Many distressing symptoms of post-traumatic stress are felt in the body—a tightness in the chest, a sinking feeling in the stomach, a familiar knot in the throat, or as a chronic feeling of exhaustion. We now recognize that we must … Continue reading
A Mind-Body Approach to Wellness The vagus nerve plays a central role in your emotional and physical health. The vagus nerve extends from the brainstem down into your stomach and intestines, enervating your heart and lungs, and connecting your throat … Continue reading
Connecting to the Earth Within somatic (body-centered) psychology, grounding refers to our ability to experience ourselves as embodied. Grounding refers to your ability to sense your body, feel your feet on the earth, and as a result calm your nervous … Continue reading
Ahimsa and the Open Heart I spend a good amount of time in what I call peaceful warrior pose. This posture reminds me of the powerful combination of staying grounded, powerful, and simultaneously open hearted. In response to the ongoing, daily barrage … Continue reading
Based on the Principles of Therapeutic Yoga This post is part-two of a series on therapeutic yoga for chronic pain. Part-one provided the science behind the mind-body-pain connection and explored the role of the brain in pain, how trauma exacerbates chronic … Continue reading
Reclaim your Body from Pain When you sense and feel your body you are better able to take care of yourself. It’s sounds simple, right? We are more likely to recognize if we feel hungry, thirsty, need to go to … Continue reading
I am excited to announce my new book, The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control & Becoming Whole! It is now available on Amazon and you can click here to order. Those affected by complex PTSD (C-PTSD) … Continue reading
‘Tis the Season for Balance The holiday season is quickly approaching; the time of year that is celebrated for being joyful but is frequently stressful. As we approach the darkness of the winter solstice we often feel a natural inclination … Continue reading
Going Back Home Going home is complicated. Preparing for my trip home I felt familiar emotions, a mix of gladness and worry. Will I be seduced by my memories of who I once was? My young heart once ached for … Continue reading
A Personal Healing Journey When I was pregnant with my first child I felt the stirrings of the past burgeoning under the surface, calling for my attention. I could no longer ignore the pit of anxiety that I had carried … Continue reading