Review of THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE
by Johny McFliggen, PhD Literature & Business, Oxford
Bessel van der Kolk's "The Body Keeps the Score" is a magnum opus that deftly bridges the chasm between the clinical and the deeply personal. Much like Neo's awakening in The Matrix, van der Kolk offers readers a red pill—a chance to see trauma not as a distant psychological concept but as a pervasive force that shapes the very fabric of our being. This isn't just a book; it's a revelation, a seismic shift in how we perceive the aftermath of trauma.
Van der Kolk, with the precision of a neurosurgeon and the empathy of a seasoned therapist, dissects the human brain with a clarity reminiscent of Oliver Sacks. His exploration into the neurobiology of trauma is akin to delving into the mind palace of Sherlock Holmes, unveiling how trauma rewires our neural circuitry. The amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex are not just abstract brain regions here; they become characters in their own right, each playing a pivotal role in the narrative of trauma and recovery.
What sets van der Kolk apart is his unflinching commitment to illustrating the body-mind connection. He paints it not as a quaint notion for new-age wellness enthusiasts but as an undeniable truth backed by decades of research. The body indeed remembers—echoing Rothschild's sentiments—holding memories in its sinews and tissues, often manifesting as chronic pain or inexplicable ailments. It's a sobering reminder that our bodies keep score long after our minds have tried to forget.
The therapeutic approaches van der Kolk examines could easily be mistaken for elements of a sci-fi novel, with EMDR and neurofeedback sounding like futuristic treatments from Star Trek's sickbay. Yet, these methods are grounded in rigorous science and real-world efficacy, offering hope to those mired in the quicksand of trauma. The inclusion of yoga as a healing modality also recalls Levine's "Waking the Tiger," emphasizing the importance of somatic experiences in reclaiming one's body.
Critics who bemoan the book's density might be missing the point; this isn't "Trauma for Dummies." It's a comprehensive tome that demands engagement and rewards it with profound insights. Yes, it's technical at times, but so is understanding how to dismantle a bomb—an apt metaphor when dealing with the ticking time bombs that are unresolved traumas.
Van der Kolk's use of personal stories and case studies infuses the book with humanity, reminiscent of Judith Herman's "Trauma and Recovery." These narratives serve as both cautionary tales and glimmers of hope, reminding us that while trauma can dominate lives, it doesn't have to define them.
"The Body Keeps the Score" is more than just a bestseller; it's a foundational text that has reshaped trauma therapy. It stands as a beacon for those lost in the fog of their psyche, offering not just understanding but a roadmap to healing. For anyone seeking to comprehend or conquer trauma, this book is not just recommended reading—it's essential.
Purchase Link: THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE on Amazon
