Inner Martial Arts: Exploring Nervous System Regulation in Autism and Trauma with Holly Bridges

In this revealing episode of the 'What Really Makes a Difference' podcast, Dr. Becca Whittaker and her guest, Holly Bridges, uncover the transformative power of nervous system regulation for individuals suffering from trauma, autism, PTSD, and more. Through a mix of personal narrative and professional expertise, the conversation enlighten us on how regulating the nervous system can profoundly influence health, vitality, and recovery. Holly shares her journey and insights into developing the Anxiety Reframe Technique and the integration of modern science with timeless wisdom. Delving into the polyvagal theory, epigenetics, and the importance of viewing individuals beyond their diagnoses, this episode offers a hopeful perspective on achieving balance and health through 'internal martial arts,' therapy, and self-empowerment. It's a compelling discussion for anyone interested in the intersection of autism, trauma recovery, and holistic approaches to well-being.

00:00 Welcome to the Final Episode: A Journey of Health and Vitality

01:51 Introducing Holly Bridges: A Pioneer in Nervous System Regulation

03:50 Deep Dive into the Polyvagal Theory and Autism Spectrum

29:40 Understanding Social Engagement and Nervous System Regulation

42:05 Exploring Techniques for Nervous System Balance and Recovery

48:59 Exploring the Power of Gentle Engagement

49:38 The Transformative Effects of Sensory Exercises

51:15 Understanding Trauma and Nervous System Regulation

53:20 The Journey of Healing and Empowerment

54:52 Deepening Safety Through Permission and Respect

57:01 Expanding the Conversation: From Autism to Broader Applications

58:11 The Role of the Therapist in Facilitating Change

59:53 Sharing Success Stories and the Impact of Therapy

01:15:30 Courses, Training, and the Future of Therapy

01:27:12 Reflections and Takeaways from the Conversation

Holly's book, Reframe Your Thinking Around Autism can be found here:

https://zebr.co/shop/reframe-your-thinking-around-autism-2nd-edition/

Holly's Anxiety Reframe Course: (A.R.T. Express Course)

https://zebr.co/shop/a-r-t-express/

This episode delves into the often challenging and transformative journey of caregiving, featuring Aaron Blight, founder of Caregiving Kinetics and an internationally renowned consultant on caregiving, aging, and healthcare. Aaron Blight, recognized as one of the top 100 healthcare leaders, shares his personal journey into caregiving following a sudden need to care for a loved one, highlighting the profound impact it had on his family's life and career. He walks us through the emotional and operational aspects of caregiving while offering us insights and perspectives along the way, including how role changes within the family affect us, offering strategies for dealing with other family members that “try to offer helpful suggestions” about how you could do it better, the importance of outside support and resources, and how to ask for them. With insights on how to better navigate caregiving roles and offer meaningful support to caregivers, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone who is or will be involved in caregiving roles. Which is…pretty much all of us at one point or another. Join us and let’s learn how to do it with more understanding and and even a little grace.

For his blog, speaking information, and follow up information: https://caregivingkinetics.com/

To check out Dr Blight’s book, click here: https://caregivingkinetics.com/get-the-book-when-caregiving-calls/

00:00 Introduction to Caregiving: A Personal and Professional Journey

04:19 Dr. Aaron Blight's Personal Story of Transformation Through Caregiving

09:41 Understanding Family Caregiver Identity Theory

15:34 Navigating Role Reversals and Emotional Challenges in Caregiving

20:15 Strategies for Managing Caregiver Stress and Role Conflict

29:59 Validating and Supporting Caregivers

31:42 The Power of Specific Help Offers

34:13 Navigating Family Dynamics in Caregiving

37:09 Involving the Care Receiver in Decision Making

42:31 Addressing Concerns as a Non-Primary Caregiver

45:45 The Ripple Effect of Love in Caregiving

52:44 Reflections and Takeaways on Caregiving

In this engaging episode, Dr Becca converses with guest William Comer as they delve into the essence of leading a vibrant and healthy lifestyle. From Dr. Whittaker's journey towards discovering the impact of diaphragm strength on overall well-being to Comer's diverse experiences in teaching, real estate, and various physical activities, the conversation covers the broad spectrum of health. They explore the transformational benefits of using the 'breather apparatus' for diaphragm strength, contributing to improved respiratory health, enhanced vocal tone, and better physical performance. Comer also shares his advocacy for a life filled with vitality, the significance of movement, embracing outdoor activities for mental and physical health, and the pivotal role of nutrition with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced food. Importantly, the discussion also encompasses the value of chiropractic care in maintaining health, the capacity of the body for resilience and recovery, and the importance of living a life true to oneself, fostering meaningful connections and joy. The episode is a comprehensive look at not just surviving, but thriving through active engagement, responsible choices, and holistic health practices.

