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What My Bones Know

What My Bones Know

A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma
by Stephanie Foo 2022 352 pages
4.51
59k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Childhood trauma can have profound, long-lasting effects on mental and physical health

"Having an ACE score of 6 or higher takes twenty years off your life expectancy."

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have a significant impact on long-term health outcomes. Research shows that individuals with high ACE scores are:

  • 3x more likely to develop liver disease
  • 2x more likely to develop cancer or heart disease
  • 4x more likely to develop emphysema
  • 7.5x more likely to become alcoholics
  • 4.5x more likely to suffer from depression
  • 12x more likely to attempt suicide

Childhood trauma affects physical health through chronic stress, which alters brain structure and function. It can lead to changes in the immune system, hormonal imbalances, and increased inflammation. These biological effects can persist into adulthood, contributing to a range of physical and mental health issues.

2. Complex PTSD results from prolonged, repeated trauma and affects one's entire identity

"Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD; also known as complex trauma disorder) is a psychological disorder that can develop in response to prolonged, repeated experience of interpersonal trauma in a context in which the individual has little or no chance of escape."

C-PTSD differs from PTSD in several key ways:

  • Caused by ongoing trauma rather than a single event
  • Affects one's entire personality and sense of self
  • Results in difficulties regulating emotions and maintaining relationships
  • Often involves feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness

People with C-PTSD may struggle with:

  • Trust issues and fear of abandonment
  • Difficulty setting boundaries
  • Chronic feelings of emptiness or hopelessness
  • A fragmented sense of identity

Healing from C-PTSD involves addressing not just specific traumatic memories, but also rebuilding one's entire sense of self and relationship to the world.

3. Intergenerational trauma can be passed down biologically and culturally

"DNA, of course, is the genetic code that determines the shape of our nose, our eye color, our likelihood to contract certain diseases. So when our body is making and remaking itself, every cell in our body actually 'reads' our DNA and uses it as a blueprint for what to build."

Trauma can be inherited through both biological and cultural mechanisms:

Biological transmission:

  • Epigenetic changes affecting gene expression
  • Alterations in stress response systems
  • Changes in brain structure and function

Cultural transmission:

  • Parenting styles shaped by trauma
  • Beliefs and behaviors passed down through generations
  • Silencing or denying traumatic histories

Research has shown that children of trauma survivors may exhibit symptoms similar to their parents, even without directly experiencing the trauma themselves. This underscores the importance of addressing trauma not just on an individual level, but also within families and communities.

4. Healing from trauma requires self-compassion, curiosity, and letting go of shame

"Punishment doesn't work."

Self-compassion is crucial for healing from trauma. Many trauma survivors internalize shame and self-blame, believing they are fundamentally flawed or unworthy. Shifting from self-punishment to self-compassion involves:

  • Recognizing that suffering is a universal human experience
  • Treating oneself with kindness and understanding
  • Practicing mindfulness to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment

Curiosity about one's experiences, rather than harsh self-criticism, can lead to greater self-awareness and healing. This involves approaching difficult emotions and memories with openness and a desire to understand, rather than trying to suppress or avoid them.

5. Mindfulness and body awareness practices can help manage trauma symptoms

"Being grounded refers to a state of mental awareness where you're fully present with the here and now. You know who and where you are, the current time and year, and what's happening all around you. It is the opposite of dissociating."

Grounding techniques can help trauma survivors manage symptoms like dissociation, anxiety, and flashbacks:

  • Body scan meditations
  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Sensory awareness practices (e.g., naming 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, etc.)

Other mindfulness practices that can be beneficial:

  • Yoga
  • Tai chi
  • Progressive muscle relaxation
  • Mindful walking

These practices help reconnect mind and body, promoting a sense of safety and presence in the current moment.

6. Healthy relationships and community are crucial for healing from relational trauma

"Relationships are like sports. It's muscle memory, it's all the action of doing. You can't just read about tennis and know how to play tennis. There's a lot of dueling involved. Interpersonal dueling!"

