Trauma Rewired

• The Female Nervous System

  Did you know that women are twice as likely to experience depression, yet less than 40 percent of research includes them? This statistic is staggering, highlighting society's inadequate attention to women's mental health and the complexities of their nervous systems. Often overlooked in scientific studies, women's experiences, particularly regarding menstrual cycles, create significant gaps in understanding their physiological, emotional, and hormonal health. This omission, influenced by societal conditioning and patriarchal suppression, leads to misdiagnosis, unanswered questions, and pervasive shame.However, there's a growing shift towards understanding the female nervous system. In today's episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer are joined by Veronica Rottman, founder of Soma School and an expert in somatics and the female nervous system, to explore how the female nervous system is uniquely structured and the challenges women face because of it. Their conversation dives deep into the complex science of hormones and societal influences, uncovering how these factors contribute to shame and perfectionism among women. They also examine the male-centric approach of mental health and medical systems, which often overlook—and even demonize—the female experience. From an early age, women are conditioned to feel shame about their bodies and emotions. However, a growing awareness is challenging these outdated norms. This shift is essential for uncovering the root causes of many mental and physical health issues that are unique to the female nervous system. If this resonates with you and you'd like to learn more, tune in! Topics discussed in this episode: Veronica’s journey to healing her own nervous system through somatic practices The history and evolution of women’s health Understanding the multilayered and complex nature of the female nervous system The differences between oxytocin and dopamine An exploration of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) The role of a dysregulated oxytocin system in attachment Why women’s mental health spaces often overlook the impact of the menstrual cycle How the patriarchy has historically suppressed women’s emotional expression The pathology of women’s emotions and societal perceptions Why women experience higher levels of toxic shame The connection between shame, perfectionism, and the development of borderline personality disorder later in life   To connect with Veronica Rottman, head to her Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/wakingwomb   To check out Veronica Rottman’s work, head to her website here: https://waking-womb.com/   Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the next cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired   This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone’s life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don’t warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It’s very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren’t responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don’t verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We’ve done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected]  All rights in our content are reserved  

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  51:42
• Diagnosis and Shame

  Receiving a diagnosis can be a life-altering experience, especially when it triggers feelings of shame. Shame can create a whirlwind of emotions—unworthiness, failure, guilt, and loss—which compounds the stress of dealing with a diagnosis. These emotions form a toxic cycle that exacerbates the condition, leading to significant nervous system dysregulation. Often, it's difficult to pinpoint this dysregulation because of our innate resilience in survival mode. That's why it's crucial to bring shame into the conversation when discussing diagnoses, and create a dialogue around its impact. In today’s episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer are joined by Alexandra Harbushka, who has reclaimed her power after a herpes diagnosis and is actively breaking the stigma through her podcast Life With Herpes. Alexandra opens up about the deep despair she felt upon her diagnosis—the hopelessness, helplessness, and belief that she was unworthy of love. This dark cloud clouded her life until she made the conscious decision to change her mindset. By cultivating self-love and nervous system regulation, she was able to take control of her diagnosis and work through the shame attached to it. Elisabeth and Jennifer also share their personal journeys with mental health and cancer diagnoses, exploring how the emotional journey is similar regardless of the condition. They discuss the steps they took to confront their shame, regulate their nervous systems, and ultimately find empowerment. Shame wreaks havoc on both our nervous and immune systems. It keeps us hidden, isolated, and paralyzed. When you’re faced with something as daunting as a diagnosis, healing the shame around it can seem like an insurmountable task. But it's possible. By connecting with others, regulating our nervous systems, and expressing our emotions, we can shift our perception of a diagnosis from something to be ashamed of to something that can be embraced as a gift. This episode offers practical strategies for overcoming shame and regulating the nervous system in the face of a diagnosis. If this resonates with you, don’t miss it! Topics discussed in this episode: Alexandra’s herpes diagnosis story The small steps Alexandra took to move beyond her “Eeyore phase” The role social survival plays in reinforcing shame Community as a healing antidote to shame surrounding diagnosis How self-sabotage manifests after a herpes diagnosis The cycle of fight, flight, and freeze responses in the face of diagnosis How shame shows up in the body and its physical manifestations Ways to regulate the nervous system and move through shame How shame hides through protective behaviors Uncoupling your identity from your diagnosis Why discernment in sharing your diagnosis isn’t the same as shame   REWIRE RETREAT www.rewireretreat.org This spring, gift yourself the transformative experience of our Trauma Rewired Retreat in the tranquil gateway of Texas Hill Country.   To connect with Alexandra, head to her Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/alexandraharbushka   Check out Alexandra’s podcast Life With Herpes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/life-with-herpes   Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the next cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired   This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone’s life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don’t warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It’s very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren’t responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don’t verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We’ve done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected]  All rights in our content are reserved  