00:00 Welcome to the Journey of Health and Vitality

01:06 Introducing Today's Guest: William Comer's Story

02:14 The Power of Breathing and Diaphragm Strength

03:49 William's Personal Journey with the Breather Device

13:42 Expanding the Family's Breathing Capabilities

17:37 Deep Dive into the Breather Device: Features and Benefits

23:48 Breathing Techniques and Personal Experiences

38:30 Embracing a Free-Range Lifestyle for Vitality

40:15 Embracing Life at 63: Skateboards, Bikes, and Grandparenting

40:44 Reflecting on Family, Health, and Staying Active

41:33 Rethinking TV Consumption and Living Life Fully

43:06 Tech Distractions vs. Meaningful Connections

44:53 Fostering a Love for Outdoor Activities in Children

46:22 The Importance of Gun Safety and Responsibility

48:40 Cherishing Family Time and Preparing for the Future

57:06 Survival Skills, Self-Reliance, and Sustainable Living

01:11:44 Chiropractic Care, Pain Management, and Healthy Living

Use code DRBECCA to get 20% off a Breather diaphragm resistance trainer at 

https://www.pnmedical.com/products/?ref=mwq5owr&mcoupon=

In this episode we learn alongside Cindy Jones, a veteran mental health therapist specializing in trauma, to discuss practical tools and insights for fostering resiliency and regulating the nervous system. Cindy shares her personal journey of turning a professional challenge into an innovative solution, leading to the creation of the Bi-Tapp device, which harnesses bilateral stimulation to help individuals manage their anxiety, stress, and trauma recovery more effectively. She explains the concept of the window of tolerance, highlighting the importance of understanding our nervous system's reactions to stress and offering practical strategies for returning to a state of feeling centered and capable. Who doesn’t need that?! The discussion also covers the benefits of techniques like EMDR therapy and the broader applications of bilateral stimulation in various settings, including schools, first responder communities, and personal wellness practices. Don’t be afraid to re-listen to this one. :)

00:00 Welcome to the Journey of Health and Vitality

01:06 Deep Dive with Cindy Jones: Trauma, Therapy, and Nervous System Regulation

02:59 Exploring the Window of Tolerance and Fostering Resiliency

09:22 The Power of EMDR Therapy and Finding the Right Therapist

17:27 Navigating the Zones of Regulation: From Theory to Practice

31:06 Real-life Strategies for Nervous System Regulation and Recovery

36:58 Unlocking Calm: Bilateral Tapping and Movement Strategies

38:15 Practical Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety

38:48 The Power of Swallowing and Other Quick Calm Techniques

39:08 Deep Breathing and Mindfulness: When They Work Best

43:25 ByTap: A Revolutionary Device for Stress Management

48:51 Expanding the Impact: From Trauma Recovery to Everyday Challenges

49:29 Personal Stories of Transformation: The Impact of Bi-Tapp

54:37 Adapting to Individual Needs: The Versatility of Bi-Tapp

58:47 Future Directions: Expanding Access to Bilateral Tapping

01:04:00 Reflections and Takeaways: Fostering Resiliency Through Innovation

To order a kit or for any other info about Bi-Tapp, click here:  https://bi-tapp.com/

Coupon code DRBECCA20

 In this rich and engaging episode, we meet Shuna Morelli, the creator of the Body-Mind Bridge Institute, and explore the fascinating interplay between natural healing, the body's wisdom, and the power of psychedelics for deep emotional and physical healing. Shuna shares her comprehensive journey, starting as a high school teacher, evolving into a licensed hypnotherapist and massage therapist, to ultimately founding the Body-Mind Bridge Institute. Through her journey and written work, including titles like 'What if Symptoms Are Your Friend?', Shuna advocates for tuning into and interpreting the body's signals as a pathway to healing. She delves into her evolution into a 'psychedelic doula,' guiding individuals through transformative experiences with psychedelic substances, emphasizing safety, preparation, and the honoring of ancient wisdom from indigenous cultures. The conversation weaves through personal healing stories, the integration of Body-Mind Bridge techniques with psychedelic experiences, and the critical role of approaching oneself and these powerful tools with intention, respect, and openness. Shuna's work illuminates a path towards self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, a deeper connection with the self and the universe.

