Heal with Grace Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:54:27 -0600 https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com en © 2026 Heal with Grace no 2b8a2bbc-a7ca-5770-9452-99ce60c9cc9c Grace Secker episodic false Heal With Grace is a podcast that invites listeners into the world of holistic healing. Hosted by Grace Secker, a trained holistic psychotherapist, yoga therapist, and nervous system coach, each episode delves into the interconnected realms of mental, physical, and spiritual health. The podcast offers a unique blend of personal stories, professional insights, and practical tools for healing.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Grace Secker https://storage.buzzsprout.com/ov84dkff2s4h5q18os1246e9h7op?.jpg Heal with Grace https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com 133. How Childhood Trauma Shapes Who We Become and What Clinicians Want to Know 133. How Childhood Trauma Shapes Who We Become and What Clinicians Want to Know If you've ever heard that childhood trauma and chronic illness are connected — and immediately thought "but was mine actually bad enough to count?" — this episode is for you.

Dr. Monica Fitzgerald is a licensed clinical psychologist, trauma researcher, and director of the Center for Resilience and Well-being at the University of Colorado Boulder. And she breaks something open in this conversation that I think a lot of people need to hear: the big T and little T framework? It's outdated. What we now know is that the small, ongoing, repeated things — the criticism, the dismissal, the not-quite-feeling-safe — can wire your nervous system just as powerfully as a single event. Sometimes more.

She walks me through the three E's of trauma: the Event, the Experience, and the Effects. That second E is the one that changes everything. Two siblings can grow up in the same house and have completely different nervous system responses. Because trauma isn't just what happened — it's the meaning your system made of it, in the body of the person you were at that age, with the resources you had.

We also talk about the backpack most people are carrying. Full of moments that made them question themselves, doubt their own experience, feel like they needed to be more or better to deserve love or safety. That backpack doesn't stay in the past. It shows up in chronic pain, in not trusting your body, in handing your healing over to every provider and hoping they fix it. And it starts to get lighter when you stop going at it alone.

Monica's closing thought is something I'll be sitting with: we're not built to do this alone. None of us. And if a therapist you've seen has seemed overwhelmed by your story — that wasn't a sign your story was too much. It was a sign that wasn't the right fit.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

- Dr. Monica Fitzgerald: Resilient Families Therapy

- Center for Resilience and Well-being, CU Boulder

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've ever heard that childhood trauma and chronic illness are connected — and immediately thought "but was mine actually bad enough to count?" — this episode is for you.

Dr. Monica Fitzgerald is a licensed clinical psychologist, trauma researcher, and director of the Center for Resilience and Well-being at the University of Colorado Boulder. And she breaks something open in this conversation that I think a lot of people need to hear: the big T and little T framework? It's outdated. What we now know is that the small, ongoing, repeated things — the criticism, the dismissal, the not-quite-feeling-safe — can wire your nervous system just as powerfully as a single event. Sometimes more.

She walks me through the three E's of trauma: the Event, the Experience, and the Effects. That second E is the one that changes everything. Two siblings can grow up in the same house and have completely different nervous system responses. Because trauma isn't just what happened — it's the meaning your system made of it, in the body of the person you were at that age, with the resources you had.

We also talk about the backpack most people are carrying. Full of moments that made them question themselves, doubt their own experience, feel like they needed to be more or better to deserve love or safety. That backpack doesn't stay in the past. It shows up in chronic pain, in not trusting your body, in handing your healing over to every provider and hoping they fix it. And it starts to get lighter when you stop going at it alone.

Monica's closing thought is something I'll be sitting with: we're not built to do this alone. None of us. And if a therapist you've seen has seemed overwhelmed by your story — that wasn't a sign your story was too much. It was a sign that wasn't the right fit.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

- Dr. Monica Fitzgerald: Resilient Families Therapy

- Center for Resilience and Well-being, CU Boulder

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19475078 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:00:00 -0600 2675 Grace Secker, Heal with Grace, Heal with Grace Podcast, Dr. Monica Fitzgerald, childhood trauma and chronic illnesshow childhood trauma affects the body, nervous system trauma symptoms, did my childhood trauma cause my chronic symptoms, how to heal from c 1 133 full false 132. How to Actually Start Regulating Your Nervous System 132. How to Actually Start Regulating Your Nervous System You've probably done a lot. The podcasts, the books, the breathwork, the therapy. You might be able to explain how your nervous system works better than most people can. And you're still not where you want to be.

That gap — between knowing and actually healing — is exactly what this episode is about.

Understanding and healing are two completely different skills. Understanding lives in the mind. Healing lives in the body. Your nervous system doesn't respond to insight. It responds to experience. You can have the clearest, most accurate awareness of what's keeping you stuck — and your body can still be sitting there completely unmoved by it.

Grace calls this the map versus the road. Insight is the map. Regulation is the road. And a map, no matter how accurate, no matter how detailed, never moved anyone a single inch.

She also goes into something a lot of people skip: you don't have to trace every trauma back to its origin or have everything figured out before you start. The work doesn't require perfect understanding first. It requires actually doing it. And there is a structure to it — it's not vague. It's sequenced, repeatable, something you can actually follow.

If you've been circling the information for a while and wondering when things are going to actually shift -> this one's for you.


Resources mentioned:

 Free mind-body masterclass training
Practitioner training waitlist


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> You've probably done a lot. The podcasts, the books, the breathwork, the therapy. You might be able to explain how your nervous system works better than most people can. And you're still not where you want to be.

That gap — between knowing and actually healing — is exactly what this episode is about.

Understanding and healing are two completely different skills. Understanding lives in the mind. Healing lives in the body. Your nervous system doesn't respond to insight. It responds to experience. You can have the clearest, most accurate awareness of what's keeping you stuck — and your body can still be sitting there completely unmoved by it.

Grace calls this the map versus the road. Insight is the map. Regulation is the road. And a map, no matter how accurate, no matter how detailed, never moved anyone a single inch.

She also goes into something a lot of people skip: you don't have to trace every trauma back to its origin or have everything figured out before you start. The work doesn't require perfect understanding first. It requires actually doing it. And there is a structure to it — it's not vague. It's sequenced, repeatable, something you can actually follow.

If you've been circling the information for a while and wondering when things are going to actually shift -> this one's for you.


Resources mentioned:

 Free mind-body masterclass training
Practitioner training waitlist


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19457318 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1230 neuroplastic pain, chronic pain recovery, nervous system regulation, nervous system dysregulation, mind-body healing, somatic healing, brain retraining, trauma therapy, chronic illness recovery, emotional regulation, stress response, functional medicine, 1 132 full false 131. How Andrea Reclaimed Health Anxiety and Bladder Symptoms 131. How Andrea Reclaimed Health Anxiety and Bladder Symptoms If you've been told your interstitial cystitis is something you just learn to manage — this episode is for you.

Andrea spent two years cycling through doctors, prescriptions, the IC diet, and specialists. Her symptoms started as IC, then added vulvodynia, then joint pain. Different labels, same pattern: her nervous system running on constant high alert.

What finally shifted things wasn't a new protocol. It was the moment she fully, 100% believed her mind was driving her symptoms. Not a little bit. Not "maybe." All the way.

She talks about what that actually looked like in practice — stopping the elimination diets (which were making her more hypervigilant, not better), cancelling a specialist appointment, quitting the IC Facebook groups, never going back to medical Reddit. Not from giving up. From finally understanding what was causing her symptoms.

There's a moment in this conversation where Andrea describes going from counting the minutes between bathroom trips — giving herself gold stars for every three hours — to just... not. Not tracking it. Not thinking about it. That quiet shift in mental focus was the first real sign something was changing.

She also talks about the tools that helped. Heart coherence meditations. Channeling the feeling of vacation. The Eras Tour. Music. Not because they're magic, but because they showed her nervous system what safety actually feels like — and it turns out, you can practice that.

One of the things she said that stuck with me: "This was never just about the symptoms. I needed to change the way I approach life."

That's what this episode is really about.

Resources mentioned:

Andrea's Instagram: @instinctualmothering and @socialboob 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've been told your interstitial cystitis is something you just learn to manage — this episode is for you.

Andrea spent two years cycling through doctors, prescriptions, the IC diet, and specialists. Her symptoms started as IC, then added vulvodynia, then joint pain. Different labels, same pattern: her nervous system running on constant high alert.

What finally shifted things wasn't a new protocol. It was the moment she fully, 100% believed her mind was driving her symptoms. Not a little bit. Not "maybe." All the way.

She talks about what that actually looked like in practice — stopping the elimination diets (which were making her more hypervigilant, not better), cancelling a specialist appointment, quitting the IC Facebook groups, never going back to medical Reddit. Not from giving up. From finally understanding what was causing her symptoms.

There's a moment in this conversation where Andrea describes going from counting the minutes between bathroom trips — giving herself gold stars for every three hours — to just... not. Not tracking it. Not thinking about it. That quiet shift in mental focus was the first real sign something was changing.

She also talks about the tools that helped. Heart coherence meditations. Channeling the feeling of vacation. The Eras Tour. Music. Not because they're magic, but because they showed her nervous system what safety actually feels like — and it turns out, you can practice that.

One of the things she said that stuck with me: "This was never just about the symptoms. I needed to change the way I approach life."

That's what this episode is really about.

Resources mentioned:

Andrea's Instagram: @instinctualmothering and @socialboob 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19412099 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1534 Heal with Grace, Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, interstitial cystitis recovery, health anxiety chronic symptoms, bladder symptoms nervous system, IC and anxiety, how to heal interstitial cystitis without medication, IC recovery mind body approach, 1 131 full false 130. How to build Self Trust in Healing with Dr. Rita Gupta 130. How to build Self Trust in Healing with Dr. Rita Gupta You've been to the specialists. You've done the tests. And you still feel like nobody really knows what's wrong — or how to fix it. That's not you failing. That's a gap in medicine that mind-body medicine chronic pain practitioners are finally starting to close.

Dr. Rita Gupta spent almost 20 years as a primary care physician watching her patients get sicker despite everything she offered. The referrals, the labs, the medications. She had access to every record, sat with them through every specialist visit. And she was watching people not get better. That wore on her.

Then she ruptured a disc in her neck and was told surgery was her only option. She didn't take it. She turned inward -> toward integrated medicine, mind-body work, pain reprocessing therapy, mindfulness. And she eventually left conventional medicine entirely to practice the kind of care she couldn't offer inside the system.

In this episode, we get into something that doesn't get talked about enough: self-trust as medicine. Not as a mindset hack or a feel-good concept. As an actual biological process that shifts your nervous system, lowers your threat response, and creates real relief.

Here's what changes when you stop trying to force your body into submission and learn to be with what's there instead: your threshold expands. The loop breaks. Your values become a compass instead of a source of grief.

Dr. Rita says it plainly - every time you can sit with a sensation without collapsing, you're building something. Not ignoring it. Not giving up. Building.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Alan Gordon / Pain Reprocessing Therapy

- Ellen Alden's Long COVID community 

- Dr. Rita Gupta's website


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> You've been to the specialists. You've done the tests. And you still feel like nobody really knows what's wrong — or how to fix it. That's not you failing. That's a gap in medicine that mind-body medicine chronic pain practitioners are finally starting to close.

Dr. Rita Gupta spent almost 20 years as a primary care physician watching her patients get sicker despite everything she offered. The referrals, the labs, the medications. She had access to every record, sat with them through every specialist visit. And she was watching people not get better. That wore on her.

Then she ruptured a disc in her neck and was told surgery was her only option. She didn't take it. She turned inward -> toward integrated medicine, mind-body work, pain reprocessing therapy, mindfulness. And she eventually left conventional medicine entirely to practice the kind of care she couldn't offer inside the system.

In this episode, we get into something that doesn't get talked about enough: self-trust as medicine. Not as a mindset hack or a feel-good concept. As an actual biological process that shifts your nervous system, lowers your threat response, and creates real relief.

Here's what changes when you stop trying to force your body into submission and learn to be with what's there instead: your threshold expands. The loop breaks. Your values become a compass instead of a source of grief.

Dr. Rita says it plainly - every time you can sit with a sensation without collapsing, you're building something. Not ignoring it. Not giving up. Building.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Alan Gordon / Pain Reprocessing Therapy

- Ellen Alden's Long COVID community 

- Dr. Rita Gupta's website


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker and Dr. Rita Gupta Buzzsprout-19382054 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0600 2593 mind body medicine, chronic pain, nervous system chronic pain, self trust, pain reprocessing therapy, how to trust your body when you have chronic pain, why chronic pain doesn't get better with doctors, building self trust with chronic illness 1 130 full false 129. How the masks you carry impact your health 129. How the masks you carry impact your health Most of us never decided to start performing. It just happened, early, quietly, because we needed to belong. And your body has been carrying the weight of every single mask.

This is a solo episode, and it's one Grace has been sitting with for a while. Not about somatic tools or specific nervous system signals — about the deeper question underneath all of it. What does real healing actually require?

Here's what doesn't get said enough in the mind-body space about people pleasing and chronic symptoms: your body isn't malfunctioning. It's been watching you override yourself for years, and at some point, it stopped whispering and started screaming. That's not a breakdown. That's your nervous system saying she has to come back. What you think of as your personality? A lot of the time, it's just the most successful coping strategy you found before you were old enough to choose differently.

The path forward isn't a massive overhaul. You don't have to quit your job tonight or cut everyone off. It's a thousand tiny moments where you choose truth over performance. Every single one of those is a message to your nervous system -> she's back, it's safe to be her.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Most of us never decided to start performing. It just happened, early, quietly, because we needed to belong. And your body has been carrying the weight of every single mask.

This is a solo episode, and it's one Grace has been sitting with for a while. Not about somatic tools or specific nervous system signals — about the deeper question underneath all of it. What does real healing actually require?

Here's what doesn't get said enough in the mind-body space about people pleasing and chronic symptoms: your body isn't malfunctioning. It's been watching you override yourself for years, and at some point, it stopped whispering and started screaming. That's not a breakdown. That's your nervous system saying she has to come back. What you think of as your personality? A lot of the time, it's just the most successful coping strategy you found before you were old enough to choose differently.

The path forward isn't a massive overhaul. You don't have to quit your job tonight or cut everyone off. It's a thousand tiny moments where you choose truth over performance. Every single one of those is a message to your nervous system -> she's back, it's safe to be her.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19353675 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1257 people pleasing chronic symptoms, people pleasing, chronic symptoms, authentic self healing, stop performing, nervous system, why people pleasing causes chronic illness, authentic self and healing chronic symptoms 1 129 full false 128. The Root Cause Behind Chronic Symptoms in High-Achieving Women with Ashley Novak, FNTP 128. The Root Cause Behind Chronic Symptoms in High-Achieving Women with Ashley Novak, FNTP Ashley Novak is a Certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP), Restorative Wellness Practitioner (RWP), and Holistic Lifestyle Coach with a BS in Biochemistry. As the founder of Seeded Sage Wholeness, she takes a root-cause approach to women's health — specializing in gut health, hormones, fertility, and acne. Ashley's work lives at the intersection of functional medicine, ancestral wisdom, and women's empowerment, helping her clients move from chasing symptoms to truly understanding their bodies. She co-hosts the Yoni University Podcast and is passionate about reclaiming women's health intuition and building a legacy of generational wellness. Follow her journey on Instagram @itsashleynovak.

In Ep 128 we go deep on the bridge between functional medicine and nervous system work. Why you can have the diagnoses, all of them, AND still need to start with your nervous system. Why Ashley calls it the "scab that never heals." What created the wound first, before the parasite, before the H. pylori, before the mold? Almost always stress.

We get into the "yes and" approach. Yes, the parasite is real. AND your body is freaking robust -> something weakened it before the parasite could take hold. We talk about why the women in Grace and Ashley's worlds are so often the highest functioning, the eldest daughters, the recovering perfectionists who do not realize they have been in fight or flight for 15 years.

We also unpack what women's health research gaps mean for fasting, sleep, fueling, and the ADHD reframe. (Women were not included in medical research until 1993. That is recent. That changes everything we have been told about female bodies.)

And we land on the free basics most people are still bypassing -> water, sleep, walking, sunlight, saying no. Not because the supplements are wrong. But because the body cannot use them until the basics are in place.

If you have been to every functional practitioner, gotten every test, taken every supplement, and you are still stuck -> this episode is the missing piece.


Connect with Ashley:

- Ashley Novak, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
- Instagram

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Ashley Novak is a Certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP), Restorative Wellness Practitioner (RWP), and Holistic Lifestyle Coach with a BS in Biochemistry. As the founder of Seeded Sage Wholeness, she takes a root-cause approach to women's health — specializing in gut health, hormones, fertility, and acne. Ashley's work lives at the intersection of functional medicine, ancestral wisdom, and women's empowerment, helping her clients move from chasing symptoms to truly understanding their bodies. She co-hosts the Yoni University Podcast and is passionate about reclaiming women's health intuition and building a legacy of generational wellness. Follow her journey on Instagram @itsashleynovak.

In Ep 128 we go deep on the bridge between functional medicine and nervous system work. Why you can have the diagnoses, all of them, AND still need to start with your nervous system. Why Ashley calls it the "scab that never heals." What created the wound first, before the parasite, before the H. pylori, before the mold? Almost always stress.

We get into the "yes and" approach. Yes, the parasite is real. AND your body is freaking robust -> something weakened it before the parasite could take hold. We talk about why the women in Grace and Ashley's worlds are so often the highest functioning, the eldest daughters, the recovering perfectionists who do not realize they have been in fight or flight for 15 years.

We also unpack what women's health research gaps mean for fasting, sleep, fueling, and the ADHD reframe. (Women were not included in medical research until 1993. That is recent. That changes everything we have been told about female bodies.)

And we land on the free basics most people are still bypassing -> water, sleep, walking, sunlight, saying no. Not because the supplements are wrong. But because the body cannot use them until the basics are in place.

If you have been to every functional practitioner, gotten every test, taken every supplement, and you are still stuck -> this episode is the missing piece.


Connect with Ashley:

- Ashley Novak, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
- Instagram

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19313298 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2471 functional medicine chronic illness, gut health and stress, functional nutrition for women, why functional medicine isn't working, stress and gut health connection, functional medicine and nervous system regulation 1 128 full false 127. What I'd Focus On If I Were Starting Over Healing Chronic Pain & Illness 127. What I'd Focus On If I Were Starting Over Healing Chronic Pain & Illness If you have been at this for months. Or years. Doctor after doctor. Protocol after protocol. Nothing fully landing. This is the episode I needed when I was you.

In Ep 127, I am taking you back to the early stages of my own healing. The crying in waiting rooms. The maxed-out credit cards. The functional practitioner who handed me a brain rewiring pamphlet that I dismissed because I was not ready.


There are six things I would do completely differently if I were starting over. These are not protocols. These are the patterns underneath all the protocols. Education first. Stop frantically searching. Build tolerance for discomfort. Chase trust instead of relief. Repair your relationship with your body before it feels better. Stop looking for the perfect approach.


Each of these took me years to learn. Some of them took specific clients of mine in the Mind Body Healing Method to teach me. If I can save you even a fraction of that time, this episode did its job.


If you find yourself constantly switching practitioners every 5 sessions, panic-searching at 2am, or treating your body like the enemy until it "earns" your love -> pin this one. Come back to it the next time you are about to swap programs.


Your body is not broken. You are not broken. You are missing the patterns under the protocols.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you have been at this for months. Or years. Doctor after doctor. Protocol after protocol. Nothing fully landing. This is the episode I needed when I was you.

In Ep 127, I am taking you back to the early stages of my own healing. The crying in waiting rooms. The maxed-out credit cards. The functional practitioner who handed me a brain rewiring pamphlet that I dismissed because I was not ready.


There are six things I would do completely differently if I were starting over. These are not protocols. These are the patterns underneath all the protocols. Education first. Stop frantically searching. Build tolerance for discomfort. Chase trust instead of relief. Repair your relationship with your body before it feels better. Stop looking for the perfect approach.


Each of these took me years to learn. Some of them took specific clients of mine in the Mind Body Healing Method to teach me. If I can save you even a fraction of that time, this episode did its job.


If you find yourself constantly switching practitioners every 5 sessions, panic-searching at 2am, or treating your body like the enemy until it "earns" your love -> pin this one. Come back to it the next time you are about to swap programs.


Your body is not broken. You are not broken. You are missing the patterns under the protocols.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19247831 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1244 how to start healing chronic pain, heal with grace, heal with grace podcast, chronic pain recovery, nervous system regulation, what I'd do differently healing chronic illness, starting over with chronic illness, common mistakes in chronic pain recovery 1 127 full true 126. How Callie recovered from IC/OAB/IBS and manages OCD 126. How Callie recovered from IC/OAB/IBS and manages OCD If you have been told for years that interstitial cystitis or overactive bladder is just something you have to live with, this is the recovery story you need to hear. Callie Krajcir suffered with IC, OAB, IBS, and vulvodynia for 25 years -> and got her life back in 2-3 years through nervous system work. Not the IC diet. Not another supplement. Not another procedure.

Callie is a bladder dietician, the vice chair of the Interstitial Cystitis Association, and runs Road to Remission, the leading recovery program for IC and OAB. Here's the part that catches everyone off guard -> she's a dietician who has stopped prescribing the IC diet to almost all of her clients. In this episode she and Grace get into exactly why, and what they're seeing instead.

They also get real about the OCD piece, which Callie was finally diagnosed with at 28 after two years of trying to figure out what was happening. She talks about relationship OCD, emetophobia, the fear loops most people in the pelvic pain community are stuck in, and why ERP (the gold standard OCD therapy) works on the exact same nervous system mechanism as PRT for chronic pain.

If you have been white-knuckling through every flight, every meal, every plan with friends -> scanning for bathrooms, bailing at the last second, terrified of strawberries and seltzer water -> this one is going to crack something open. Callie's honesty about what "healed" actually means when your symptoms used to be daily is worth the listen on its own.


Resources mentioned:


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you have been told for years that interstitial cystitis or overactive bladder is just something you have to live with, this is the recovery story you need to hear. Callie Krajcir suffered with IC, OAB, IBS, and vulvodynia for 25 years -> and got her life back in 2-3 years through nervous system work. Not the IC diet. Not another supplement. Not another procedure.

Callie is a bladder dietician, the vice chair of the Interstitial Cystitis Association, and runs Road to Remission, the leading recovery program for IC and OAB. Here's the part that catches everyone off guard -> she's a dietician who has stopped prescribing the IC diet to almost all of her clients. In this episode she and Grace get into exactly why, and what they're seeing instead.

They also get real about the OCD piece, which Callie was finally diagnosed with at 28 after two years of trying to figure out what was happening. She talks about relationship OCD, emetophobia, the fear loops most people in the pelvic pain community are stuck in, and why ERP (the gold standard OCD therapy) works on the exact same nervous system mechanism as PRT for chronic pain.

If you have been white-knuckling through every flight, every meal, every plan with friends -> scanning for bathrooms, bailing at the last second, terrified of strawberries and seltzer water -> this one is going to crack something open. Callie's honesty about what "healed" actually means when your symptoms used to be daily is worth the listen on its own.


Resources mentioned:


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19180963 Tue, 26 May 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2472 how to heal interstitial cystitis, nterstitial cystitis recovery, neuroplastic bladder pain, OCD and chronic illness,is IC neuroplastic, how to heal IC and OAB, OCD and bladder pain, how to recover from interstitial cystitis naturally, 1 126 full false 125. How To Heal Chronic Symptoms: 5 Phases That Actually Work 125. How To Heal Chronic Symptoms: 5 Phases That Actually Work If you've been told you need to "regulate your nervous system" and you're still wondering what that actually means, this episode is the one. Today we're walking through how to heal chronic symptoms from the inside out -> the five phases I take every single client through inside the Mind Body Healing Method.

Most of us start this work doing one thing. Maybe a lot of somatic exercises. Maybe a ton of brain training. Maybe just reading book after book about the nervous system. And then we wonder why our symptoms aren't shifting. Here's what I've learned. It's not that any of those tools are wrong. It's that they were never meant to work on their own. Your body can't soften when your brain is still sounding the alarm. And your brain can't update if your body never gets to feel safe. They go together.

I'm walking you through Recognize. Rewire. Regulate. Integrate. Reclaim. Each phase is doing something specific -> changing your relationship to the signal, retraining the thinking brain, expanding what your body can hold, releasing what's been stuck for years, and then building a life you actually want to be in. We talk about why somatic work alone wasn't enough for me, why I waited to add body-based work until after brain training in my program, and why the integration phase is the part most people skip -> the one I think is the secret sauce.

If you've been in this work for a while and you're still stuck, this is the episode that will help you see where the gap actually is.


RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) 

- Liana, in-program therapist + coach 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've been told you need to "regulate your nervous system" and you're still wondering what that actually means, this episode is the one. Today we're walking through how to heal chronic symptoms from the inside out -> the five phases I take every single client through inside the Mind Body Healing Method.

Most of us start this work doing one thing. Maybe a lot of somatic exercises. Maybe a ton of brain training. Maybe just reading book after book about the nervous system. And then we wonder why our symptoms aren't shifting. Here's what I've learned. It's not that any of those tools are wrong. It's that they were never meant to work on their own. Your body can't soften when your brain is still sounding the alarm. And your brain can't update if your body never gets to feel safe. They go together.

I'm walking you through Recognize. Rewire. Regulate. Integrate. Reclaim. Each phase is doing something specific -> changing your relationship to the signal, retraining the thinking brain, expanding what your body can hold, releasing what's been stuck for years, and then building a life you actually want to be in. We talk about why somatic work alone wasn't enough for me, why I waited to add body-based work until after brain training in my program, and why the integration phase is the part most people skip -> the one I think is the secret sauce.

If you've been in this work for a while and you're still stuck, this is the episode that will help you see where the gap actually is.


RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) 

- Liana, in-program therapist + coach 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19180813 Tue, 19 May 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2167 how to heal chronic symptoms, nervous system regulation, brain retraining for chronic pain, 5 phases of healing chronic illness, mind body healing method for chronic symptoms, why nervous system regulation isn't working, 1 125 full false 124. 7 Signs of a Dysregulated Nervous System Most People Miss 124. 7 Signs of a Dysregulated Nervous System Most People Miss If you have been chasing test after test and the doctors keep telling you everything looks fine -> this is the episode where you find out why. Today Grace walks you through the 7 signs of a dysregulated nervous system that almost nobody connects back to chronic symptoms.

You are not making it up. Your pain is real. Your bloating is real. Your fatigue, your dizziness, your reactions to food and smells and weather -> all real. They are also exactly what nervous system dysregulation symptoms look like when your brain has been stuck in danger mode for a long time.

In this episode Grace breaks down what neuroplastic symptoms actually are, why "normal labs" are usually a green light not a dead end, and the checklist she walks every new client through in their first few weeks of working together. She also talks about why the labels you have been carrying around (IBS, MCAS, chronic fatigue, hypermobility flares, IC, OAB, migraines, fibro) are not life sentences, and what shifts when you stop identifying with the diagnosis and start training your brain.

If you have been doing the supplements and the elimination diets and the protocols and the PT and you still feel stuck -> the missing piece is your brain and your nervous system. Real talk: not everything is neuroplastic. But if even a few of these 7 signs land hard, you are in the right place. And there is a path forward.

Grace is hosting a FREE live masterclass on May 13th to take this one step further. 

SIGN UP HERE


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you have been chasing test after test and the doctors keep telling you everything looks fine -> this is the episode where you find out why. Today Grace walks you through the 7 signs of a dysregulated nervous system that almost nobody connects back to chronic symptoms.

You are not making it up. Your pain is real. Your bloating is real. Your fatigue, your dizziness, your reactions to food and smells and weather -> all real. They are also exactly what nervous system dysregulation symptoms look like when your brain has been stuck in danger mode for a long time.

In this episode Grace breaks down what neuroplastic symptoms actually are, why "normal labs" are usually a green light not a dead end, and the checklist she walks every new client through in their first few weeks of working together. She also talks about why the labels you have been carrying around (IBS, MCAS, chronic fatigue, hypermobility flares, IC, OAB, migraines, fibro) are not life sentences, and what shifts when you stop identifying with the diagnosis and start training your brain.

If you have been doing the supplements and the elimination diets and the protocols and the PT and you still feel stuck -> the missing piece is your brain and your nervous system. Real talk: not everything is neuroplastic. But if even a few of these 7 signs land hard, you are in the right place. And there is a path forward.

Grace is hosting a FREE live masterclass on May 13th to take this one step further. 

SIGN UP HERE


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19134759 Tue, 12 May 2026 07:00:00 -0600 2169 signs of a dysregulated nervous system, nervous system dysregulation symptoms, neuroplastic symptoms, how to know if your symptoms are from your nervous system, chronic symptoms caused by the nervous system 1 124 full false 123. How Your Personality Traits Keep Your Nervous System Stuck 123. How Your Personality Traits Keep Your Nervous System Stuck If you've ever caught yourself thinking "that's just me -> I'm an anxious person," or "I've always been a perfectionist, it's just how I am" -> this one's for you.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the 6 personality traits that show up over and over again in people with chronic symptoms. Anxiousness. Pressure. Perfectionism. People pleasing. Catastrophizing. Black and white thinking. These aren't who you are. They're learned patterns. Which means they can be unlearned.

I'm digging into how each one keeps your nervous system stuck in threat mode, where it actually came from (hint -> it's almost never random), and the small shifts that start to loosen the grip. I'm also sharing the moment my therapist called me out on my own perfectionism in grad school -> and the light bulb that finally went off for me.

If you've been doing the work, listening to podcasts, reading the books, and you still feel like something keeps pulling you back into the loop -> it's probably one of these. Maybe more than one. The good news is, naming it is half the work. Once you can see the pattern, you can step outside of it.

You don't have to fix your personality. You just have to give your nervous system a different message than the one it's been getting for years.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Sign up for my FREE Live Masterclass happening May 15th :
How to know if your symptoms are nervous system driven and what to do next

Pain Reprocessing Therapy 



How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've ever caught yourself thinking "that's just me -> I'm an anxious person," or "I've always been a perfectionist, it's just how I am" -> this one's for you.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the 6 personality traits that show up over and over again in people with chronic symptoms. Anxiousness. Pressure. Perfectionism. People pleasing. Catastrophizing. Black and white thinking. These aren't who you are. They're learned patterns. Which means they can be unlearned.

I'm digging into how each one keeps your nervous system stuck in threat mode, where it actually came from (hint -> it's almost never random), and the small shifts that start to loosen the grip. I'm also sharing the moment my therapist called me out on my own perfectionism in grad school -> and the light bulb that finally went off for me.

If you've been doing the work, listening to podcasts, reading the books, and you still feel like something keeps pulling you back into the loop -> it's probably one of these. Maybe more than one. The good news is, naming it is half the work. Once you can see the pattern, you can step outside of it.

You don't have to fix your personality. You just have to give your nervous system a different message than the one it's been getting for years.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Sign up for my FREE Live Masterclass happening May 15th :
How to know if your symptoms are nervous system driven and what to do next

Pain Reprocessing Therapy 



How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19090234 Tue, 05 May 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1574 neuroplastic pain, nervous system regulation, chronic pain recovery, mind body healing, personality traits nervous system, people pleasing chronic illness, perfectionism nervous system, catastrophizing chronic pain, black and white thinking, anxiousness n 1 123 full false 122. Are You Putting Pressure on Yourself to Get Better? With Lindsay Vine 122. Are You Putting Pressure on Yourself to Get Better? With Lindsay Vine If you've been doing all the right things and still putting pressure on yourself to heal faster, this conversation might land deeply.

Grace sits down with Lindsay Vine, an ME/CFS and long COVID recovery coach who spent seven and a half years navigating her own healing journey, including a period of being fully bedbound. Lindsay now works one-on-one with clients and teaches mind-body and neuroplasticity courses within the healthcare system in British Columbia, Canada. She also co-created the CFS Programs Guide, a searchable resource covering 34+ recovery programs to help people find the right fit without the overwhelm.

Together, they explore how the pressure to "get better" can become the very thing keeping the nervous system stuck. They discuss the role of goodism — the deep need to be seen as good — and how it drives people to turn recovery into another achievement to get right. Lindsay shares her own turning point of shifting from valuing achievements to valuing who she is, and they talk through what it looks like when brain retraining feels fake, why positive psychology alone isn't always enough, and how doing less can sometimes be the real healing move. They also break down the three pathways that keep people stuck — worry, pressure, and self-criticism — and what to pivot to instead: gratitude, focusing on wins, and self-compassion.

This episode is for anyone who's ever thought, "I should have figured this out by now."

Find Lindsay: 

Website

Post Viral Podcast

CFS Programs Guide

Listen to Episode 14: Healing ME/CFS Using Brain Training and Nervous System Regulation 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've been doing all the right things and still putting pressure on yourself to heal faster, this conversation might land deeply.

Grace sits down with Lindsay Vine, an ME/CFS and long COVID recovery coach who spent seven and a half years navigating her own healing journey, including a period of being fully bedbound. Lindsay now works one-on-one with clients and teaches mind-body and neuroplasticity courses within the healthcare system in British Columbia, Canada. She also co-created the CFS Programs Guide, a searchable resource covering 34+ recovery programs to help people find the right fit without the overwhelm.

Together, they explore how the pressure to "get better" can become the very thing keeping the nervous system stuck. They discuss the role of goodism — the deep need to be seen as good — and how it drives people to turn recovery into another achievement to get right. Lindsay shares her own turning point of shifting from valuing achievements to valuing who she is, and they talk through what it looks like when brain retraining feels fake, why positive psychology alone isn't always enough, and how doing less can sometimes be the real healing move. They also break down the three pathways that keep people stuck — worry, pressure, and self-criticism — and what to pivot to instead: gratitude, focusing on wins, and self-compassion.

This episode is for anyone who's ever thought, "I should have figured this out by now."

Find Lindsay: 

Website

Post Viral Podcast

CFS Programs Guide

Listen to Episode 14: Healing ME/CFS Using Brain Training and Nervous System Regulation 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18988937 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0600 3049 chronic pain recovery,ME/CFS recovery,long COVID healing,nervous system regulation,brain retraining,neuroplastic pain,mind body healing,healing pressure,goodism,perfectionism chronic illness,self-criticism,Lindsay Vine,Grace Secker,CFS programs guide,pain 1 122 full false 121. 6 Ways To Create Safety in Your Nervous System 121. 6 Ways To Create Safety in Your Nervous System In this solo episode, Grace breaks down what it actually means to create safety in the nervous system — moving beyond the vague advice of "just feel safe" and into six specific, practical approaches that listeners can start using right away. She explores why a dysregulated nervous system keeps responding to non-dangerous things as threats, and why safety isn't something you can think your way into — it has to be felt in the body. 

Grace walks through the power of accepting where you are instead of fighting it, how suppressed emotions keep the system stuck in chronic activation, the role of spiritual connection in co-regulation, and why authentic self-expression may be the deepest safety signal of all. 

Drawing from her own healing journey and clinical experience, she gets honest about what it took to stop performing okayness and start actually feeling it. This episode builds on her popular earlier conversation with Vanessa Blackstone in Episode 24, going deeper with concrete examples and practices. An episode to save and return to — each practice builds over time, and different ones will land for different people.

Referenced episode: Ep 24. How to Create Your Own Authentic Message of Safety with Vanessa Blackstone: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2346801/episodes/15170620

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace breaks down what it actually means to create safety in the nervous system — moving beyond the vague advice of "just feel safe" and into six specific, practical approaches that listeners can start using right away. She explores why a dysregulated nervous system keeps responding to non-dangerous things as threats, and why safety isn't something you can think your way into — it has to be felt in the body. 

Grace walks through the power of accepting where you are instead of fighting it, how suppressed emotions keep the system stuck in chronic activation, the role of spiritual connection in co-regulation, and why authentic self-expression may be the deepest safety signal of all. 

Drawing from her own healing journey and clinical experience, she gets honest about what it took to stop performing okayness and start actually feeling it. This episode builds on her popular earlier conversation with Vanessa Blackstone in Episode 24, going deeper with concrete examples and practices. An episode to save and return to — each practice builds over time, and different ones will land for different people.

Referenced episode: Ep 24. How to Create Your Own Authentic Message of Safety with Vanessa Blackstone: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2346801/episodes/15170620

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18987656 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1806 1 121 full false 120. How to Recover from Migraines, POTS & GI Issues Through Your Nervous System 120. How to Recover from Migraines, POTS & GI Issues Through Your Nervous System Kayla Jacobsen is a licensed clinical social worker and mental health therapist based in Minnesota, where she works at a small group practice supporting individuals navigating anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, and traits associated with being a Highly Sensitive Person. Her approach is relational and holistic, shaped deeply by her own healing journey with chronic migraines and a sensitive nervous system. Through the Mind-Body Healing Program, Kayla experienced meaningful shifts in how she relates to her emotions, beliefs, and symptoms — work that continues to inform how she shows up with clients today.

In this episode, Kayla shares what it was like to have migraines starting at age 10, cycle through Western and Eastern medicine without lasting answers, and eventually realize that information-gathering had become its own form of avoidance. She and Grace explore how perfectionism, shame, and suppressed anger were quietly driving her symptoms — and what actually changed when she stopped trying to fix her migraines and started relating to them differently. Kayla also talks about what this work has opened up in her therapy practice, including how she now invites conversations about physical symptoms into sessions and incorporates more experiential, nervous system-informed approaches with her clients.

Find Kayla: 

Psychology Today

Willow Creek Counseling

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Kayla Jacobsen is a licensed clinical social worker and mental health therapist based in Minnesota, where she works at a small group practice supporting individuals navigating anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, and traits associated with being a Highly Sensitive Person. Her approach is relational and holistic, shaped deeply by her own healing journey with chronic migraines and a sensitive nervous system. Through the Mind-Body Healing Program, Kayla experienced meaningful shifts in how she relates to her emotions, beliefs, and symptoms — work that continues to inform how she shows up with clients today.

In this episode, Kayla shares what it was like to have migraines starting at age 10, cycle through Western and Eastern medicine without lasting answers, and eventually realize that information-gathering had become its own form of avoidance. She and Grace explore how perfectionism, shame, and suppressed anger were quietly driving her symptoms — and what actually changed when she stopped trying to fix her migraines and started relating to them differently. Kayla also talks about what this work has opened up in her therapy practice, including how she now invites conversations about physical symptoms into sessions and incorporates more experiential, nervous system-informed approaches with her clients.

Find Kayla: 

Psychology Today

Willow Creek Counseling

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-19012233 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2165 migraine recovery, chronic migraines, neuroplastic pain, mind body connection, nervous system healing, chronic pain recovery, GI issues, POTS, highly sensitive person, therapist healing journey, mind body healing, nervous system regulation, perfectionism 1 120 full false 119. How Ellen Healed from Long COVID, MCAS, & POTS 119. How Ellen Healed from Long COVID, MCAS, & POTS Ellen B. Alden is a Mind/Body Coach who fully recovered from Long COVID after the medical system could not help her. When chronic symptoms took over her life, Ellen discovered that healing was possible through nervous system regulation and brain retraining. Using mindfulness, meditation, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy, she overcame chronic illness, anxiety, and lifelong hypervigilance. She is certified in PRT, MBSR, MBCT, and functional breathing, and now helps others heal through her community, My Recovery Crew.

In this episode, Grace and Ellen discuss what it was like to be shuffled through the medical system with diagnoses of Long COVID, MCAS, and POTS — and how Ellen moved from hopelessness and victimhood to full recovery. Ellen shares the nighttime turning point that shifted her mindset, how she used visualization and micro moments to retrain her brain, and why she started reintroducing feared foods using breathwork and safety cues. They explore what recovery actually looks like day to day, why post-exertional malaise disappeared when Ellen changed how she related to movement, and how letting go of perfectionism and outcome-driven thinking was essential to healing.

Connect with Ellen: www.stress-less-studio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellen_mindful_healing/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ellenalden-mind-body-healing Email: ellen@ellenalden.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Ellen B. Alden is a Mind/Body Coach who fully recovered from Long COVID after the medical system could not help her. When chronic symptoms took over her life, Ellen discovered that healing was possible through nervous system regulation and brain retraining. Using mindfulness, meditation, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy, she overcame chronic illness, anxiety, and lifelong hypervigilance. She is certified in PRT, MBSR, MBCT, and functional breathing, and now helps others heal through her community, My Recovery Crew.

In this episode, Grace and Ellen discuss what it was like to be shuffled through the medical system with diagnoses of Long COVID, MCAS, and POTS — and how Ellen moved from hopelessness and victimhood to full recovery. Ellen shares the nighttime turning point that shifted her mindset, how she used visualization and micro moments to retrain her brain, and why she started reintroducing feared foods using breathwork and safety cues. They explore what recovery actually looks like day to day, why post-exertional malaise disappeared when Ellen changed how she related to movement, and how letting go of perfectionism and outcome-driven thinking was essential to healing.

Connect with Ellen: www.stress-less-studio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellen_mindful_healing/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ellenalden-mind-body-healing Email: ellen@ellenalden.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18936214 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0600 3045 long covid recovery, MCAS, POTS, mind body healing, nervous system regulation, brain retraining, pain reprocessing therapy, neuroplastic symptoms, chronic illness recovery, visualization, mindfulness, holistic healing, heal with grace, grace secker, ellen 1 119 full false 118. The Thing That Was Missing From My Own Healing (And Probably Yours Too) 118. The Thing That Was Missing From My Own Healing (And Probably Yours Too) In this solo episode, Grace Secker opens up about the one thing she was missing during her own healing journey — and why it kept her stuck in flare cycles for years, even after she understood the work. It wasn't more information, more books, or more podcasts. It was consistent support, accountability, and community.

Grace shares her personal story of recovering from chronic pain in her 20s through what is now called pain reprocessing therapy, only to develop a wave of new symptoms years later — chronic fatigue, gut issues, histamine reactions, migraines — and having to find her way back to mind-body work all over again, this time completely alone.

She explains why understanding alone doesn't change the nervous system — because knowledge lives in the prefrontal cortex while the patterns driving symptoms operate from much older, less rational parts of the brain. Real change comes from practice, repetition, and showing up consistently, especially on the hard days. Grace also explores the science of co-regulation — how our nervous systems are wired to calm and heal in relationship with other safe humans — and why so much healing content is consumed in isolation, which limits how far it can take you.

Grace introduces what she's been building behind the scenes: small, intimate group containers (six people max) designed for people already in the MindBody Healing Method course who want structure, accountability, and a community of people who truly get it. The first group launches in April.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace Secker opens up about the one thing she was missing during her own healing journey — and why it kept her stuck in flare cycles for years, even after she understood the work. It wasn't more information, more books, or more podcasts. It was consistent support, accountability, and community.

Grace shares her personal story of recovering from chronic pain in her 20s through what is now called pain reprocessing therapy, only to develop a wave of new symptoms years later — chronic fatigue, gut issues, histamine reactions, migraines — and having to find her way back to mind-body work all over again, this time completely alone.

She explains why understanding alone doesn't change the nervous system — because knowledge lives in the prefrontal cortex while the patterns driving symptoms operate from much older, less rational parts of the brain. Real change comes from practice, repetition, and showing up consistently, especially on the hard days. Grace also explores the science of co-regulation — how our nervous systems are wired to calm and heal in relationship with other safe humans — and why so much healing content is consumed in isolation, which limits how far it can take you.

Grace introduces what she's been building behind the scenes: small, intimate group containers (six people max) designed for people already in the MindBody Healing Method course who want structure, accountability, and a community of people who truly get it. The first group launches in April.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18853287 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600 1173 chronic pain recovery, mind body healing, nervous system healing, neuroplastic pain, co-regulation, healing in community, pain reprocessing therapy, chronic fatigue, holistic healing, Grace Secker, heal with grace podcast, mind body connection, somatic he 1 118 full false 117. How your GI Issues are Created by your Nervous System 117. How your GI Issues are Created by your Nervous System If you've been diagnosed with IBS, chronic constipation, cyclic vomiting, or another functional GI issue and your doctor can't find anything structurally wrong — that's actually good news. 

In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Jennifer Franklin, one of the first gastropsychologists in the US, to break down the gut-brain connection in a way that's simple, clear, and genuinely hopeful. 

They explore how the autonomic nervous system controls both stress and digestion, why lifelong patterns like people-pleasing and emotional suppression quietly fuel gut symptoms, and how your brain works around the clock to keep certain emotions out of consciousness — and what that means for your body. 

Dr. Franklin shares her powerful "passenger seat" analogy for working with your body instead of against it, and explains why reducing stress is the one intervention with no downside. 

If you've been told "nothing is wrong" but you're still struggling, this conversation reframes that diagnosis as a starting point for real healing — because it's a software problem, not a hardware problem.

🔗 Find Dr. Jennifer Franklin:
🌐 Website
📸 Instagram
📘 Facebook
▶️ YouTube

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've been diagnosed with IBS, chronic constipation, cyclic vomiting, or another functional GI issue and your doctor can't find anything structurally wrong — that's actually good news. 

In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Jennifer Franklin, one of the first gastropsychologists in the US, to break down the gut-brain connection in a way that's simple, clear, and genuinely hopeful. 

They explore how the autonomic nervous system controls both stress and digestion, why lifelong patterns like people-pleasing and emotional suppression quietly fuel gut symptoms, and how your brain works around the clock to keep certain emotions out of consciousness — and what that means for your body. 

Dr. Franklin shares her powerful "passenger seat" analogy for working with your body instead of against it, and explains why reducing stress is the one intervention with no downside. 

If you've been told "nothing is wrong" but you're still struggling, this conversation reframes that diagnosis as a starting point for real healing — because it's a software problem, not a hardware problem.

🔗 Find Dr. Jennifer Franklin:
🌐 Website
📸 Instagram
📘 Facebook
▶️ YouTube

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18852199 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2372 IBS, gut brain connection, nervous system healing, neuroplastic symptoms, functional GI disorders, DGBI, stress and digestion, mind body healing, gastropsychologist, emotional suppression, autonomic nervous system, chronic digestive issues, Dr Jennifer Fr 1 117 full false 116. 7 Habits for Successful Nervous System Regulation 116. 7 Habits for Successful Nervous System Regulation If you've been doing the nervous system work but still feel stuck, this episode is for you. 

Grace Secker dives into the seven habits she consistently sees in people who actually heal — and why how you show up to the process matters just as much as what you practice. 

This isn't a checklist or protocol. It's about the mindset, identity, and ways of being that shift everything. 

Grace explores why waiting to feel "ready" keeps you stuck, how over-identifying with being sick reinforces survival mode, the quiet belief that you don't deserve to heal, and what it looks like to build real safety in your daily life. 

She also gets honest about why consuming information without practicing keeps the brain locked in old patterns — and how to stay in the process even when healing isn't linear. 

Whether you're just beginning to explore mind-body healing or you've been on this path for a while, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate reframe on what recovery actually asks of you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've been doing the nervous system work but still feel stuck, this episode is for you. 

Grace Secker dives into the seven habits she consistently sees in people who actually heal — and why how you show up to the process matters just as much as what you practice. 

This isn't a checklist or protocol. It's about the mindset, identity, and ways of being that shift everything. 

Grace explores why waiting to feel "ready" keeps you stuck, how over-identifying with being sick reinforces survival mode, the quiet belief that you don't deserve to heal, and what it looks like to build real safety in your daily life. 

She also gets honest about why consuming information without practicing keeps the brain locked in old patterns — and how to stay in the process even when healing isn't linear. 

Whether you're just beginning to explore mind-body healing or you've been on this path for a while, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate reframe on what recovery actually asks of you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18845053 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1889 nervous system regulation, nervous system healing, chronic pain recovery, mind body healing, neuroplastic pain, somatic healing, healing habits, brain retraining, chronic illness recovery, healing mindset, holistic healing, grace secker, heal with grace p 1 116 full false 115. Your Brain Is Creating Real, Severe Pain ; A Doctor Explains Why and How to Stop It with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy 115. Your Brain Is Creating Real, Severe Pain ; A Doctor Explains Why and How to Stop It with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy, a family medicine physician with over 20 years of clinical experience and founder of Resilience Health Care in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Kennedy spent 15 years at Kaiser Permanente where she led the Long COVID specialty group, treating some of the most severe cases in the entire Northwest region. After witnessing how profoundly the neuroplastic model transformed her patients' lives — and after developing her own severe neuroplastic symptoms — she left Kaiser in 2023 to focus exclusively on this work.

Together, they explore why so many people with long COVID, MCAS, POTS, and ME/CFS aren't getting better with conventional treatments, what the research actually shows about spike proteins and inflammation markers, and why the brain's threat response may be the unifying explanation that finally makes everything make sense. Dr. Kennedy shares why the placebo and nocebo effects are far more powerful than most people realize, why long COVID may be better understood as a post-pandemic syndrome, and what it takes to move beyond surface-level nervous system tools into the deeper emotional work that creates lasting change.

Covered in this episode: 

✨ Dr. Kennedy's journey from Kaiser Permanente to founding Resilience Health Care — and her own experience with severe neuroplastic pain and fatigue 

✨ Why spike proteins, cytokine changes, and abnormal blood tests may not be driving your symptoms the way you've been told 

✨ The real science behind the placebo and nocebo effect — and what vaccine trial data reveals about the brain's role in side effects

 ✨ Why most people with long COVID are middle-aged women who were previously healthy — and what that tells us 

✨ How MCAS, POTS, and ME/CFS diagnoses can unintentionally keep people stuck in fear and body-focused treatment 

✨ The critical difference between nervous system regulation tools and the deeper emotional processing that actually turns off the signal 

✨ Why stopping body-based treatments entirely can sometimes be the missing piece 

✨ How to accept a neuroplastic diagnosis when everything you've been told points to something structural

Connect with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy, a family medicine physician with over 20 years of clinical experience and founder of Resilience Health Care in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Kennedy spent 15 years at Kaiser Permanente where she led the Long COVID specialty group, treating some of the most severe cases in the entire Northwest region. After witnessing how profoundly the neuroplastic model transformed her patients' lives — and after developing her own severe neuroplastic symptoms — she left Kaiser in 2023 to focus exclusively on this work.

Together, they explore why so many people with long COVID, MCAS, POTS, and ME/CFS aren't getting better with conventional treatments, what the research actually shows about spike proteins and inflammation markers, and why the brain's threat response may be the unifying explanation that finally makes everything make sense. Dr. Kennedy shares why the placebo and nocebo effects are far more powerful than most people realize, why long COVID may be better understood as a post-pandemic syndrome, and what it takes to move beyond surface-level nervous system tools into the deeper emotional work that creates lasting change.

Covered in this episode: 

✨ Dr. Kennedy's journey from Kaiser Permanente to founding Resilience Health Care — and her own experience with severe neuroplastic pain and fatigue 

✨ Why spike proteins, cytokine changes, and abnormal blood tests may not be driving your symptoms the way you've been told 

✨ The real science behind the placebo and nocebo effect — and what vaccine trial data reveals about the brain's role in side effects

 ✨ Why most people with long COVID are middle-aged women who were previously healthy — and what that tells us 

✨ How MCAS, POTS, and ME/CFS diagnoses can unintentionally keep people stuck in fear and body-focused treatment 

✨ The critical difference between nervous system regulation tools and the deeper emotional processing that actually turns off the signal 

✨ Why stopping body-based treatments entirely can sometimes be the missing piece 

✨ How to accept a neuroplastic diagnosis when everything you've been told points to something structural

Connect with Dr. Rebecca Kennedy:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18794124 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0600 3162 neuroplastic pain, long covid recovery, mind body healing, chronic pain relief, nervous system healing, MCAS, placebo effect, brain retraining, chronic fatigue, heal with grace 1 115 full false 114. How to Know If Your Symptoms Are Caused By Your Nervous System 114. How to Know If Your Symptoms Are Caused By Your Nervous System Are you "doing all the right things" — the medications, the supplements, the diets, the protocols — and still not getting better? What if your symptoms aren't caused by something structurally wrong in your body, but by a nervous system stuck in danger mode?

