Healing Quote by Bessel A. van der Kolk
““The challenge of recovery is to reestablish ownership of your body and your mind — of your self. This means feeling free to know what you know and to feel what you feel without becoming overwhelmed, enraged, ashamed, or collapsed. For most people this involves (1) finding a way to become calm and focused, (2) learning to maintain that calm in response to images, thoughts, sounds, or physical sensations that remind you of the past, (3) finding a way to be fully alive in the present and engaged with the people around you, (4) not having to keep secrets from yourself, including secrets about the ways that you have managed to survive.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Body Keeps the Score, 2014
Recovery requires reclaiming control of both mind and body, staying present, and being honest with oneself.
In simple terms: Regain mind of mind and body, stay present, be honest.
Key Takeaway
Practice calm focus and self‑acceptance.
Themes
healing
self‑awareness
presence
authenticity
Mood
reflective
hopeful
determined
Type
advice
inspirational
psychology
When to use this quote
- Therapy sessions
- mindfulness practice
- support groups
- daily self‑check‑ins
Key Concepts
Trauma recovery
mind‑body integration
emotional regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you notice when you’re slipping into overwhelm?
- What simple practice keeps you grounded?
A Different Perspective
Maintaining calm can be difficult when triggers are intense.
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