00:00 Welcome to the Journey of Health and Vitality
01:01 Introducing Shauna Morelli: A Journey of Healing and Wisdom
08:04 The Power of Listening to Your Body
21:01 Exploring the Depths of Healing with Body-Mind Bridge
27:02 The Transformative Power of Inner Work
35:25 Understanding and Deactivating Survival Trances
39:00 Exploring Trauma Healing and Reconnection
40:16 The Power of Body, Mind, Bridge Sessions
43:47 The Journey to Psychedelic Guidance
47:55 The Psychedelic Renaissance: A New Era of Healing
01:04:24 Integrating Indigenous Wisdom and Psychedelic Medicine
01:07:30 Cultural Shifts and the Future of Healing
01:15:17 Preview of Next Week's Episode: Nervous System Regulation

In this episode I talk with Tara Kephart, a multifaceted yoga instructor and wellness advocate. The discussion explores Becca's personal health challenges, the transformative power of yoga, and practical approaches to health and vitality. Tara shares her unique philosophy on teaching yoga, underlining the significance of creating an inviting atmosphere for both the masculine and feminine experiences. They discuss the importance of ancient wisdom, the art of surrender within yoga, and integrating practical tools like bone broth and infrared saunas into daily wellness routines. This episode is packed with insights on embracing ancient practices for modern health, empowering listeners to take proactive steps in their journey toward better health and fulfillment.

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: A Journey of Health and Vitality

00:00 Special Guest Episode: The Magic of Yoga with Tara Capehart

02:51 Creating a Unique Yoga Experience: Insights from Tara

32:51 The Power of Intentional Touch in Yoga

38:26 Embracing Self-Care and Wellness

38:44 Journey Through Autoimmune Challenges and Lyme Disease

39:55 Exploring the GAPS Diet and Its Impact

41:15 The Healing Power of Bone Broth

41:43 Deep Dive into Bone Broth Preparation and Benefits

45:44 The Importance of Sourcing and Respecting Food

01:01:08 Exploring the Benefits of Infrared Saunas

01:06:37 Ancient Wisdom for Modern Wellness

01:09:42 Upcoming Yoga Techniques Class Announcement

01:11:59 Reflections and Takeaways

Tara’s bone broth recipe:

Whatever animal you choose to use (chicken, turkey, fish, cow, etc), use everything from the carcass that you can except the guts. Use the bones, skin, feet, collagen-containing joints, eyes, organs, et.  If there is still meat on the bones you can take it off before you put it in the pot, or remove the meat when it is fully cooked. 

Put it in the slow cooker, add clean water to completely cover the carcass. Add 2 TBSP apple cider vinegar, then add desired spices . She suggests some ginger, turmeric (remember to add some red pepper with it so you feel more of the turmeric benefits), salt, pepper, etc. 

Brew for 48 hours. Check that carcass remains covered and add water as needed throughout. 

Let cool and refrigerate, enjoy a glass at a time. 

She referenced Circle C Ranch as a source of the clean meat and carcass that she uses. Find them here:  https://www.facebook.com/people/Circle-C-Ranch-Utah/100093438452367/

Join us in a groundbreaking journey into the world of regenerative gardening with master gardener William DeMille. William shares his invaluable expertise on soil regeneration, sustainable practices, and the transformative power of gardening here as we discover the essentials of soil health, the magic of microbial-rich compost, and practical tips for nurturing your garden. Delve into William's educational program that empowers students through personal gardening projects aimed at addressing societal issues and promoting climate regeneration. This session is not just about gardening; it's a comprehensive guide to cultivating skills, health, vitality, and a deeper connection to our planet. Whether you're an avid gardener or new to the green scene, you'll find inspiration and actionable advice to help you grow not just plants, but a greener tomorrow.

00:00 Welcome Back to the Garden Revolution!

01:39 Diving Deep with William DeMille: Soil, Nutrition, and Sustainable Gardening

04:39 The Foundation of Healthy Food: Understanding Soil

07:44 Simple Steps to Transform Your Garden

11:18 The Magic of Microbes: Feeding Your Garden's Soil

16:31 Unlocking the Secrets of Soil Spheres for Garden Success

25:52 Navigating the World of Garden Pests: A New Perspective

32:45 The Essential Role of Fungus in Your Garden

39:09 Embracing Nature's Way: Lessons from the Redwoods

42:13 Unlocking the Secrets of Wood Chips and Soil Health

43:03 The Art of Composting: Methods and Misconceptions

43:46 Navigating the World of Compost: From Kitchen Scraps to Manure

54:44 Compost Tumblers vs. Traditional Methods: Pros and Cons

58:10 The Journey to a Thriving Garden: Immediate Steps and Long-Term Strategies

01:03:48 Choosing Between Soil Repair and Replacement: A Gardener's Dilemma

01:12:07 Fertilizers and Soil Nutrition: Organic Solutions for Growth

01:14:52 Empowering Your Garden and the Planet: Lessons from the Soil

Replacement soil recipe: For a 5 gallon bucket, combine:

50 % peat moss

50% inexpensive potting soil from a nursery

Heaping TBSP of blood meal, bone meal, azumite (if have clay -type soils), and ground eggshells.

