The freeze response is a natural, instinctive reaction that occurs when we perceive a threat. It’s a part of our survival mechanism, designed to protect us in moments of danger. When faced with overwhelming stress or trauma, our bodies may enter a state of immobility, where we feel paralyzed or unable to act. This response...
In our fast-paced world, productivity often feels like a badge of honor. You may find yourself caught in a cycle of striving for more—more tasks completed, more goals achieved, and more accolades earned. Yet, beneath this relentless pursuit lies a deeper truth: a dysregulated nervous system can significantly impact your ability to function effectively. When...
The concept of the Window of Tolerance is a vital framework for understanding how you experience and respond to stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm. Imagine it as a comfortable zone where you can navigate your feelings and reactions without becoming overwhelmed or shutting down. Within this window, you can engage with your emotions, think clearly,...
The vagus nerve is a remarkable and intricate part of your body’s nervous system, often referred to as the “wandering nerve” due to its extensive reach throughout your body. It is one of the longest cranial nerves, extending from the brainstem down through the neck and into the chest and abdomen. This nerve plays a...
The nervous system is a complex network that plays a crucial role in how you experience the world around you. It is responsible for regulating your body’s responses to various stimuli, including stress and trauma. At its core, the nervous system consists of two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain...
As a somatic therapist, I often find myself reflecting on the intricate dance of our human responses to stress and trauma. The terms “fight,” “flight,” “freeze,” and “fawn” may sound clinical, but they represent deeply human patterns that we all experience in various forms. These responses are not just psychological; they are woven into the...
Imagine for a moment that your body is like a wise old friend, always there to guide you through the ups and downs of life. It speaks to you in whispers, nudging you gently when something feels off or when you need to slow down. This is the essence of body wisdom—a deep, intuitive understanding...
Somatic awareness is a profound and often transformative practice that invites you to tune into your body’s sensations, movements, and rhythms. At its core, somatic awareness is about recognizing the connection between your mind and body, understanding how your physical experiences influence your emotional state, and vice versa. This awareness allows you to cultivate a...
Evidence has shown ketamine can be a supportive treatment for depression and PTSD. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) can support individuals who have treatment resistant depression, and PTSD (among other symptoms). Ketamine was originally utilized as an anesthesia and is a synthetic compound. What was discovered is the medication induced dissociative states and that lead to...
Anxiety, self-esteem, depression, trauma. I use the Somatic Experiencing lens to support you feeling comfortable and safe in your body and the world. Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a body-orientated modality. SE supports your nervous system find regulation. When the nervous system is regulated, there is more capacity and resilience available. The nervous system is a...
