Shows
Sacred Window Podcast: Nurturing Awareness in Postpartum CareNurturing Resilience: Ayurvedic Wisdom for Nervous System Caregivers with Kristen TimchakIn this episode, Christine Eck welcomes Kristen for a timely and heartfelt conversation on caring for the nervous system—especially for caregivers, moms, and birth workers. Kristen shares her personal journey and expert insights from Ayurveda and somatic practices, highlighting why daily self-care rituals are vital for long-term resilience and holistic well-being.Key Topics Discussed:Kristen’s journey to nervous system health after postpartum and chronic stressThe role of Ayurveda in supporting the mind and body, with special attention to the Vata doshaHow the stresses of modern life impact caregivers and the importance of grounding and resi...
2025-11-0541 min
Herbal Womb WisdomPerimenopause the Ayurvedic Way: Cultivating resilience using food, somatic awareness & other practices with Kristen TimchakClick here to send me a quick message :) How does Ayurveda view the perimenopausal transition? And what are some of the tools and strategies that might be helpful to incorporate in this time to both reduce and prevent the common symptoms that show up in this time?According to today's guest, Ayurvedic Health Counselor Kristen Timchak, the perimenopausal transition is often characterized by qualities of Vata dosha.Irregular cycles, drying skin, tissue fragility, brain fog, anxiety, mood swings, are all potentially signs of Vata imbalance.In this conversation, we e...
2025-08-261h 08Herbal Womb Wisdom3 powerful ways to tend your nervous system in these tumultuous times (ft Efan Hsieh & Kristen Timchak)Click here to send me a quick message :) We're all navigating so much right now. Collectively, relationally, personally.This week's episode explores three different frames for understanding and tending your nervous system when it's stretched, strained, burnt out or plain dysregulated.In addition to the collective unrest so many of us are feeling, this week I learned about the loss of John Gallagher (founder of Learning Herbs).What has struck me most about the loss (aside from honoring his immense legacy in modern...
2025-06-2455 min
The How to Take Care of Yourself PodcastResilience, Ayurveda & the Nervous System with Kristen TimchakIn this episode of How to Take Care of Yourself, I sit down with Kristen Timchak—Ayurvedic Health Counselor, somatic stress release practitioner, and host of The Nourished Nervous System podcast. We delve into the intersections of Ayurveda and somatic practices, exploring how they can support nervous system resilience. Kristen shares insights on the concept of manas (the Ayurvedic mind), practical tools for stress relief, and the importance of honoring our body's wisdom.Chapters:00:00 Intro 01:45 Kristen's journey into Ayurveda and somatic work 10:30 Understanding manas and its role in stress 18...
2025-05-0544 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAll of Our Bodies: Exploring Somatic Experiencing, Authentic Movement and Cultural Somatics with Daniel Bear DavisSend us a textIn this episode of The Nourished Nervous System, I welcome my longtime friend Daniel Bear Davis, a somatic experiencing practitioner with a rich background in dance, performance and bodywork. Our conversation explores the intersections of somatic experiencing, cultural somatics, and authentic movement. Daniel shares how dance and movement have shaped his approach to trauma renegotiation, emphasizing the importance of body awareness and elemental balance. We discuss the transformative power of community practices, the concept of 'agency of attention,' and creating space for healing within our bodies and...
2025-03-2749 min
The Nourished Nervous System5 Ways to Get Unstuck in Kapha SeasonSend us a textDo you ever feel stuck in the early spring? Heavy, tired, sluggish digestion or stuck in your emotions? This is because one of the qualities of Kapha Dosha, present in the spring is the "sticky" quality. In this episode I'm going to dive into Kapha Dosha, specifically the sticky quality and explore some ways to get unstuck.I talk about how Kapha's qualities can impact us, using personal stories of dealing with sluggish lymph nodes and a clogged kitchen sink to illustrate. I also offer practical tips like...
2025-03-2031 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemCultivating a Community Mindset with Chandra CantorSend us a textAs things feel more chaotic in the world, there is a common sentiment that this is an important time to focus on community. I hear a lot about community in the circles I am in, but what does it actually mean to be in community? And how can one create or foster community wherever they are at in the process? These are some of the questions that Chandra Cantor, a mom, yoga teacher, life coach, and passionate community builder, shares on this episode. The conversation delves into what...
2025-03-1340 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemCuriosity as a Pathway to ResilienceSend us a textCuriosity is innate, and yet it is also something that can be cultivated. It can be used as a tool for more self awareness as well as creating connection.In this episode of The Nourished Nervous System, I explore the concept of curiosity and its importance as a pathway to resilience. I discuss how curiosity can help combat rigidity, control, and perfectionism by promoting flexibility and openness. Sharing personal anecdotes, including a story about understanding my son’s anxiety, I illustrate how cultivating curiosity can lead to deepe...
2025-03-0619 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemChange Your Movement, Change Your Brain with Lara HeimannSend us a textNeuroplasticity is a big part of resilience. We know the impact of our thoughts on so many aspects of our lives. But how does your posture and movement affect your brain and neuroplasticity?We are going to explore this in this episode of The Nourished Nervous System with Lara Heimann, a physical therapist, yoga teacher, movement educator, and creator of the LYT Method. We discuss Lara's journey, from her early interests in movement and curiosity-driven upbringing to her development of the LYT Method, which combines physical therapy, yoga, and neu...
2025-02-2735 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSamprapti: The Six Stages of Disease According to AyurvedaSend us a textHave you ever wondered why Ayurveda is so focused on seasonal transitions, digestion and prevention? It all ties into the Ayurvedic perspective of disease and how it manifests in the body.In this episode I delve into the Ayurvedic principles of maintaining health and preventing disease through seasonal transitions. With the world in a state of flux, grounding and resilience become paramount. I discuss the concept of Samprapti, or the birth of disease, explaining the six stages from accumulation to differentiation. I highlight the importance of daily pra...
2025-02-2026 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemA Seat at the Community Table: Inclusive Eating with Chay WikeSend us a textDo you have food sensitivities or allergies? Do you cook for someone that does? If you answered "yes" to either of those questions, you won't want to miss this episode with Chay Wike, author of 'The Kitchen Commune'b. This heartfelt conversation delves into Chay's journey with autoimmune diseases and Lyme disease, and how it led her to discover the power of food as a tool for healing. Chay discusses her approach to inclusive eating, the importance of community and shared meals, and the integral role whole foods play in self...