You can access all of William’s links, courses, patreon, socials, and you tube resources here: 

https://linkfly.to/williamdemille

Worry Free Eating book link:  https://a.co/d/funSlTZ

Think it’s normal to pee your pants *just a little*? Let’s think that over again. :)

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr Lindsay Mumma, DC, an expert renowned for her holistic approach to health, who focuses on the often-overlooked areas of pelvic floor, and posture / kinematic chain alignment. Discover the profound impacts of pelvic floor dysfunction on overall wellness, alongside innovative methods for rehabilitation and maintenance through posture, breathing, and specialized exercises. Dr Mumma shares her journey and insights into treating conditions related to pregnancy, pediatrics, and middle-aged women (and men), debunking common myths about Kegel exercises and emphasizing the importance of chiropractic care. Furthermore, delve into the interconnectedness of the body's kinematic system, with a special focus on the jaw's role in whole-body health! Learn a simple exercise to relieve jaw tension, understand the significance of the temporomandibular joint, and how small adjustments can lead to major improvements in health. This discussion not only enlightens on specific health issues but also advocates for a comprehensive view on personal health care, offering practical advice for enhancing quality of life through awareness, education, and holistic practice.

00:00 Introduction and Meeting Dr. Mumma

00:28 Personal Journey and Discovering Pelvic Floor Rehab

01:22 The Impact of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

01:54 The Importance of Understanding Your Body

02:49 The Role of the Pelvic Floor in Physical Activity

04:55 Understanding the Impact of Epidurals and Childbirth

06:24 The Misconceptions and Realities of Childbirth

07:36 The Importance of Natural Childbirth and Body Function

13:50 The Role of the Pelvic Floor in Breathing and Stability

16:07 The Misunderstanding of Kegel Exercises, and what NOT to do that you thought you “should”

17:34 The Connection Between Breathing, Posture, and Pelvic Floor

20:27 The Importance of Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

27:13 The Role of the Pelvic Floor in Singing and Athletic Performance

36:26 Understanding the Core and Its Connection to the Pelvic Floor

37:36 The Importance of Functional Movements

38:05 Understanding the DNS Model and Abdominal Wall Activation

38:45 The Partner Shove Exercise and Stability

40:58 The Impact of Early Movement Patterns on Adult Function

41:44 The Connection Between Martial Arts and Functional Movement

43:07 The Role of the Diaphragm in Stability and Movement

45:33 The Importance of Nasal Breathing

46:19 The Impact of Concussions on Movement and Stability

55:53 The Polyvagal Theory and the Role of Breath, Sound, and Movement

01:08:11 The Power of Posture and Breathing in Pelvic Floor Recovery

01:09:14 The Role of the Jaw in Pelvic Floor Function

01:11:38 The Interconnectedness of the Body's Systems

For more from Dr Mumma, head to her website here: https://www.trianglecrc.com/

Dr Mumma’s book for further info and strengthening tips related to strengthening the pelvic floor and posture in general: “Your Pelvic Floor Sucks: but it doesn’t have to”  https://a.co/d/4jkYpGh

Sit with Kole Whitty in part 2 of this conversation as she takes us on a deep dive into the world of psychedelics and plant medicine/teachers, exploring their role in mental health, personal development, and traditional cultures. With 15 years of experience, Kole emphasizes the critical aspects of set, setting, and experienced facilitation to offer a more safe and transformative experience. She sheds light on the cultural practices of introducing plant teachers in South American communities and the implications on mental health and societal perceptions. Key topics include the responsible use of psychedelics across different ages, and the critical importance of setting, intentions, and the integration process post-experience to navigate these journeys safely. Kole stresses the value of education, personal responsibility, and self-awareness, as well as navigating the fine balance between use and dependency.  
 Through personal anecdotes and broad insights, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on the respectful, mindful use of psychedelics and plant teachers as part of a holistic approach to emotional and mental resilience. 