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  47:13
• Metabolic Health and the Connection to Nervous System Health

  In this episode of Trauma Rewired, hosts Elisabeth Kristof and Jennifer Wallace, along with guest Matt Bush, delve into the complex relationship between metabolic health and nervous system health. They explore how issues like chronic stress, inflammation, and blood sugar dysregulation can significantly impact both physical and mental health, especially in individuals with a history of trauma. Metabolic health is not solely determined by diet and exercise but is deeply intertwined with the body's ability to produce energy, adapt to stress, and process emotions. The conversation delves into the role of mitochondria in energy production, the impact of chronic stress on metabolism, the importance of blood sugar regulation, and the necessity of emotional regulation for overall metabolic health. Practical steps for improving metabolic health are also shared, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to healing and resilience.The discussion includes personal experiences, scientific insights, and practical tools for improving metabolic and nervous system health.   Topics Discussed In This Conversation: • Metabolic health is about energy production and stress adaptation. • The nervous system significantly influences metabolic health. • Chronic stress can lead to metabolic dysfunction. • Mitochondria are crucial for ATP production and energy. • Blood sugar regulation is essential for metabolic health. • Emotional regulation impacts metabolic efficiency. • Healing from trauma can improve metabolic health. • Nutrition plays a vital role in metabolic function. • Lifestyle changes can enhance mitochondrial health. • Recovery tools for emotional regulation have energy costs.   Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the next cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   REWIRE RETREAT  www.rewirereteat.org This spring, gift yourself the transformative experience of our Trauma Rewired Retreat in the tranquil gateway of Texas Hill Country. Escape the demands of daily life and immerse yourself in a 4-day journey   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired    This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com MTrauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone’s life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don’t warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It’s very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren’t responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don’t verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We’ve done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected]  All rights in our content are reserved  

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  44:29
• Traumatic Brain Injury and Complex Trauma

  Did you know that nearly half of all Americans will experience at least one traumatic brain injury (TBI) in their lifetime? Shockingly, many of these cases go unnoticed or undiagnosed. The symptoms can initially be subtle and easily mistaken for other chronic conditions like CPTS. Without proper diagnosis, individuals can face immense confusion, wondering why treatments aren’t working as expected. This is why raising awareness about TBI is crucial. It’s about helping those affected recognize their condition early on, gaining deeper self-understanding, and finding the right path to effective treatment. In today’s episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer are joined by Amanda Smith, an applied neurology pain and performance coach and NSI practitioner with extensive expertise in the field. Together, they dive into the complex layers of TBI. They cover its foundational aspects, how it differs from conditions like CPTS, its impact on childhood development, and the brain’s altered nutritional needs post-injury. This conversation sheds light on a topic often overlooked yet profoundly impactful in many Americans’ lives. Awareness is half the battle when it comes to identifying and treating TBI amidst the array of potential health concerns, including CPTS. Our brains and bodies are resilient, and with timely intervention, coping with TBI is not only possible but hopeful. If this resonates with you and you’re curious to learn more, don’t miss this episode! Topics discussed in this episode: The foundational concepts of TBI Why TBI goes underreported in the US Populations most affected by TBI The interconnectedness of CPTS and TBI symptoms How to differentiate between CPTS and TBI outputs The implications of mild traumatic brain injury in childhood How NSI amplified Amanda’s work as a neurology pain and performance coach The importance of having a framework when working with TBI clients How the brain needs more fuel after TBI The first place to start when trying to understand your TBI Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the next cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   To learn more about Amanda Smith’s work, check out her coaching website here: https://www.amandaswaytraining.com/   Connect with Amanda Smith on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/amandas_way/   REWIRE RETREAT Ladies, This spring, gift yourself the transformative experience of our Trauma Rewired Retreat in the tranquil gateway of Texas Hill Country.  www.rewireretreat.org   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired   This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone’s life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don’t warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It’s very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren’t responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don’t verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We’ve done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected]  All rights in our content are reserved  