2025-02-1339 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Somatic Pause: A Practice for ResilienceSend us a textHappy Imbolc! This is the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. It is also the beginning of Kapha season in Ayurvedic thought. In this episode, I briefly share my observations on this seasonal shift and introduce the concept of the 'somatic pause,' a simple, regular practice focusing on tuning into the body's needs and signals. This practice is designed to help regulate the nervous system by skimming the overflow of daily stress and fostering a deeper connection with one's body. The Somatic Pause is an as...
2025-02-0618 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAyurveda and Mental Clarity with Kate O'Donnell: Integrating Food and Mind for BalanceSend us a textWe know that the food we eat impacts our physical bodies. We are also beginning to recognize how it impacts our minds. The teachings of Yoga and Ayurveda have a lot to contribute to this topic.In this episode of the The Nourished Nervous System podcast, I welcome Kate O'Donnell, a nationally certified Ayurvedic practitioner, author of multiple Ayurvedic cookbooks, and founder of the Ayurvedic Living Institute. The discussion explores how Ayurveda's complex and nuanced concepts can be made accessible for the Western mind. Kate elaborates on the...
2025-01-3041 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemCultivating a Resilient Immune System with AyurvedaSend us a textHere in the Northeast United States, it is cold and flu season. So, in this episode of the Nourished Nervous System I discuss the Ayurvedic approach to maintaining a healthy immune system.This is more of a long game approach as opposed to a quick fix. The episode covers the importance of balancing the digestive fire (Agni), cultivating and protecting Ojas, and managing stress, sleep, and diet. Practical tips include using herbs like ginger and turmeric, simplifying diets, and tracking bodily cues for better health. Also the imp...
2025-01-2323 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemTending the Bones: Ancestral Connection to Heal Transgenerational Sexual Trauma with Dr. Pavini MoraySend us a textIn this episode of The Nourished Nervous System, I welcome back Dr. Pavini Moray, a somatic coach and author with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Moray introduces their new book, 'Tending the Bones: Reclaiming Pleasure After Transgenerational Sexual Trauma,' which guides readers through a 13-month somatic journey involving ancestral rituals and embodiment practices. The discussion highlights the significance of building relationships with well ancestors for healing, the transformative and connecting power of ritual, and the critical role of understanding and reclaiming pleasure. Dr. Moray explains how...
2025-01-1636 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemExploring the Complexities of Surrender: Insights on Control, Collapse, and TrustSend us a textIn this episode I embark on an intriguing exploration of surrender's nuanced landscape. Delving into the delicate balance between surrender and collapse, the conversation unravels the intricate dance between resistance, control, and acceptance. Personal anecdotes, including transformative parenting moments and the liberating act of trusting one's body, highlight the profound impact of surrender on the nervous system. Surrender is strategy for the preservation of resources. Tuning into the body and practicing acceptance and surrender can be a valuable tool to have more resources for problem solving and crea...
2025-01-0927 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSmoothing the Transition of Perimenopause Using Breathwork with Larissa CarlsonSend us a textIn this episode I welcome back Larissa Carlson, an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga specialist certified by the National Ayurvedic Medical Association and Yoga Alliance. Larissa shares her extensive knowledge on pranayama (yogic breathwork) and its benefits, especially for managing Vata imbalances and promoting Sattva during perimenopause. The episode explores various breathwork techniques, their mental and physical health benefits, and the importance of adapting practices to individual needs and life stages. Larissa emphasizes the significance of slowing down and incorporating soothing exercises, lifestyle shifts, and mindfulness practices int...
2025-01-0250 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWinter Restoration: A Yoga Nidra Practice for YouSend us a textHappy darkest days of winter to you!In celebration of these dark times, when ideally we get more rest, quiet and stillness ( but the reality is often otherwise), I am offering you a small gift of a Yoga Nidra practice for restoration. This episode is different than most, I talk a little bit in the beginning but the majority of the episode is the actual practice. Take a moment for yourself in the chaos and drop down into a deeper state of consciousness, giving your body and mi...
2024-12-2625 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAncient Wisdom Meets Modern Research : AbhyangaSend us a textIf it is winter where you live, and you feel cold, dry, spacey, are having trouble sleeping or feel that your nervous system could use some love - you may need an abhyanga.What the heck is an abhyanga? Listen to this episode and find out! I am going to dive deep into the Ayurvedic practice of Abhyanga, which involves applying and massaging warm oil into the body. I explain the different benefits of Abhyanga, such as soothing the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, enhancing circulation, and improving skin health as...
2024-12-1933 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemTransformative Healing Through Dance with Anika VoySend us a textYou don't need to be graceful or "good" at dancing to experience the healing power of dance. Just about anyone can dance and there is so much power in moving our bodies in this way.In this episode I am joined by certified dance therapist Anika Voy. Anika shares her journey from Germany to Costa Rica, how she discovered dance therapy during a period of severe depression, and its impact on her life. We delve into the transformative, healing, and expressive powers of dance, discussing its role in...
2024-12-1234 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Art of Restoration with Somatics, Ayurveda and HerbsSend us a textAs I head into winter here in the Northeast United States, I am renewing my restorative practices. Restoration is an important component of both the somatic and Ayurvedic practices that I do.And although restoration embodies simplicity in its nature it is not always an easy thing to do.In this episode I dive into the crucial yet often overlooked stage of restoration within the stress response cycle. Journeying through the stages of activation, mobilization, actualization, deactivation, and ultimately, restoration, the episode highlights the transformative po...
2024-12-0527 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemKitchen Herbalism for a Nourished Nervous System with Jade AlicandroSend us a textUsing medicinal herbs can sometimes feel overwhelming, there is just so much to know. But what if it is also as simple as adding more culinary herbs to your food, or using bitters before meals. In this episode, Jade Alicandro helps to demystify herbalism as she delves into the concept of kitchen herbalism, explaining its accessibility and deep historical roots. Jade elaborates on the benefits of culinary herbs and digestive bitters, emphasizing their role in promoting digestive and nervous system health. Practical mealtime practices are also...
2024-11-2844 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemGetting to the Roots of Autoimmune Disease with Risa GrouxSend us a textIn this week's episode I welcome functional nutritionist and certified autoimmune coach Risa Groux to discuss the relationship between diet and autoimmune diseases. Risa, who practices in Newport Beach, California, shares her expertise on using whole foods to aid in healing and managing autoimmune conditions. The episode covers her personal journey with Hashimoto's disease, the importance of identifying root causes through comprehensive testing, and the role of diet in reducing inflammation and supporting overall health. Listeners will also hear inspiring success stories and receive actionable advice on min...
