200: Peter Levine on Somatic Experiencing and Couples Therapy

In this culmination of his life’s work, Peter A. Levine draws on his broad experience as a clinician, a student of comparative brain research, a stress scientist, and a keen observer of the naturalistic animal world to explain the nature and transformation of trauma. The book is based on the idea that trauma is neither a disease nor a disorder, but rather an injury caused by fright, helplessness, and loss that can be healed by engaging our innate capacity to self-regulate high states of arousal and intense emotions. It blends the latest findings in biology, neuroscience, and body-oriented psychotherapy to show how combining animal instinct and reason can help individuals become more whole human beings.

In 'Trauma and Memory', Dr. Peter Levine addresses the controversial question of whether traumatic memories can be trusted. He argues that while explicit memories are well-studied, implicit memories stored in the body are crucial for healing. The book offers insights into how the interplay between brain and body affects our relationship with past trauma, helping individuals move towards a more balanced state of being.

Waking the Tiger explores why animals in the wild, despite frequent threats, are rarely traumatized, and applies this understanding to human trauma. The book normalizes the symptoms of trauma and provides a series of exercises to help readers focus on bodily sensations, thereby facilitating the healing process. It emphasizes the importance of completing the physical reaction to traumatic events and introduces the concept of 'renegotiation' as a key part of the healing process.

Peter Levine's "An Autobiography of Trauma" is a deeply personal memoir that intertwines his professional research with his own healing journey from trauma. The book explores the profound impact of trauma on the body and the power of mindful attention in guiding recovery. Levine shares his experiences with sexual assault and the development of Somatic Experiencing, a therapy focused on bodily sensations. He also recounts mystical encounters, including vivid dreams and interactions with Albert Einstein, which played a significant role in his therapeutic approach. The book offers a raw and vulnerable account of trauma and healing, inviting readers to explore their own experiences.