In this solo episode, Grace walks you through exactly what neuroplastic symptoms are, how they show up in real life, and shares an 8-point checklist so you can start to determine whether your symptoms might be nervous system–based. She covers conditions like chronic pain, fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, POTS, IBS, long COVID, chronic dizziness, MCAS, and more — explaining why these very real symptoms can still be rooted in the brain and nervous system.

If your symptoms lack clear physical evidence, move around your body, haven't responded to conventional treatments, or you've got a history of being highly driven, perfectionistic, or hard on yourself — this episode is for you.

In this episode, you'll learn: 

‣ What the nervous system actually is and how it creates real physical symptoms 

‣ What makes neuroplastic symptoms different from structural problems 

‣ The 8-point checklist to determine if your symptoms might be nervous system–based 

‣ Why personality traits like perfectionism and people-pleasing are connected to chronic symptoms 

‣ Why this is actually good news — and what you can do about it

If your symptoms are neuroplastic, recovery is 100% possible. Grace has seen it in her own life and in the lives of countless clients. Your body is doing exactly what it's supposed to do — it just needs the right tools to learn that it's safe again.

Resource mentioned:

Episode 40: "When they can't find anything wrong!" with Dr. David Clarke


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Are you "doing all the right things" — the medications, the supplements, the diets, the protocols — and still not getting better? What if your symptoms aren't caused by something structurally wrong in your body, but by a nervous system stuck in danger mode?

In this solo episode, Grace walks you through exactly what neuroplastic symptoms are, how they show up in real life, and shares an 8-point checklist so you can start to determine whether your symptoms might be nervous system–based. She covers conditions like chronic pain, fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, POTS, IBS, long COVID, chronic dizziness, MCAS, and more — explaining why these very real symptoms can still be rooted in the brain and nervous system.

If your symptoms lack clear physical evidence, move around your body, haven't responded to conventional treatments, or you've got a history of being highly driven, perfectionistic, or hard on yourself — this episode is for you.

In this episode, you'll learn: 

‣ What the nervous system actually is and how it creates real physical symptoms 

‣ What makes neuroplastic symptoms different from structural problems 

‣ The 8-point checklist to determine if your symptoms might be nervous system–based 

‣ Why personality traits like perfectionism and people-pleasing are connected to chronic symptoms 

‣ Why this is actually good news — and what you can do about it

If your symptoms are neuroplastic, recovery is 100% possible. Grace has seen it in her own life and in the lives of countless clients. Your body is doing exactly what it's supposed to do — it just needs the right tools to learn that it's safe again.

Resource mentioned:

Episode 40: "When they can't find anything wrong!" with Dr. David Clarke


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18710557 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1348 neuroplastic symptoms. nervous system healing, chronic pain recovery, mind body connection, neuroplastic pain, nervous system dysregulation, heal with grace, Grace Secker. chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, POTS, IBS, long COVID, MCAS, chronic illnes 1 114 full false 113. How You Can Heal From Chronic Dizziness with Dr. Yonit Arthur 113. How You Can Heal From Chronic Dizziness with Dr. Yonit Arthur Grace sits down with Dr. Yonit Arthur ("Dr. Yo"), audiologist, vestibular specialist, and creator of The Steady Coach, to explore why chronic dizziness is often a nervous system issue—and why that's actually hopeful news for recovery. Dr. Yo shares how conditions like PPPD, vestibular migraine, MDDS, and medically unexplained dizziness are rooted in brain-generated symptoms rather than structural damage, making them fully reversible through mind-body approaches.

The conversation covers why dizziness creates such intense fear and anxiety (even in people who've never experienced anxiety before), how the brain's threat response keeps symptoms alive, and why traditional vestibular rehabilitation often falls short. Dr. Yo explains the role of movement exposure, thought pattern work, and stress reduction in retraining the brain's balance system. She emphasizes that recovery is possible regardless of how long symptoms have persisted, and shares practical guidance on addressing the intrusive thoughts and health anxiety that commonly accompany chronic dizziness.

Grace and Dr. Yo discuss the importance of separating symptom reassurance from anxiety reassurance, why therapists need specialized training to support clients with these symptoms, and how the vestibular field is finally beginning to shift toward acknowledging stress and nervous system involvement in chronic dizziness.

Connect with Dr. Yonit:

- Dr. Yonit Arthur's YouTube channel: The Steady Coach
- Free comprehensive chronic dizziness course 

- Instagram: @therealsteadycoach
- Anxiety resources mentioned: DARE (D-A-R-E), Disordered podcast by Drew Linsalata, The Anxiety Guy, Anxiety RX by Russ Kennedy

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace sits down with Dr. Yonit Arthur ("Dr. Yo"), audiologist, vestibular specialist, and creator of The Steady Coach, to explore why chronic dizziness is often a nervous system issue—and why that's actually hopeful news for recovery. Dr. Yo shares how conditions like PPPD, vestibular migraine, MDDS, and medically unexplained dizziness are rooted in brain-generated symptoms rather than structural damage, making them fully reversible through mind-body approaches.

The conversation covers why dizziness creates such intense fear and anxiety (even in people who've never experienced anxiety before), how the brain's threat response keeps symptoms alive, and why traditional vestibular rehabilitation often falls short. Dr. Yo explains the role of movement exposure, thought pattern work, and stress reduction in retraining the brain's balance system. She emphasizes that recovery is possible regardless of how long symptoms have persisted, and shares practical guidance on addressing the intrusive thoughts and health anxiety that commonly accompany chronic dizziness.

Grace and Dr. Yo discuss the importance of separating symptom reassurance from anxiety reassurance, why therapists need specialized training to support clients with these symptoms, and how the vestibular field is finally beginning to shift toward acknowledging stress and nervous system involvement in chronic dizziness.

Connect with Dr. Yonit:

- Dr. Yonit Arthur's YouTube channel: The Steady Coach
- Free comprehensive chronic dizziness course 

- Instagram: @therealsteadycoach
- Anxiety resources mentioned: DARE (D-A-R-E), Disordered podcast by Drew Linsalata, The Anxiety Guy, Anxiety RX by Russ Kennedy

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18639069 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2866 chronic dizziness, vestibular migraine, PPPD, dizziness recovery, balance problems, vestibular disorders, MDDS, chronic vertigo, mind body healing, nervous system healing, vestibular rehabilitation, dizziness treatment, persistent postural perceptual dizz 1 113 full false 112. When Your Symptoms are Still Running the Show 112. When Your Symptoms are Still Running the Show You've been doing the work—learning about mind-body healing, practicing the tools, maybe even seeing progress. So why do your symptoms still feel like they're quietly calling the shots?

In this solo episode, Grace digs into one of the most common (and most frustrating) phases of healing: when symptoms linger in the background, still influencing your decisions, still getting checked on, still shaping your days—even when the fear isn't as loud as it used to be.

She explores why the nervous system holds onto symptoms long after you've started healing, how vigilance disguises itself as responsibility, and the role that identity and secondary gains play in keeping you stuck. Grace also shares from her own healing journey—including the moment a mentor called her out on a pattern she couldn't see herself—and walks through what it actually looks like to loosen your symptoms' grip without dismissing your experience.

In this episode, Grace covers:


✨ The different phases of the mind-body healing journey—and where you might be getting stuck
✨ How symptom monitoring quietly becomes a full-time job your nervous system won't quit
✨ Why your symptoms may have become part of your identity (and what to do about it)
✨ Secondary gains: what your symptoms might be doing <i>for</i> you on a subconscious level
✨ How to replace what symptoms provide—rest, permission, predictability—with something more authentic
✨ Practical ways to start loosening the pattern and orienting toward safety and connection

Whether you're in a flare, stuck in a cycle of subtle symptom-checking, or wondering why healing feels like it's stalled—this episode is one to save, revisit, and let sink in.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> You've been doing the work—learning about mind-body healing, practicing the tools, maybe even seeing progress. So why do your symptoms still feel like they're quietly calling the shots?

In this solo episode, Grace digs into one of the most common (and most frustrating) phases of healing: when symptoms linger in the background, still influencing your decisions, still getting checked on, still shaping your days—even when the fear isn't as loud as it used to be.

She explores why the nervous system holds onto symptoms long after you've started healing, how vigilance disguises itself as responsibility, and the role that identity and secondary gains play in keeping you stuck. Grace also shares from her own healing journey—including the moment a mentor called her out on a pattern she couldn't see herself—and walks through what it actually looks like to loosen your symptoms' grip without dismissing your experience.

In this episode, Grace covers:


✨ The different phases of the mind-body healing journey—and where you might be getting stuck
✨ How symptom monitoring quietly becomes a full-time job your nervous system won't quit
✨ Why your symptoms may have become part of your identity (and what to do about it)
✨ Secondary gains: what your symptoms might be doing <i>for</i> you on a subconscious level
✨ How to replace what symptoms provide—rest, permission, predictability—with something more authentic
✨ Practical ways to start loosening the pattern and orienting toward safety and connection

Whether you're in a flare, stuck in a cycle of subtle symptom-checking, or wondering why healing feels like it's stalled—this episode is one to save, revisit, and let sink in.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18654470 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1356 Grace Secker, Heal with Grace Podcast, mind body healing, neuroplastic pain, chronic pain recovery, nervous system healing, chronic illness healing, symptom monitoring,healing identity, secondary gains chronic illness, nervous system dysregulation, somati 1 112 full false 111. How Stress Creates Inflammation with Christa Biegler 111. How Stress Creates Inflammation with Christa Biegler In this episode, Grace sits down with Christa Biegler, RD—an award-winning dietitian, root cause nutritionist, and host of The Less Stressed Life Podcast—to explore the powerful connection between stress, inflammation, and chronic symptoms.

Christa shares her own healing journey through multiple health crises, including severe skin breakouts and burnout, and how these experiences transformed her approach to working with clients. Together, they unpack the "health triad"—the intersection of nutrition/chemical factors, structural/environmental elements, and emotional/energetic components—and why addressing all three is essential for lasting healing.

In this episode, they discuss:

  • The root causes of inflammation and why it's actually a secondary signal, not the core issue
  • How stress chemistry directly impacts the gut, immune system, and skin health
  • Why food sensitivities are often symptoms of deeper imbalances—not the root cause
  • The connection between restrictive diets, fear, and worsening symptoms
  • A grounded, non-fear-based approach to mold and environmental toxins
  • How unconscious stress (relationships, jobs, living situations) manifests physically
  • The shift from "fix me" to self-empowerment in the healing journey
  • Why nervous system regulation work accelerates physiological healing

This conversation bridges the gap between functional nutrition and mind-body healing, offering a holistic perspective on why your body isn't betraying you—it's trying to communicate with you.

About Christa Biegler

Christa Biegler, RD, LN is an award-winning registered dietitian, root cause nutritionist, and the owner of Less Stressed Life Nutrition. She helps people resolve food sensitivities, inflammation, and eczema without unnecessary restriction, endless supplementation, or costly testing. She is also the author of The Eczema Relief Diet & Cookbook and host of The Less Stressed Life Podcast.

Connect with Christa:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace sits down with Christa Biegler, RD—an award-winning dietitian, root cause nutritionist, and host of The Less Stressed Life Podcast—to explore the powerful connection between stress, inflammation, and chronic symptoms.

Christa shares her own healing journey through multiple health crises, including severe skin breakouts and burnout, and how these experiences transformed her approach to working with clients. Together, they unpack the "health triad"—the intersection of nutrition/chemical factors, structural/environmental elements, and emotional/energetic components—and why addressing all three is essential for lasting healing.

In this episode, they discuss:

  • The root causes of inflammation and why it's actually a secondary signal, not the core issue
  • How stress chemistry directly impacts the gut, immune system, and skin health
  • Why food sensitivities are often symptoms of deeper imbalances—not the root cause
  • The connection between restrictive diets, fear, and worsening symptoms
  • A grounded, non-fear-based approach to mold and environmental toxins
  • How unconscious stress (relationships, jobs, living situations) manifests physically
  • The shift from "fix me" to self-empowerment in the healing journey
  • Why nervous system regulation work accelerates physiological healing

This conversation bridges the gap between functional nutrition and mind-body healing, offering a holistic perspective on why your body isn't betraying you—it's trying to communicate with you.

About Christa Biegler

Christa Biegler, RD, LN is an award-winning registered dietitian, root cause nutritionist, and the owner of Less Stressed Life Nutrition. She helps people resolve food sensitivities, inflammation, and eczema without unnecessary restriction, endless supplementation, or costly testing. She is also the author of The Eczema Relief Diet & Cookbook and host of The Less Stressed Life Podcast.

Connect with Christa:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18615220 Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2211 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, how stress causes inflammation, food sensitivities root cause, mold illness nervous system, restrictive diet dangers, healing without restriction, stress chemistry and gut health, emotional stress physical symptoms, 1 111 full false 110. What Recovery Actually Looks Like from Nervous System Based Pain & Illness 110. What Recovery Actually Looks Like from Nervous System Based Pain & Illness There's a myth that recovery means waking up one day and never having symptoms again—that once the nervous system is "healed," pain and discomfort just stop. But holding onto that belief can actually keep the body stuck in vigilance mode.

In this episode, Grace explores what recovery really looks like after years of chronic symptoms. She shares her own recent experience with a painful neck flare-up and how she moved through it without spiraling or letting it derail her life. This is the honest, grounded version of healing that often goes unspoken.

Grace discusses why the expectation of perfect healing creates more pressure in the body, how time-based goals can work against progress, and what it means when care becomes intuitive rather than rigid. She offers a powerful reframe: recovery isn't the absence of sensation—it's the absence of fear. The goal isn't protecting yourself from life, but building the capacity to fully live it.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> There's a myth that recovery means waking up one day and never having symptoms again—that once the nervous system is "healed," pain and discomfort just stop. But holding onto that belief can actually keep the body stuck in vigilance mode.

In this episode, Grace explores what recovery really looks like after years of chronic symptoms. She shares her own recent experience with a painful neck flare-up and how she moved through it without spiraling or letting it derail her life. This is the honest, grounded version of healing that often goes unspoken.

Grace discusses why the expectation of perfect healing creates more pressure in the body, how time-based goals can work against progress, and what it means when care becomes intuitive rather than rigid. She offers a powerful reframe: recovery isn't the absence of sensation—it's the absence of fear. The goal isn't protecting yourself from life, but building the capacity to fully live it.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18576004 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1294 chronic pain recovery, nervous system healing, mind body healing, neuroplastic pain, chronic illness recovery, healing journey, nervous system regulation, somatic healing, health anxiety, mind body connection, chronic fatigue recovery, pain recovery, TMS 1 110 full false 109. How to Recover from ME/CFS with Rebecca Tolin 109. How to Recover from ME/CFS with Rebecca Tolin Rebecca Tolin recovered from 13 years of ME/CFS after seeing 50 practitioners and trying everything from anti-viral IVs to 30 supplements a day. In this episode, she shares what finally worked—and why the nervous system holds the key to lasting relief.

Grace and Rebecca explore how chronic fatigue develops in the brain and body, why chasing diagnoses like Epstein-Barr, mold, and Lyme often keeps people stuck, and what it actually takes to reclaim your life after years of debilitating symptoms.

In this episode: ✨ How ME/CFS and post-viral syndromes become learned patterns in the brain ✨ Why fear and the medical journey itself can perpetuate symptoms ✨ The difference between pacing (which keeps you stuck) and graded exposure (which helps you heal) ✨ Rebecca's "safe zone strategy" for challenging yourself without overwhelming your system ✨ How to use the symptom timeline to uncover emotional roots ✨ What recovery actually looks like—and why symptoms can become wise messengers

Rebecca Tolin is a mind-body coach who helps people with CFS, long COVID, and other neuroplastic conditions reclaim well-being, self-compassion, and inner wisdom. She's the creator of the Be Your Own Medicine course, blending neuroscience with somatic meditation, emotional awareness, brain training, and nervous system regulation. 

Connect with Rebecca: 

Website: www.rebeccatolin.com 

Newsletter: www.rebeccatolin.com/newsletter 

Try a free somatic meditation: www.rebeccatolin.com/blog 

YouTube: Rebecca Tolin Youtube

Email inquiries: course@rebeccatolin.com



How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Rebecca Tolin recovered from 13 years of ME/CFS after seeing 50 practitioners and trying everything from anti-viral IVs to 30 supplements a day. In this episode, she shares what finally worked—and why the nervous system holds the key to lasting relief.

Grace and Rebecca explore how chronic fatigue develops in the brain and body, why chasing diagnoses like Epstein-Barr, mold, and Lyme often keeps people stuck, and what it actually takes to reclaim your life after years of debilitating symptoms.

In this episode: ✨ How ME/CFS and post-viral syndromes become learned patterns in the brain ✨ Why fear and the medical journey itself can perpetuate symptoms ✨ The difference between pacing (which keeps you stuck) and graded exposure (which helps you heal) ✨ Rebecca's "safe zone strategy" for challenging yourself without overwhelming your system ✨ How to use the symptom timeline to uncover emotional roots ✨ What recovery actually looks like—and why symptoms can become wise messengers

Rebecca Tolin is a mind-body coach who helps people with CFS, long COVID, and other neuroplastic conditions reclaim well-being, self-compassion, and inner wisdom. She's the creator of the Be Your Own Medicine course, blending neuroscience with somatic meditation, emotional awareness, brain training, and nervous system regulation. 

Connect with Rebecca: 

Website: www.rebeccatolin.com 

Newsletter: www.rebeccatolin.com/newsletter 

Try a free somatic meditation: www.rebeccatolin.com/blog 

YouTube: Rebecca Tolin Youtube

Email inquiries: course@rebeccatolin.com



How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18518833 Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600 2585 Grace Secker, Heal with Grace Podcast, ME/CFS recovery, chronic fatigue syndrome, long covid recovery, mind-body healing, nervous system healing, post-viral syndrome, neuroplastic symptoms, healing chronic fatigue naturally, post-viral fatigue recovery, n 1 109 full false 108. How I Quietly Dysregulated My Own Nervous System 108. How I Quietly Dysregulated My Own Nervous System In this episode, Grace gets honest about something she's been quietly navigating—how being online as a business owner and content creator has kept her nervous system in subtle but constant activation. Not major symptoms, just a low hum of hypervigilance she couldn't ignore anymore.

She shares what she noticed in her own body, why the habit of reaching for your phone might be keeping your system from settling, and how to start pausing before the scroll. Grace also talks about the difference between consuming content and letting content consume you—and why she's started writing on Substack as a slower, deeper space for this work.

This isn't about demonizing social media. It's about getting curious about the ways our modern world keeps us in low-grade activation, and what we can do about it.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace gets honest about something she's been quietly navigating—how being online as a business owner and content creator has kept her nervous system in subtle but constant activation. Not major symptoms, just a low hum of hypervigilance she couldn't ignore anymore.

She shares what she noticed in her own body, why the habit of reaching for your phone might be keeping your system from settling, and how to start pausing before the scroll. Grace also talks about the difference between consuming content and letting content consume you—and why she's started writing on Substack as a slower, deeper space for this work.

This isn't about demonizing social media. It's about getting curious about the ways our modern world keeps us in low-grade activation, and what we can do about it.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18511974 Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1369 Grace Secker, Heal with Grace Podcast, nervous system regulation, nervous system dysregulation, social media anxiety, phone addiction, mind body healing, chronic illness recovery, nervous system healing, digital wellness, hypervigilance, screen time and m 1 108 full false 107. Healing Digestive Issues & Brain Fog with Alex Eckford 107. Healing Digestive Issues & Brain Fog with Alex Eckford If you're dealing with digestive issues—whether it's IBS, chronic gut problems, or discomfort that's followed you since childhood—or if brain fog has been stealing your clarity and focus, this episode is one you don't want to miss.

Alex Eckford can't remember a time when her body felt "normal." From elementary school stomach aches to debilitating brain fog as an adult, she spent years chasing diagnosis after diagnosis—mold, parasites, histamine intolerance—and watched her list of "safe" foods shrink until eating became its own source of anxiety. Nothing brought lasting relief.

Then she found mind-body work, and everything shifted. Through the Mind-Body Healing Method and private sessions, Alex experienced a true transformation—not just managing her symptoms, but actually healing them.

In this episode, Alex shares her journey from constant symptom-scanning to food freedom, and how understanding her nervous system helped her brain fog finally lift.

✨ Why years of protocols and food elimination didn't bring lasting healing
✨ The moment she realized her symptoms were tied to her nervous system, not infections or toxins
✨ How understanding the "red, yellow, green" zones helped her brain fog disappear
✨ The shift from "what's wrong with me?" to "how can I support my body?"
✨ What true food freedom looks like after years of restriction
✨ Why healing doesn't have to be hard—and how simple, consistent practices created the biggest changes

If you've been wondering whether your symptoms could be neuroplastic, or if this work might be right for you, Alex's words at the end might just be the nudge you need: "If you're wondering if it's for you, it probably is."

🌿 Ready to start your healing journey?

The Mind-Body Healing Method now has NEW updates with more individual support to help you truly heal—not just manage—your symptoms.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you're dealing with digestive issues—whether it's IBS, chronic gut problems, or discomfort that's followed you since childhood—or if brain fog has been stealing your clarity and focus, this episode is one you don't want to miss.

Alex Eckford can't remember a time when her body felt "normal." From elementary school stomach aches to debilitating brain fog as an adult, she spent years chasing diagnosis after diagnosis—mold, parasites, histamine intolerance—and watched her list of "safe" foods shrink until eating became its own source of anxiety. Nothing brought lasting relief.

Then she found mind-body work, and everything shifted. Through the Mind-Body Healing Method and private sessions, Alex experienced a true transformation—not just managing her symptoms, but actually healing them.

In this episode, Alex shares her journey from constant symptom-scanning to food freedom, and how understanding her nervous system helped her brain fog finally lift.

✨ Why years of protocols and food elimination didn't bring lasting healing
✨ The moment she realized her symptoms were tied to her nervous system, not infections or toxins
✨ How understanding the "red, yellow, green" zones helped her brain fog disappear
✨ The shift from "what's wrong with me?" to "how can I support my body?"
✨ What true food freedom looks like after years of restriction
✨ Why healing doesn't have to be hard—and how simple, consistent practices created the biggest changes

If you've been wondering whether your symptoms could be neuroplastic, or if this work might be right for you, Alex's words at the end might just be the nudge you need: "If you're wondering if it's for you, it probably is."

🌿 Ready to start your healing journey?

The Mind-Body Healing Method now has NEW updates with more individual support to help you truly heal—not just manage—your symptoms.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18484206 Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1989 brain fog, digestive issues, IBS, chronic illness, mind body connection, nervous system healing, gut health, chronic pain neuroplastic pain, brain fog causes, IBS relief, digestive healing, gut brain connection, food sensitivities, somatic healing heali 1 107 full false 106. Best Tools You Need To Heal in 2026 106. Best Tools You Need To Heal in 2026 What actually helped people heal in 2025—and how can you carry that momentum into the new year? 

In this episode, Grace reflects on the biggest shifts she's witnessed in her clients and community: from learning to see symptoms as messengers rather than enemies, to understanding what recovery really looks like (hint: it's not perfection).

Grace breaks down the three pillars that made the biggest difference—curiosity, safety, and releasing fear—and explores why self-compassion isn't optional if you want to heal. She also shares what 2026 can look like when you stop fixing your body and start listening to it.

In this episode:
✨ Why shifting symptoms are actually a hopeful sign
✨ What recovery really looks like (and why it's not about being symptom-free forever)
✨ The role of self-compassion, boundaries, and radical honesty in nervous system healing
✨ How to make 2026 the year your body finally feels like home

Grace also shares how you can go deeper with the Mind-Body Healing Method (self-paced) or one-to-one support.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> What actually helped people heal in 2025—and how can you carry that momentum into the new year? 

In this episode, Grace reflects on the biggest shifts she's witnessed in her clients and community: from learning to see symptoms as messengers rather than enemies, to understanding what recovery really looks like (hint: it's not perfection).

Grace breaks down the three pillars that made the biggest difference—curiosity, safety, and releasing fear—and explores why self-compassion isn't optional if you want to heal. She also shares what 2026 can look like when you stop fixing your body and start listening to it.

In this episode:
✨ Why shifting symptoms are actually a hopeful sign
✨ What recovery really looks like (and why it's not about being symptom-free forever)
✨ The role of self-compassion, boundaries, and radical honesty in nervous system healing
✨ How to make 2026 the year your body finally feels like home

Grace also shares how you can go deeper with the Mind-Body Healing Method (self-paced) or one-to-one support.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18453563 Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0600 1408 Grace Secker, Heal with Grace Podcast, chronic pain recovery, nervous system healing, mind body connection, healing journey 2026, chronic illness recovery, somatic healing, nervous system regulation, neuroplastic pain, symptoms as messengers, self-compass 1 106 full false 105. BEST OF 2025: Episode 84. Navigating a Higher Needs Nervous System with Christie Uipi 105. BEST OF 2025: Episode 84. Navigating a Higher Needs Nervous System with Christie Uipi It's no surprise this is the most played and most downloaded episode of 2025. In this Best of 2025 replay, Grace sits down with Christie Uipi, LCSW—psychotherapist and co-creator of Pain Reprocessing Therapy—to explore what it really means to have a sensitive or "higher needs" nervous system.

Both Grace and Christie share personal and professional experiences navigating this terrain: the dozens of symptoms, the endless specialists, and the eventual relief of realizing it all stems from one place. They dig into the nuance of what to embrace about your sensitivity versus what might be worth gently challenging—and how to tell the difference between honoring a boundary and letting fear run the show.

This conversation covers the snowball effect of avoidance, why comparing yourself to people who "just hop out of bed" isn't helpful, and why the goal isn't to eliminate sensitivity—it's to access more joy. If you've ever felt like your nervous system asks for more than everyone else's, this one's for you.