2024-11-2137 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemEmbracing the Gap: Finding Presence and Creativity in UncertaintySend us a textDo you ever go through times in your life where you lose your orientation? Where you don't know exactly how you feel or what to do next? In this episode I reflect on recent feelings of emotional exhaustion and a lack of creativity, a certain blankness that I connect to the concept of the "gap" from contact improvisation. This gap represents a state of uncertainty and disconnection that can be uncomfortable, but also an opportunity for curiosity and growth. And is a state that we experience fairly often but ofte...
2024-11-1423 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNourishing the Feminine with Ayurveda and Wisdom Teachings with Deborah KeeneSend us a textIf you consider yourself a woman, how do you connect to your feminine resources?Do you have practices that help you to cultivate your intuition and the path of a soul led life?In this episode of The Nourished Nervous System podcast, I welcome guest Deborah Keene. Deborah, an experienced yoga teacher, Ayurvedic practitioner, and women's mentor, shares her journey and insights from over 50 years of natural health and healing practices. She discusses the importance of daily routines, connecting to one's unique inner wisdom, and ma...
2024-11-0739 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemHerbal Support for SleepSend us a textSleep troubles are the worst. Not sleeping well can affect your physical and mental health in a myriad of ways.The most sustainable way to work with sleep issues is to get to the root cause and make the lifestyle shifts to support deep sleep. But what if you are in the midst of a big transition or in a period of high stress and your body needs help learning how to sleep well again? There are many herbal allies that can help support you in these times while als...
2024-10-3128 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemEmbodying Aliveness Through Transpersonal and Somatic Psychotherapy with Marietta SkeenSend us a textIn this week's episode of the Nourished Nervous System podcast, I welcome Marietta Skeen. Marietta is a Transpersonal and Somatic Psychotherapist, who offers therapy, movement, meditation and energy practices to help folks come into their bodies and feel more grounded, connected and vital. She received her Masters in Transpersonal Psychology from Naropa University, polyvagal training with Deb Dana and extensive training at the Hartford Family Institute in body centered psychotherapy. Through her practice of contemplative movement, apprenticeship with a Buddhist monk, and her unique blend of Akashic rec...
2024-10-2440 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNavigating Fear and Division in Turbulent TimesSend us a textIn this episode of The Nourished Nervous System, I reflect on the impact of current global events—from political upheavals to natural disasters—on our nervous systems. The discussion highlights practical steps to anchor ourselves in safety, understand different perspectives, and foster compassion. With a focus on the biological aspects of fear and the human need for safety, the conversation also delves into the effects of election propaganda on the brain. Key strategies like digital detoxes, engaging in respectful dialogue, and finding connection with nature are emphasized to build...
2024-10-1722 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemA Deep Dive into Ayurvedic Gut Health with Erik JacksonSend us a textIn the West we are starting to understand the importance of gut health and how it impacts so many other systems in our body.This is an understanding that Ayurveda has held central for thousands of years.Join us for this week's episode as we embark on a journey into digestive health through the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with Erik Jackson. Erik is a native of Long Island currently living in Maine. He is a yoga teacher at Steamy Buddha in Ellsworth, and an Ayurvedic Health Counselor, practicing Ayurveda...
2024-10-1036 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemBalancing Effort and Being: Insights on Self LoveSend us a textWe are constantly hearing how important it is to love ourselves, but what does that really mean?When is self care a form of self love and when is it just going through the motions?And how do we connect with our true needs and accept ourselves as we are?These inquiries are the basis of this week's episode. I explore the tension between personal growth efforts and simply being. I reflect on the modern abundance of resources for self-improvement, the overwhelm it can cause, an...
2024-10-0323 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNervous System Reset for Vata SeasonSend us a textDo you ever notice changes in your sleep or digestion as you enter into autumn? Does your skin get drier? Do you feel spacier or more anxiety? If so, you may be experiencing excess vata dosha. In Ayurvedic thought, Autumn is Vata season, a time of year where the elements of air and space are more prevalent. In this week's episode, I discuss the importance of seasonal resets for maintaining digestive health, immunity, and a regulated nervous system. Listeners are provided with practical advice on establishing consistent routines, incorporating ground...
2024-09-2637 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Low Down on Adaptogens: Herbs for ResilienceSend us a textYou most likely have seen the word "adaptogen" on some type of herbal product or beverage in the past few years. They are incredible herbs with an intelligence that helps our bodies adapt to stress.The thing is, they are so amazing that many companies use this word to market products that don't actually have adaptogens in them.In this informative episode I introduce listeners to adaptogens, a fascinating class of herbs celebrated for their ability to enhance the body’s resilience to stress. And hopefully give some insight into...
2024-09-1926 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAyurveda is a Somatic Practice: Connecting to Your Body as NatureSend us a textIn a world that prioritizes the mind, so much healing happens when we connect back in with our bodies. When we remember that we are nature.In this episode I delve into the powerful connection between Ayurveda and somatic practices. I discuss the rise of 'somatic' as a buzzword, its core meaning, and its profound healing potential in reconnecting with our bodies. The conversation highlights the cultural tendencies to prioritize mental activities over bodily awareness and underscores the importance of being in tune with our physical selves for...
2024-09-1225 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAnchoring Your Nervous System: Insights from Polyvagal TheorySend us a textIn this week's episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System', I get into some of the basics of polyvagal theory, its origins, and the significance of anchoring the nervous system in the ventral vagal state for optimal health and resilience. The episode covers the evolution of the nervous system, the roles of dorsal vagal, sympathetic, and ventral vagal systems, and illustrates how these states correspond to traditional Ayurvedic concepts of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Listeners are introduced to the 'vagal brake' and the importance of recognizing and collecting 'glimmers'—moments of j...
2024-09-0532 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemCultivating Ojas for a Healthy Libido with Larissa CarlsonSend us a textWhat do immunity, libido, and the nervous system have in common? An Ayurvedic substance called Ojas.Cultivating Ojas is key to health and vitality in any stage of life but especially in mid life.In this episode, Larissa Carlson, an Ayurvedic practitioner and seasoned yoga expert, discusses the importance of Ojas—a substance vital for immunity and libido—in promoting overall well-being. The conversation covers Larissa's personal journey and professional insights into maintaining a balanced lifestyle through self-care practices, mindfulness, and tailored Ayurvedic routines. Larissa emphasiz...
