Is Trauma Stored in the Body or the Mind? An Integrated Approach to Healing

The answer isn’t as simple as choosing one or the other.

Read on to learn how a practical understanding of the mind-body connection can help you choose where to put your attention when you’re on a healing journey.

Exploring the Connection Between Body-Based and Thought-Based Healing

I’ve been reflecting on what might, at first glance, seem like a conflict between body-based healing methods and thought-based approaches. My journey has taken me deep into both—from 10 years as a massage therapist also trained in body-centered psychology (the Hakomi Method) to my work as an MBSR teacher and now as a hypnotherapist. What I’ve come to believe is that both approaches are valid and valuable. In fact, they overlap more than we might realize, especially if we’re used to seeing them as separate.

Let me share my perspective, knowing there is always more to explore.

Body vs. Thought: Are They Really Separate?

When we compare body-based approaches (like those focusing on how trauma is “stored” in the body) with thought-based techniques (like hypnosis, reframing, or visualization), it’s easy to see them as opposites. But here’s something worth considering:

No one has pinpointed exactly where consciousness “lives.”

The mind and body are so deeply connected—just think about how our thoughts can influence things like heart rate, breathing, or muscle tension. This connection is where healing happens. Trauma that we experience in the body can also be thought of as existing within the subconscious mind. That’s where tools like hypnosis, mindfulness, and visualization can help create powerful changes.

Why This Matters

Thinking about healing in this interconnected way makes it feel so much more accessible and hopeful to me. It’s one of the reasons I love using hypnosis—it taps into this mind-body connection to support real transformation. By engaging the subconscious mind, we can release tension, shift unhelpful patterns, and create a pathway for greater well-being.

Beyond Body and Mind

There’s also a fascinating overlap between what some might call “energetic” modalities and more mainstream practices. Techniques like Traditional Japanese Reiki or EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) draw on principles similar to those behind acupuncture or T’ai Chi. These approaches focus on restoring balance, reducing stress, and creating clarity—goals that align with many evidence-based practices.

While some people view these techniques through a spiritual lens, I see them as practical tools to support the body’s natural healing processes. In my own work, I integrate methods like these selectively and always tailor them to the needs of the individual.

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Ready to Put the Mind-Body Connection into Action?

If this blog post sparked your curiosity, I’d love to invite you to my upcoming Re-Vision workshop. This transformative experience will help you tap into the mind-body connection to create lasting, meaningful change in your life.

Through the power of hypnosis, visualization, energywork, and self-awareness, you’ll:

- Gain renewed clarity about your vision and goals.
- Experience relief from stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm.
- Build confidence and motivation to take action in alignment with your desires.
- Connect deeply with yourself, cultivating a profound sense of peace.
- Enhance both your physical and emotional well-being.

What to Expect:
During the session, you’ll be gently guided into a state of hypnosis, where clarity and self-awareness flourish. You’ll align with a positive vision for your future and gain the tools to manifest it—leaving with a sense of calm, purpose, and empowerment.

Let’s explore the incredible potential of the mind-body connection together - hope to see you then!