In this episode:

  • What it means to have a higher needs nervous system
  • Container vs. limitation: knowing what to accept and what to challenge
  • How avoidance becomes contagious—and how to interrupt it
  • Letting go of exceptionalism and embracing balance
  • Why healing isn't about going back to who you were

Connect with Christie: Website: bettermindcenter.com Instagram: @better.with.christy

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> It's no surprise this is the most played and most downloaded episode of 2025. In this Best of 2025 replay, Grace sits down with Christie Uipi, LCSW—psychotherapist and co-creator of Pain Reprocessing Therapy—to explore what it really means to have a sensitive or "higher needs" nervous system.

Both Grace and Christie share personal and professional experiences navigating this terrain: the dozens of symptoms, the endless specialists, and the eventual relief of realizing it all stems from one place. They dig into the nuance of what to embrace about your sensitivity versus what might be worth gently challenging—and how to tell the difference between honoring a boundary and letting fear run the show.

This conversation covers the snowball effect of avoidance, why comparing yourself to people who "just hop out of bed" isn't helpful, and why the goal isn't to eliminate sensitivity—it's to access more joy. If you've ever felt like your nervous system asks for more than everyone else's, this one's for you.

In this episode:

  • What it means to have a higher needs nervous system
  • Container vs. limitation: knowing what to accept and what to challenge
  • How avoidance becomes contagious—and how to interrupt it
  • Letting go of exceptionalism and embracing balance
  • Why healing isn't about going back to who you were

Connect with Christie: Website: bettermindcenter.com Instagram: @better.with.christy

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18404314 Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 2689 Heal with Grace, Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, Christie Uipi, nervous system healing, sensitive nervous system, chronic pain recovery, pain reprocessing therapy, chronic illness, nervous system regulation, anxiety recovery, somatic healing, holis 1 105 full true 104. BEST OF 2025: From Spiraling to Soothing 104. BEST OF 2025: From Spiraling to Soothing Welcome to our end-of-year tradition! This week, we're re-airing one of the top two episodes of 2025—and it's no surprise this one resonated so deeply.

Catastrophizing is one of the most common mental habits keeping people stuck in chronic symptoms, fear, and anxiety. It's that moment when your brain jumps straight to the worst-case scenario: "I'm never going to heal." "This always happens." "What if it never goes away?"

In this solo episode, Grace walks through exactly what's happening when you spiral, why your nervous system hits the panic button, and how to catch yourself in real time. She shares from her own journey with fatigue and chronic symptoms, and offers practical tools to help you turn toward yourself with presence and compassion instead of fear.

Grace covers what catastrophizing actually is and why your brain does it, the 90-second rule for emotions, how to name it and ride the wave, calming reframes to use during a flare, and why even a one-second pause is powerful.

Save this one and come back to it—it's an all-time favorite for a reason.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to our end-of-year tradition! This week, we're re-airing one of the top two episodes of 2025—and it's no surprise this one resonated so deeply.

Catastrophizing is one of the most common mental habits keeping people stuck in chronic symptoms, fear, and anxiety. It's that moment when your brain jumps straight to the worst-case scenario: "I'm never going to heal." "This always happens." "What if it never goes away?"

In this solo episode, Grace walks through exactly what's happening when you spiral, why your nervous system hits the panic button, and how to catch yourself in real time. She shares from her own journey with fatigue and chronic symptoms, and offers practical tools to help you turn toward yourself with presence and compassion instead of fear.

Grace covers what catastrophizing actually is and why your brain does it, the 90-second rule for emotions, how to name it and ride the wave, calming reframes to use during a flare, and why even a one-second pause is powerful.

Save this one and come back to it—it's an all-time favorite for a reason.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18394154 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1647 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, chronic pain recovery, anxiety relief, nervous system healing,mind body connection, chronic illness support, healing journey, mental health podcast, how to stop spiraling, catastrophizing, fear and chronic pain 1 104 full false 103. Healing ME/CFS through Mind-Body Tools with Chris Sykes-Popham 103. Healing ME/CFS through Mind-Body Tools with Chris Sykes-Popham Chris Sykes-Popham went from Royal Marines commando and adventure seeker to completely housebound with ME/CFS. Within weeks of finding the mind-body approach, he saw significant improvement—and within months, he made a full recovery. Now he's the founder of the FreeMe app, designed specifically for people with ME/CFS and long COVID.

In this episode, Grace and Chris explore what actually moves the needle in ME/CFS recovery—including why high-achievers are especially prone to these conditions, how fear and catastrophizing keep symptoms stuck, the power of somatic tracking for fatigue, the difference between helpful and harmful pacing, how food associations can become their own trap, and why joy and meaningful activity are essential tools for nervous system healing.

Both Grace and Chris share their personal recovery journeys and the shifts that got them off the couch and back into life.

Connect with Chris through the Freeme Website
Download the FreeMe app here: 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Chris Sykes-Popham went from Royal Marines commando and adventure seeker to completely housebound with ME/CFS. Within weeks of finding the mind-body approach, he saw significant improvement—and within months, he made a full recovery. Now he's the founder of the FreeMe app, designed specifically for people with ME/CFS and long COVID.

In this episode, Grace and Chris explore what actually moves the needle in ME/CFS recovery—including why high-achievers are especially prone to these conditions, how fear and catastrophizing keep symptoms stuck, the power of somatic tracking for fatigue, the difference between helpful and harmful pacing, how food associations can become their own trap, and why joy and meaningful activity are essential tools for nervous system healing.

Both Grace and Chris share their personal recovery journeys and the shifts that got them off the couch and back into life.

Connect with Chris through the Freeme Website
Download the FreeMe app here: 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18337190 Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 3944 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue recovery, nervous system healing, chronic illness support 1 103 full false 101. Why Your Symptoms Spike Around Family (And What To Do When They Do) 101. Why Your Symptoms Spike Around Family (And What To Do When They Do) The holidays can feel like the Olympics for your nervous system—and if your symptoms tend to spike around family, you're not alone.

In this episode, Grace explores why your body might still brace for impact around family, even if you've done years of healing work and your relationships aren't "that bad." She explains how your nervous system reacts to old emotional patterns rather than your current reality, and why roles like the peacekeeper, the easy one, or the one who's "too sensitive" can get reactivated during this time.

Grace breaks down the seven F's that fuel symptom flares—Fight, Frustration, Fear, Focus, Fix, Figure it out, and Forlorn—and shares two grounding questions to ask yourself when you're in a high-pain moment. She also offers a reminder: your symptoms aren't a sign you've gone backward. They're just an outdated security system that can be updated.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> The holidays can feel like the Olympics for your nervous system—and if your symptoms tend to spike around family, you're not alone.

In this episode, Grace explores why your body might still brace for impact around family, even if you've done years of healing work and your relationships aren't "that bad." She explains how your nervous system reacts to old emotional patterns rather than your current reality, and why roles like the peacekeeper, the easy one, or the one who's "too sensitive" can get reactivated during this time.

Grace breaks down the seven F's that fuel symptom flares—Fight, Frustration, Fear, Focus, Fix, Figure it out, and Forlorn—and shares two grounding questions to ask yourself when you're in a high-pain moment. She also offers a reminder: your symptoms aren't a sign you've gone backward. They're just an outdated security system that can be updated.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18304664 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1477 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, chronic pain, nervous system healing, mind body connection, neuroplastic pain, chronic illness, holiday stress, trauma healing 1 102 full false 101. Healing the Gut through Mind-Body Work with Claire Bailey 101. Healing the Gut through Mind-Body Work with Claire Bailey Grace sits down with somatic psychotherapist Claire Bailey to explore one of the most common—and least talked about—forms of neuroplastic symptoms: gut issues. 

Claire shares her own decade-long journey with debilitating digestive pain, IBS, and chronic abdominal symptoms, and the countless approaches she tried before discovering what was actually missing. 

They discuss why gut symptoms respond so strongly to stress, the difference between being told to "manage your stress" and truly understanding the brain-body connection, and how a single conversation with a physician who validated Claire's intuition became the turning point in her recovery. 

Grace and Claire also unpack why restrictive diets and food fear often reinforce symptoms rather than resolve them, the role medication can play as a support (not a solution) in healing, and what Claire's master's research revealed about the critical importance of neuroplastic education in recovery. 

You'll leave with a deeper understanding of why your gut isn't broken—it's responding to signals from a nervous system that can absolutely be retrained.

Connect with Claire:
Instagram: @bodyfulcounseling
Website: bodyfulcounseling.com 
Email: claire@bodyfulcounseling.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace sits down with somatic psychotherapist Claire Bailey to explore one of the most common—and least talked about—forms of neuroplastic symptoms: gut issues. 

Claire shares her own decade-long journey with debilitating digestive pain, IBS, and chronic abdominal symptoms, and the countless approaches she tried before discovering what was actually missing. 

They discuss why gut symptoms respond so strongly to stress, the difference between being told to "manage your stress" and truly understanding the brain-body connection, and how a single conversation with a physician who validated Claire's intuition became the turning point in her recovery. 

Grace and Claire also unpack why restrictive diets and food fear often reinforce symptoms rather than resolve them, the role medication can play as a support (not a solution) in healing, and what Claire's master's research revealed about the critical importance of neuroplastic education in recovery. 

You'll leave with a deeper understanding of why your gut isn't broken—it's responding to signals from a nervous system that can absolutely be retrained.

Connect with Claire:
Instagram: @bodyfulcounseling
Website: bodyfulcounseling.com 
Email: claire@bodyfulcounseling.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18272228 Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600 2293 Grace Secker, Claire Bailey, Heal with Grace Podcast, IBS, gut health, neuroplastic pain, mind-body healing, chronic pain recovery, healing the gut, digestive issues, nervous system healing, pain reprocessing therapy 1 101 full true 100. 100 Episode Celebration: Most Important Lessons So Far 100. 100 Episode Celebration: Most Important Lessons So Far Grace celebrates 100 episodes by revisiting the most powerful healing lessons from the past two years—the ones listeners say changed everything. She unpacks why healing is never linear (and why your brain needs to hear that on repeat), how recovery stories actually rewire your nervous system toward safety, why food fear keeps symptoms stuck, and how to retrain your brain around eating, and what listener messages reveal about migraine relief, being able to eat again, and preventing caregiver burnout. 

Grace also shares her own journey with the podcast—the mumbling, the doubts, and why repetition is the key to building new neural pathways. You'll leave with a clearer understanding of what this work is really about: reminding your body it's not broken, it's not failing, and that healing is absolutely possible when you have the right tools and support.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace celebrates 100 episodes by revisiting the most powerful healing lessons from the past two years—the ones listeners say changed everything. She unpacks why healing is never linear (and why your brain needs to hear that on repeat), how recovery stories actually rewire your nervous system toward safety, why food fear keeps symptoms stuck, and how to retrain your brain around eating, and what listener messages reveal about migraine relief, being able to eat again, and preventing caregiver burnout. 

Grace also shares her own journey with the podcast—the mumbling, the doubts, and why repetition is the key to building new neural pathways. You'll leave with a clearer understanding of what this work is really about: reminding your body it's not broken, it's not failing, and that healing is absolutely possible when you have the right tools and support.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18230288 Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1913 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue recovery, nervous system healing, chronic illness support 1 100 full false 99. Healing Lyme, EOE, and Back Pain through the Mind-Body Healing Method with Kelly Goode 99. Healing Lyme, EOE, and Back Pain through the Mind-Body Healing Method with Kelly Goode Grace is joined by Kelly Goode, who shares her journey from barely being able to walk up stairs and living with 30+ food sensitivities to reclaiming her life in just three months through nervous system work.

Kelly opens up about spending tens of thousands on treatments—from specialty clinics to IV therapy to 20 different supplement bottles—yet still declining to the point where she was Googling her life expectancy. What shifted everything wasn't another protocol, but realizing her nervous system dysregulation was driving her immune system failure, chronic fatigue, EOE, and Lyme disease symptoms.

Together they explore how Kelly went from 30 food allergies to just 3, stopped acid burning in her throat with guided meditations, and cleared her brain fog within the first month. Kelly also shares what it meant to finally stop pushing through pain, reclaim her power from practitioners, and learn that "talking nice to yourself" is actually survival medicine.

This episode is a hopeful reminder that when you address the brain and nervous system—not just the body—healing can happen faster than you think. Even when you've been told your condition is chronic or incurable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace is joined by Kelly Goode, who shares her journey from barely being able to walk up stairs and living with 30+ food sensitivities to reclaiming her life in just three months through nervous system work.

Kelly opens up about spending tens of thousands on treatments—from specialty clinics to IV therapy to 20 different supplement bottles—yet still declining to the point where she was Googling her life expectancy. What shifted everything wasn't another protocol, but realizing her nervous system dysregulation was driving her immune system failure, chronic fatigue, EOE, and Lyme disease symptoms.

Together they explore how Kelly went from 30 food allergies to just 3, stopped acid burning in her throat with guided meditations, and cleared her brain fog within the first month. Kelly also shares what it meant to finally stop pushing through pain, reclaim her power from practitioners, and learn that "talking nice to yourself" is actually survival medicine.

This episode is a hopeful reminder that when you address the brain and nervous system—not just the body—healing can happen faster than you think. Even when you've been told your condition is chronic or incurable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18182030 Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 2225 Grace Secker, Kelly Goode, chronic fatigue healing, EOE treatment, mind-body healing, nervous system regulation, food allergy recovery 1 99 full false 98. Healing IBS & Hip Pain with Mind-body Work 98. Healing IBS & Hip Pain with Mind-body Work If you've tried everything for your chronic symptoms and nothing has worked—physical therapy, doctors, diets, supplements—this conversation might be exactly what you need to hear.

Sean Hershey is a licensed psychotherapist who completely healed his severe, debilitating IBS through mind-body work. In this episode, he shares his journey from chronic suffering to symptom-free living, and gets honest about the ongoing work with his hip pain—including the doubt spirals that still show up even after major healing.

You'll learn:

✨ How Sean went from severe chronic IBS to fully healed

✨ The moment the paradigm shift clicked for him (and why it took hearing it multiple ways)

✨ Why his hip pain became a "symptom imperative" and what that really means

✨ How to work through doubt—even when you've seen this work succeed

✨ Why emotional processing (not just awareness) is key to lasting relief

✨ What it looks like when healing isn't linear—and why that's completely normal

Sean's story is proof that this work works. His IBS is gone. His life is transformed. And he's real about the fact that healing continues, even after breakthrough moments.

Connect with Sean: 🎙️ Podcast: https://mind-body-medicine.captivate.fm/
🌐 Website: https://www.mindbodymedicineforchronicpain.com/
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_gay_therapist/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you've tried everything for your chronic symptoms and nothing has worked—physical therapy, doctors, diets, supplements—this conversation might be exactly what you need to hear.

Sean Hershey is a licensed psychotherapist who completely healed his severe, debilitating IBS through mind-body work. In this episode, he shares his journey from chronic suffering to symptom-free living, and gets honest about the ongoing work with his hip pain—including the doubt spirals that still show up even after major healing.

You'll learn:

✨ How Sean went from severe chronic IBS to fully healed

✨ The moment the paradigm shift clicked for him (and why it took hearing it multiple ways)

✨ Why his hip pain became a "symptom imperative" and what that really means

✨ How to work through doubt—even when you've seen this work succeed

✨ Why emotional processing (not just awareness) is key to lasting relief

✨ What it looks like when healing isn't linear—and why that's completely normal

Sean's story is proof that this work works. His IBS is gone. His life is transformed. And he's real about the fact that healing continues, even after breakthrough moments.

Connect with Sean: 🎙️ Podcast: https://mind-body-medicine.captivate.fm/
🌐 Website: https://www.mindbodymedicineforchronicpain.com/
📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_gay_therapist/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18149267 Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 3098 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, Sean Hershey, IBS, hip pain, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue recovery, nervous system healing, chronic illness support 1 98 full false 97. How Your Nervous System Affects Long Covid, POTS, CFS, Lyme, Mold 97. How Your Nervous System Affects Long Covid, POTS, CFS, Lyme, Mold In this episode, Grace explores why conditions like long COVID, POTS, chronic fatigue, Lyme disease, and mold illness often persist—not because of the virus or toxin itself, but because the nervous system remains stuck in survival mode. She unpacks the science behind the body's threat response and how symptoms become learned patterns when the brain keeps predicting danger. Grace shares emerging research on POTS reprocessing therapy and the power of emotional coherence, offering a compassionate reframe: your body isn't broken, it's brilliant. This episode invites you to see healing as teaching your nervous system it's safe again.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace explores why conditions like long COVID, POTS, chronic fatigue, Lyme disease, and mold illness often persist—not because of the virus or toxin itself, but because the nervous system remains stuck in survival mode. She unpacks the science behind the body's threat response and how symptoms become learned patterns when the brain keeps predicting danger. Grace shares emerging research on POTS reprocessing therapy and the power of emotional coherence, offering a compassionate reframe: your body isn't broken, it's brilliant. This episode invites you to see healing as teaching your nervous system it's safe again.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18129994 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1961 1 97 full true 96. Do We Predict Our Symptoms with Dr. Michael Dow 96. Do We Predict Our Symptoms with Dr. Michael Dow Grace is joined by Dr. Michael Dow, a clinical psychologist and lead therapist for Pain Reprocessing Therapy, to explore how our brains can learn to predict symptoms—and why that's actually good news for healing. Michael shares his personal journey from chronic weekly headaches to full recovery, what he learned from running a pain management program where nobody got out of pain, and how everything shifted when he discovered pain reprocessing therapy through the Boulder Back Pain Study. They discuss why symptoms show up at the same time every day, what recovery really looks like, why that last 5-20% of healing feels hardest, and how to address the emotions and life patterns keeping symptoms stuck with fierce compassion.

Takeaways:
- If your brain learned to predict your symptoms, it can unlearn them
- Pain management vs. pain treatment: one keeps you comfortable, one gets you out of pain
- Recovery doesn't mean perfection—it means living without fear of your symptoms
- That last bit of healing often requires facing what you're most afraid of
- Patience and self-compassion aren't optional—they're essential
- If one approach doesn't work, keep trying; there's something that will click

ABOUT DR. MICHAEL DOW:
Dr. Michael Dow has been in practice in Boulder as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. After finishing his MA in Contemplative Psychotherapy at Naropa University, he worked in a variety of settings with different mental and physical health issues. He completed his doctorate in clinical psychology in 2009 at the University of the Rockies with a focus on the development of mindfulness-based psychotherapies. Most recently, he managed a large integrated medical clinic and served as lead therapist and trainer for Pain Reprocessing Therapy—an approach with excellent results for chronic low back pain in a recent randomized controlled trial (Ashar YK, Gordon A, Schubiner H, et al. JAMA Psychiatry). Dr. Dow specializes in mind-body issues, couples psychotherapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy, with a focus on how close attention to body, mind, language, and connection leads to healing and aliveness.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. 

CONNECT WITH DR. MICHAEL DOW:
Website: drmichaeldow.com
Email: michael@mdow.com
Health coaching is available nationwide and internationally
Consultation groups for practitioners working with neuroplastic symptoms

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace is joined by Dr. Michael Dow, a clinical psychologist and lead therapist for Pain Reprocessing Therapy, to explore how our brains can learn to predict symptoms—and why that's actually good news for healing. Michael shares his personal journey from chronic weekly headaches to full recovery, what he learned from running a pain management program where nobody got out of pain, and how everything shifted when he discovered pain reprocessing therapy through the Boulder Back Pain Study. They discuss why symptoms show up at the same time every day, what recovery really looks like, why that last 5-20% of healing feels hardest, and how to address the emotions and life patterns keeping symptoms stuck with fierce compassion.

Takeaways:
- If your brain learned to predict your symptoms, it can unlearn them
- Pain management vs. pain treatment: one keeps you comfortable, one gets you out of pain
- Recovery doesn't mean perfection—it means living without fear of your symptoms
- That last bit of healing often requires facing what you're most afraid of
- Patience and self-compassion aren't optional—they're essential
- If one approach doesn't work, keep trying; there's something that will click

ABOUT DR. MICHAEL DOW:
Dr. Michael Dow has been in practice in Boulder as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. After finishing his MA in Contemplative Psychotherapy at Naropa University, he worked in a variety of settings with different mental and physical health issues. He completed his doctorate in clinical psychology in 2009 at the University of the Rockies with a focus on the development of mindfulness-based psychotherapies. Most recently, he managed a large integrated medical clinic and served as lead therapist and trainer for Pain Reprocessing Therapy—an approach with excellent results for chronic low back pain in a recent randomized controlled trial (Ashar YK, Gordon A, Schubiner H, et al. JAMA Psychiatry). Dr. Dow specializes in mind-body issues, couples psychotherapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy, with a focus on how close attention to body, mind, language, and connection leads to healing and aliveness.

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. 

CONNECT WITH DR. MICHAEL DOW:
Website: drmichaeldow.com
Email: michael@mdow.com
Health coaching is available nationwide and internationally
Consultation groups for practitioners working with neuroplastic symptoms

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18081752 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600 2923 1 96 full false 95. When to Rest and When to Push Through Fatigue 95. When to Rest and When to Push Through Fatigue  Ever wonder if you should rest when fatigue hits—or keep going? Grace tackles one of the most common (and confusing) questions in chronic fatigue recovery: how to know when your body needs rest versus when your nervous system just needs reassurance that you're safe.

What You'll Learn:

The Two Types of Fatigue

  • Normal fatigue (proportionate to life stress, activity, or lack of sleep)
  • Nervous system fatigue (disproportionate, often paired with brain fog, body aches, or other symptoms—and doesn't improve with more sleep)

Why "Pushing Through" Isn't the Answer

  • The difference between bulldozing your symptoms and moving through them with compassion
  • How judgment, fear, and self-criticism actually reinforce fatigue by signaling danger to your brain
  • Why your approach matters more than whether you rest or move

The Key Question to Ask Yourself Before deciding to rest or continue with your day, pause and check in:

  • Can I meet this symptom calmly, without fear or panic?
  • Can I reassure myself that this is my nervous system, not something dangerous or broken?
  • Am I responding with compassion—or criticism?

If the answer is yes, you can gently move forward. If the answer is no, it might be time to pause, regulate, and build safety first.

What True Rest Actually Looks Like Rest isn't helpful if you're spending it in shame, guilt, or panic. Grace shares how to rest with permission—fully, compassionately, and without the mental spiral.

Trial and Error Is Part of the Process It takes time to learn the difference between types of fatigue. Grace walks you through how to experiment kindly with yourself, adjust as you go, and notice what your body is actually telling you.

Your New Mantra: "Symptoms are evidence of my brain perceiving danger—not proof that I'm broken."

Find the links below to learn more or reach out with questions.

Resources Mentioned:

Why Journaling is Important and How to Use It

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]>  Ever wonder if you should rest when fatigue hits—or keep going? Grace tackles one of the most common (and confusing) questions in chronic fatigue recovery: how to know when your body needs rest versus when your nervous system just needs reassurance that you're safe.

What You'll Learn:

The Two Types of Fatigue

  • Normal fatigue (proportionate to life stress, activity, or lack of sleep)
  • Nervous system fatigue (disproportionate, often paired with brain fog, body aches, or other symptoms—and doesn't improve with more sleep)

Why "Pushing Through" Isn't the Answer

  • The difference between bulldozing your symptoms and moving through them with compassion
  • How judgment, fear, and self-criticism actually reinforce fatigue by signaling danger to your brain
  • Why your approach matters more than whether you rest or move

The Key Question to Ask Yourself Before deciding to rest or continue with your day, pause and check in:

  • Can I meet this symptom calmly, without fear or panic?
  • Can I reassure myself that this is my nervous system, not something dangerous or broken?
  • Am I responding with compassion—or criticism?

If the answer is yes, you can gently move forward. If the answer is no, it might be time to pause, regulate, and build safety first.

What True Rest Actually Looks Like Rest isn't helpful if you're spending it in shame, guilt, or panic. Grace shares how to rest with permission—fully, compassionately, and without the mental spiral.

Trial and Error Is Part of the Process It takes time to learn the difference between types of fatigue. Grace walks you through how to experiment kindly with yourself, adjust as you go, and notice what your body is actually telling you.

Your New Mantra: "Symptoms are evidence of my brain perceiving danger—not proof that I'm broken."

Find the links below to learn more or reach out with questions.

Resources Mentioned:

Why Journaling is Important and How to Use It

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18039993 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600 996 Heal with Grace Podcast, Grace Secker, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue recovery, nervous system healing, chronic illness support 1 95 full false 94. The Healing Power of Heart Rate Variability with Jessica Corbin 94. The Healing Power of Heart Rate Variability with Jessica Corbin Ever feel like you're "doing all the right things" but still running on empty?

This conversation with Jessica Corbin lit me up. Jessica is a somatic educator and founder of SORCE, and she brings such a beautiful perspective on what it actually means to understand your energy—not just manage it, but renew it.

We dive deep into heart rate variability (HRV), but this isn't just a technical conversation. It's about reconnecting with your body's wisdom, understanding when you're extracting from yourself faster than you can repair, and learning the language your nervous system has been speaking all along.

If you've ever felt disconnected from yourself, if you've been told to "push through" when your body was asking you to slow down, or if you're curious about what energetic literacy really means—this episode is for you.

In this episode, you'll explore:
✨ What heart rate variability (HRV) actually measures and why it matters for your healing

✨ The five stages of energetic literacy: willingness, awareness, articulation, action, and reflection

✨ Why being disconnected from your body is a form of dysregulation (and how to reconnect)

✨ The four areas of separation creating the human energy crisis—and why reconnection is the solution

✨ How pain can be an intelligent guide rather than something to override

✨ Why left-brain-only living keeps you stuck in patterns of burnout

✨ What it means to build your life regeneratively instead of extracting from yourself

✨ The protective mechanism behind disconnection and how to gently invite your body back


Key Moments:

Jessica's Journey: From elite athlete who learned to "push through pain" to somatic educator helping others reconnect with their body's wisdom

Understanding HRV: It's not just about your heart—it's a window into your entire nervous system and your body's capacity to recover

The Gas Tank Metaphor: How checking in with your HRV is like looking at how much fuel you have before navigating your day

Five Stages of Energy Literacy: The practical framework for moving from disconnection to deep self-awareness

Separation = Dysregulation: How disconnection from self, nature, and our wholeness creates the conditions for burnout and chronic symptoms

Regeneration vs. Optimization: Why we need to shift from muscling through to creating conditions conducive to life

The Body as Intelligence: Your symptoms, sensations, and signals aren't the enemy—they're breadcrumbs leading you home


Resources Mentioned:

Jessica's seasonal cohort for growing your energetic literacy: www.sorce.io/practice

Connect with Jessica on IG

Connect with SORCE on IG

LinkedIn


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Ever feel like you're "doing all the right things" but still running on empty?