2024-08-291h 01
The Nourished Nervous SystemPreparing Your Nervous System for Seasonal ShiftsSend us a textIt is defintely still summer. But I am beginning to notice the subtle shifts that beckon fall. From an Ayurvedic perspective this is the perfect time to take stock and prepare for Vata Season.In this episode of the 'The Nourished Nervous System' podcast, I discuss the transition from Pitta season (summer) to Vata season (fall and early winter) in Ayurveda. The episode highlights the qualities and effects of Pitta and Vata doshas and the importance of balancing them to maintain health and vitality. I reflect on pers...
2024-08-2228 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemReturning Home to Our Bodies with Abigail Rose ClarkeSend us a textHave you ever read a book that feels like food for your spirit? That nourishes you with insight and stories and practices? 'Returning Home to Our Bodies' by Abigail Rose Clark is one of those books for me.In this episode with author, Abigail Rose Clarke, we discuss her path as a somatic facilitator, the journey of writing her book 'ReturningHome to Our Bodies', and the experiences of launching it - which are multi-layered as any big birthing process is. Abigail shares insights on grounding techniques, the importance of rel...
2024-08-1546 min
Heal with Grace33. Using Ayurveda to build resiliency in your body with Kristen TimchakIn this episode of the Heal with Grace Podcast, host Grace welcomes Kristen Timchak, a nervous system coach, Ayurvedic educator, and host of the Nourish Nervous System Podcast. Kristen shares her journey in Ayurveda, somatic practices, and how these disciplines have helped her manage her life and health, particularly her experience with Hashimoto's disease. She explains the basics of Ayurveda, including the elements, doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), and the concept of Ojas. Kristen also discusses practical self-care practices, such as oil massage and mindful eating, to cultivate resilience. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of personalizing wellness practices to align...
2024-08-1335 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemBefriending Stress : Riding the Waves of the Stress Response CycleSend us a textWhat if stress in itself is not the problem? What if through a shift in mindset you can begin to change your relationship to stress.In this week's episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System,' I revisit the importance of carving out unstructured alone time, drawing from personal experiences of reconnecting with nature and its rejuvenating effects. And then transition to the core topic, the episode explores the stress response cycle in detail, examining stages from initial awareness to the crucial restoration phase. This cycle is lik...
2024-08-0822 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSourcing Resources for ResilienceSend us a textIn this episode of the Nourished Nervous System, I discuss personal experiences with anger and stress, particularly related to the challenges of balancing parenting and self-care. Emphasizing the necessity of alone time for resourcing oneself, the episode explores the impact of cultural and familial beliefs on feelings of guilt and responsibility. The host shares insights on practices such as authentic movement to help tune into personal needs and highlights the importance of taking small, actionable steps towards self-care. Listeners are encouraged to identify and overcome obstacles to bet...
2024-08-0112 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSurrendering to the Transformative Power of Pitta SeasonSend us a textIn Ayurveda, summer is Pitta Season. Pitta is all about heat, energy and transformation.I don't know about you, but for me summer can be really intense.In this episode of The Nourished Nervous System, the focus is on the transformational quality of Pitta dosha, particularly during the summer season in the Northern Hemisphere. I explore the metabolic processes related to each dosha, specifically pitta's role in transformation. The discussion includes how Pitta affects different stages of life, with an emphasis on its transformational potential duri...
2024-07-2528 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemUnleashing Creativity and Healing Through Somatics and Dance with Alexandra BellerSend us a textIn this insightful episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System', Alexandra Beller takes us on a fascinating journey from her career as a professional dancer with the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company to her pivotal work in somatics and movement analysis. Alexandra delves into the transformative power of Laban Movement Analysis and Bartenieff Fundamentals, shedding light on how understanding and observing human movement can lead to profound healing and self-awareness. She also touches on the importance of creating brave spaces in the creative process, allowing vulnerability and expression to...
2024-07-1853 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNervous System Herb Allies: Chamomile, Oats, Passionflower, Tulsi, and AshwagandhaSend us a textIn this episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System,' I delve deeply into the world of herbs that support the nervous system. I share personal experiences and professional insights on five key herbs: Chamomile, Milky Oat Tops, Passionflower, Tulsi (Holy Basil), and Ashwagandha. I explore each herb’s unique properties, benefits, and applications. Chamomile is celebrated for its calming effects on the gut and immune system, while Milky Oat Tops nourish the nervous system and ease stress. Passionflower helps to quiet a busy mind and combat insomnia, wherea...
2024-07-1144 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemHealing Chronic Pain and Fatigue through Mind-Body Interventions with Grace SeckerSend us a textIn this episode, I welcome Grace Secker, as she shares her journey from battling chronic conditions to becoming a licensed psychotherapist, chronic pain and nervous system coach, certified yoga therapist, and Reiki energy healer. Grace discusses the hidden root causes of chronic pain and fatigue, emphasizing the importance of addressing the nervous system and brain interactions. She provides insights into her self-care practices, the significance of compassion and kindness towards oneself, and common mistakes people make in their health journeys. The episode highlights the comprehensive approach needed for...
2024-07-0434 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Window of Resilience: Insights from Ayurveda and Somatic PracticesSend us a textIn this special anniversary episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System,' I celebrate a year of growth and change, both personally and through the podcast. I delve into the concept of the window of resilience—how much stress we can handle before becoming overwhelmed—and connect it with Ayurvedic principles. Ayurveda is a lens to look at life through, so this episode talks about balancing life's stressors and how different Ayurvedic constitutions (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) affect our stress responses. The episode is rich with personal stories and practica...
2024-06-2731 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSupporting the Body in Times of Grief: Somatic Embodiment with Donna BrooksSend us a textIn this candid and tender conversation, Donna Brooks shares her life story and her transformative journey through somatic embodiment work. She recounts her unconventional path, starting from her childhood in suburban New York, to becoming a dedicated yoga and Feldenkrais instructor. Brooks explores the profound impact of somatic practices on handling grief, including her personal experiences of loss, and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to self-care. The discussion delves into the emotions tied with grief, the importance of recognizing the body's reactions, and how finding safe...
