Topics explored in this episode include:

• The Nervous System through the lens of Polyvagal Theory
• How to expand your Window of Wellness & Resilience
• The impact of loneliness
• Trauma healing & addiction recovery
• Co-regulation & the power of community
• Practices for Vagal Toning

Dr. Ilene Naomi Rusk received her PhD in Psychology (Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology) in the UK with a focus on the brain circuitry involved in appetite regulation, motivation, and satiation. In Canada she completed fellowships in neuroscience + neuropsychology looking at novel treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s Disease and neuropsychiatric issues. Dr Rusk was the Parkinson’s Disease Fellow for Canada and she worked collaboratively with pharmaceutical companies authoring numerous peer-reviewed articles in neuroscience & treating brain and behavior disorders.  

She is trained in somatic approaches to healing trauma and nervous system disorders, and uses numerous trauma resolution techniques (EMDR and Brainspotting, among them). Training in cognitive rehabilitation adds to her healing repertoire. Dr Rusk’s extensive trainings in Polyvagal Theory has led her incorporate vagal toning into her work with patients with anxiety, depression and stress sensitivities. She draws from decades of experience in ancestral healing, yoga, breathwork  +  mindfulness practices and uses them as an integral part of her functional nervous system health program. Spiritual guidance is intrinsic to her work.

Dr. Rusk co-founded the Brain and Behavior Clinic in Boulder, CO and developed the Healthy Brain Program. While training in a functional medicine approach to cognitive + emotional health, she developed a team-based program to integrate functional and personalized brain health with trauma healing work to optimize stress resilience, anxiety and mental health. She is former Director of Community Medical Education for Grillo Health Information Resource Center and the Director of Resilience Training with Disaster Resources an international organization dedicated to healing anxiety, stress + distress in educators, children and families after natural and man-made disasters. Dr. Rusk's work focuses on blending personalized integrative healthcare and psychological wellness within a scientist-practitioner model. She has woven spirituality and mindfulness into her practice for over 35 years, and leads monthly online Embodied Brain Polyvagal Groups. 

To learn more & join Dr Rusk's next Vagal Toning Practice Group visit: 

https://www.ilenenaomirusk.com/events

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Access a free mindfulness meditation guided by Mary Tilson to help manage cravings and regulate emotions: https://pages.sunandmoonsoberliving.com/easemeditation

Follow along on Instagram: @sunandmoon.soberliving 

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.