June 2024 – The body counts the wounds

Martin Chmelař, a member of the Red Button network, shares his thoughts on the book.

Trauma cannot be bypassed. Its effects are experienced by many – maybe you, maybe your loved ones; but it always impacts the lives of those around them. And it is beyond the power of the sufferer to manage symptoms like depression, chronic issues, alcoholism, self-harm, obesity, or feelings of shame and loneliness without help. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a leading global expert on trauma, has spent over three decades working with trauma survivors. Thanks to his insights and experience, you can now embark on what may be a long but hopeful journey toward a better and fuller life.
True healing comes through finding a path back to oneself, to one’s own body, which holds the imprint of experienced suffering in an endless loop. The book reveals how trauma negatively affects both the body and brain, altering the ability to self-regulate, perceive oneself, and experience joy, pleasure, and trust. It also describes the role that genes and hormones play in the development of developmental trauma disorder, as well as the crucial influence of parental love and care in the early years of life.

The second part of the book is dedicated to van der Kolk’s innovative treatment methods. The author encourages his patients to engage in any form of bodywork that helps restore a healthy relationship with themselves and others. The book therefore includes recommendations for neurofeedback, hypnosis, meditation, as well as sports, dance, music, yoga, writing, and acting classes.
In his acclaimed book, he offers accessible hope to all who suffer from trauma, and importantly, to their loved ones and caregivers as well.

Who is Martin Chmelař?

Martin Chmelař is a business consultant, experienced coach, and mentor. He is a co-founder of RainFellows www.rainfellows.cz and a board member of several other companies. Martin has extensive experience working in international environments and with teams of various sizes. He specializes in Lean and Agile coaching and mentoring, as well as leadership development, for which he co-created the comprehensive R(e)BeLeader educational program https://rebeleader.cz/.