2024-06-2051 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNourish Your Mind: Ayurveda, Breath Work and Seasonal Self CareSend us a textI don't know about you, but I can sometimes feel overwhelmed in busy buzz of summer season. My mind can feel really full trying to process in this busy time of year.That is why, in this episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System,' I delve into Ayurvedic principles to guide you on balancing your mental health through seasonal changes. Discussing the transition into Pitta season, the importance of self-care practices such as incorporating bitter cooling foods, meditation, and pranayama are emphasized. The episode explores the Ayurvedic conc...
2024-06-1331 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemExploring Non-Monogamy and Somatic Pleasure with Irene MorningSend us a textIn this intimate and enlightening conversation, Irene Morning, a somatic pleasure coach and author of 'The Polyamory Paradox: Finding Your Confidence in Consensual Non-Monogamy,' shares her personal and professional journey. She discusses moving from yoga therapy to coaching individuals exploring non-monogamous relationships, the deep need for somatic support and embodiment work, and the impact of trauma on romantic and sexual exploration. Irene offers valuable insights on self-care, navigating conflict, and the role of pleasure in healing. Practical advice for those curious about non-monogamy and a simple daily action st...
2024-06-0649 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemEmbracing Paradoxes: Navigating Grief, Joy, and ResilienceSend us a textIn this short and sweet episode of 'The Nourished Nervous System,' I reflect on the complex emotions of being human, especially in times of personal and global grief. Balancing moments of joy amidst sorrow, the discussion delves into the concept of yin and yang and the importance of finding resources to support resilience. The episode is a candid sharing of my experience with springtime in Maine, personal loss, parental challenges, and the ongoing grief for global tragedies, offering listeners a chance to explore the coexistence of multiple truths...
2024-05-3012 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemA Somatic Approach to Leadership and Power with Pavini MoraySend us a textIn this episode, I welcome Pavini, a queer, trans human who utilizes their diverse background as a park ranger, Montessori teacher, sex therapist, and startup CEO to thrive in their current roles as a somatic coach, author, and advocate for embodying leadership to smash the patriarchal norms in the workplace. Pavini shares their journey through various professions, highlighting the impact of their Montessori education background on their teaching and writing. They discuss the importance of embodiment and somatic practices in leadership, self-care, navigating the workplace's power dynamics, and the eth...
2024-05-2345 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSlowing Down and Stretching Time: lessons from the gardenSend us a textDo you ever feel like you are doing all the right things but still don't feel good?This was the question at the center of this week's episode. Spoiler alert: I don't have the answer to this, but I do have thoughts on it. In this episode I share about my adventure of moving into a new home in Maine and the excitement and challenges that come with starting a garden from scratch. I speak about the interplay between the physical act of gardening and the philosophical lesso...
2024-05-1631 min
Be S.H.E.Ep. 41 The Fascinating Intersection of Nervous System and Self-care w/ Kristen TimchakWelcome to this episode of the Be S.H. E. podcast, where we discuss the importance of nervous system health, Ayurveda, and self-care practices. Our guest shares their personal journey and insights on how these topics have helped them find balance, connection, and well-being in their life.Kristen Timchak is a holistic life coach, Ayurvedic educator, herbalist, MotherCircle Facilitator and mother of a small human who is passionate about helping women (especially mothers) to create lives where they are nourishing their nervous systems and cultivating resilience. She currently hosts a podcast called The Nourished Nervous S...
2024-05-1030 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemA Functional Medicine Approach to Thyroid Health with Carrie LevineSend us a textThis conversation is about so much more than just thyroid health, but that is at it's core.In this episode, Carrie Levine, nurse midwife turned functional medicine practitioner, shares her transformative journey towards founding Whole Woman Health in Midcoast, Maine. Carrie is also the author of whole woman health: a guide to creating wellness for any age and stage.She opens up about the challenges of motherhood, personal burnout, and the drive that led her to write a book aimed at demystifying functional medicine for the wider public, especially tho...
2024-05-0938 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemGetting Real About Gratitude: More Than Just Thank You NotesSend us a textThis episode uncovers the transformative power of gratitude far beyond clichés. Diving into personal reflections and scientific research, I reveal how gratitude positively affects mental and physical health, counteracts societal pressures of 'not enoughness,' and serves as an unexpected resistance to consumerism. I explore practical gratitude practices, from traditional journaling to acknowledging the natural world and creating moments of thankfulness in everyday life. Whether you're looking to improve your wellbeing or find a deeper connection with the world around you, this episode offers insights and inspiration to truly embrace th...
2024-05-0229 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemRewilding Your Nervous System with Micah MortaliSend us a textIf you've been listening for a bit, you will know how much I value connecting with nature as a way to nourish the nervous system. It's foundational in my own self care practices and today's guest has brought it to the next level. In this episode, Micah Mortali, author of 'Rewilding' and founding director of the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, discusses his journey towards helping people reconnect with nature and themselves. Micah shares insights into the philosophy of rewilding, emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between modern...
2024-04-2540 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemExploring Sobriety as Self CareSend us a textIn this episode, I share my personal experiences and reflections on sobriety, framing it as a form of self-care. There are multifaceted reasons people choose sobriety, from tackling addictions to spiritual practices or simply feeling better physically and mentally. In this episode I candidly discusses my journey with substances, from experimentation in youth to periods of sobriety motivated by health and well-being, to specifically managing an autoimmune disease. I try to highlight the nuanced relationship between body, mind, and substance use. The episode encourages listeners to explore...
2024-04-1818 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Nervous System as a Lens in Strength Training with Kali PerrySend us a textThe nervous system is connected to everything. So no surprise that if you strength train you can use knowledge of the nervous system to leverage your training. In this conversation with Kali Perry she talks about this and so much more. Kali is a strength coach specialized in sports performance, injury mitigation and chronic pain reduction. She works with a wide variety of individuals ranging from professional athletes to people who have never been able to work out before due to physical limitations. A big component to her coaching is nervous syste...
2024-04-1151 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemPerfectionism is a Form of Chronic StressSend us a textDid you know that studies show that in the past few decades there has been a 30% increase in people exhibiting perfectionist traits? I never considered myself a perfectionist but I am starting to see areas of my life where I have a perfectionist mindset and how paralyzing it has been for me.And I believe that perfectionism is a form of chronic stress that is rooted in a belief of "not enough"In this episode:What exactly is perfectionism?Why "healthy perfectionism" is a myth Perfectionism as...
2024-04-0426 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemBeing With What Is (in Life and Relationships) with Chandra CantorSend us a textDo you ever notice that tension that arises in your body when the outside world is not aligning with your expectations? What thoughts do you notice when your current reality is not the way you want it?It's really normal to have these thoughts and feelings, they are a part of our messy human experience, but the practice of "being with what is" can help you navigate these experiences with a bit more grace and ease.In this week's episode I have a wonderful conversation with Chandra C...