Healing occurs in relationships. Since complex trauma often stems from interpersonal abuse or neglect, healing requires new experiences of safe, supportive relationships. This can involve:

  • Building a strong therapeutic alliance
  • Developing healthy friendships and romantic partnerships
  • Engaging in supportive community groups

Key aspects of healing relationships:

  • Emotional attunement and validation
  • Clear communication and boundary-setting
  • Practicing vulnerability and trust
  • Repairing ruptures in the relationship

Learning to navigate these interpersonal "duels" in a healthy way can help rewire the brain's expectations of relationships and foster a sense of safety and connection.

7. Recognizing societal factors in trauma can reduce self-blame and isolation

"Racism can cause PTSD."

Trauma exists within larger societal contexts. Recognizing the role of systemic oppression, discrimination, and societal violence in trauma can help survivors:

  • Reduce self-blame and shame
  • Understand their experiences as part of broader patterns
  • Connect with others who have similar experiences
  • Engage in collective healing and social action

Forms of societal trauma:

  • Racism and racial microaggressions
  • Homophobia and transphobia
  • Poverty and economic inequality
  • War and political violence
  • Intergenerational trauma from historical atrocities

Understanding these factors can help survivors contextualize their experiences and advocate for both personal and societal change.

8. Healing is an ongoing process that involves reframing one's narrative and identity

"I am not always curious, of course. When I perceive someone being rude to me, I do not get it together to practice this dance of attunement every day. Not even most times. But more and more, I am curious enough to ask the magic question: 'What do you need?'"

Healing is not linear or finite, but an ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery. Key aspects of this process include:

  • Reframing one's life story to incorporate both trauma and resilience
  • Developing a more nuanced, compassionate view of oneself and others
  • Practicing new ways of relating to oneself and the world
  • Celebrating small victories and progress

Strategies for ongoing healing:

  • Regular self-reflection and journaling
  • Continued therapy or support groups as needed
  • Engaging in creative expression
  • Setting and working towards meaningful goals
  • Practicing gratitude and savoring positive experiences

As survivors develop new skills and perspectives, they can gradually shift from a trauma-centered identity to one that encompasses their full range of experiences and potential.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's What My Bones Know about?

  • Memoir of Healing: What My Bones Know is a memoir by Stephanie Foo that details her journey of healing from complex PTSD caused by childhood trauma and abuse.
  • Complex Trauma: The book delves into the effects of complex trauma, characterized by prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often in childhood, leading to emotional and psychological challenges.
  • Cultural Context: Foo also explores the cultural implications of trauma within the Asian American community, addressing intergenerational trauma and the model minority myth.

Why should I read What My Bones Know?

  • Relatable Experiences: Readers who have faced trauma or mental health struggles will find Foo's candid storytelling relatable and validating.
  • Insightful Perspectives: The book offers insights into the complexities of PTSD and the healing process, making it a valuable resource for those seeking understanding or support.
  • Hopeful Message: Despite the heavy subject matter, Foo emphasizes resilience and the possibility of healing, providing hope to those who may feel trapped by their past.

What are the key takeaways of What My Bones Know?

  • Understanding C-PTSD: The book educates readers about complex PTSD, its symptoms, and how it differs from traditional PTSD, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing it.
  • Healing is Possible: Foo illustrates that healing is a journey that requires time, effort, and often professional help, but it is achievable.
  • Self-Compassion: A significant theme is the importance of self-compassion and understanding one's worth, as Foo learns to navigate her feelings of inadequacy and self-loathing.

What are the best quotes from What My Bones Know and what do they mean?

  • “This book has a happy ending.”: This quote reassures readers that despite the painful experiences shared, there is hope and a positive resolution to Foo's journey.
  • “Love begets love.”: This encapsulates the idea that love multiplies when shared, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in healing.
  • “You don’t have to fix anything to deserve love.”: This powerful statement emphasizes that love is unconditional and not contingent on one's actions or worthiness, a crucial realization for Foo.

What is complex PTSD as defined in What My Bones Know?

  • Definition: Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a psychological condition that arises from prolonged exposure to trauma, particularly during formative years, leading to emotional dysregulation and difficulties in relationships.
  • Symptoms: Symptoms include persistent depression, anxiety, difficulty regulating emotions, and challenges in maintaining healthy relationships, as described by Foo in her experiences.
  • Difference from PTSD: Unlike traditional PTSD, which is often linked to a single traumatic event, C-PTSD results from ongoing trauma, making it more complex and challenging to treat.

How does Stephanie Foo describe her therapy journey in What My Bones Know?

