If you’ve started Somatic Therapy, EMDR, or another body-based trauma treatment, you might wonder, “is this working?”
Trauma recovery takes time. Sometimes it takes months, sometimes it takes years.
So progress isn’t always obvious. The good news? Your body often sends signals, sometimes clear ones, othertimes less obvious, that healing is happening.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the physical, emotional, and behavioral signs your body is releasing trauma so you can recognize progress and trust your healing process.
As always, contact us when you’re ready for professional support.
Signs You May Be Carrying Trauma
Before we look at signs our body is releasing trauma, how might we be able to spot the trauma our bodies carry?
After all, trauma is stored in and lives in our bodies. So it’s important to get in tune with our bodies and what they may tell us.
When something deeply overwhelming happens, our nervous systems may hold on to that experience as if it’s still a threat.
This “body memory” can manifest as:
- Hives
- Fatigue
- Asthma
- Brain fog
- Migraines
- Heartburn
- Restlessness
- Teeth grinding
- Muscle tension
- Rapid heartbeat
- Low libido or ED
- Unexplained pain
- Sleep disruptions
- Shallow breathing
- Phantom sensations
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
And on and on.
Our bodies do this to protect us. Our bodies hold on to this traumatic energy so we can respond appropriately in the moment.
The problem is that the protective state can get “stuck,” keeping us on high alert long after the danger is gone.
That’s why certain sights, sounds, or even smells can trigger strong reactions without warning.
Now that we’re acquainted with the signs that we may be holding on to trauma, let’s look at signs we’re releasing said traumas.
Signs Your Body Is Releasing Trauma (During the Process)
When trauma begins to release, your body may respond in sudden, sometimes surprising ways. These responses are part of your nervous system discharging stored energy.
You might notice some of these signs:
- Crying
- Sighing
- Heavy breathing
- Yelling or the desire to do so
- Resting more or more deeply
- Shaking, trembling, or twitching
- Feeling a rush of heat or a wave of chills
- Sensations of anger, grief, fear, or even joy
- Tension in the jaw, shoulders, stomach, and/or face
- A tightness suddenly loosening in your chest or belly
- Urge to move by kicking, dancing, pacing, or curling up
These moments can be intense, but they are often signs your body is releasing trauma in a healthy way.
Instead of holding tension inside, you’re letting it move through and out.
If you’re in therapy, your provider can help you stay grounded during these experiences so they feel less overwhelming and more purposeful. Our therapists are here for you, too.
Signs Your Body Has Successfully Released Trauma
After the active release, your body begins to integrate the change. This stage often feels quieter than the release itself, but it’s just as important for long-term healing.
During this phase, you may NOT notice any changes, because the pacing is different for everyone. But over time, there may be a shift. Others may be able to notice changes in your posture, facial expressions, or mood before you do.
With that said, you or those who know you may notice:
- Breathing more deeply and easily, with less tightness in your chest.
- Feeling more warmth in your hands and feet is a sign of improved circulation.
- Feeling a greater range of emotions, including joy, curiosity, and contentment.
- Having fewer trauma symptoms, like reduced flashbacks or intrusive thoughts.
- Experiencing more emotional calm, feeling present and grounded in your body.
- Noticing changes in your sleep patterns, such as deeper rest or temporary fatigue.
- Experiencing more vivid or symbolic dreams, often reflecting emotional processing.
- Having a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure, as your body shifts toward rest.
- Feeling more muscle relaxation, especially in your jaw, shoulders, stomach, and brow.
- Gentle stretching, sighing, or yawning that arises naturally can be a sign the body is still processing and regulating.
These shifts show your nervous system is learning that it’s safe to rest again.
Over time, this can lead to stronger relationships, more confidence, and a deeper sense of connection to yourself and the world around you.
Emotional and Behavioral Shifts That Signal Healing
And the signs your body is releasing trauma aren’t only physical. Many people notice subtle but powerful changes in their emotions and behaviors.
Here are some emotional signs you’re releasing trauma from your body:
- You become aware of your needs and set stronger boundaries
- Sudden waves of emotion, like sadness, joy, or relief, come without a clear reason.
- Your relationships shift. You no longer put up with trauma dumping or poor relating styles.
- Some people feel more open and connected with loved ones.
- Increased self-compassion is another common sign, as is having more patience with oneself.
- You feel less triggered by situations that once caused strong reactions.
- Your ability to focus and stay present in daily life improves.
- You find it easier to express your feelings without fear or shame.
- Old coping mechanisms, like avoidance or numbing, start to fade.
These changes show that your nervous system is settling into a more balanced state.
They also suggest your energy is moving away from constant survival mode and toward growth, connection, and joy.
Supporting Your Body Through Trauma Release
When your body is letting go of trauma, giving it the right support helps the process feel safer and more effective.
Movement is often the easiest place to start. Gentle walking, yoga, or stretching encourages circulation and helps tension release naturally. Running for 25 minutes or more can trigger both a “runner’s high” and an emotional release, sometimes called a “runner’s cry.”
Breathwork and grounding exercises calm the nervous system and keep you connected to the present moment. Long hugs with trusted people can release oxytocin, a hormone linked to safety and connection.
Therapies like EMDR, somatic experiencing, and Internal Family Systems work directly with the body and mind to process stored trauma.
Weightlifting or resistance training can also be grounding by focusing your attention on physical strength. It’s also a good confidence boost to feel powerful and take back one’s agency from trauma.
Even simple practices like staying hydrated, eating nourishing foods, and getting quality rest give your body the energy it needs for healing. The goal is simply to create conditions where release can happen and integration can follow.
And never underestimate the value of community. Having friends on a similar journey, including those ahead of you to nurture and guide you, is a game-changer. You can find events like gym communities, martial arts classes, shared interests, faith, hobby groups, yoga, sound baths, cacao ceremonies, and more via Facebook events and Meetups.
When to Seek Professional Support
Releasing trauma can sometimes bring up intense emotions or physical sensations that feel unmanageable alone.
If you experience frequent flashbacks, panic attacks, overwhelming sadness, or thoughts of harming yourself, it’s important to work with a trauma-informed therapist.
A professional can help you pace the work so it’s safe for your nervous system, teach techniques for self-regulation, and guide you through the release and integration stages.
They can also help you understand which signs might indicate your body is releasing trauma and which might signal a need for a different approach.
At our clinic, we use somatic therapy, EMDR, Neurofeedback, and other evidence-based methods to help clients release trauma safely.
With the right support, your body’s healing signals become milestones—not roadblocks—on the path to recovery.
Get Matched with a Therapist Who Can Help You Release Trauma from Your Body
Noticing the signs your body is releasing trauma can shift the way you view your healing. Shaking, tears, or deep calm aren’t setbacks. In fact, they’re signs that your body is doing the work.
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. With the right guidance, trauma release can be steady, safe, and deeply transformative.
Our team offers somatic therapy, EMDR, and other body-based approaches to help you move through each stage of healing with confidence. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you get there. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