02:37 Exploring the Good, Bad, and Ugly of Psychedelics

03:47  Role of Psychedelics and Plant Medicines

04:33 The Dangers of Misusing Psychedelics

04:43  Importance of Safe Spaces in Psychedelic Experiences

06:22 Understanding the Motivations for Using Plant Medicine

08:02 The Misconceptions and Misuse of Psychedelics, Dangers of Glorifying Substances

10:00  Psychedelics as "Medicine"?

10:30 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Psychedelic Experiences

13:27  Psychedelics in Personal and Community Transformation

15:55  Importance of Safety and Trust in Psychedelic Experiences

21:28  Education and Self-Responsibility in Psychedelic Experiences

23:16  Different Needs of Individuals in Psychedelic Experiences and The Importance of Asking Questions and Advocating for Yourself in These Experiences

37:42  Psychedelics in Longevity and Health

43:07 The Importance of Finding a Safe and Trustworthy Facilitator for Psychedelic Experiences, Setting Intentions

54:17  Impact of Others' Energy and  Creating a Safe Environment 

55:29 The Importance of Feminine and Masculine Energy in Psychedelic Experiences

56:21  Impact of Systemic Oppression in Psychedelic Experiences

57:03  Dangers of Ignoring Your Own Needs in Psychedelic Experiences

58:47 The Importance of Boundaries

59:18  Impact of Others' Trauma on Your Psychedelic Experience

01:03:20 The Potential for Addiction in Psychedelic Experiences

01:07:50 The Role of Tobacco in Psychedelic Experiences

01:14:31 Discussing Psychedelic Experiences with Your Children

01:30:00  Legalities of Psychedelic Experiences

01:33:46 The Importance of Integration After Psychedelic Experiences

01:43:29  Pelvic Floor and next weeks episode

Condor Approach Integration coaching book: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Approach-Mind-Body-Psychedelic-Experiences/dp/B0BZKFWDM2

To check out their events and coaching options, visit the Condor Approach website:https://www.condorcoach.com/

Listen to more integration coaching on Kole’s Podcast, The Psychedelic Coach. 

Follow on insta @mystikole

In this engaging episode we sit with transformative coach and speaker, Kole Whitty, to delve into the intricacies of health, personal growth, and the healing journey beyond traditional modalities. Dr. Becca shares her own health crisis that led her to realize the continuous nature of the healing process, while Kole opens up about her challenging journey from trauma and drug abuse to becoming a leading figure in personal and spiritual development. This episode introduces the 'Condor Approach,' a program designed by Kole and her husband, which focuses on integration and support during life's transitions and transformations, not limited to but including experiences with psychedelics and plant medicines/teachers. They explore the importance of safe spaces, qualified guidance, and community in navigating the healing process, and the role of integration in producing lasting change. Kole's backstory, including her transition from being Miss Teen Utah advocating against drug use to embracing plant medicine in South America, sets the stage for a profound discussion on navigating change, healing, and making life more fulfilling.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey

01:20 Exploring Alternative Healing Methods

02:28 Navigating the World of Psychedelics

03:07 Introducing Kole

03:58 The Condor Approach and Life Transitions

04:41 Kole's Personal Journey and Transformation

07:17 Understanding the Condor Approach

13:50 Dealing with Life Transitions and Changes

20:16 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Authenticity

26:31 The Impact of Ego in Service and Healing

30:17 Understanding the Shame Spiral and Outcome-Driven Mindset

31:03 The Body's Process-Oriented Nature and the Journey to Desired Outcomes

31:42 The Role of Awareness in Personal Transformation

33:40 The Three-Tier Step to Building Awareness

34:43 The Importance of a Solid Foundation in Personal and Professional Growth

35:38 The Power of Live Events in Personal Transformation, how Condor Coaching does it differently

37:01 The Role of Diverse Perspectives in Personal Growth

45:23 The Importance of Authenticity and Real-Time Problem Solving in Transformational Events

47:23 Understanding the Transformation Trap and the Power of the Condor Approach

54:04 The Importance of Integration in Personal Transformation

55:45 The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Psychedelics and Plant Medicine Spaces

Join us for part 2 in the next episode!

Condor Approach Integration coaching book: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Approach-Mind-Body-Psychedelic-Experiences/dp/B0BZKFWDM2

For more of Kole, or to check out their events and coaching options, visit the Condor Approach website:

https://www.condorcoach.com/

Listen to more integration coaching on Kole’s Podcast, The Psychedelic Coach. 

Follow on insta @mystikole for more good stuff. :)