Where is trauma stored in the body?

Trauma is a normal response to an abnormal or difficult situation and can have long-term impacts on an individual. It is often believed that trauma is stored in the body, impacting mental and physical health, leaving people vulnerable to a range of issues such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). But how and where is trauma stored in the body, and what can be done to help release it?

The Effects of Trauma

When faced with a traumatic event, the body’s natural response is to go into fight or flight mode. This causes a range of hormonal and chemical changes in the body, and can often lead to physical symptoms such as chronic pain, digestive issues, headaches, fatigue, and an increased risk of illness and injury. Physically, trauma can “get stuck” in the body, with the feeling of being in danger continually pervasive in everyday life.

The Science Behind Trauma

Research has shown that trauma is stored in the brain, resulting in psychological and physiological responses to certain stimuli. Neuroscientists have discovered that small proteins, known as neuropeptides, activate the circuits linked to emotional memory, allowing us to experience emotions on a physical, as well as psychological, level. This is how trauma can become embedded in the body and impact our bodies in many ways - without us even realising.

The Release

It’s important to recognize that while trauma can be stored, the good news is that it can be released. A variety of therapies can help to release and heal trauma that’s been held in the body. For example, talking with a qualified therapist can be a great starting point for many individuals and can allow for exploration of past experiences and feelings. There are also other forms of therapy such as bodywork, acupuncture, yoga, massage, and mindfulness which could help to facilitate the release of emotional baggage.

Looking After Our Bodies

Regular exercise, rest, and eating a healthy balanced diet are all essential for emotional and physical well-being. While exercise may not necessarily help to reduce traumatic memory, it can help to stimulate the release of endorphins which no only make you feel good but can also help to ease tension and reduce stress. Make sure to take plenty of breaks and build relaxation into your daily routine.

Conclusion

It is widely accepted that trauma is stored in the body and can be released with the aid of therapy. Remember that while trauma can be incredibly difficult to handle, it is possible to work through it and to create a better future. If you’re struggling with trauma, it is important to seek help and to reach out to qualified professionals who can help you to manage it. Don’t forget to also look after your body in the form of healthy eating and exercise too.

Sources:
[1] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-the-body/201910/when-trauma-gets-stuck-in-the-body
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/mind-body/how-to-release-emotional-baggage-and-the-tension-that-goes-with-it
[3] https://mftherapy.com/ptsd/knowing-where-trauma-is-stored-in-the-body-can-help-you-heal/
[4]https://apn.com/blog/2021/11/19/how-trauma-is-stored-in-the-body/
[5] https://coreflexwellness.com/blogposts/how-trauma-is-stored-in-the-body-how-to-release-it/
[6] https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/can-trauma-be-stored-in-body
[7] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-addiction-connection/202103/how-trauma-affects-the-body
[8] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/workings-well-being/201708/heal-trauma-work-the-body
[9] https://www.healthline.com/health/mind-body/the-powerful-connection-between-your-hips-and-your-emotions
[10] https://life-care-wellness.com/how-to-release-trauma-trapped-in-the-body/