

But what really hooked me was the hope woven through every chapter. This isn’t a book that leaves you sitting in the pain — it’s one that hands you a flashlight and says, “Here, let’s find your way back.” He talks about healing through yoga, mindfulness, EMDR, even play. Yep, play! Turns out laughter, movement, and connection aren’t just fun — they’re medicine for our nervous system.

Reading this book felt like having a really honest heart-to-heart with my body. I realized how often I’ve tried to “think” my way out of stress or sadness, instead of listening to what my body’s been trying to tell me. Now when I get that tightness in my shoulders or my breath goes shallow, I pause and think, Okay, body, what do you need? Sometimes it’s a walk, sometimes it’s a deep breath, sometimes… it’s a snack (let’s be real).

It’s not a quick or fluffy read — but it’s one that changes you in the best way. You start seeing your reactions, emotions, and patterns not as flaws, but as old survival strategies that once kept you safe. That shift alone feels like a giant exhale.

So if you’ve ever felt like your body and mind are speaking two different languages, The Body Keeps the Score might just be the translator you’ve been waiting for. It’s eye-opening, empowering, and surprisingly tender.

And now I’m convinced — my body isn’t the enemy. It’s the historian, the protector, and the guide. It’s been keeping score, sure… but maybe now, it’s finally time to start rewriting the game.

I read this book while studying yoga for my certification with Bodhi Yoga.