Michelle Ashen's Key Ideas from The Body Keeps the Score
by Bessel van der Kolk

“Trauma results in a fundamental reorganization of the way the mind and brain manage perceptions.”

Trauma reshapes our cognitive framework, affecting how we perceive and interact with the world. Recognising this helps in understanding behaviours in oneself and others. Leaders should approach their team members with empathy, knowing that past traumas might influence their reactions.

“As long as you keep secrets and suppress information, you are fundamentally at war with yourself…”

Denial or suppression of one's feelings or experiences creates internal conflict. For holistic well-being and effective leadership, it's crucial to acknowledge and address both mental and physical responses to experiences. Internal alignment leads to authentic and effective external interactions.

“Children are biologically programmed to grow best in the care of a committed caregiver.”

Our early years shape our adult responses. Leaders should recognize that early nurturing—or lack thereof—can deeply impact a person's ability to trust and collaborate. Creating a supportive environment can help individuals thrive.

“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health…”

Safety and trust form the foundation for mental health and productive relationships. Leaders must prioritise creating a safe space where team members feel valued and understood, leading to better collaboration and innovation.

“Social support is not the same as merely being in the presence of others…”

Merely being surrounded by people doesn't ensure emotional well-being; genuine connections do. Leaders should foster meaningful interactions, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued, enhancing overall team cohesion and performance.

“Neuroplasticity is an intrinsic property of the human brain…”

The brain's ability to reorganize itself means individuals can learn and adapt throughout life. Leaders can foster a growth mindset, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation, benefiting both personal and organizational growth.

“In order to change, people need to become aware of their sensations…”

Personal growth is intertwined with our interactions and experiences with others. Leaders can facilitate change by encouraging self-awareness and nurturing positive interpersonal dynamics.

“Mindfulness not only makes it possible to survey our internal landscape…”

Being present and self-aware are crucial for personal well-being and effective leadership. Encouraging mindfulness can help individuals respond rather than react, leading to better decision-making and interactions.

“Being able to move and breathe freely – the way you did when you were a child – can profoundly enhance your sense of vitality…”

Resilience is about reclaiming one's inherent vitality and capacity for growth. Leaders can cultivate resilience by fostering environments where experimentation and learning from failures are encouraged.