Trauma affects more than just our emotional and psychological well-being—it also imprints itself on our physical body. When someone experiences trauma, especially the kind that involves physical-emotional shock, the body can absorb and hold onto that energy long after the event has passed. This phenomenon can lead to a variety of long-term physical and mental health issues if not properly addressed. Understanding how this energy becomes stuck, and what can be done to release it, is crucial for healing and recovery.
What Happens During a Traumatic Event?
When a traumatic event occurs, whether it’s a car accident, an assault, or sudden emotional distress, the body reacts with a fight, flight, or freeze response. This is a natural survival mechanism designed to protect us from harm. Hormones like adrenaline and cortisol flood the system, muscles tense, and the nervous system becomes hyper-activated, all in preparation to face or escape danger.
In the case of severe trauma, this response may not have a clear resolution. The body’s energy, once primed for action, may have nowhere to go. If the trauma is particularly overwhelming or sudden, the person may not have the ability to process what’s happening, leaving this surge of energy unresolved. The result is that this energy can become “trapped” within the body.
How Trauma Gets Stuck in the Body
- Muscle Tension and Body Bracing: In the face of physical or emotional shock, the body often braces itself. Muscles tighten in response to the threat, and this tension can remain even after the danger has passed. Chronic muscle tension, especially in areas like the shoulders, back, and neck, can become a physical representation of the trauma.
- The Nervous System and Trauma: Trauma impacts the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. When the ANS is overwhelmed by shock, it can remain stuck in a state of heightened arousal or shut down, leading to conditions like chronic stress or dissociation. This is why some people with unresolved trauma feel “frozen” in their bodies or constantly on edge.
- Somatic Memory: The body can carry somatic memories—unconscious memories of the trauma—long after the mind has moved on. These memories may not be accessible through words or thoughts but can manifest as physical sensations, chronic pain, or specific emotional responses triggered by unrelated events.
- Fascial Imprinting: Fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs, can store physical and emotional energy. During a traumatic event, this tissue can contract and hold tension in specific areas of the body. Over time, this creates a physical “imprint” of the trauma, leading to restricted movement or pain.
Signs That Trauma Is Stuck in the Body
- Chronic Pain: Recurring pain, especially in areas like the neck, shoulders, back, or hips, can often be traced back to unresolved trauma.
- Emotional Numbness or Detachment: When trauma is stored in the body, people may feel disconnected from their emotions or experience an inability to fully engage with life.
- Fatigue: Holding onto trauma takes a toll on the body’s energy levels. Many individuals with unresolved trauma feel exhausted even after resting.
- Somatic Symptoms: These include stomach problems, headaches, unexplained aches, or tension that doctors can’t find a physical cause for.
- Flashbacks or Intrusive Thoughts: The body’s memories of trauma may cause flashbacks or trigger emotional responses even when the mind doesn’t consciously recall the event.
Healing the Body from Trauma
While trauma can become stuck in the body, the good news is that it can also be released with proper care and attention. Here are several approaches to healing:
- Somatic Therapy: This form of therapy focuses on connecting with bodily sensations to process trauma. Through techniques like breathing exercises, movement, and mindfulness, individuals can become more attuned to how their body holds onto trauma and work to release it.
- Trauma-Informed Yoga: Trauma-informed yoga emphasizes gentle, mindful movement to help people reconnect with their bodies in a safe way. This practice encourages a sense of safety and control, allowing the body to move through stored tension and release energy.
- Bodywork (Massage, Myofascial Release): Massage therapy, especially techniques that focus on myofascial release, can help loosen the tension stored in the muscles and fascia. This physical release can often coincide with emotional release as well.
- Breathwork: Conscious breathing exercises are an effective way to regulate the nervous system and discharge stored energy. Deep, mindful breathing helps the body return to a relaxed state, moving away from the heightened arousal of trauma.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): EMDR is a therapy that helps reprocess traumatic memories. Although it primarily targets mental and emotional trauma, many individuals also experience physical relief as their body releases the stored energy connected to those memories.
- Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques, such as walking barefoot, focusing on physical sensations, or holding objects, can help individuals reconnect with their bodies and reduce the dissociation that often comes with trauma.
Reclaiming Your Body
Trauma leaves an imprint on both the mind and body. When energy from a traumatic event remains stuck, it can manifest in physical pain, emotional numbness, or chronic tension. However, through awareness, body-centered therapies, and trauma-informed practices, individuals can work to release this energy, restore balance, and reclaim their sense of well-being.
The journey of healing from trauma is both emotional and physical, and by acknowledging the body’s role in the process, we can begin to release what no longer serves us and move toward a state of integration and peace.
Healing with Sheila Marina
As an energy healer, I am committed to guiding you on the path of self-discovery and healing. Together, we can explore personalized techniques and practices that resonate with your unique needs and goals. From Reiki and chakra balancing to Emotion Code, Body Code and Belief Code, there are countless ways to tap into the healing power of energy.
I invite you to take the next step in your wellness journey by reaching out and scheduling a session with me at Planet of Peace Energy Healing. Embracing energy healing is about more than addressing physical symptoms; it’s about cultivating a deeper connection with yourself and tapping into your innate ability to heal and thrive.
Peace and Blessings for your journey through this life.