2024-03-2846 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSmall Group Coaching for a Simple Spring ResetSend us a textDoes the idea of doing a spring reset sound interesting but maybe a little intimidating? Are you interested in bringing some more energy, simplicity or clarity into your life in this season? Do you have an idea for a spring reset but are having a hard time getting started or following through with it?This week's episode is a little different, I will be back to my normal episodes next week but I wanted to use this as an opportunity to tell you about a Small Group Coaching Simple Spring Reset th...
2024-03-2110 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSimple Spring ResetSend us a textSpring is a time of fresh starts and new beginnings a time of unfurling and planting seeds. It is also a time for spring cleaning your house and your body.Cleansing diets have grown in popularity over the past few years and they can be healthy for certain constitutions or to work with certain health conditions. Spring is Kapha season in Ayurvedic thought. Kapha is made up of earth and water and its qualities are heavy, cold, liquid, oily, static, thick, dull, sticky and gross (the opposite of subtle). ...
2024-03-1426 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemResistance is a Normal Part of ChangeSend us a textHave you ever felt really excited about starting a new practice or new habit only to come up against some resistance a day or two in and drop it?Or maybe it is something that you used to do a lot and are trying to get back into it and it just feels so hard.Resistance is a normal and healthy part of change and is often a sign that the thing you are trying to do is stretching you out of your comfort zone and creating change.
2024-03-0732 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemEmbodying the Wild Woman Years with Robin ShawSend us a textThere is this time between the archetype of the mother and the archetype of the crone sometimes referred to the wild woman years. It is also sometimes referred to as the virgin - not an as in uninitiated but more like a virgin forest - whole and unto herself.Our society teaches us to fear aging and to resist against it, but what if we embrace the power of this time?In this episode with Robin Shaw we talk about this and so much more. Robin is a bodyworker, yo...
2024-02-2949 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWeaving a Net of ResourceSend us a textWhat is your relationship with resource? How do you know when you are feeling resourced in yourself and how do you recharge when you are not? Building a net of a resource is the idea that the tiny acts of self care that you do each day create a net that can help to catch you when the inevitable challenges of life arise.It doesn't mean that you are shielded from life's ups and downs, or that you won't feel pain.But it can help you to na...
2024-02-2226 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAlchemizing Pain into Beauty with Maitreya WolfSend us a textIn this world that sometimes feels like it is pulling apart at the seams, how do you continue to walk the path of beauty? How do you find resilience and purpose as a gift of the pain of human existence. This podcast episode with Maitreya Wolf is the story of an underworld journey, of initiatory consciousness and of cultivating beauty and joy as indispensable skills for survival.Maitreya Wolf is a wise woman, soul mentor, and musician, whose allegiance is to embodying sovereignty with skill, tending the wild earth w...
2024-02-151h 02
The Nourished Nervous SystemTuning into Seasonal Subtleties to Build ResilienceSend us a textWhen you pay attention to the natural world around you, it can help to inform shifts and changes happening inside of you. Tuning into the subtleties of the seasons is one of these practices.Our society can often feel focused on output, on showing up in the same ways day after day. But when we tune into plants and animals in nature, it is clear that different seasons call for different ways for interacting with the world.Last week was Imbolc, a Celtic celebration of the the point midway to...
2024-02-0624 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemPrioritizing Self Care for Parents and Entrepreneurs with Heidi SchalkSend us a textWhat do parenting and being an entrepreneur have in common? Both can have fuzzy boundaries around when you are truly on and off. Both can be all consuming endeavors that make it difficult to easily take time for yourself. The thing is, in order to show up fully as a parent or an entrepreneur, self care needs to be a non-negotiable. In order to avoid burn out, you need to find that time for yourself even if it feels like it doesn't exist. In this week's episode I talk with...
2024-02-0133 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemUsing Visualization as a Road Map Towards ChangeSend us a textHave you ever created a vision board or done a meditation that involved imagery or imaging yourself in a certain situation? If so, then you have used the technique of visualization. Visualization is touted as a tool of manifestation culture, an almost magical mystical process of visioning what you want to create and drawing that reality closer.The reality is that visualization is a powerful tool when combined with action in the world. And here at the crossroads of woo and pragmatism, there is also science backing up its eff...
2024-01-2522 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWhat Does Self Care Look Like for YOU? (proposal of an experiment)Send us a textWhat does self care look like for you? Really, I'd like to know. One of the things I have been loving about hosting a podcast has been connecting with my guests and learning from them. I love the accessibility of a podcast and how it weaves a web of connection and collaboration.I love collaborating with my guests, but I'd also like to collaborate with you. I learn so much from hearing people's stories. There is so much collective wisdom that we all share, and so I want to try a...
2024-01-1810 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Complicated Relationship Between Humans and SugarSend us a textEvery year between Halloween and New Years my relationship with sugar gets tested. This relationship has grown and evolved over the years, but I still find this time challenging. Anyone else? I know I'm not alone because we are literally wired to seek out the sweet taste and industrialization has made it so that we can find it everywhere. In this episode:The Ayurvedic perspective of the "sweet taste"How humans have evolved to seek out the sweet tasteHow a high sugar diet rewires the brain to be less...
2024-01-1118 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemTreating Complicated With Simple with Barbara BoyleSend us a textLife in the modern world can often feel complicated. Especially after holidays and all that they entail. But even in the day to day we encounter experiences, periods of time and symptoms in our bodies that can feel more complicated. What if your New Year's resolution, instead of adding more to your plate of to dos, was actually to simplify. To say "no" more, to incorporate small manageable acts of self care into your day, to begin to weave a net of simplicity that can hold you when life gets complicated....
2024-01-0450 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemStable Like a Trapeze ArtistSend us a textThis episode was supposed to be about sugar, but as I started it, something else emerged. I was thinking about the New Year and about the state of our world and how each new year just seems to be getting a bit weirder these days. This is the nature of the world and of nature. Nothing is fixed and permanent, everything is always changing around us, but some years those changes are really big while other years they are less noticeable. It has been a few years of big chang...