  • Long-Term Therapy: Foo details her long-term relationship with her therapist, Samantha, and how their sessions evolved from discussing everyday issues to confronting deep-seated trauma.
  • EMDR Therapy: She explores the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which helped her process traumatic memories in a new way, leading to significant breakthroughs.
  • Self-Discovery: Throughout her therapy journey, Foo learns to confront her past, understand her triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What methods does Foo use to cope with her trauma in What My Bones Know?

  • Mindfulness Practices: Foo incorporates mindfulness techniques, such as grounding exercises and meditation, to help manage her anxiety and stay present in the moment.
  • Gratitude Journaling: She begins a gratitude journal to focus on the positive aspects of her life, which helps shift her perspective and cultivate joy.
  • Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activities like yoga and exercise becomes a crucial part of her healing process, allowing her to reconnect with her body and emotions.

How does What My Bones Know address the theme of self-love?

  • Journey to Self-Acceptance: Foo's narrative emphasizes the importance of self-love and acceptance as she learns to recognize her worth beyond her trauma.
  • Challenging Negative Beliefs: She confronts the internalized beliefs that stem from her abusive upbringing, gradually replacing them with affirmations of her value and capabilities.
  • Empowerment: The book illustrates how embracing self-love empowers Foo to make healthier choices in her relationships and life, ultimately leading to healing.

How does Foo's cultural background influence her experiences in What My Bones Know?

  • Immigrant Experience: Foo reflects on her upbringing as a child of immigrants, navigating the complexities of cultural identity and the expectations placed on her by her family.
  • Cultural Trauma: She explores how the trauma experienced by her parents as immigrants impacted her own experiences and shaped her understanding of love and acceptance.
  • Community Dynamics: The book addresses the broader dynamics of immigrant communities, highlighting the shared struggles and resilience that can exist within these groups.

What role do relationships play in What My Bones Know?

  • Impact of Trauma on Relationships: Foo discusses how her trauma affected her ability to trust and connect with others, often leading to feelings of isolation and fear of abandonment.
  • Supportive Connections: She highlights the importance of building supportive relationships, particularly with friends and her partner, Joey, who provide love and understanding.
  • Healing Through Connection: The book illustrates that healing is not just an individual journey but also involves the support and compassion of others, reinforcing the idea that we are not alone in our struggles.

How does Foo's relationship with Joey evolve throughout What My Bones Know?

  • Building Trust: Foo describes how her relationship with Joey helps her learn to trust and open up, allowing her to experience love in a way she never thought possible.
  • Navigating Challenges: They face challenges together, including Foo's struggles with her mental health, but their commitment to communication and understanding strengthens their bond.
  • Marriage as Healing: The proposal and eventual marriage symbolize a culmination of her healing journey, representing hope, love, and the creation of a new family dynamic.

What therapeutic methods does Foo explore in What My Bones Know?

  • EMDR Therapy: Foo discusses her experiences with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapy designed to help individuals process traumatic memories.
  • Internal Family Systems (IFS): She explores IFS, a therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to understand and integrate different parts of themselves, including their inner child.
  • Mindfulness and Self-Compassion: Foo emphasizes the importance of mindfulness practices and self-compassion in her healing journey, learning to accept her emotions without judgment.

Review Summary

4.51 out of 5
Average of 59k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

What My Bones Know is a powerful memoir about healing from complex PTSD. Readers praise Foo's raw honesty, vulnerability, and journalistic approach to exploring trauma and therapy. Many found the book relatable, insightful, and even life-changing. Foo's writing style and incorporation of research were widely appreciated. Some readers noted the book's importance in addressing mental health, especially within Asian-American communities. While a few had minor criticisms, the majority found it a compelling and educational read, recommending it for those interested in trauma, healing, and mental health.

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About the Author

Stephanie Foo is an acclaimed journalist and author known for her work on This American Life. Her memoir, What My Bones Know, explores her journey of healing from complex PTSD resulting from childhood abuse. Foo's background as a Malaysian immigrant in California informs her exploration of cultural factors and intergenerational trauma. Her investigative skills are evident in her approach to understanding and treating her condition. Foo's candid storytelling and incorporation of scientific research have been praised by readers. Despite her struggles, she has achieved professional success and found ways to heal, offering hope to others facing similar challenges.

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