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  49:37
• PTSD, Fear, and Memory

  Have you ever wondered why some individuals bounce back from trauma while others develop PTSD? The answer might be tied to how our brains encode and process fear memories. According to recent research, resilience isn't just psychological—it’s closely tied to the brain's ability to adapt to stress and process trauma. On today’s episode, Elisabeth and Jennifer are joined by Matt Bush, founder of Next Level Neuro and lead educator in the Neurosomatic Intelligence (NSI) course, who brings a wealth of knowledge on the latest research in PTSD and trauma healing. Together, they unravel the fascinating science of fear memory—how it begins as a broad, generalized response, and over time, becomes specific, tied to particular events. But what happens when that process doesn’t work quite right? How does the brain get stuck in trauma? And what can we do about it? They take a close look at the key brain areas involved in emotional regulation, memory consolidation, and resilience, including the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum. Whether you’re a trauma survivor or a practitioner working with clients, this episode offers profound insights into how trauma is stored in the body and brain—and how you can support yourself or others in healing. Matt, Elizabeth, and Jennifer break down complex neuroscience concepts into practical, actionable advice, all while emphasizing the importance of mind-body connection in trauma recovery. Healing is a journey, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can rewire your nervous system, integrate your memories, and build resilience in the face of adversity. This episode is packed with practical, science-backed strategies to help you understand the neuroscience of trauma healing. You don’t want to miss this one! Topics discussed in this episode: What the latest research on PTSD has discovered  What is needed to change a broad fear based memory into a specific episodic memory The hippocampus’ role in memory formation and PTSD outputs The differences and similarities between PTSD and CPTS Why EMDR works more effectively for PTSD vs. CPTS Peak somatic experiences and their ability to tap into the broader memory store Why embodiment is the key to combatting dissociation  How the cerebellum plays a role in regulating emotional and social outputs   Studies discussed in this conversation: https://neurosciencenews.com/ptsd-fear-episodic-memory-27895/ https://neurosciencenews.com/cerebellum-social-cognition.../ https://neurosciencenews.com/child-trauma-thoughts-severity-27841/.     Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program and sign up for the next cohort now! https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com   Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer on the Brain Based Membership site: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired   This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com Trauma Rewired podcast  is intended to educate and inform but does not constitute medical, psychological or other professional advice or services. Always consult a qualified medical professional about your specific circumstances before making any decisions based on what you hear.  We share our experiences, explore trauma, physical reactions, mental health and disease. If you become distressed by our content, please stop listening and seek professional support when needed. Do not continue to listen if the conversations are having a negative impact on your health and well-being.  If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, or in mental health crisis and you are in the United States you can 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  If someone’s life is in danger, immediately call 911.  We do our best to stay current in research, but older episodes are always available.  We don’t warrant or guarantee that this podcast contains complete, accurate or up-to-date information. It’s very important to talk to a medical professional about your individual needs, as we aren’t responsible for any actions you take based on the information you hear in this podcast. We  invite guests onto the podcast. Please note that we don’t verify the accuracy of their statements. Our organization does not endorse third-party content and the views of our guests do not necessarily represent the views of our organization. We talk about general neuro-science and nervous system health, but you are unique. These are conversations for a wide audience. They are general recommendations and you are always advised to seek personal care for your unique outputs, trauma and needs.  We are not doctors or licensed medical professionals. We are certified neuro-somatic practitioners and nervous system health/embodiment coaches. We are not your doctor or medical professional and do not know you and your unique nervous system. This podcast is not a replacement for working with a professional. The BrainBased.com site and Rewiretrail.com is a membership site for general nervous system health, somatic processing and stress processing. It is not a substitute for medical care or the appropriate solution for anyone in mental health crisis.  Any examples mentioned in this podcast are for illustration purposes only. If they are based on real events, names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved.  We’ve done our best to ensure our podcast respects the intellectual property rights of others, however if you have an issue with our content, please let us know by emailing us at [email protected]  All rights in our content are reserved  

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  47:18

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