2023-12-2815 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemTea as a Gateway to Meditation with Samantha JonesSend us a textTea is such a common part of daily rituals. You may even drink tea every day. But do you ever sit with you tea, find a place of stillness and tune into your senses. Do you ever use your tea as tool for meditation? In this episode with Samantha Jones, (a trauma-informed yoga & meditation teacher, tea ceremonialist and retreat facilitator based in Cleveland, Ohio) we cover a lot of ground, but this relationship with tea is at the heart of her work and our conversation. Samantha's multifaceted role as a spac...
2023-12-2150 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNourished for ResilienceSend us a textWhy are you interested in self care and nourishing the nervous system? What is the long game? Is it just to feel good or is there a deeper reason?These are some of the questions I've been asking myself throughout my self care journey. The answer that I come up with again and again is resilience. To be more resilient in my body, mind and spirit. To be able to show up more fully for my family, community and the larger world. For me there are three major ways that I...
2023-12-1438 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemAncestral Eating, Food Sovereignty, and Weaving Ritual into Daily Life with Lisa MaseSend us a textWhat you eat is a part of your everyday life. And you have probably found that certain foods work better with your body than others. We each have a unique constitution that is partly genetics and partly the imbalances that have accumulated over time.Ancestral eating recognizes the genetic contribution of our ancestors and how that may affect how we eat today. It is learning about the foods that were eaten by your ancestors and experimenting with those foods to see what works for your body.In this week's epi...
2023-12-0757 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemDon't Normalize Sub Quality Sleep: sleep tips from ayurveda and circadian medicineSend us a textMost likely you sleep every night, it is a part of the fabric of your life, but are you getting good quality sleep? Do you wake up feeling rested and energized for your day without caffeine? Like digestion it is easy to normalize sub quality sleep - to think it is normal to wake up feeling exhausted or to need a cup of coffee to get going. It may have been so long since you've actually gotten a good night's sleep, that you don't even know what that feels like....
2023-11-3022 minHerbal Womb WisdomNourish your nervous system with Ayurvedic wisdom (aka how to tame Vata dosha) with Kristen TimchakClick here to send me a quick message :) Stress, depletion, burnout, frazzled nerves, anxiety, lack of focus, spaciness, groundlessness.What do all of these have in common? Vata. If you're familiar with Ayurveda, you'll know there are three primary "doshas," or collections of elemental characteristics that describe qualities of a person. But they aren't static. I think sometimes people get stuck in the idea that "doshas" are like a personality test. And while there are some aspects of that, from an Ayurvedic lens we actually have both our...
2023-11-281h 08
The Nourished Nervous SystemParenting is Hard...Send us a textSo many parents that I talk to agree that parenting is hard, but I think that is only part of the story. I think there are so many reasons that parenting is hard. Many of the parents I know are parenting differently than they were parented, healing generational trauma and breaking cycles - this is deep and hard work. Then layer that into a world were so many of us are parenting in isolation with limited support and so much pressure. It's actually quite amazing we are making it through our days. I...
2023-11-2316 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemLife After Trauma with Efan HsiehSend us a textOne of the reasons for doing self care is to build resilience. When you are more resilient you are able to move through life with more flexibility. We all have traumatic experiences big and small at some point in our lives, but when we cultivate resilience we can find a more graceful process of healing from trauma.In this week's episode with Efan Hsieh we get into some of the nuances of trauma and post traumatic growth. Efan is a certified functional health coach, Biology of Trauma professional, and nature connection guid...
2023-11-1652 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemYou Are What You Digest: Cultivating AgniSend us a textThere is a lot of focus in our culture on what we eat. There are so many different types of diets each with claims to support health and vitality in different ways. What you eat is important, but more important is how you digest what you eat. You can eat the healthiest foods but if you aren't digesting them well, then you won't get all of the health benefits from them.Your digestive system is intricately interwoven with your immune and nervous systems, so tending your digestion can ripple out into the...
2023-11-0929 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWhat's the Deal with Coaching?Send us a textWe have access to so much information these days, that there is a lot of inner growth work that can be done alone. But what about those times when you need a helping hand from someone with a particular skill set? Who do you turn to? Or do you just manage for as long as you can, procrastinating the work that can help you thrive?I admittedly have spent a lot of time in the procrastination boat because I felt too busy to see someone or the costs felt out of rea...
2023-11-0220 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemVibrancy is a Long Game Part 2Send us a textHow many of us are living in an energy deficit, putting out way more energy than we are receiving or generating for ourselves? I think this is especially true for parents. The basic foundation for vibrancy is nourishment but I think the true long game is resilience. In order to become more resilient you first need to understand the relationship between nourishment and resilience. In the first episode of Vibrancy is a Long Game, I talk about the Ayurvedic concept of Ojas which is the vital essence of Kapha Dosh...
2023-10-2619 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNervous System Detox with Sarah NelsenSend us a textIn Ayurveda, we talk a lot about digestion. And it isn't just the digestion of the food you put in your body, but also of the sensory impressions that you take into your mind. What you take in each day in the form of media, news, and shows needs to be digested and can affect your nervous system.In this episode with Sarah Nelsen, she talks about how she takes the nervous system into consideration in her yoga teaching and about a nervous system detox she did and the results she fo...
2023-10-1937 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemListen! Your Body is TalkingSend us a textWhat does it mean to be a good listener? To be present and listen without an agenda, and I believe to listen not only to the words spoken but also to body language, emotions and other subtle cues. The same is true when you listen to your body. Your body is constantly talking to you through subtle nerve impulses and sensations and feelings and emotions. Your body is speaking and your mind is interpreting what it is saying, so it is important to have a clear mind so that you don't misi...
2023-10-1220 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemPour Some Oil on Me: Panchakarma with Kimberly LarsonSend us a textWhat the heck is Panchakarma, you may ask? And why do you want to know about it? Panchakarma is a traditional Ayurvedic cleansing practice that helps to clear the body and mind of toxins and accumulated doshas and then rebuild healthy tissues.In this episode with Kimberly Larson she will go deep into what panchakarma is and how it benefits the body, mind and nervous system. But more than that, Kimberly gives a beautiful, simple view of how to bring self care into every moment of your life thro...
2023-10-0545 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemVibrancy is a Long GameSend us a textVibrancy is a glow, a sparkle and an aura of excitement. To feel truly vibrant is a robust, grounded and vital feeling. Do you feel vibrant? If not, when was the last time you truly felt vibrant? In Ayurvedic thought the feeling of vibrancy and vitality is connected to ojas, a biological protoplasmic substance that governs immunity and vitality in the body.In this episode:What ojas is and how it is formedWhy what we eat and digest affects our ojasThe relationship of stress and burn out to ojas...