This conversation with Jessica Corbin lit me up. Jessica is a somatic educator and founder of SORCE, and she brings such a beautiful perspective on what it actually means to understand your energy—not just manage it, but renew it.

We dive deep into heart rate variability (HRV), but this isn't just a technical conversation. It's about reconnecting with your body's wisdom, understanding when you're extracting from yourself faster than you can repair, and learning the language your nervous system has been speaking all along.

If you've ever felt disconnected from yourself, if you've been told to "push through" when your body was asking you to slow down, or if you're curious about what energetic literacy really means—this episode is for you.

In this episode, you'll explore:
✨ What heart rate variability (HRV) actually measures and why it matters for your healing

✨ The five stages of energetic literacy: willingness, awareness, articulation, action, and reflection

✨ Why being disconnected from your body is a form of dysregulation (and how to reconnect)

✨ The four areas of separation creating the human energy crisis—and why reconnection is the solution

✨ How pain can be an intelligent guide rather than something to override

✨ Why left-brain-only living keeps you stuck in patterns of burnout

✨ What it means to build your life regeneratively instead of extracting from yourself

✨ The protective mechanism behind disconnection and how to gently invite your body back


Key Moments:

Jessica's Journey: From elite athlete who learned to "push through pain" to somatic educator helping others reconnect with their body's wisdom

Understanding HRV: It's not just about your heart—it's a window into your entire nervous system and your body's capacity to recover

The Gas Tank Metaphor: How checking in with your HRV is like looking at how much fuel you have before navigating your day

Five Stages of Energy Literacy: The practical framework for moving from disconnection to deep self-awareness

Separation = Dysregulation: How disconnection from self, nature, and our wholeness creates the conditions for burnout and chronic symptoms

Regeneration vs. Optimization: Why we need to shift from muscling through to creating conditions conducive to life

The Body as Intelligence: Your symptoms, sensations, and signals aren't the enemy—they're breadcrumbs leading you home


Resources Mentioned:

Jessica's seasonal cohort for growing your energetic literacy: www.sorce.io/practice

Connect with Jessica on IG

Connect with SORCE on IG

LinkedIn


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-18006888 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600 2403 1 94 full false 93. The Dark Side of Clean Living 93. The Dark Side of Clean Living In this episode, Grace explores how the pursuit of “perfect” health can backfire—turning clean eating and non-toxic living into stress, rigidity, and even illness. She shares her personal journey with orthorexia and recovery, reminding us that true health is found in balance, nervous system safety, and freedom, not restriction.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace explores how the pursuit of “perfect” health can backfire—turning clean eating and non-toxic living into stress, rigidity, and even illness. She shares her personal journey with orthorexia and recovery, reminding us that true health is found in balance, nervous system safety, and freedom, not restriction.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17966405 Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1394 full false 92. The Science Behind Emotions, Pain & the Nervous System with Mark Lumley, PhD 92. The Science Behind Emotions, Pain & the Nervous System with Mark Lumley, PhD Clinical psychologist and researcher Mark Lumley joins Grace to unpack why the brain—not just the body—is central to chronic pain. They dig into EAET (Emotional Awareness & Expression Therapy), how “doing the uncomfortable thing” can unlock change, why blocked anger and unspoken needs keep symptoms looping, and where journaling and unsent letters actually help. Mark shares vivid stories (including blood-draw fainting and the fight/flight “hack”), how relationships trigger or soothe pain, and when Pain Reprocessing Therapy is a useful starting point. You’ll leave with practical ways to find your voice—privately and in real life—and a clearer map for moving from stuck to relief.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Clinical psychologist and researcher Mark Lumley joins Grace to unpack why the brain—not just the body—is central to chronic pain. They dig into EAET (Emotional Awareness & Expression Therapy), how “doing the uncomfortable thing” can unlock change, why blocked anger and unspoken needs keep symptoms looping, and where journaling and unsent letters actually help. Mark shares vivid stories (including blood-draw fainting and the fight/flight “hack”), how relationships trigger or soothe pain, and when Pain Reprocessing Therapy is a useful starting point. You’ll leave with practical ways to find your voice—privately and in real life—and a clearer map for moving from stuck to relief.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17927761 Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600 2840 full false 91. Why Having Multiple Symptoms Is A Good Sign 91. Why Having Multiple Symptoms Is A Good Sign If you’ve ever felt like your body is playing whack-a-mole with symptoms—pain, fatigue, gut issues, headaches—you’re not alone. In this episode, Grace explains why shifting symptoms, known as the “symptom imperative,” are actually a hopeful sign of neuroplastic pain. You’ll learn how to recognize this pattern, why it means your body isn’t broken, and how to respond so you can move toward healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you’ve ever felt like your body is playing whack-a-mole with symptoms—pain, fatigue, gut issues, headaches—you’re not alone. In this episode, Grace explains why shifting symptoms, known as the “symptom imperative,” are actually a hopeful sign of neuroplastic pain. You’ll learn how to recognize this pattern, why it means your body isn’t broken, and how to respond so you can move toward healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17888812 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1526 full false 90. When the Brain Predicts Pain with Vanessa Blackstone 90. When the Brain Predicts Pain with Vanessa Blackstone Grace is joined by Vanessa Blackstone, LMFT to talk about why our brains sometimes expect pain or symptoms before they even happen—a process called predictive coding. Together they explore how this shapes chronic pain and other body sensations, and how tools from Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) can help break the cycle.

Vanessa shares stories from her own journey and her clients, showing how to navigate flare-ups (known as extinction bursts) and build evidence of safety in your body. This episode offers a hopeful reminder: recovery is possible, even if discomfort shows up along the way.

How to Create Your Own Authentic Messages of Safety (past episode with Vanessa)

Connect with Vanessa

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace is joined by Vanessa Blackstone, LMFT to talk about why our brains sometimes expect pain or symptoms before they even happen—a process called predictive coding. Together they explore how this shapes chronic pain and other body sensations, and how tools from Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) can help break the cycle.

Vanessa shares stories from her own journey and her clients, showing how to navigate flare-ups (known as extinction bursts) and build evidence of safety in your body. This episode offers a hopeful reminder: recovery is possible, even if discomfort shows up along the way.

How to Create Your Own Authentic Messages of Safety (past episode with Vanessa)

Connect with Vanessa

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17849511 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600 3281 full false 89. Perfectionism, Productivity and Pain 89. Perfectionism, Productivity and Pain In this episode, Grace explores the hidden costs of perfectionism. She reflects on how the drive to achieve and stay productive can often be rooted in pain, and how these patterns affect both mind and body. Grace unpacks the cultural narratives around productivity, the toll they take on our well-being, and what it looks like to step into a more compassionate, sustainable way of living.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace explores the hidden costs of perfectionism. She reflects on how the drive to achieve and stay productive can often be rooted in pain, and how these patterns affect both mind and body. Grace unpacks the cultural narratives around productivity, the toll they take on our well-being, and what it looks like to step into a more compassionate, sustainable way of living.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17796666 Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1927 full false 88. Healing Beyond Codependency with Emmy Marie 88. Healing Beyond Codependency with Emmy Marie In this episode of Heal with Grace, Grace sits down with Emmy to explore what life and healing look like after leaving toxic or abusive relationships. Emmy shares her personal story of navigating patterns of codependency, how trauma shows up in everyday life, and the power of boundaries and self-compassion in recovery. Together, they unpack the difference between “toxic” and “abusive,” the role of emotional abuse, and what it means to create safe, healthy connections moving forward.

You’ll walk away with insights on:

  • Recognizing subtle patterns of emotional abuse and gaslighting
  • Why boundaries are an essential human need (not selfish)
  • How self-compassion becomes the antidote to shame and old conditioning

Connect with Emmy

Instagram

Website


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of Heal with Grace, Grace sits down with Emmy to explore what life and healing look like after leaving toxic or abusive relationships. Emmy shares her personal story of navigating patterns of codependency, how trauma shows up in everyday life, and the power of boundaries and self-compassion in recovery. Together, they unpack the difference between “toxic” and “abusive,” the role of emotional abuse, and what it means to create safe, healthy connections moving forward.

You’ll walk away with insights on:

  • Recognizing subtle patterns of emotional abuse and gaslighting
  • Why boundaries are an essential human need (not selfish)
  • How self-compassion becomes the antidote to shame and old conditioning

Connect with Emmy

Instagram

Website


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17755285 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2447 full false 87. How I Moved Through a Flare While Traveling 87. How I Moved Through a Flare While Traveling In this episode, Grace shares what happened when a long-awaited trip to New Zealand brought on a flare—and how fear, pressure, and perfectionism played a role. She opens up about the mindset shifts, nervous system tools, and emotional release practices that helped her move through it in just a day and a half.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace shares what happened when a long-awaited trip to New Zealand brought on a flare—and how fear, pressure, and perfectionism played a role. She opens up about the mindset shifts, nervous system tools, and emotional release practices that helped her move through it in just a day and a half.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17707023 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1575 full false 86. The Mind-Body Approach to Healing Pelvic Pain with Rachel Gofman 86. The Mind-Body Approach to Healing Pelvic Pain with Rachel Gofman In this episode, Rachel Gofman (physical therapist and pelvic pain coach) shares her journey to overcoming debilitating pelvic pain through mind-body and nervous system work. 

What You'll Learn:

  • Why "diagnoses" and structural findings don’t always explain symptoms
  • How shame, cultural beliefs and trauma inform pain 
  • The nervous system’s role in chronic symptoms and healing
  • Myths about pelvic pain that may be keeping you stuck

Connect with Rachel:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Rachel Gofman (physical therapist and pelvic pain coach) shares her journey to overcoming debilitating pelvic pain through mind-body and nervous system work. 

What You'll Learn:

  • Why "diagnoses" and structural findings don’t always explain symptoms
  • How shame, cultural beliefs and trauma inform pain 
  • The nervous system’s role in chronic symptoms and healing
  • Myths about pelvic pain that may be keeping you stuck

Connect with Rachel:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17638175 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2788 full false 85. What Your Test Results Don't Show You 85. What Your Test Results Don't Show You In this episode, Grace unpacks why your scans, labs, or diagnoses don’t always explain your symptoms—and what might be going on beneath the surface. She explores how many chronic conditions are driven not by structural damage, but by nervous system dysregulation and unresolved emotional stress. If you’ve been told “everything looks normal” or have a diagnosis but still feel stuck in symptoms, this episode offers a new way forward.

You’ll learn:

  • The difference between structural issues and functional patterns
  • How chronic stress and emotional suppression impact your body
  • Why your nervous system may be the root of persistent symptoms
  • How healing happens when we stop chasing diagnoses and start working with the body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace unpacks why your scans, labs, or diagnoses don’t always explain your symptoms—and what might be going on beneath the surface. She explores how many chronic conditions are driven not by structural damage, but by nervous system dysregulation and unresolved emotional stress. If you’ve been told “everything looks normal” or have a diagnosis but still feel stuck in symptoms, this episode offers a new way forward.

You’ll learn:

  • The difference between structural issues and functional patterns
  • How chronic stress and emotional suppression impact your body
  • Why your nervous system may be the root of persistent symptoms
  • How healing happens when we stop chasing diagnoses and start working with the body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17588594 Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1196 full false 84. Navigating a Higher Needs Nervous System with Christie Uipi 84. Navigating a Higher Needs Nervous System with Christie Uipi Grace is joined by therapist Christie Uipi, LCSW, founder of the Better Mind Center, to explore what it means to have a higher needs or sensitive nervous system. Christie shares her personal healing journey, how chronic symptoms often stem from learned neural pathways, and why sensitivity isn’t something to fix—but to understand and support.

They discuss how to know the difference between a limit and a growth edge, the pitfalls of perfectionism in healing, and how building a life around your nervous system’s true needs can actually bring more joy, not less.

Takeaways:

  • Nervous system sensitivity is real—and workable
  • Not all limits are bad; some are containers for thriving
  • Self-care isn’t weakness, it’s strategy
  • You don’t have to be “exceptional” to be at peace
  • Healing often means doing less, not more

Connect with Christie

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace is joined by therapist Christie Uipi, LCSW, founder of the Better Mind Center, to explore what it means to have a higher needs or sensitive nervous system. Christie shares her personal healing journey, how chronic symptoms often stem from learned neural pathways, and why sensitivity isn’t something to fix—but to understand and support.

They discuss how to know the difference between a limit and a growth edge, the pitfalls of perfectionism in healing, and how building a life around your nervous system’s true needs can actually bring more joy, not less.

Takeaways:

  • Nervous system sensitivity is real—and workable
  • Not all limits are bad; some are containers for thriving
  • Self-care isn’t weakness, it’s strategy
  • You don’t have to be “exceptional” to be at peace
  • Healing often means doing less, not more

Connect with Christie

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17564761 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2833 full false 83. Simple Morning Routine for Chronic Pain and Illness Relief 83. Simple Morning Routine for Chronic Pain and Illness Relief In this solo episode, Grace walks us through a powerful yet flexible morning routine designed specifically to support those healing from chronic symptoms. Whether you're dealing with pain, fatigue, or nervous system dysregulation, this grounded, heart-centered practice can help you gently anchor into your day with more ease and intention. Grace also shares insights from her own recent experience being sick while traveling—and how she’s continuing to meet herself with compassion.

Full Morning Routine in Writing Below

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

No phone/screens
Stay off devices to protect your nervous system and stay grounded in your body.

Ground + Breathe (1–3 min)
Hand on heart and belly. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth (5–10 breaths). Signals safety and presence.

Gentle Somatic Movement (2–5 min)

  • Neck and shoulder rolls
  • Seated cat-cow or spinal twists
  • Light tapping down the body
  • Fascia release: slow arm squeezes
  • Vagus nerve activation: hum, sigh, or “vooo”

Journal or JournalSpeak (10–20 min)

  • Free-write raw emotions or daily triggers
  • Use prompts:
     What part of me is here? What does it need? What truth needs to be spoken?
  • Follow with affirmations to rewire beliefs
     (e.g. I am safe. I am enough. I deserve peace.)

Short Meditation (1–5 min)

  • Breath focus, somatic tracking, or loving presence
  • Start small — even 1 minute is powerful

Get Outside (if possible)

  • Walk, breathe fresh air, sit in sunlight or nature
  • Ground yourself in the environment

Adapt to your needs

  • Low energy? Skip movement, extend breath and journaling
  • Overwhelmed? Focus on grounding only
  • Let it be supportive, not rigid

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace walks us through a powerful yet flexible morning routine designed specifically to support those healing from chronic symptoms. Whether you're dealing with pain, fatigue, or nervous system dysregulation, this grounded, heart-centered practice can help you gently anchor into your day with more ease and intention. Grace also shares insights from her own recent experience being sick while traveling—and how she’s continuing to meet herself with compassion.

Full Morning Routine in Writing Below

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

No phone/screens
Stay off devices to protect your nervous system and stay grounded in your body.

Ground + Breathe (1–3 min)
Hand on heart and belly. Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth (5–10 breaths). Signals safety and presence.

Gentle Somatic Movement (2–5 min)

  • Neck and shoulder rolls
  • Seated cat-cow or spinal twists
  • Light tapping down the body
  • Fascia release: slow arm squeezes
  • Vagus nerve activation: hum, sigh, or “vooo”

Journal or JournalSpeak (10–20 min)

  • Free-write raw emotions or daily triggers
  • Use prompts:
     What part of me is here? What does it need? What truth needs to be spoken?
  • Follow with affirmations to rewire beliefs
     (e.g. I am safe. I am enough. I deserve peace.)

Short Meditation (1–5 min)

  • Breath focus, somatic tracking, or loving presence
  • Start small — even 1 minute is powerful

Get Outside (if possible)

  • Walk, breathe fresh air, sit in sunlight or nature
  • Ground yourself in the environment

Adapt to your needs

  • Low energy? Skip movement, extend breath and journaling
  • Overwhelmed? Focus on grounding only
  • Let it be supportive, not rigid

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17552455 Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1547 full false 82. Do You Have Neuroplastic Symptoms? Here's How to Know – with Dr. Howard Schubiner 82. Do You Have Neuroplastic Symptoms? Here's How to Know – with Dr. Howard Schubiner Dr. Howard Schubiner, pioneer in the mind-body medicine field, joins Grace to explore how many chronic symptoms are actually neuroplastic — created by the brain, and reversible. They discuss what defines a neuroplastic symptom, the key criteria to identify them, and how emotional trauma, misdiagnosis, and disconnection from the self contribute to chronic pain. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck in your healing journey, this episode could be your click moment.

In this episode:

  • What neuroplastic symptoms are — and how to know if you have them
  • Why chronic pain, fatigue, and anxiety often aren’t caused by structural issues
  • The FIT criteria: Functional, Inconsistent, and Triggered symptoms
  • How early life experiences shape the brain’s danger alarm system
  • The powerful role of assessment in healing
  • Why many standard therapies fail without addressing neuroplasticity
  • “Click moments” that spark major recovery shifts
  • The three core categories of neuroplastic recovery therapy
  • Emotional pain vs. physical pain — and how they light up the same brain pathways
  • The importance of human connection in the healing process

Connect with Dr. Howard Schubiner 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Dr. Howard Schubiner, pioneer in the mind-body medicine field, joins Grace to explore how many chronic symptoms are actually neuroplastic — created by the brain, and reversible. They discuss what defines a neuroplastic symptom, the key criteria to identify them, and how emotional trauma, misdiagnosis, and disconnection from the self contribute to chronic pain. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck in your healing journey, this episode could be your click moment.

In this episode:

  • What neuroplastic symptoms are — and how to know if you have them
  • Why chronic pain, fatigue, and anxiety often aren’t caused by structural issues
  • The FIT criteria: Functional, Inconsistent, and Triggered symptoms
  • How early life experiences shape the brain’s danger alarm system
  • The powerful role of assessment in healing
  • Why many standard therapies fail without addressing neuroplasticity
  • “Click moments” that spark major recovery shifts
  • The three core categories of neuroplastic recovery therapy
  • Emotional pain vs. physical pain — and how they light up the same brain pathways
  • The importance of human connection in the healing process

Connect with Dr. Howard Schubiner 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17523398 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2771 full false 81. From Spiraling to Soothing: Stop Catastrophizing 81. From Spiraling to Soothing: Stop Catastrophizing In this solo episode, Grace explores one of the most common mental habits that keeps people stuck in chronic symptoms and fear: catastrophizing. She breaks down why the brain defaults to worst-case-scenario thinking, how it impacts the nervous system, and what we can do instead to move through these spirals with presence and compassion.

Grace offers practical tools to help you recognize catastrophic thinking in the moment and shift into soothing, grounded awareness—so that fear doesn’t have to run the show.

In this episode, she shares:

  • What catastrophizing is (and why your brain does it)
  • How spiraling feeds the chronic pain and anxiety loop
  • Why your symptoms may be rooted in emotional suppression—not structural damage
  • Tools to ride the emotional wave instead of resisting it
  • How to reframe spirals and signal safety back to your body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace explores one of the most common mental habits that keeps people stuck in chronic symptoms and fear: catastrophizing. She breaks down why the brain defaults to worst-case-scenario thinking, how it impacts the nervous system, and what we can do instead to move through these spirals with presence and compassion.

Grace offers practical tools to help you recognize catastrophic thinking in the moment and shift into soothing, grounded awareness—so that fear doesn’t have to run the show.

In this episode, she shares:

  • What catastrophizing is (and why your brain does it)
  • How spiraling feeds the chronic pain and anxiety loop
  • Why your symptoms may be rooted in emotional suppression—not structural damage
  • Tools to ride the emotional wave instead of resisting it
  • How to reframe spirals and signal safety back to your body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17463310 Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1573 full false 80. What is Somatic Intelligence? A Conversation with Sheridan Ruth 80. What is Somatic Intelligence? A Conversation with Sheridan Ruth In this episode, Grace is joined by somatic coach and author Sheridan Ruth for a powerful and grounded conversation about nervous system regulation, trauma healing, and the concept of somatic intelligence. Sheridan shares her personal journey—from living with chronic PTSD to discovering the depth of somatic work—and how tuning into the body became the foundation of her transformation.

In this episode, they discuss:

  • What somatic intelligence really means (and how it differs from emotional intelligence)
  • Why traditional therapy or yoga alone might not be enough for deep healing
  • How slowing down can feel unsafe—and what to do when it does
  • The role of perfectionism in burnout and dysregulation
  • Why tuning into your body isn’t just healing—it’s a radical act of self-trust

Sheridan also offers simple ways to begin tuning into your body—starting with the question: What am I aware of right now?

Connect with Sheridan 

Podcast

Website

Instagram 

Book

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace is joined by somatic coach and author Sheridan Ruth for a powerful and grounded conversation about nervous system regulation, trauma healing, and the concept of somatic intelligence. Sheridan shares her personal journey—from living with chronic PTSD to discovering the depth of somatic work—and how tuning into the body became the foundation of her transformation.

In this episode, they discuss:

  • What somatic intelligence really means (and how it differs from emotional intelligence)
  • Why traditional therapy or yoga alone might not be enough for deep healing
  • How slowing down can feel unsafe—and what to do when it does
  • The role of perfectionism in burnout and dysregulation
  • Why tuning into your body isn’t just healing—it’s a radical act of self-trust

Sheridan also offers simple ways to begin tuning into your body—starting with the question: What am I aware of right now?

Connect with Sheridan 

Podcast

Website

Instagram 

Book

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17424116 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2120 full false 79. What Wellness Culture Gets Wrong About High Vibes Only 79. What Wellness Culture Gets Wrong About High Vibes Only Grace explores how the pursuit of high vibes only—while powerful—can sometimes lead to emotional bypassing. She shares how real healing comes not from avoiding pain, but from meeting it with presence.

In this episode, she shares:

  • Why positivity can’t replace emotional integration
  • How symptoms often signal what we haven’t felt
  • The power of letting grief, fear, and shame be seen
  • Why healing isn’t about fixing—it’s about feeling

This isn’t about rejecting high vibes. It’s about expanding them to include all of you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace explores how the pursuit of high vibes only—while powerful—can sometimes lead to emotional bypassing. She shares how real healing comes not from avoiding pain, but from meeting it with presence.

In this episode, she shares:

  • Why positivity can’t replace emotional integration
  • How symptoms often signal what we haven’t felt
  • The power of letting grief, fear, and shame be seen
  • Why healing isn’t about fixing—it’s about feeling

This isn’t about rejecting high vibes. It’s about expanding them to include all of you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17364580 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1093 full false 78. What is Healthy Anger? A Conversation with Amanda Curry 78. What is Healthy Anger? A Conversation with Amanda Curry In this powerful episode, Grace sits down with somatic coach and physical therapist Amanda Curry to explore the layered and often misunderstood emotion of anger—especially as it arises for women in postpartum seasons.

Amanda shares her personal experience with postpartum rage and how it became the starting point for deeper healing and self-inquiry. Together, they explore what it means to feel anger safely and fully, how emotional repression manifests in the body, and how women can reclaim anger as a source of vitality rather than something to suppress.

You will learn:

  • Why anger and rage are often avoided—especially by women
  • How to differentiate between your sensations and your sense of self
  • The role of somatic work in transforming reactivity into empowerment
  • What it looks like to cultivate inner fire with containment
  • How the Five Personality Patterns shape individual expressions of anger
  • Why emotional awareness is key for healing chronic pain and tension

Connect with Amanda:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this powerful episode, Grace sits down with somatic coach and physical therapist Amanda Curry to explore the layered and often misunderstood emotion of anger—especially as it arises for women in postpartum seasons.

Amanda shares her personal experience with postpartum rage and how it became the starting point for deeper healing and self-inquiry. Together, they explore what it means to feel anger safely and fully, how emotional repression manifests in the body, and how women can reclaim anger as a source of vitality rather than something to suppress.

You will learn:

  • Why anger and rage are often avoided—especially by women
  • How to differentiate between your sensations and your sense of self
  • The role of somatic work in transforming reactivity into empowerment
  • What it looks like to cultivate inner fire with containment
  • How the Five Personality Patterns shape individual expressions of anger
  • Why emotional awareness is key for healing chronic pain and tension

Connect with Amanda:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17364507 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2984 full false 77: Food Isn’t the Enemy: Reclaiming How You Eat 77: Food Isn’t the Enemy: Reclaiming How You Eat In this episode, Grace shares one of her most requested lessons—how to actually heal food sensitivities instead of just managing them.

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of cutting out gluten, dairy, sugar, histamines, or lectins—and still feel like your body reacts to everything—this one’s for you.

Grace breaks down:

  • Why your food reactions may have more to do with your nervous system than the food itself
  • How chronic stress and fear around food create a feedback loop that keeps you sick
  • What it means to truly feel safe while eating—and why that changes everything
  • Daily practices to rebuild trust with your body and begin expanding your tolerance again

This episode includes a full lesson from The Mind Body Healing Method, giving you a sneak peek at the deeper healing work Grace facilitates in her 3-month program.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace shares one of her most requested lessons—how to actually heal food sensitivities instead of just managing them.

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of cutting out gluten, dairy, sugar, histamines, or lectins—and still feel like your body reacts to everything—this one’s for you.

