Two Ways I’ve Seen Trauma Stored in the Body (and How EMDR Can Help)

If you’ve ever thought, “I should be over this by now” or “Why does my body react this way even when I know I’m safe?” you’re not alone. As a counsellor, this is something I hear often.
Trauma doesn’t just live in our memories, it lives in the body. Even after we’ve talked about it or tried to make sense of it, our nervous system might still be holding onto the effects of what happened.
Below are two common ways I’ve seen trauma show up in the body — and how EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can support the nervous system to process and let go of what it’s been holding.

 1) Physical Tension That Doesn’t Go Away

This might look like:

• Constant tightness in the shoulders or jaw

• Stomach knots or digestive issues

• Feeling frozen, stuck, or shut down

These symptoms can be your body’s way of staying ready to protect you — even if there’s no threat right now. This is part of our natural fight-flight-freeze-fawn response. When trauma happens — especially relational trauma or chronic stress — our nervous system can get stuck in a state of high alert (hyperarousal).
One client once told me, “It’s like my body still thinks I’m in danger, even when my brain knows I’m not.” That’s the survival system doing exactly what it’s designed to do: protect you.

2) Sudden Reactions That Don’t Seem to Make Sense

This could look like:

• Anxiety or overwhelm that comes out of nowhere

• Shutting down emotionally in certain conversations

• Strong reactions to a tone of voice, smell, or facial expression

These can be emotional or sensory flashbacks — where your body remembers something painful that your brain can’t fully recall. It might not feel “logical,” but that’s because trauma is stored in the nervous system, not just in the brain.
During a session, I might ask curious questions such as: “What does your body remember?” Often, it’s not about the logic — it’s about helping the body process what was left unresolved.

 How EMDR Can Help Release Trauma

EMDR is one of the approaches I use to help clients process trauma in a way that doesn’t require them to relive all the painful details.
Here are a few brief points on how it works:

• We identify a stuck memory or emotional experience from the past or present to focus on

• I guide you through bilateral stimulation (usually with alternating bilateral eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones)

• Your brain starts to reprocess the experience, and your body gets a chance to complete its response

After processing, I’ve heard clients say things like: “Wow, that memory feels farther away now.” EMDR can help shift trauma from something that’s stuck in the body to something that feels neutral, integrated, and in the past.

One of my favourite quotes is from Dr. Arielle Schwartz:
“Trauma is stored in the body, but so is resilience. Your body remembers, but it can also learn to feel safe again.” (Pesi)

A Grounding Practice

I often share grounding practices like this one to help shift your nervous system from “danger” mode back into the present.

Earth – Feel Your Feet
Place your feet flat on the ground. Press down. Wiggle your toes.
Notice the steadiness of the earth beneath you.

Air – Breathe to Center
Put one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
Breathe in through your nose for a slow count of 3, letting your belly rise.
Exhale through your mouth for a count of 5.
Notice the rhythm of your breath moving in and out.

Water – Swallow to Settle
Take a small sip of water and notice the sensations as you swallow.
This simple act gently tells your nervous system, “I’m safe.”

Fire – Warm Your Body
Rub your hands together quickly to create heat.
Gently place your warm hands on your arms or face.
Feel the fire your own body can create.

Want to Learn a Bit About Me?

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the Panorama Wellness Group, I recognize the impact trauma can have on your body, mind, and emotional well-being. I offer EMDR therapy in Langley (both in-person and virtual). My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and grounded in deep respect for your story and nervous system.

If you're interested in learning more, please reach out through the Panorama Wellness Group. We can set up a free 15-minute video/phone consultation or a full session so you can see if we’re a good fit and explore your counselling goals.

To learn about me and the services I provide, please visit my bio here:  https://panoramawellness.ca/jodi-bridges