2023-09-2820 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThis is Your Brain on MeditationSend us a textAnother podcast episode about meditation? Yes! We hear about meditation all the time from so many different sources but we can always use one more because it is just so good for us. If you are looking to make changes in your life, big or small, meditation is a practice that can support those changes. Not only does it help with managing stress, it actually changes the make up of your brain.In this Episode:The simplicity and accessibility of meditationHow it changes the brainA few benefits of meditationSome thoughts on w...
2023-09-2116 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemPractice Being a Cat: the art of doing nothingSend us a text You don't have to like cats to appreciate the unapologetic way they do life. Some things that cats do really well is play, sleep and do nothing. For us humans, doing nothing is something that is becoming increasingly more difficult as time goes on. It is so incredibly easy to fill our idle moments with social media, shows, or games on our phones and computers.In this episode:Where my practice of being a cat came from.How doing nothing can help us be more creative and productiveDeeper reas...
2023-09-1413 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemStress, Hormones, and Herbal Support with Kaya'leyaSend us a textWe can tend to think of our bodily systems as separate - nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, etc. Although each serves a unique function, they all function together as a whole, so when something affects one system it can ripple out into all of them. This is especially true in the relationship between the nervous and endocrine systems. In this episode I talk with the incredible Kaya'leya, host of The Herbal Womb Wisdom Podcast. Kaya'leya is a clinical herbalist and integrative health educator with a focus on menstrual, sexual and hormonal heal...
2023-09-0746 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWhy What You Think Matters: at the intersection of woo and neuroscienceSend us a textHave you ever envisioned something in your life and then it comes to pass? Even something small, like the perfect cashmere sweater in a certain color and then you find it at a thrift store? In some circles you may say you manifested it, in others you may think you were just lucky, or you may call it a cashmeracle, but what if it has to do with your brain and how it processes information?Regardless of what you call it, the way you think matters for achieving certain outcomes in your...
2023-08-3120 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemKapha, the Sweet OneSend us a textYou know the stereotype, the grounded earth mama (or papa) type of person. Slow, methodical, super big heart. This is our sweet Kapha person. They are steady and strong and give some ground to the wind and fire buzzing around them. In Ayurveda, Kapha is one of the three doshas. It is made up of the elements earth and water. In this episode we will explore:What Kapha Dosha is and how it expresses in the macrocosm and in our bodiesHow the doshas express differently in different climatesThe qualities associated with ka...
2023-08-2418 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemFood as Medicine with Terrel BroussardSend us a textYou've probably heard the saying "you are what you eat", in Ayurvedic thought we are literally what we eat. Tissues are made from the food we eat, which is why there is an emphasis on eating high quality foods. But what if you take it a step farther and incorporate your herbal and mushroom medicines into your diet?In this week's episode Terrel Broussard, an Ayurvedic practitioner and bodyworker with 25 years experience in the field of Therapeutic Massage, Thai Massage, Yoga and Herbal Medicine talks about his philosophy on incorporating medicinal food...
2023-08-1741 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemOh Pitta, You're Hot!Send us a textEver feel hangry? That’s Pitta. Acne and spreading rashes? That’s Pitta. Feel irritable and angry in hot weather? Also Pitta. Pitta Dosha is a combination of the Fire and Water elements. Fire is transformational, it literally changes things. A tree into ash, water into steam. When we are going through a challenging or life changing experience, we sometimes say we are “stepping into the fire”. Without this fire, things would always stay the same and remain stuck. If we didn’t have Pitta Dosha in our bodies, we wouldn’t be able to transform ou...
2023-08-1016 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemSomatics and Ecology with Abigail Rose ClarkeSend us a textOur bodies are reflections of the natural world because we are a part of nature. What happens when we take cues from the natural world in the way we are in relationship with life? What happens when we tune into seasons of activity and rest, build connections and become aware of our interdependency with each other and with all of life? I love this conversation with Abigail Rose Clarke, founder of The Embodied Life Method, creator of The Somatic Tarot and The Body Oracle decks and author of Reimagining the Relationship Bet...
2023-08-0352 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNeeds, Desires and the Habit LoopSend us a textMuch of what we do is dictated by our needs and desires and most of it is unconscious. In this episode I will discuss some thoughts I've been having about the difference between needs and desires and what it looks like when they are aligned vs. when our desires become cravings and addiction. We will also do a deep dive into the habit loop and look at the parts of a habit and how to identify them and begin to shift them. Resources:Ayurvedic Dosha Quic...
2023-07-2718 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemTransformative Self CareSend us a textWe see the words "self care" everywhere, it has become a buzz word. But what is self care and how can we begin to create a sustainable self care practice that can transform our lives? We often have a certain image of what self care means but maybe finding meaningful self care practice may be deeper than that, it may require us to listen to ourselves.In this episode we will explore:The definition of self careDifferent types of self careWhat is Transformative Self Care?The difference between transformative and tra...
2023-07-2012 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemNuts and Bolts of the Stress Response Cycle and How to Complete itSend us a textWe hear all the time that stress is bad for us, but is all stress bad? And what can we do to manage the stress that is bad for us?In this episode we will explore:The definition of stressWhat happens in our bodies during a stress response cycle (fight, flee or freeze)Eustress or stress that can be beneficial for usWhat it means to "complete the stress response cycle"Ways that you can begin to complete the stress response cycleDirections for an Abhyangha Self Massage can b...
2023-07-1321 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemWhat the Vata?!Send us a textIn Ayurvedic philosophy, Vata refers to a constitution made up of the air and space elements. In this episode we will go a bit deeper into vata. We will talk about The qualities of vataHow vata shows up in our bodies, emotions, environment, season, times of day, and times of life.How vata is connected to our nervous system.Why it is so hard to keep vata balanced in our modern world.Ways that you can begin to balance vata in your life.Find my instructions for a self abhyangha (oil mas...
2023-07-0622 min
The Nourished Nervous SystemThe Lens of AyurvedaSend us a textHave you ever incorporated a philosophy, idea or lifestyle change into your life so thoroughly that it becomes second nature or a lens that you look a the world through? In this episode we will talk about some of the basic concepts of Ayurveda in order to create a foundation and shared language in order to go deeper in future episodes. In this episode we will talk about:What Ayurveda isThe five elements of AyurvedaThe three doshasPakriti and VikritiTo do a quiz to determine your Ayurvedic Constitution check out: htt...
2023-06-2920 min