Grace breaks down:

  • Why your food reactions may have more to do with your nervous system than the food itself
  • How chronic stress and fear around food create a feedback loop that keeps you sick
  • What it means to truly feel safe while eating—and why that changes everything
  • Daily practices to rebuild trust with your body and begin expanding your tolerance again

This episode includes a full lesson from The Mind Body Healing Method, giving you a sneak peek at the deeper healing work Grace facilitates in her 3-month program.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17345251 Tue, 17 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1469 full false 76. From Burnout to Alignment: Healing the Body with Energy, Human Design & Deep Listening with Hope Pedraza 76. From Burnout to Alignment: Healing the Body with Energy, Human Design & Deep Listening with Hope Pedraza In this episode, Grace talks with Hope Pedraza, a functional practitioner and energy worker, about how human design can unlock deeper healing.

Hope shares how understanding your energetic blueprint can reveal why burnout, gut issues, and hormonal imbalances show up—and how to shift them. They explore the connection between your design type, chronic symptoms, and the journey back to alignment.

Perfect for anyone curious about using human design as a tool for self-understanding, healing, and embodiment.

Learn about Human Design

Podcast episode with Charlotte Wright

Connect with Hope: 

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Linkedin

Youtube

Podcast

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace talks with Hope Pedraza, a functional practitioner and energy worker, about how human design can unlock deeper healing.

Hope shares how understanding your energetic blueprint can reveal why burnout, gut issues, and hormonal imbalances show up—and how to shift them. They explore the connection between your design type, chronic symptoms, and the journey back to alignment.

Perfect for anyone curious about using human design as a tool for self-understanding, healing, and embodiment.

Learn about Human Design

Podcast episode with Charlotte Wright

Connect with Hope: 

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Linkedin

Youtube

Podcast

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17309470 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2381 full false 75. Why Your Pain Might Flare up Right Before It Fades 75. Why Your Pain Might Flare up Right Before It Fades In this solo episode, Grace breaks down a pivotal and often misunderstood part of the healing process: the extinction burst. If you’ve ever felt like your symptoms are flaring up just when you thought you were making progress—this conversation is for you.

She explains why temporary symptom spikes (or new symptoms altogether) can actually be a sign of healing, not failure. You’ll learn:

  • What an extinction burst is and why it happens
  • Why symptoms can feel worse before they shift
  • How to respond with compassion instead of fear
  • What it means when your healing feels like whack-a-mole
  • How to keep showing up for your life while still healing

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace breaks down a pivotal and often misunderstood part of the healing process: the extinction burst. If you’ve ever felt like your symptoms are flaring up just when you thought you were making progress—this conversation is for you.

She explains why temporary symptom spikes (or new symptoms altogether) can actually be a sign of healing, not failure. You’ll learn:

  • What an extinction burst is and why it happens
  • Why symptoms can feel worse before they shift
  • How to respond with compassion instead of fear
  • What it means when your healing feels like whack-a-mole
  • How to keep showing up for your life while still healing

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17197664 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1054 full false 74. How to Overcome Health Anxiety with Liana Mauro 74. How to Overcome Health Anxiety with Liana Mauro In this episode, Grace is joined again by somatic therapist and anxiety specialist Liana Mauro to explore the roots of health anxiety, how it shows up in the body, and what to do about it. They discuss how unresolved fear and trauma can drive physical symptoms, and offer grounded ways to reconnect with your body, break the fear cycle, and build a sense of safety. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, symptom flare-ups, or overwhelming worry, this conversation offers validation, tools, and hope.

Topics Covered:

  • What health anxiety really is and how it differs from hypochondria
  • How fear reinforces chronic symptoms—and how to interrupt the cycle
  • Why constant symptom scanning and Googling can make things worse
  • Creating true safety in the body (what that means & how to start)
  • The role of somatic tracking and nervous system regulation
  • Using joy and evidence journaling to retrain your brain
  • Why your body isn’t broken—and how it’s actually protecting you

Connect with Liana:

Website

Instagram 

Email: lianawellnesscoaching@gmail.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace is joined again by somatic therapist and anxiety specialist Liana Mauro to explore the roots of health anxiety, how it shows up in the body, and what to do about it. They discuss how unresolved fear and trauma can drive physical symptoms, and offer grounded ways to reconnect with your body, break the fear cycle, and build a sense of safety. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, symptom flare-ups, or overwhelming worry, this conversation offers validation, tools, and hope.

Topics Covered:

  • What health anxiety really is and how it differs from hypochondria
  • How fear reinforces chronic symptoms—and how to interrupt the cycle
  • Why constant symptom scanning and Googling can make things worse
  • Creating true safety in the body (what that means & how to start)
  • The role of somatic tracking and nervous system regulation
  • Using joy and evidence journaling to retrain your brain
  • Why your body isn’t broken—and how it’s actually protecting you

Connect with Liana:

Website

Instagram 

Email: lianawellnesscoaching@gmail.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17189854 Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600 2165 full false 73. The Emotional Roots of Physical Symptoms 73. The Emotional Roots of Physical Symptoms In this solo episode, Grace invites you into a powerful, heart-opening reflection on the emotional roots of physical symptoms. If you're “doing all the right things” and still not healing, this conversation might land deeply in your body and shift something within.

In this episode:

  • Why emotions—especially repressed ones—impact chronic symptoms
  • The science behind mind-body illness (TMS, Dr. Sarno, Gabor Maté, and more)
  • Emotional signatures that often show up in different parts of the body
  • Sneaky belief systems that keep you stuck in symptom loops
  • A guided somatic practice to tune into what your body is holding
  • Reminders that you’re not broken—your body is simply trying to protect you

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this solo episode, Grace invites you into a powerful, heart-opening reflection on the emotional roots of physical symptoms. If you're “doing all the right things” and still not healing, this conversation might land deeply in your body and shift something within.

In this episode:

  • Why emotions—especially repressed ones—impact chronic symptoms
  • The science behind mind-body illness (TMS, Dr. Sarno, Gabor Maté, and more)
  • Emotional signatures that often show up in different parts of the body
  • Sneaky belief systems that keep you stuck in symptom loops
  • A guided somatic practice to tune into what your body is holding
  • Reminders that you’re not broken—your body is simply trying to protect you

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17133537 Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1328 full false 72. Healing Chronic Pain as an Athlete with Charlie Merrill 72. Healing Chronic Pain as an Athlete with Charlie Merrill In this episode, Grace welcomes Boulder-based physical therapist Charlie Merrill for a deep dive into how chronic pain shows up in athletes—and why it’s often misunderstood. They unpack the science behind pain, how emotional stress plays a role, and what it really takes to heal.

Covered in this episode:

  • Why athletes are often overlooked in chronic pain treatment
  • How Charlie shifted from traditional PT to a mind-body approach
  • The brain’s role in interpreting pain (hint: it’s not all about injury)
  • Why MRI results can create fear—even when they don’t match symptoms
  • How identity and perfectionism play into athletic pain
  • What “sacred symptoms” are and how pain can guide deeper insight
  • Tips for reconnecting to joy and movement without fear

Connect with Charlie 

Website

Instagram

YouTube

X

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace welcomes Boulder-based physical therapist Charlie Merrill for a deep dive into how chronic pain shows up in athletes—and why it’s often misunderstood. They unpack the science behind pain, how emotional stress plays a role, and what it really takes to heal.

Covered in this episode:

  • Why athletes are often overlooked in chronic pain treatment
  • How Charlie shifted from traditional PT to a mind-body approach
  • The brain’s role in interpreting pain (hint: it’s not all about injury)
  • Why MRI results can create fear—even when they don’t match symptoms
  • How identity and perfectionism play into athletic pain
  • What “sacred symptoms” are and how pain can guide deeper insight
  • Tips for reconnecting to joy and movement without fear

Connect with Charlie 

Website

Instagram

YouTube

X

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17105388 Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600 3105 full false 71. Part 3 Subconscious Reprogramming for Chronic Healing 71. Part 3 Subconscious Reprogramming for Chronic Healing In the final part of the Missing Pieces in Your Healing series, we dive into one of the most overlooked aspects of healing: subconscious reprogramming. If you’ve ever felt like you know what to do but still find yourself stuck in the same patterns, this episode is for you.

We’ll explore:

  • Why healing can’t happen from a state of stress or fear
  • What subconscious reprogramming actually means (hint: it’s more than just positive affirmations)
  • How your nervous system responds to deeper belief systems, not just conscious thoughts
  • What shifting your state of being looks like and why it’s key for lasting healing
  • My own journey learning to move from survival to safety

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In the final part of the Missing Pieces in Your Healing series, we dive into one of the most overlooked aspects of healing: subconscious reprogramming. If you’ve ever felt like you know what to do but still find yourself stuck in the same patterns, this episode is for you.

We’ll explore:

  • Why healing can’t happen from a state of stress or fear
  • What subconscious reprogramming actually means (hint: it’s more than just positive affirmations)
  • How your nervous system responds to deeper belief systems, not just conscious thoughts
  • What shifting your state of being looks like and why it’s key for lasting healing
  • My own journey learning to move from survival to safety

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17045030 Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1261 full false 70. Part 2: How the Nervous System impacts your health 70. Part 2: How the Nervous System impacts your health In part two of The Missing Pieces in Your Healing series, Grace dives into what she believes is the most essential—and often ignored—element in chronic illness and pain recovery: your nervous system.

She breaks down:

  • What the nervous system actually is and how it operates
  • Why chronic stress responses (like fight, flight, freeze, and fawn) keep you stuck
  • How nervous system dysregulation leads to symptoms like fatigue, pain, and food sensitivities
  • What true healing requires beyond supplements, protocols, and mindset work
  • A real client story to show how nervous system regulation creates real transformation

If you've been doing everything right and still aren't seeing change, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do next.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In part two of The Missing Pieces in Your Healing series, Grace dives into what she believes is the most essential—and often ignored—element in chronic illness and pain recovery: your nervous system.

She breaks down:

  • What the nervous system actually is and how it operates
  • Why chronic stress responses (like fight, flight, freeze, and fawn) keep you stuck
  • How nervous system dysregulation leads to symptoms like fatigue, pain, and food sensitivities
  • What true healing requires beyond supplements, protocols, and mindset work
  • A real client story to show how nervous system regulation creates real transformation

If you've been doing everything right and still aren't seeing change, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do next.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-17003699 Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1347 full false 69. Part 1: The Missing Pieces in Your Healing 69. Part 1: The Missing Pieces in Your Healing In this first episode of a 3-part series on the missing pieces in your healing, Grace explores why you might still be stuck in chronic symptoms—despite doing all the "right" things. She unpacks the deeper blueprint behind your healing efforts, explains how urgency and control often block progress, and introduces a new way forward: one rooted in nervous system safety, presence, and self-trust. If you're tired of trying to fix your body and are ready to work with it instead, this one's for you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this first episode of a 3-part series on the missing pieces in your healing, Grace explores why you might still be stuck in chronic symptoms—despite doing all the "right" things. She unpacks the deeper blueprint behind your healing efforts, explains how urgency and control often block progress, and introduces a new way forward: one rooted in nervous system safety, presence, and self-trust. If you're tired of trying to fix your body and are ready to work with it instead, this one's for you.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16948994 Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:00:00 -0600 1312 full false 68. 5 Chronic Pain Myths 68. 5 Chronic Pain Myths If you're dealing with chronic pain—whether it's neck, back, or mystery pain doctors can't explain—this episode is for you. Grace breaks down 5 common myths about chronic pain and explains why so many people stay stuck in cycles of frustration, fear, and symptom management.

You’ll learn why pain doesn’t always mean damage, why more meds and physical therapy might not be helping, and what actually needs to happen for your body to start healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> If you're dealing with chronic pain—whether it's neck, back, or mystery pain doctors can't explain—this episode is for you. Grace breaks down 5 common myths about chronic pain and explains why so many people stay stuck in cycles of frustration, fear, and symptom management.

You’ll learn why pain doesn’t always mean damage, why more meds and physical therapy might not be helping, and what actually needs to happen for your body to start healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16919153 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1360 full false 67. The Overlap Between Eating Disorders and Chronic Illness 67. The Overlap Between Eating Disorders and Chronic Illness In this episode of, Grace dives deep into a topic that affects so many of us—disordered relationships with food, especially for those navigating chronic illness and pain. Grace explores how perfectionism, control, and fear around food often intersect with chronic symptoms, leading to a cycle of anxiety, restriction, and dysregulation. 

She shares her personal journey with disordered eating and how rigid food rules worsened her symptoms. Grace breaks down the subtle but dangerous shift from mindful eating to fear-based eating, the personality traits that make people with chronic illness more vulnerable to disordered eating, and how wellness culture and functional medicine can unintentionally lead to harmful restrictions.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How chronic illness and disordered eating mimic each other
  • Why perfectionism and control around food often lead to more harm
  • The key differences between mindful eating and fear-based eating
  • How fear of food impacts digestion, inflammation, and nervous system regulation
  • Why rigid wellness culture rules may be sabotaging your healing journey
  • Practical ways to heal your relationship with food and build trust with your body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of, Grace dives deep into a topic that affects so many of us—disordered relationships with food, especially for those navigating chronic illness and pain. Grace explores how perfectionism, control, and fear around food often intersect with chronic symptoms, leading to a cycle of anxiety, restriction, and dysregulation. 

She shares her personal journey with disordered eating and how rigid food rules worsened her symptoms. Grace breaks down the subtle but dangerous shift from mindful eating to fear-based eating, the personality traits that make people with chronic illness more vulnerable to disordered eating, and how wellness culture and functional medicine can unintentionally lead to harmful restrictions.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How chronic illness and disordered eating mimic each other
  • Why perfectionism and control around food often lead to more harm
  • The key differences between mindful eating and fear-based eating
  • How fear of food impacts digestion, inflammation, and nervous system regulation
  • Why rigid wellness culture rules may be sabotaging your healing journey
  • Practical ways to heal your relationship with food and build trust with your body

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16872573 Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1787 full false 66. Sensory Processing and Chronic Illness with Dr. Satya Sardonicus 66. Sensory Processing and Chronic Illness with Dr. Satya Sardonicus In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Satya Sardonicus to explore the deep connection between fascia, the nervous system, and chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Dr. Satya shares her personal healing journey, the development of her Neurofascial Flow Method, and how unresolved tension in the body contributes to long-term pain and dysregulation.

They dive into:

  • Why fascia plays a key role in chronic illness
  • How the body's survival responses impact healing
  • How to create true safety in the nervous system before making changes
  • A simple self-test for nervous system regulation and practical tools for relieving tension
  • Why conventional approaches often fail and how to work with your body instead of against it

Dr. Satya also shares details on her Inside the Chrysalis membership, where she teaches people how to use Neurofascial Flow for long-term healing.

Connect with Dr. Satya:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace sits down with Dr. Satya Sardonicus to explore the deep connection between fascia, the nervous system, and chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Dr. Satya shares her personal healing journey, the development of her Neurofascial Flow Method, and how unresolved tension in the body contributes to long-term pain and dysregulation.

They dive into:

  • Why fascia plays a key role in chronic illness
  • How the body's survival responses impact healing
  • How to create true safety in the nervous system before making changes
  • A simple self-test for nervous system regulation and practical tools for relieving tension
  • Why conventional approaches often fail and how to work with your body instead of against it

Dr. Satya also shares details on her Inside the Chrysalis membership, where she teaches people how to use Neurofascial Flow for long-term healing.

Connect with Dr. Satya:

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16818765 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600 3211 full false 65. Shame Resiliency: How it Manifests Physically and Emotionally 65. Shame Resiliency: How it Manifests Physically and Emotionally In this episode, Grace dives deep into the powerful and often hidden force of shame—how it shapes our thoughts, bodies, and lives. She explores the difference between shame and guilt, how shame manifests physically and emotionally, and why so many of us carry it unknowingly.

Shame thrives in secrecy, but the good news is that we can build resilience, release its hold, and move toward healing. Grace shares practical tools for recognizing and processing shame, from nervous system regulation to self-compassion and the power of community.

If you've ever struggled with self-worth, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or feeling like you're "not enough," this episode will help you uncover the deeper layers of shame and learn how to rewrite the narrative.

What We Cover:

  • The difference between shame and guilt
  • How shame manifests in the body and nervous system
  • The connection between shame and chronic pain
  • Why perfectionism and people-pleasing are shame-based responses
  • How to build shame resilience through self-compassion and nervous system work
  • The healing power of speaking your shame out loud
  • Practical tools to release shame and step into self-acceptance

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace dives deep into the powerful and often hidden force of shame—how it shapes our thoughts, bodies, and lives. She explores the difference between shame and guilt, how shame manifests physically and emotionally, and why so many of us carry it unknowingly.

Shame thrives in secrecy, but the good news is that we can build resilience, release its hold, and move toward healing. Grace shares practical tools for recognizing and processing shame, from nervous system regulation to self-compassion and the power of community.

If you've ever struggled with self-worth, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or feeling like you're "not enough," this episode will help you uncover the deeper layers of shame and learn how to rewrite the narrative.

What We Cover:

  • The difference between shame and guilt
  • How shame manifests in the body and nervous system
  • The connection between shame and chronic pain
  • Why perfectionism and people-pleasing are shame-based responses
  • How to build shame resilience through self-compassion and nervous system work
  • The healing power of speaking your shame out loud
  • Practical tools to release shame and step into self-acceptance

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16794655 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1600 full false 64. The Underlying Needs of Chronic Pain with Mike Williams 64. The Underlying Needs of Chronic Pain with Mike Williams In this episode, Grace welcomes Mike Williams, a former investment banker turned pain reprocessing and somatic therapy practitioner. Mike shares how his journey from finance to healing work was shaped by growing up with parents who had chronic pain. He now specializes in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Hakomi, a mindfulness-based somatic psychology approach that uncovers the emotional and psychological layers beneath chronic pain.

Together, they explore how subconscious beliefs, stress, and identity patterns shape our physical experiences—and how understanding these hidden dynamics can unlock true healing. Mike also shares real client stories and practical ways to reconnect with the body, shift limiting patterns, and establish a sense of safety for lasting relief.

What We Cover:

  • How stress, emotions, and subconscious beliefs influence chronic pain
  • What Hakomi is and how it helps uncover the root causes of pain
  • The connection between self-worth, control, and physical symptoms
  • How pain can reflect unmet needs and emotional barriers
  • Why slowing down is key to healing and nervous system regulation
  • The power of curiosity and experimentation in the healing process
  • When deeper emotional work may be needed beyond PRT
  • How to make sustainable, integrated shifts for long-term recovery

If you’ve struggled with chronic pain, stress-related symptoms, or feeling stuck in your healing journey, this episode will help you reframe your relationship with pain and open the door to deeper healing.

Connect with Mike

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace welcomes Mike Williams, a former investment banker turned pain reprocessing and somatic therapy practitioner. Mike shares how his journey from finance to healing work was shaped by growing up with parents who had chronic pain. He now specializes in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and Hakomi, a mindfulness-based somatic psychology approach that uncovers the emotional and psychological layers beneath chronic pain.

Together, they explore how subconscious beliefs, stress, and identity patterns shape our physical experiences—and how understanding these hidden dynamics can unlock true healing. Mike also shares real client stories and practical ways to reconnect with the body, shift limiting patterns, and establish a sense of safety for lasting relief.

What We Cover:

  • How stress, emotions, and subconscious beliefs influence chronic pain
  • What Hakomi is and how it helps uncover the root causes of pain
  • The connection between self-worth, control, and physical symptoms
  • How pain can reflect unmet needs and emotional barriers
  • Why slowing down is key to healing and nervous system regulation
  • The power of curiosity and experimentation in the healing process
  • When deeper emotional work may be needed beyond PRT
  • How to make sustainable, integrated shifts for long-term recovery

If you’ve struggled with chronic pain, stress-related symptoms, or feeling stuck in your healing journey, this episode will help you reframe your relationship with pain and open the door to deeper healing.

Connect with Mike

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16768653 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600 2159 full false 63. Q&A: Your questions answered! 63. Q&A: Your questions answered! In this episode, Grace answers listener-submitted questions on mental, emotional, and spiritual health. She explores the connection between thoughts and emotions, how to retrain the brain for healing, and why food sensitivities may be linked to the nervous system.

Grace unpacks:

  • How to differentiate between thoughts and emotions while healing
  • The impact of negative thought loops on the body
  • Visualization techniques for managing symptom-related anxiety
  • Overcoming motivation struggles with ADHD and anxiety
  • The connection between food sensitivities and nervous system responses

Through detailed explanations and practical tools, Grace provides guidance on building self-awareness, regulating emotions, and creating a healing mindset.

Healing IBS Through Your Nervous System as a Dietician  

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace answers listener-submitted questions on mental, emotional, and spiritual health. She explores the connection between thoughts and emotions, how to retrain the brain for healing, and why food sensitivities may be linked to the nervous system.

Grace unpacks:

  • How to differentiate between thoughts and emotions while healing
  • The impact of negative thought loops on the body
  • Visualization techniques for managing symptom-related anxiety
  • Overcoming motivation struggles with ADHD and anxiety
  • The connection between food sensitivities and nervous system responses

Through detailed explanations and practical tools, Grace provides guidance on building self-awareness, regulating emotions, and creating a healing mindset.

Healing IBS Through Your Nervous System as a Dietician  

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16711726 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600 1371 full false 62. Recovering from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea and Eating Disorders 62. Recovering from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea and Eating Disorders In this episode, Grace welcomes Claudia, a nutrition and dietetic consultant, to explore how stress, food restriction, and overtraining disrupt hormonal health. They discuss hypothalamic amenorrhea, the nervous system’s role in fertility, and the mindset shifts essential for healing. Claudia shares practical steps to restore balance, reconnect with your body, and support long-term recovery.

What We Cover:

  • What hypothalamic amenorrhea is and why it happens
  • How stress, disordered eating, and overtraining affect hormones
  • The link between the nervous system, feminine energy, and fertility
  • Why self-worth and identity shifts are key to healing
  • Practical steps to restore your period and support hormone health
  • Moving from control to surrender in recovery
  • How misdiagnoses like PCOS can delay healing
  • The role of IVF, birth control, and nutrition in hormonal balance

If you’ve struggled with a missing period, fertility challenges, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode will help you slow down, listen to your body, and find a sustainable path to healing.

Connect with Claudia:
Instagram: @ha.fertility.nutritionist
YouTube: @nourishedbyclaudia
Facebook: @nourishedbyclaudia

The Slow Down Diet 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace welcomes Claudia, a nutrition and dietetic consultant, to explore how stress, food restriction, and overtraining disrupt hormonal health. They discuss hypothalamic amenorrhea, the nervous system’s role in fertility, and the mindset shifts essential for healing. Claudia shares practical steps to restore balance, reconnect with your body, and support long-term recovery.

What We Cover:

  • What hypothalamic amenorrhea is and why it happens
  • How stress, disordered eating, and overtraining affect hormones
  • The link between the nervous system, feminine energy, and fertility
  • Why self-worth and identity shifts are key to healing
  • Practical steps to restore your period and support hormone health
  • Moving from control to surrender in recovery
  • How misdiagnoses like PCOS can delay healing
  • The role of IVF, birth control, and nutrition in hormonal balance

If you’ve struggled with a missing period, fertility challenges, or feeling disconnected from your body, this episode will help you slow down, listen to your body, and find a sustainable path to healing.

Connect with Claudia:
Instagram: @ha.fertility.nutritionist
YouTube: @nourishedbyclaudia
Facebook: @nourishedbyclaudia

The Slow Down Diet 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16671289 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0600 2659 full false 61. Your Inner Critic Is Keeping You Sick: How to Silence Self-Doubt 61. Your Inner Critic Is Keeping You Sick: How to Silence Self-Doubt In this episode, Grace explores the voice that holds so many people back—the inner critic. That relentless self-doubt, the voice that whispers “you’re not enough,” can keep the mind and body stuck in cycles of stress, making true healing feel out of reach.

Grace unpacks:

  • How negative self-talk impacts the body and mind
  • The connection between self-judgment and chronic stress
  • Where the inner critic comes from and why it develops
  • How to rewrite inner dialogue with self-compassion
  • Practical steps to shift from self-criticism to self-kindness

Healing begins with creating a safe, supportive space within. Through this conversation, Grace guides listeners on how to release self-doubt, embrace self-worth, and build a foundation for lasting inner healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace explores the voice that holds so many people back—the inner critic. That relentless self-doubt, the voice that whispers “you’re not enough,” can keep the mind and body stuck in cycles of stress, making true healing feel out of reach.

Grace unpacks:

  • How negative self-talk impacts the body and mind
  • The connection between self-judgment and chronic stress
  • Where the inner critic comes from and why it develops
  • How to rewrite inner dialogue with self-compassion
  • Practical steps to shift from self-criticism to self-kindness

Healing begins with creating a safe, supportive space within. Through this conversation, Grace guides listeners on how to release self-doubt, embrace self-worth, and build a foundation for lasting inner healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16665020 Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1568 full false 60. The Power of Connection with Adam Dorsay 60. The Power of Connection with Adam Dorsay In this episode, Grace dives into the science and necessity of human connection with psychologist and Super Psyched podcast host, Dr. Adam Dorsay. They explore how connection—whether with ourselves, others, the world, or something greater—plays a crucial role in emotional and physical well-being.

Key Topics:

  • How deep connection regulates the nervous system and aids healing
  • Why loneliness can mimic physical pain and impact chronic illness
  • The underestimated power of pets in emotional regulation
  • The science of awe and how it can shift our mindset
  • How to identify nourishing vs. draining relationships
  • Practical ways to rebuild social connection, even when it feels impossible

Dr. Dorsay also shares insights from his book Super Psyched, emphasizing that connection isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for a full, vibrant life. If you’re feeling isolated or struggling to connect, this conversation will leave you with practical ways to cultivate deeper relationships and reclaim your sense of belonging.

Resources Mentioned in Podcast:
Ester Perel

Harville & Helen

Connect with Adam:

Super Psyched Book

SuperpsychedPodcast on IG

Dr. Adam Dorsay website

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace dives into the science and necessity of human connection with psychologist and Super Psyched podcast host, Dr. Adam Dorsay. They explore how connection—whether with ourselves, others, the world, or something greater—plays a crucial role in emotional and physical well-being.

