Bessel van der Kolk's assertion that "Trauma robs us of presence. Practice gives it back" encapsulates a profound truth about the human experience. Trauma, in its many forms, can create a disconnection from the present moment, leaving individuals feeling fragmented and lost. The stakes are high; without the ability to be fully present, we risk missing the richness of life and the connections that ground us. This quote invites us to explore the transformative potential of intentional practice as a means to reclaim our sense of presence and wholeness.
In a world increasingly marked by distraction and disconnection, the notion of presence becomes even more critical. Trauma can manifest in various ways—through anxiety, depression, or a pervasive sense of dislocation—each of which can cloud our ability to engage with the here and now. The practice that van der Kolk refers to is not merely a set of techniques; it is a holistic approach to healing that encompasses mindfulness, body awareness, and emotional regulation. By engaging in such practices, we can begin to stitch together the fragmented pieces of our selves, allowing us to inhabit our lives more fully.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery in van der Kolk's quote is striking. The word "robs" evokes a sense of theft, suggesting that trauma takes something invaluable from us—our ability to be present. The verb "gives" in the latter part of the quote implies an act of restoration, a return to a state of being that is inherently ours but has been obscured by pain. This duality of loss and reclamation paints a vivid picture of the journey from suffering to healing, emphasizing the active role we must take in our recovery.
Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can see that presence is not merely a passive state of being; it is an active engagement with our surroundings, thoughts, and emotions. When trauma disrupts this engagement, we often find ourselves trapped in cycles of reactivity or dissociation. The practice that van der Kolk advocates serves as a bridge, allowing us to traverse the chasm created by trauma. It invites us to cultivate awareness and connection, fostering a sense of safety and grounding that can lead to profound healing.
In the speaker's tradition
Bessel van der Kolk's work is situated within the broader tradition of trauma healing, which draws from various psychological and somatic practices. Concepts such as "kenosis," the idea of self-emptying, resonate deeply with the notion of presence. In this context, letting go of the burdens of past trauma allows space for new experiences and healing to emerge. Similarly, the Buddhist concept of "sunyata," or emptiness, invites us to recognize the transient nature of our thoughts and feelings, enabling us to engage with the present moment without the weight of our histories.
In his seminal work, "The Body Keeps the Score," van der Kolk emphasizes the importance of the body in the healing process. He draws parallels between modern trauma therapy and ancient practices that recognize the interconnectedness of body and mind. This echoes the teachings found in texts such as the Yoga Sutras, which advocate for practices that cultivate awareness and presence, ultimately leading to a state of inner peace and clarity. By integrating these insights, we can better understand the transformative power of practice in reclaiming our presence.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching resonates: a person who has experienced a significant loss may find themselves unable to engage fully in their daily life. They may go through the motions of work and social interactions, yet feel a persistent sense of detachment. In this context, the practice of mindfulness—whether through meditation, journaling, or simply taking a walk in nature—can serve as a powerful tool for reconnecting with the present moment. By intentionally cultivating awareness, they can begin to bridge the gap between their internal experience and the external world.
A reflection
As we contemplate van der Kolk's words, we are invited to reflect on our own relationship with presence. In what ways has trauma shaped our ability to engage fully with our lives? What practices can we cultivate to reclaim our sense of presence and connection? By exploring these questions, we open ourselves to the possibility of healing and transformation, allowing the wisdom of our experiences to guide us toward a more present and fulfilling existence.
