#109 Why Your Body Feels Constantly On Edge | Trauma & Stress Hormones#109 Why Your Body Feels Constantly On Edge | Trauma & Stress Hormones
The Trauma Recovery School
Bonita Ackerman du Preez explains why trauma can leave your body feeling constantly on edge by keeping stress hormones active. Learn how understanding these responses can help break the cycle.
2:09•16 Mar 2026
Why Your Body Feels Constantly On Edge: Understanding Trauma & Stress
Episode Overview
- Trauma can cause the brain to keep stress responses active even after danger has passed.
- Understanding your body's biological responses is key to managing stress.
- The stress hormone trauma loop keeps you feeling on edge and exhausted.
- Recognising your brain's protective instincts helps in healing.
- Practical steps can help break the cycle of constant stress.
“Your body may be stuck in something called a stress hormone trauma loop, which means your nervous system keeps releasing all these stress chemicals.”
Ever wondered why your body feels like it's constantly on edge, even when everything seems fine? This episode of The Trauma Recovery School tackles this very question, diving into the biology behind why our bodies sometimes can't seem to switch off. Bonita Ackerman du Preez, the award-winning master trauma recovery therapist, sheds light on the stress hormone trauma loop that keeps many stuck in survival mode.
She explains how our brain's protection system, meant to keep us safe, can sometimes get its wires crossed due to past trauma. Instead of calming down after a threat has passed, our nervous system might keep the alarm bells ringing, leaving us feeling exhausted and on high alert. Through engaging anecdotes and expert insights, Bonita explores the ways in which trauma can hijack our body's natural stress response, making us feel like we're perpetually running from a bear.
She highlights how understanding this biological response is the first step towards regaining control and finding peace. The episode offers practical advice for breaking free from this cycle, emphasising the importance of recognising that your brain is simply trying to protect you. If you've ever struggled with racing thoughts or felt overwhelmed by small problems, this episode is a must-listen.
It's not just about recognising the problem; it's about learning how to work with your body to find a path to healing. So, are you ready to take the first step towards understanding your body's stress responses? Tune in and find out how you can start living a life less dictated by past traumas.
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