Key Topics:

  • How deep connection regulates the nervous system and aids healing
  • Why loneliness can mimic physical pain and impact chronic illness
  • The underestimated power of pets in emotional regulation
  • The science of awe and how it can shift our mindset
  • How to identify nourishing vs. draining relationships
  • Practical ways to rebuild social connection, even when it feels impossible

Dr. Dorsay also shares insights from his book Super Psyched, emphasizing that connection isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for a full, vibrant life. If you’re feeling isolated or struggling to connect, this conversation will leave you with practical ways to cultivate deeper relationships and reclaim your sense of belonging.

Resources Mentioned in Podcast:
Ester Perel

Harville & Helen

Connect with Adam:

Super Psyched Book

SuperpsychedPodcast on IG

Dr. Adam Dorsay website

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16638413 Tue, 18 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0600 2714 full false 59. Healing Isn’t Linear: Why Setbacks Are Part of the Journey 59. Healing Isn’t Linear: Why Setbacks Are Part of the Journey In this episode of Heal with Grace, Grace explores why setbacks are a natural part of healing and how to navigate them with self-compassion. Healing isn’t a straight path—it’s full of twists, turns, and moments that challenge us. Grace unpacks why resistance happens, how our nervous system responds to change, and why setbacks don’t erase progress.

She shares practical tools to reframe setbacks, regulate emotions, and build resilience. To close, she leads a guided reflection to help you shift your perspective and trust your journey—even when it feels messy.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of Heal with Grace, Grace explores why setbacks are a natural part of healing and how to navigate them with self-compassion. Healing isn’t a straight path—it’s full of twists, turns, and moments that challenge us. Grace unpacks why resistance happens, how our nervous system responds to change, and why setbacks don’t erase progress.

She shares practical tools to reframe setbacks, regulate emotions, and build resilience. To close, she leads a guided reflection to help you shift your perspective and trust your journey—even when it feels messy.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16583595 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0600 1567 full false 58. Letting Go of Perfectionism 58. Letting Go of Perfectionism In this episode, Grace explores the impact of perfectionism—how it subtly takes hold, shapes our self-worth, and fuels stress, self-doubt, and even chronic symptoms. She unpacks the hidden ways perfectionism manifests, from overthinking and procrastination to the relentless pressure of hustle culture. Through personal insights and reflections, Grace breaks down why society rewards busyness, how perfectionism affects the healing process, and the importance of shifting toward self-compassion. She also leads a powerful guided reflection to help listeners identify and release perfectionistic tendencies, fostering a mindset of ease, trust, and outcome independence.

Learn about Human Design with Charlotte Wright 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace explores the impact of perfectionism—how it subtly takes hold, shapes our self-worth, and fuels stress, self-doubt, and even chronic symptoms. She unpacks the hidden ways perfectionism manifests, from overthinking and procrastination to the relentless pressure of hustle culture. Through personal insights and reflections, Grace breaks down why society rewards busyness, how perfectionism affects the healing process, and the importance of shifting toward self-compassion. She also leads a powerful guided reflection to help listeners identify and release perfectionistic tendencies, fostering a mindset of ease, trust, and outcome independence.

Learn about Human Design with Charlotte Wright 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16555743 Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2244 full false 57. The benefits of sound healing with Julie Afsahi and Jessica Cross 57. The benefits of sound healing with Julie Afsahi and Jessica Cross In this episode, Grace hosts sound healing experts Jessica and Julie to delve into the benefits and practices of sound healing through their recently published book 'Seasons of Sound.' They discuss the origins and effects of sound healing, the importance of a trauma-sensitive approach, and the different modalities and instruments used. The conversation highlights the accessibility and adaptability of sound healing practices, the significance of aligning with seasonal changes, and the growing interest in sound healing across diverse fields, from corporate wellness to neurodivergent communities.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace hosts sound healing experts Jessica and Julie to delve into the benefits and practices of sound healing through their recently published book 'Seasons of Sound.' They discuss the origins and effects of sound healing, the importance of a trauma-sensitive approach, and the different modalities and instruments used. The conversation highlights the accessibility and adaptability of sound healing practices, the significance of aligning with seasonal changes, and the growing interest in sound healing across diverse fields, from corporate wellness to neurodivergent communities.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Julie Afsahi and Jessica Cross Buzzsprout-16139378 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2669 51, Julie Afsahi, Jessica Cross, 57 full false 56. Q & A - your questions answered! 56. Q & A - your questions answered! In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace answers listener questions about healing and navigating the complexities of mind-body health. Topics include managing perfectionism tendencies, handling the disappearance of chronic symptoms, maintaining a mindset when struggling to feel understood, and dealing with IBS and complex PTSD. Grace also announces new individual coaching spots with her and therapist Liana, emphasising the importance of personalised support in nervous system regulation. Tune in for practical advice and compassionate guidance for your healing journey.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace answers listener questions about healing and navigating the complexities of mind-body health. Topics include managing perfectionism tendencies, handling the disappearance of chronic symptoms, maintaining a mindset when struggling to feel understood, and dealing with IBS and complex PTSD. Grace also announces new individual coaching spots with her and therapist Liana, emphasising the importance of personalised support in nervous system regulation. Tune in for practical advice and compassionate guidance for your healing journey.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16434511 Tue, 21 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600 1566 56, Q&A, 56 full false 55. Trauma & Chronic pain through pain reprocessing therapy with Vanessa & Olivia 55. Trauma & Chronic pain through pain reprocessing therapy with Vanessa & Olivia In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Vanessa Blackstone, MSW and Olivia Salisbury Sinaiko, LPC specialists in pain reprocessing therapy, share their experiences and insights about their newly released workbook. They discuss their backgrounds, the journey to developing the workbook, and the importance of addressing trauma in pain therapy. Highlighting the need for tools that make therapy accessible and engaging, they cover the significance of non-linear progress, overcoming urgency, and the value of personalising therapeutic practices. With a warm and playful approach, their workbook aims to be a companion for those seeking to manage chronic pain and transform their relationship with it. The conversation also touches on practical steps, like avoiding aggressive messaging of safety and being mindful of outcome dependence. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and the joys of gardening, reflecting the authors' down-to-earth and relatable nature. Overall, this talk provides a thorough understanding of the principles and applications of pain reprocessing therapy.

Episode Resources
Pain Reprocessing Therapy Workbook

Episode: 34

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Vanessa Blackstone, MSW and Olivia Salisbury Sinaiko, LPC specialists in pain reprocessing therapy, share their experiences and insights about their newly released workbook. They discuss their backgrounds, the journey to developing the workbook, and the importance of addressing trauma in pain therapy. Highlighting the need for tools that make therapy accessible and engaging, they cover the significance of non-linear progress, overcoming urgency, and the value of personalising therapeutic practices. With a warm and playful approach, their workbook aims to be a companion for those seeking to manage chronic pain and transform their relationship with it. The conversation also touches on practical steps, like avoiding aggressive messaging of safety and being mindful of outcome dependence. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and the joys of gardening, reflecting the authors' down-to-earth and relatable nature. Overall, this talk provides a thorough understanding of the principles and applications of pain reprocessing therapy.

Episode Resources
Pain Reprocessing Therapy Workbook

Episode: 34

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]]> Grace Secker / Vanessa and Olivia Buzzsprout-16369158 Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600 3088 55, 55 full false 54. BTS: What did & didn't work in 2024 and What's ahead for 2025 54. BTS: What did & didn't work in 2024 and What's ahead for 2025 In this episode, Grace reflects on the lessons learned from 2024 and discusses plans for moving forward into 2025. Key topics include acknowledging and learning from what didn't work, such as overcommitting and not listening to one's own body, and highlighting the importance of being authentic, slowing down, and seeking support. She also emphasises the significance of trusting intuition, building community, understanding the subconscious, and setting personal boundaries for better mental, emotional, and physical health in the coming year.

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]]> In this episode, Grace reflects on the lessons learned from 2024 and discusses plans for moving forward into 2025. Key topics include acknowledging and learning from what didn't work, such as overcommitting and not listening to one's own body, and highlighting the importance of being authentic, slowing down, and seeking support. She also emphasises the significance of trusting intuition, building community, understanding the subconscious, and setting personal boundaries for better mental, emotional, and physical health in the coming year.

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16308389 Tue, 07 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0600 2103 54 54 full false 53. Best of 2024 - Ep. 31: How to know which nervous system state you're in 53. Best of 2024 - Ep. 31: How to know which nervous system state you're in In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace explores how to identify the state of your nervous system using the polyvagal theory. Introduced by Dr. Stephen Porges in 1994, the polyvagal theory categorises the nervous system into three states: ventral vagal (green zone), sympathetic (yellow zone), and dorsal vagal (red zone). Grace explains how each state impacts mental, physical, and emotional health and provides practical tips on how to move between these states effectively. Emphasising self-care and understanding individual responses, the episode offers insights into maintaining a balanced and regulated nervous system for overall well-being.

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace explores how to identify the state of your nervous system using the polyvagal theory. Introduced by Dr. Stephen Porges in 1994, the polyvagal theory categorises the nervous system into three states: ventral vagal (green zone), sympathetic (yellow zone), and dorsal vagal (red zone). Grace explains how each state impacts mental, physical, and emotional health and provides practical tips on how to move between these states effectively. Emphasising self-care and understanding individual responses, the episode offers insights into maintaining a balanced and regulated nervous system for overall well-being.

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16293031 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600 2144 53 53 full false 52. Best of 2024: Ep. 24 How to create your own authentic messages of safety 52. Best of 2024: Ep. 24 How to create your own authentic messages of safety In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace interviews Vanessa Blackstone, the executive director of the Pain Psychology Center. Vanessa, who has a background in social work and is a citizen of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, shares her journey from dealing with her own chronic pain to becoming a therapist in pain reprocessing therapy (PRT). They delve into the concept of PRT, explaining how it aims to address the neural pathways in the brain that perpetuate chronic pain by creating messages of safety and soothing the nervous system. Vanessa discusses the challenges of establishing a sense of safety, particularly for those who didn't grow up in secure environments. Through her personal stories and therapeutic experiences, she emphasises the importance of slowing down, understanding one's emotions, and using authentic messages of safety to foster healing. The episode also touches on the broader aspects of creating safety in one's current life and explores how our past and present environments influence our sense of security

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace interviews Vanessa Blackstone, the executive director of the Pain Psychology Center. Vanessa, who has a background in social work and is a citizen of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, shares her journey from dealing with her own chronic pain to becoming a therapist in pain reprocessing therapy (PRT). They delve into the concept of PRT, explaining how it aims to address the neural pathways in the brain that perpetuate chronic pain by creating messages of safety and soothing the nervous system. Vanessa discusses the challenges of establishing a sense of safety, particularly for those who didn't grow up in secure environments. Through her personal stories and therapeutic experiences, she emphasises the importance of slowing down, understanding one's emotions, and using authentic messages of safety to foster healing. The episode also touches on the broader aspects of creating safety in one's current life and explores how our past and present environments influence our sense of security

How to work with Grace:

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16246900 Tue, 24 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600 3514 full false 51. Finding Comfort & Connection When You Feel Alone During the Holidays 51. Finding Comfort & Connection When You Feel Alone During the Holidays In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace welcomes back Liana, a mind and body therapist from Elevate Therapy and Wellness, to discuss the emotional challenges the holiday season can bring, including loneliness, grief, and stress from family dynamics. They delve into how these feelings affect the nervous system and offer practical tips for managing emotions, finding meaningful connections, and setting boundaries with family. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging and honouring one's feelings, understanding the body's need for social connection, and finding balance in holiday traditions.

Grief Episode

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace welcomes back Liana, a mind and body therapist from Elevate Therapy and Wellness, to discuss the emotional challenges the holiday season can bring, including loneliness, grief, and stress from family dynamics. They delve into how these feelings affect the nervous system and offer practical tips for managing emotions, finding meaningful connections, and setting boundaries with family. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging and honouring one's feelings, understanding the body's need for social connection, and finding balance in holiday traditions.

Grief Episode

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]]> Grace Secker / Liana Maurno Buzzsprout-16246690 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2332 51, loneliness, holidays, 51 full false 40. "When they can't find anything wrong!" with Dr. David Clarke 40. "When they can't find anything wrong!" with Dr. David Clarke In this empowering episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace is joined by Dr. David D. Clarke, MD, president of the Psychophysiological Disorders Association and Clinical Assistant Professor Emeritus of Gastroenterology at Oregon Health and Science University. Dr. Clarke brings his extensive experience in treating over 7,000 patients with symptoms from stress or trauma, not explained by disease or injury. He discusses his holistic approach to treating patients, integrating physical treatments with emotional expression and understanding brain-based origins of conditions. The conversation offers valuable insights into the reality of these disorders and how to heal from them effectively.

Find Dr. Clarke here

PPDA website

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]]> In this empowering episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace is joined by Dr. David D. Clarke, MD, president of the Psychophysiological Disorders Association and Clinical Assistant Professor Emeritus of Gastroenterology at Oregon Health and Science University. Dr. Clarke brings his extensive experience in treating over 7,000 patients with symptoms from stress or trauma, not explained by disease or injury. He discusses his holistic approach to treating patients, integrating physical treatments with emotional expression and understanding brain-based origins of conditions. The conversation offers valuable insights into the reality of these disorders and how to heal from them effectively.

Find Dr. Clarke here

PPDA website

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]]> Grace Secker / Dr David Clark Buzzsprout-15761515 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600 2823 #40, #DrDavidClark #Brain-BasedDisorders 40 full false 50. When Awareness Isn’t Enough: The Next Steps to Heal Your Nervous System 50. When Awareness Isn’t Enough: The Next Steps to Heal Your Nervous System In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace addresses a common question about overcoming the feeling of being stuck in one's healing journey. She discusses the importance of moving from awareness to action, exploring deeper emotional work, and reconnecting with authenticity. Grace emphasises the value of personal support, self-compassion, and specific practices like journal speak to facilitate true healing. The episode also covers practical examples and steps to help listeners navigate their emotional patterns and live more authentically. Grace invites listeners to submit their questions for future Q&A episodes.

Podcast Mentioned:
Why Journaling is Important and How to Use it

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace addresses a common question about overcoming the feeling of being stuck in one's healing journey. She discusses the importance of moving from awareness to action, exploring deeper emotional work, and reconnecting with authenticity. Grace emphasises the value of personal support, self-compassion, and specific practices like journal speak to facilitate true healing. The episode also covers practical examples and steps to help listeners navigate their emotional patterns and live more authentically. Grace invites listeners to submit their questions for future Q&A episodes.

Podcast Mentioned:
Why Journaling is Important and How to Use it

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16153507 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600 2178 50, Nervous System, 50 full false 49. 3 simple steps to be your best self with Isabelle Tierney 49. 3 simple steps to be your best self with Isabelle Tierney In this episode, Isabelle returns to dive deeper into the 'Feel Good Life' methodology. She shares her personal journey from a trauma-filled childhood and eating disorders to becoming a licensed therapist and developing a groundbreaking approach to nervous system regulation. Isabelle discusses how exhaustion and burnout led to a pivotal transformation and the creation of a methodology that quickly helps manage stress responses. The three-step process—awareness, stopping, slowing down with breathing, and practicing feel-good habits—is explored in detail, showcasing its application even in extreme situations like jail. The conversation highlights the power of shifting from red zone (stress) to green zone (thriving) and emphasises self-compassion, awareness, and the importance of persevering no matter what life throws at you. The episode ends with practical tips and resources for listeners to implement the methodology in their own lives.

Connect with Isabelle
Feel Good Life Website
Life Audit Quiz

Resources mentioned
Previous Podcast Episode with Isabelle

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Isabelle returns to dive deeper into the 'Feel Good Life' methodology. She shares her personal journey from a trauma-filled childhood and eating disorders to becoming a licensed therapist and developing a groundbreaking approach to nervous system regulation. Isabelle discusses how exhaustion and burnout led to a pivotal transformation and the creation of a methodology that quickly helps manage stress responses. The three-step process—awareness, stopping, slowing down with breathing, and practicing feel-good habits—is explored in detail, showcasing its application even in extreme situations like jail. The conversation highlights the power of shifting from red zone (stress) to green zone (thriving) and emphasises self-compassion, awareness, and the importance of persevering no matter what life throws at you. The episode ends with practical tips and resources for listeners to implement the methodology in their own lives.

Connect with Isabelle
Feel Good Life Website
Life Audit Quiz

Resources mentioned
Previous Podcast Episode with Isabelle

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Isabelle Tierney Buzzsprout-16064036 Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0600 3389 49, isabelle tierney, 49 full false 48. Intuitive Eating over the Holidays with Sydney Greene 48. Intuitive Eating over the Holidays with Sydney Greene In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace sits down with dietitian Sydney Greene to discuss the complexities of eating disorders, disordered eating, and mental health. Sydney shares her journey to becoming a registered dietitian and how her personal struggles with food and sobriety have shaped her practice. They delve into the concept of intuitive eating and its challenges, particularly for those recovering from restrictive eating patterns. As the holidays approach, Sydney offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with food amidst family gatherings and societal pressures. Whether you're dealing with an eating disorder or simply trying to eat more mindfully, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice.

CONNECT WITH SYDNEY
IG: @greenehealth
Website
Email: sydney@sydneygreenehealth.com
Too Depressed To Cook Cookbook -- use code healwithgrace for 50% off
Food and mood training for professionals -- use code PODCAST for 50% off

How to work with Grace:

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace sits down with dietitian Sydney Greene to discuss the complexities of eating disorders, disordered eating, and mental health. Sydney shares her journey to becoming a registered dietitian and how her personal struggles with food and sobriety have shaped her practice. They delve into the concept of intuitive eating and its challenges, particularly for those recovering from restrictive eating patterns. As the holidays approach, Sydney offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with food amidst family gatherings and societal pressures. Whether you're dealing with an eating disorder or simply trying to eat more mindfully, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice.

CONNECT WITH SYDNEY
IG: @greenehealth
Website
Email: sydney@sydneygreenehealth.com
Too Depressed To Cook Cookbook -- use code healwithgrace for 50% off
Food and mood training for professionals -- use code PODCAST for 50% off

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Sydney Green Buzzsprout-16126987 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600 2906 48, Sydney Green, 48 full false 47. Finding Your Inner Anchor: How to Feel Safe in Your Own Body 47. Finding Your Inner Anchor: How to Feel Safe in Your Own Body In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosted by Grace Secker, listeners explore the essential practice of establishing an inner resource to find safety within their nervous systems. Grace discusses the importance of this practice in managing stress, chronic pain, and difficult emotions by creating a space of inner calm and grounding. The episode features a guided meditation designed to help listeners connect with their own inner resource, offering practical steps to build resilience and ease in the face of life's challenges. Grace also introduces a Q&A segment for future episodes and invites listeners to submit their questions.


Episode 24: How to create your own Authentic message of safety with Vanessa Blackstone

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosted by Grace Secker, listeners explore the essential practice of establishing an inner resource to find safety within their nervous systems. Grace discusses the importance of this practice in managing stress, chronic pain, and difficult emotions by creating a space of inner calm and grounding. The episode features a guided meditation designed to help listeners connect with their own inner resource, offering practical steps to build resilience and ease in the face of life's challenges. Grace also introduces a Q&A segment for future episodes and invites listeners to submit their questions.


Episode 24: How to create your own Authentic message of safety with Vanessa Blackstone

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-16125772 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600 1346 47, guided meditation, 47 full false 46. How to have a better relationship with yourself with Charlotte Wright 46. How to have a better relationship with yourself with Charlotte Wright In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, I speak with Charlotte Wright, a human design consultant, life coach, and energetic guide. Charlotte shares insights into the importance of self-discovery and authenticity on your healing journey. We delve into the significance of human design, explaining how it blends scientific and spiritual elements to provide a unique blueprint for each individual. Charlotte discusses the challenges and misconceptions related to understanding one's true self and emphasizes the necessity of compassion and curiosity in this journey. We also explore practical ways to slow down and create space for introspection and connection. Charlotte underscores the value of embracing one’s unique energy and offers advice on balancing information intake with embodied practice.

Connect with Charlotte:
Website - www.charlottewright.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charlottewright.co/
Email - charlottewright.co@gmail.com

Resources Mentioned:
Learn about your human Design

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, I speak with Charlotte Wright, a human design consultant, life coach, and energetic guide. Charlotte shares insights into the importance of self-discovery and authenticity on your healing journey. We delve into the significance of human design, explaining how it blends scientific and spiritual elements to provide a unique blueprint for each individual. Charlotte discusses the challenges and misconceptions related to understanding one's true self and emphasizes the necessity of compassion and curiosity in this journey. We also explore practical ways to slow down and create space for introspection and connection. Charlotte underscores the value of embracing one’s unique energy and offers advice on balancing information intake with embodied practice.

Connect with Charlotte:
Website - www.charlottewright.co
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charlottewright.co/
Email - charlottewright.co@gmail.com

Resources Mentioned:
Learn about your human Design

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Charlotte Wright Buzzsprout-16044451 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600 2641 #46, #charlottewright, #humandesign 46 full false 45. The Science of Play: Healing Through Joy and Laughter 45. The Science of Play: Healing Through Joy and Laughter In this episode, we explore the vital role of play in adult life as a powerful tool for healing, stress relief, and overall well-being. Learn about the science behind how play, laughter, and physical activities like dancing can release dopamine, promoting relaxation and healing. Discover practical tips to integrate more play and creativity into your hectic schedule, whether through laughter breaks, spontaneous fun, or rekindling childhood joys. Understand how prioritising play can help soothe the nervous system, make you more present, and significantly reduce stress.

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]]> In this episode, we explore the vital role of play in adult life as a powerful tool for healing, stress relief, and overall well-being. Learn about the science behind how play, laughter, and physical activities like dancing can release dopamine, promoting relaxation and healing. Discover practical tips to integrate more play and creativity into your hectic schedule, whether through laughter breaks, spontaneous fun, or rekindling childhood joys. Understand how prioritising play can help soothe the nervous system, make you more present, and significantly reduce stress.

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15975402 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0600 1143 play, 45 45 full false 44. Breaking Free from Toxic Wellness Culture 44. Breaking Free from Toxic Wellness Culture In this episode, Grace explores the delicate balance between wellness culture and the principles of Health At Every Size (HAES) and eating disorder recovery. She shares personal experiences and challenges, highlighting the potential toxicities within wellness culture such as the pursuit of perfection. Emphasizing self-compassion, intuitive eating, and the importance of rest and joy, Grace offers actionable tips for finding a real balance in self-care practices. The episode advocates for a personalized, stress-free approach to health, focusing on nourishment of mind, body, and soul.

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]]> In this episode, Grace explores the delicate balance between wellness culture and the principles of Health At Every Size (HAES) and eating disorder recovery. She shares personal experiences and challenges, highlighting the potential toxicities within wellness culture such as the pursuit of perfection. Emphasizing self-compassion, intuitive eating, and the importance of rest and joy, Grace offers actionable tips for finding a real balance in self-care practices. The episode advocates for a personalized, stress-free approach to health, focusing on nourishment of mind, body, and soul.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15975157 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1519 wellness culture, compassion, 44 44 full false 43. How to stop catastrophizing 43. How to stop catastrophizing This episode of the Heal with Grace podcast delves into the concept of catastrophising and its impact on anxiety and chronic pain. I explain how negative thought patterns can exacerbate pain and offer strategies to break this cycle, such as checking the facts of negative thoughts, naming underlying emotions, and retraining the brain to view pain as safe. Through personal anecdotes and practical tools, listeners are encouraged to practice self-compassion and mindfulness to facilitate healing. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to seek support and guidance on their healing journey.

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]]> This episode of the Heal with Grace podcast delves into the concept of catastrophising and its impact on anxiety and chronic pain. I explain how negative thought patterns can exacerbate pain and offer strategies to break this cycle, such as checking the facts of negative thoughts, naming underlying emotions, and retraining the brain to view pain as safe. Through personal anecdotes and practical tools, listeners are encouraged to practice self-compassion and mindfulness to facilitate healing. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to seek support and guidance on their healing journey.

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15921475 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1218 43, catastrophising 43 full false 42. Understanding Burnout 42. Understanding Burnout In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, I share a personal and raw life update regarding my own experience with burnout. I highlights the physical, psychological, and spiritual implications of burnout and how it can stealthily disrupt one's life. I also delve into my personal struggles, the emotional toll of major life transitions like divorce, and my journey through mold toxicity as the tipping point for health issues. I candidly discusses the normalisation of being overly tired, the resultant negative impacts on the nervous system, and my existential reflections during this period, including questioning my own professional authenticity. The episode underscores the importance of self-compassion, nervous system regulation, and emotional awareness in overcoming burnout. Despite the challenges, I demonstrate how resilience and proper tools can guide one through and out of burnout, encouraging listeners to approach their healing journey with grace and understanding.

How to work with Grace:

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, I share a personal and raw life update regarding my own experience with burnout. I highlights the physical, psychological, and spiritual implications of burnout and how it can stealthily disrupt one's life. I also delve into my personal struggles, the emotional toll of major life transitions like divorce, and my journey through mold toxicity as the tipping point for health issues. I candidly discusses the normalisation of being overly tired, the resultant negative impacts on the nervous system, and my existential reflections during this period, including questioning my own professional authenticity. The episode underscores the importance of self-compassion, nervous system regulation, and emotional awareness in overcoming burnout. Despite the challenges, I demonstrate how resilience and proper tools can guide one through and out of burnout, encouraging listeners to approach their healing journey with grace and understanding.

