What is trauma? It is an emotional and physical response to distressing events such as violence, accidents, or natural disasters. It can also have lasting effects on your mental and physical health. One of the most well-known conditions linked to trauma is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which can cause symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and hyper-vigilance. What is more interesting to note is that trauma is also believed to be stored in the body, particularly in the hips.How Are Emotions Stored?In 1985, neuroscientist Candace Pert found that small proteins which are called neuropeptides activate the circuits linked to emotions. She also noted that "your body is your subconscious mind". It was she who pointed out that the physical body can change depending on what you are feeling. Her research suggests that emotions are electrochemical signals that can carry emotional messages throughout the body. They are then stored, expressed and experienced through body.As per a 2021 study, titled, Biomolecular Basis of Cellular Consciousness via Subcellular Nanobrains, noted that cell consciousness can be explained by the presence of nano brains and that cells are “highly sensitive” and respond to sensory stimuli as well as internal and extracellular electromagnetic fields.The researchers concluded that eukaryotic cells, or the cells that make up plants, animals, fungi, and single-celled organisms, are “cognitive and intentional.”Why Is It Stored In Your Hips?The body’s response to trauma is complex, involving both the nervous system and hormonal changes. When faced with danger, the body activates the fight, flight, or freeze response, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones prepare the body for survival but can also lead to prolonged physical tension if the trauma is not processed properly.The nervous system plays a crucial role in this process. The amygdala, responsible for processing emotions, can keep the body in a heightened state of alertness even after the threat has passed. This prolonged response may contribute to tension and trauma being stored in certain muscles, including those in the hips.The hips serve as a critical connection between the upper and lower body, supporting movement and weight distribution. They are also linked to the sacral chakra, which is associated with emotions and creativity. Because of this connection, many believe that emotional trauma can become trapped in the hip muscles, particularly the psoas muscle.The psoas muscle extends from the lower back to the hips and plays a role in movement and posture. When the body experiences trauma, the psoas may contract as a protective mechanism. Over time, this can result in chronic tension and pain.Are There Any Signs That Your Hips Stored Trauma?Chronic stiffness or pain in the hips and lower backDifficulty relaxing, particularly in hip-opening stretchesFeelings of anxiety, depression, or emotional numbnessDifficulty expressing emotions or engaging in creative activitiesWhat Can Help?Yoga can immensely help release the stress in and around your hope, especially when trauma is stored. You can try the pigeon pose or the butterfly pose that can help stretch and release the tension in the hips.Somatic therapy focuses on becoming aware of physical sensations and gently releasing stored trauma. This approach helps individuals reconnect with their bodies and gradually let go of tension held in the muscles, including the hips.Deep tissue massage and myofascial release techniques can target muscle tightness and help release stored emotions. Regular bodywork can support relaxation and healing.