How to work with Grace:

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]]> Buzzsprout-15881387 Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2265 #42, #burnout 42 full false 41. Healing Body Visualization + Meditation 41. Healing Body Visualization + Meditation In this special episode of the 'Heal with Grace' podcast, Grace guides listeners through a healing body visualisation practice designed to help them reconnect with their bodies and activate their innate healing potential. The episode emphasises the powerful connection between mind and body, and how visualisation can shift mindsets, calm the nervous system, and promote overall health. Listeners are encouraged to find a quiet, comfortable space and engage in a guided meditation that illuminates the body's systems with vibrant light, fostering a state of rest, repair, and healing. In addition, Grace discusses the benefits of the Mind-Body Healing Method program, available at a discounted rate, which offers further support for managing symptoms and overcoming anxiety, chronic pain, and fatigue.



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]]> In this special episode of the 'Heal with Grace' podcast, Grace guides listeners through a healing body visualisation practice designed to help them reconnect with their bodies and activate their innate healing potential. The episode emphasises the powerful connection between mind and body, and how visualisation can shift mindsets, calm the nervous system, and promote overall health. Listeners are encouraged to find a quiet, comfortable space and engage in a guided meditation that illuminates the body's systems with vibrant light, fostering a state of rest, repair, and healing. In addition, Grace discusses the benefits of the Mind-Body Healing Method program, available at a discounted rate, which offers further support for managing symptoms and overcoming anxiety, chronic pain, and fatigue.



How to work with Grace:

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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15812618 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600 960 #41, #meditation 41 full false 39. Nervous System Regulation Tools for daily routine 39. Nervous System Regulation Tools for daily routine In this episode of the 'Heal With Grace' podcast, host Grace dives into the importance of nervous system regulation and shares practical tools and techniques to help listeners manage chronic anxiety, fatigue, pain, and more. Grace emphasises the need for a balanced routine and discusses the benefits of grounding, morning movement, sensory breaks, and setting boundaries. She also introduces her self-paced course, the Mind Body Healing Method, designed to make these principles more accessible. The episode is packed with actionable advice, encouraging listeners to create small, intentional habits to promote healing and well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the 'Heal With Grace' podcast, host Grace dives into the importance of nervous system regulation and shares practical tools and techniques to help listeners manage chronic anxiety, fatigue, pain, and more. Grace emphasises the need for a balanced routine and discusses the benefits of grounding, morning movement, sensory breaks, and setting boundaries. She also introduces her self-paced course, the Mind Body Healing Method, designed to make these principles more accessible. The episode is packed with actionable advice, encouraging listeners to create small, intentional habits to promote healing and well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15773244 Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1698 #39, #NervousSystemRegulation 39 full false 38. Mindfulness + Psychedelics for Healing with Mike Averill 38. Mindfulness + Psychedelics for Healing with Mike Averill In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, clinical social worker Mike Averill discusses the integration of mindfulness, meditation, and psilocybin in therapeutic practices. Mike explores the significance of these tools in addressing chronic pain, anxiety, and trauma, sharing insights from his own journey and clinical experiences. He breaks down how mindfulness and somatic practices help change one's relationship with pain, highlighting the role of neural input and the brain's appraisal in pain perception. Mike also delves into the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, emphasising its ability to enhance neuroplasticity and reduce psychological rigidity, providing a transformative approach to healing. The episode concludes with practical advice for those considering psilocybin therapy and the importance of balance in overall well-being.

Links mentioned in episode:

Dr. Lorimer Moseley

Mindfulness and chronic pain

Psychedelics reducing psychological rigidity (REBUS model)

Psychedelics increasing neuroplasticity: https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/science.adf0435

https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(18)30755-1

Psychedelics and inflammation


How to connect with Mike:

www.pnwintegrativecenter.com

@pnwintegrativecenter

info@pnwintegrativecenter.com 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, clinical social worker Mike Averill discusses the integration of mindfulness, meditation, and psilocybin in therapeutic practices. Mike explores the significance of these tools in addressing chronic pain, anxiety, and trauma, sharing insights from his own journey and clinical experiences. He breaks down how mindfulness and somatic practices help change one's relationship with pain, highlighting the role of neural input and the brain's appraisal in pain perception. Mike also delves into the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, emphasising its ability to enhance neuroplasticity and reduce psychological rigidity, providing a transformative approach to healing. The episode concludes with practical advice for those considering psilocybin therapy and the importance of balance in overall well-being.

Links mentioned in episode:

Dr. Lorimer Moseley

Mindfulness and chronic pain

Psychedelics reducing psychological rigidity (REBUS model)

Psychedelics increasing neuroplasticity: https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/science.adf0435

https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(18)30755-1

Psychedelics and inflammation


How to connect with Mike:

www.pnwintegrativecenter.com

@pnwintegrativecenter

info@pnwintegrativecenter.com 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Mike Averill Buzzsprout-15719677 Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2922 #38, #mikeaverill, #Psychedelics 38 full false 37. The Art of Saying No: Boundaries as a Tool for Healing 37. The Art of Saying No: Boundaries as a Tool for Healing In this episode of the Heal With Grace podcast, host Grace Secker discusses the importance of setting boundaries and the power of saying no, especially for those dealing with chronic conditions like fatigue, pain, and depression. Grace explains how constantly saying yes and people-pleasing can negatively impact mental and physical health, and offers practical tips for learning to say no compassionately. This episode is a deep dive into understanding and protecting your energy to improve your well-being.

How to work with Grace:

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]]> In this episode of the Heal With Grace podcast, host Grace Secker discusses the importance of setting boundaries and the power of saying no, especially for those dealing with chronic conditions like fatigue, pain, and depression. Grace explains how constantly saying yes and people-pleasing can negatively impact mental and physical health, and offers practical tips for learning to say no compassionately. This episode is a deep dive into understanding and protecting your energy to improve your well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15681331 Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2006 #no, #sayingno, #boundaries 37 full false 36. The Power of Belief: Can Your Mind Really Heal Your Body? 36. The Power of Belief: Can Your Mind Really Heal Your Body? In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace, a psychotherapist and nervous system coach, explores the profound impact of the mind-body connection and the power of beliefs on physical health. Through compelling stories, research, and practical tips, Grace highlights how positive thoughts and visualization can lead to real, measurable improvements in health. The episode provides insights into the placebo effect, the role of psychoneuroimmunology, and the importance of positive affirmations, visualization, and gratitude in the healing process.

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace, a psychotherapist and nervous system coach, explores the profound impact of the mind-body connection and the power of beliefs on physical health. Through compelling stories, research, and practical tips, Grace highlights how positive thoughts and visualization can lead to real, measurable improvements in health. The episode provides insights into the placebo effect, the role of psychoneuroimmunology, and the importance of positive affirmations, visualization, and gratitude in the healing process.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15680900 Tue, 03 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1680 #36, #healing, #positiveaffirmations 36 full false 35. Top 3 personality characteristics keeping you sick 35. Top 3 personality characteristics keeping you sick In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace Secker delves into the top three personality traits that hinder individuals on their healing journeys: perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-criticism. Grace explains how these traits can perpetuate chronic mind and body symptoms like anxiety, chronic pain, and illness. With personal anecdotes and practical advice, she encourages listeners to recognise these traits, embrace imperfection, set boundaries, and practice self-compassion to foster a more supportive environment for healing. Join Grace as she offers insights and actionable steps to guide you towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.



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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, host Grace Secker delves into the top three personality traits that hinder individuals on their healing journeys: perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-criticism. Grace explains how these traits can perpetuate chronic mind and body symptoms like anxiety, chronic pain, and illness. With personal anecdotes and practical advice, she encourages listeners to recognise these traits, embrace imperfection, set boundaries, and practice self-compassion to foster a more supportive environment for healing. Join Grace as she offers insights and actionable steps to guide you towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.



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]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15588619 Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1395 #35, #perfectionism, #peoplepleasing, #anxiety 35 full false 34. The Power of Self-Compassion 34. The Power of Self-Compassion In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosted by holistic psychotherapist Grace Secker, the focus is on the transformative practice of self-compassion. Grace explains the importance of treating oneself with kindness, akin to caring for a close friend, and shares insights on how self-compassion aids in resilience, emotional well-being, and personal growth. The episode features real-life examples, including a client’s journey with self-compassion, and concludes with a guided meditation to help listeners cultivate this essential practice in their lives.

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosted by holistic psychotherapist Grace Secker, the focus is on the transformative practice of self-compassion. Grace explains the importance of treating oneself with kindness, akin to caring for a close friend, and shares insights on how self-compassion aids in resilience, emotional well-being, and personal growth. The episode features real-life examples, including a client’s journey with self-compassion, and concludes with a guided meditation to help listeners cultivate this essential practice in their lives.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15587874 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1801 #34, #selfcompassion 34 full false 33. Using Ayurveda to build resiliency in your body with Kristen Timchak 33. Using Ayurveda to build resiliency in your body with Kristen Timchak In 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 with one’s unique constitution and life circumstances.

Kristen Timchak is a Nervous System Coach, Ayurvedic Educator, Mind Body Practitioner and host of The Nourished Nervous System Podcast.  Weaving Ayurveda and Somatic practices into her coaching work she helps women to gain clarity and cultivate more resilience in their lives.  


https://www.nourishednervoussystem.com

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nourishednervoussystem/

FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090326380887

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]]> In 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 with one’s unique constitution and life circumstances.

Kristen Timchak is a Nervous System Coach, Ayurvedic Educator, Mind Body Practitioner and host of The Nourished Nervous System Podcast.  Weaving Ayurveda and Somatic practices into her coaching work she helps women to gain clarity and cultivate more resilience in their lives.  


https://www.nourishednervoussystem.com

IG - https://www.instagram.com/nourishednervoussystem/

FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090326380887

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Kristen Timchak Buzzsprout-15434539 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2132 #KristenTimchak, #33, #Ayurvedic, #nervousystem 33 full false 32. 3 tips to get you through a flare or hard time in your healing 32. 3 tips to get you through a flare or hard time in your healing In this episode, Grace provides valuable insights and practical advice on how to navigate and cope with flares in health or challenging periods in life. They discuss the concept of catastrophising, a cognitive distortion that can increase stress and anxiety, and offer strategies to become aware of and manage it. The importance of slowing down, finding safety within the body and mind, and allowing oneself to surrender and accept difficult emotions is emphasised. Additionally, Grace highlights the necessity of consuming uplifting and positive content to maintain hope and resilience. Personal experiences and examples are shared to illustrate these points, making the advice relatable and actionable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace provides valuable insights and practical advice on how to navigate and cope with flares in health or challenging periods in life. They discuss the concept of catastrophising, a cognitive distortion that can increase stress and anxiety, and offer strategies to become aware of and manage it. The importance of slowing down, finding safety within the body and mind, and allowing oneself to surrender and accept difficult emotions is emphasised. Additionally, Grace highlights the necessity of consuming uplifting and positive content to maintain hope and resilience. Personal experiences and examples are shared to illustrate these points, making the advice relatable and actionable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15434072 Tue, 06 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1513 #32, #healing, #flareups 32 full false 31. How to know which nervous system state you're in 31. How to know which nervous system state you're in In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace explores how to identify the state of your nervous system using the polyvagal theory. Introduced by Dr. Stephen Porges in 1994, the polyvagal theory categorises the nervous system into three states: ventral vagal (green zone), sympathetic (yellow zone), and dorsal vagal (red zone). Grace explains how each state impacts mental, physical, and emotional health and provides practical tips on how to move between these states effectively. Emphasising self-care and understanding individual responses, the episode offers insights into maintaining a balanced and regulated nervous system for overall well-being.

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Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace explores how to identify the state of your nervous system using the polyvagal theory. Introduced by Dr. Stephen Porges in 1994, the polyvagal theory categorises the nervous system into three states: ventral vagal (green zone), sympathetic (yellow zone), and dorsal vagal (red zone). Grace explains how each state impacts mental, physical, and emotional health and provides practical tips on how to move between these states effectively. Emphasising self-care and understanding individual responses, the episode offers insights into maintaining a balanced and regulated nervous system for overall well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15377970 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2007 #31, #nervoussystem 31 full false 30. Intuitive Eating and healing your relationship with food 30. Intuitive Eating and healing your relationship with food In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, we welcome guest Jenn Baswick, an intuitive nutritionist, to discuss her approach to overcoming binge eating, overeating, and emotional eating. Jenn shares her personal journey from clean eating to binge eating and finally finding balance through intuitive eating. The conversation delves into identifying disordered eating patterns, the principles of intuitive eating, and how it can be adapted for those with chronic illnesses or food intolerances. Jenn emphasises the importance of self-care, regulating the nervous system, and maintaining a healthy relationship with food. Listeners will gain insights into starting their journey towards food freedom and building a positive relationship with their eating habits.

About Jenn:
Jenn is a non-diet Registered Dietitian, Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor, cat mom, and cookie dough lover. She helps women overcome binge eating, overeating, and emotional eating so that they can embody their version of food freedom. Jenn is dedicated to helping guide her clients and community to leave all of the "shoulds" of diet culture in the past and find confidence in their own inner wisdom to guide their eating decisions, increase their self-worth, and embody their most authentic selves.

Connect with Jenn:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.intuitive.nutritionist

- Website: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com

- Free Quiz: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com/quiz

- Podcast: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com/podcast

- Contact: jenn@theintuitivenutritionist.com


How to work with Grace:

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, we welcome guest Jenn Baswick, an intuitive nutritionist, to discuss her approach to overcoming binge eating, overeating, and emotional eating. Jenn shares her personal journey from clean eating to binge eating and finally finding balance through intuitive eating. The conversation delves into identifying disordered eating patterns, the principles of intuitive eating, and how it can be adapted for those with chronic illnesses or food intolerances. Jenn emphasises the importance of self-care, regulating the nervous system, and maintaining a healthy relationship with food. Listeners will gain insights into starting their journey towards food freedom and building a positive relationship with their eating habits.

About Jenn:
Jenn is a non-diet Registered Dietitian, Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor, cat mom, and cookie dough lover. She helps women overcome binge eating, overeating, and emotional eating so that they can embody their version of food freedom. Jenn is dedicated to helping guide her clients and community to leave all of the "shoulds" of diet culture in the past and find confidence in their own inner wisdom to guide their eating decisions, increase their self-worth, and embody their most authentic selves.

Connect with Jenn:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.intuitive.nutritionist

- Website: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com

- Free Quiz: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com/quiz

- Podcast: https://theintuitivenutritionist.com/podcast

- Contact: jenn@theintuitivenutritionist.com


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Jenn Baswick Buzzsprout-15347974 Tue, 23 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3207 #32, 'jennbaswick, #nutrition, # intuitivenutrition 30 full false 29. How to know if your pain is physical or psychologically based 29. How to know if your pain is physical or psychologically based In this episode, we delve into the concept of neuroplastic pain, a phenomenon where psychological rather than structural causes drive chronic pain. I share my personal experiences and insights into pain reprocessing therapy (PRT), the importance of regulating the nervous system, and the role of mental and emotional health in healing. Learn how symptoms like migraines, fibromyalgia, and IBS can be addressed by retraining the brain and creating neural networks of safety. Discover the pathways to reduce and even eliminate chronic symptoms and understand that healing is not only possible but attainable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, we delve into the concept of neuroplastic pain, a phenomenon where psychological rather than structural causes drive chronic pain. I share my personal experiences and insights into pain reprocessing therapy (PRT), the importance of regulating the nervous system, and the role of mental and emotional health in healing. Learn how symptoms like migraines, fibromyalgia, and IBS can be addressed by retraining the brain and creating neural networks of safety. Discover the pathways to reduce and even eliminate chronic symptoms and understand that healing is not only possible but attainable.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15301921 Tue, 16 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1728 #29, #neuroplasticpain #pain 29 full false 28. Gut Feelings: Unraveling the Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Well-Being 28. Gut Feelings: Unraveling the Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Well-Being In this episode of the 'Heal with Grace' podcast, I welcome Dr. Heather Finley, a registered dietitian with a doctorate in clinical nutrition, to discuss the intricate connections between gut health, mental health, and chronic illnesses. Dr. Finley shares her personal journey through years of GI issues and how she discovered the benefits of functional nutrition. The conversation covers the impact of stress, lifestyle, and food variety on gut health, and offers insights into overcoming disordered eating and the importance of a holistic approach to wellness. Key topics also include the significance of microbiome diversity, the role of stress management, and practical tips for establishing a healthier relationship with food and body. Tune in to learn how to achieve long-term gut health and improve overall well-being.

About Dr. Heather Finley:
Dr. Heather Finley is a registered dietitian with a doctorate in clinical nutrition. She and her team help people struggling with bloating, brain fog, hormone imbalances, and GI issues find relief from their symptoms and feel excited about food again.

Heather struggled with her own hormone & digestive issues for nearly 20 years and understands first hand the impact that nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset have on digestive health. Gut health shouldn’t be restrictive, stressful, and all-consuming. She developed a simple way that individuals can reduce digestive symptoms and add foods back into their diet.

Dr. Heather has a doctorate in clinical nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health.

Her work has been featured on Good Morning Texas and in Mind Body Green, Yahoo! Life, and Very Well Health. Dr. Heather is the founder of the gutTogether® program for individuals and the gutPractitioner program for clinicians. 

Take the "Why Am I Bloated" Quiz: https://www.guttogetherprogram.com/healwithgrace

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the 'Heal with Grace' podcast, I welcome Dr. Heather Finley, a registered dietitian with a doctorate in clinical nutrition, to discuss the intricate connections between gut health, mental health, and chronic illnesses. Dr. Finley shares her personal journey through years of GI issues and how she discovered the benefits of functional nutrition. The conversation covers the impact of stress, lifestyle, and food variety on gut health, and offers insights into overcoming disordered eating and the importance of a holistic approach to wellness. Key topics also include the significance of microbiome diversity, the role of stress management, and practical tips for establishing a healthier relationship with food and body. Tune in to learn how to achieve long-term gut health and improve overall well-being.

About Dr. Heather Finley:
Dr. Heather Finley is a registered dietitian with a doctorate in clinical nutrition. She and her team help people struggling with bloating, brain fog, hormone imbalances, and GI issues find relief from their symptoms and feel excited about food again.

Heather struggled with her own hormone & digestive issues for nearly 20 years and understands first hand the impact that nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset have on digestive health. Gut health shouldn’t be restrictive, stressful, and all-consuming. She developed a simple way that individuals can reduce digestive symptoms and add foods back into their diet.

Dr. Heather has a doctorate in clinical nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health.

Her work has been featured on Good Morning Texas and in Mind Body Green, Yahoo! Life, and Very Well Health. Dr. Heather is the founder of the gutTogether® program for individuals and the gutPractitioner program for clinicians. 

Take the "Why Am I Bloated" Quiz: https://www.guttogetherprogram.com/healwithgrace

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Dr Heather Finlay Buzzsprout-15289397 Tue, 09 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2533 #28, #drheatherfinley, #guthealth 28 full false 27. What to do when you're feeling stuck in healing 27. What to do when you're feeling stuck in healing The episode emphasizes the non-linear nature of healing, the importance of being present in the process rather than fixated on outcomes, and offers practical tips for moving through stuckness, such as making intentional shifts, reflecting through journaling, and avoiding rash decisions. In this episode, I share a personal journey of struggling with resistance and feeling stuck in various aspects of life, including health and daily activities. I describe how attempts to power through tasks often lead to increased fatigue and brain fog, signaling deeper emotions that need addressing. 

How to work with Grace:

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]]> The episode emphasizes the non-linear nature of healing, the importance of being present in the process rather than fixated on outcomes, and offers practical tips for moving through stuckness, such as making intentional shifts, reflecting through journaling, and avoiding rash decisions. In this episode, I share a personal journey of struggling with resistance and feeling stuck in various aspects of life, including health and daily activities. I describe how attempts to power through tasks often lead to increased fatigue and brain fog, signaling deeper emotions that need addressing. 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15283889 Tue, 02 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1727 #27, #resistance, #healing, 27 full false 26. What holistic chiropractic work looks like 26. What holistic chiropractic work looks like In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, guest host Liana, a holistic therapist, interviews Dr. Chandler Collins, a holistic chiropractor.

Dr. Collins shares his journey to becoming a chiropractor, motivated by a persistent injury. He explains his unique approach to holistic chiropractic care that integrates muscle testing, addressing emotional traumas, and coordinating various aspects of the body’s functionality.

 Liana and Dr. Collins delve into how emotions and chronic conditions impact the body, the complexity of human adaptation, and the integration of brain and body in holistic healing.

Dr. Collins offers insights on the importance of consistent, thorough care for achieving deeper wellness and reflects on the shared goal of practitioners helping patients to uncover the root causes of their problems.

About Dr. Chandler Collins:
Dr. Collins has over two decades of in-depth study of health, physiology, nutrition, and healing.  As part of this journey, he has created a boutique healthcare practice that distinguishes itself by extensive one-on-one work tailored to the individual needs of each patient, in order to address the complete structural, chemical, and psychological health of each person.  Advanced testing techniques allow the treatment session to be guided by the highest priority revealed by that person’s body, in that moment.  With every session focused on finding the root cause of each ailment, a more self-sustaining lifestyle of health and wellness is achieved.

www.CollinsDC.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, guest host Liana, a holistic therapist, interviews Dr. Chandler Collins, a holistic chiropractor.

Dr. Collins shares his journey to becoming a chiropractor, motivated by a persistent injury. He explains his unique approach to holistic chiropractic care that integrates muscle testing, addressing emotional traumas, and coordinating various aspects of the body’s functionality.

 Liana and Dr. Collins delve into how emotions and chronic conditions impact the body, the complexity of human adaptation, and the integration of brain and body in holistic healing.

Dr. Collins offers insights on the importance of consistent, thorough care for achieving deeper wellness and reflects on the shared goal of practitioners helping patients to uncover the root causes of their problems.

About Dr. Chandler Collins:
Dr. Collins has over two decades of in-depth study of health, physiology, nutrition, and healing.  As part of this journey, he has created a boutique healthcare practice that distinguishes itself by extensive one-on-one work tailored to the individual needs of each patient, in order to address the complete structural, chemical, and psychological health of each person.  Advanced testing techniques allow the treatment session to be guided by the highest priority revealed by that person’s body, in that moment.  With every session focused on finding the root cause of each ailment, a more self-sustaining lifestyle of health and wellness is achieved.

www.CollinsDC.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Liana / Dr Chandler Collins Buzzsprout-15262066 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3866 #26, #DrChandlercollins, #Lianna, #Chiropractor 26 full false 25. How to get back to the activities you love when healing chronic pain & fatigue 25. How to get back to the activities you love when healing chronic pain & fatigue In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosts Grace and Liana discuss strategies for getting back to the activities you love while recovering from chronic pain and chronic fatigue. They introduce the concept of pacing, which involves gradually increasing activity levels to avoid post-exertional malaise and to build confidence. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness, visualization, and setting safety nets to manage pain and fatigue effectively. They also delve into the science behind neuroplastic pain and offer real-life examples to emphasize the potential for recovery. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to reclaim their life from debilitating symptoms.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, hosts Grace and Liana discuss strategies for getting back to the activities you love while recovering from chronic pain and chronic fatigue. They introduce the concept of pacing, which involves gradually increasing activity levels to avoid post-exertional malaise and to build confidence. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness, visualization, and setting safety nets to manage pain and fatigue effectively. They also delve into the science behind neuroplastic pain and offer real-life examples to emphasize the potential for recovery. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to reclaim their life from debilitating symptoms.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Liana Buzzsprout-15170671 Tue, 18 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2352 #25, #liana, #healing, #chronicpain, 25 full false 24. How to create your own authentic messages of safety with Vanessa Blackstone 24. How to create your own authentic messages of safety with Vanessa Blackstone In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace interviews Vanessa Blackstone, the executive director of the Pain Psychology Center. Vanessa, who has a background in social work and is a citizen of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, shares her journey from dealing with her own chronic pain to becoming a therapist in pain reprocessing therapy (PRT). They delve into the concept of PRT, explaining how it aims to address the neural pathways in the brain that perpetuate chronic pain by creating messages of safety and soothing the nervous system. Vanessa discusses the challenges of establishing a sense of safety, particularly for those who didn't grow up in secure environments. Through her personal stories and therapeutic experiences, she emphasises the importance of slowing down, understanding one's emotions, and using authentic messages of safety to foster healing. The episode also touches on the broader aspects of creating safety in one's current life and explores how our past and present environments influence our sense of security.

Connect with Vanessa:

@that.therapst

painpsychologycenter.com

blackstonewellness.com

vanessablackstonetherapy@gmail.com

Episode 3

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]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace interviews Vanessa Blackstone, the executive director of the Pain Psychology Center. Vanessa, who has a background in social work and is a citizen of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, shares her journey from dealing with her own chronic pain to becoming a therapist in pain reprocessing therapy (PRT). They delve into the concept of PRT, explaining how it aims to address the neural pathways in the brain that perpetuate chronic pain by creating messages of safety and soothing the nervous system. Vanessa discusses the challenges of establishing a sense of safety, particularly for those who didn't grow up in secure environments. Through her personal stories and therapeutic experiences, she emphasises the importance of slowing down, understanding one's emotions, and using authentic messages of safety to foster healing. The episode also touches on the broader aspects of creating safety in one's current life and explores how our past and present environments influence our sense of security.

Connect with Vanessa:

@that.therapst

painpsychologycenter.com

blackstonewellness.com

vanessablackstonetherapy@gmail.com

Episode 3

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]]> Grace Secker / Vanessa Blackstone Buzzsprout-15170620 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3387 #24, #vanessablackstone, #safety 24 full false 23. Why journaling is important and how to use it 23. Why journaling is important and how to use it In this episode of the Heal With Grace podcast, I dive into the importance and transformative power of journaling for personal healing. Covering its benefits in mental and physical health, the episode emphasizes journaling as a tool for self-expression and reflection, aiding in the process of bringing subconscious thoughts and emotions to the conscious level. I discuss the concept of expressive writing, share research evidence supporting its positive impact on various health conditions, and present different methods and tips for effective journaling practices. These include the expressive writing protocol by Dr. James Pennebaker and Journal Speak by Nicole Sachs, tailored for individuals dealing with chronic pain or seeking deep emotional healing. The episode aims to guide listeners on how to utilize journaling as a safe, private means to explore their inner world and facilitate a journey towards recovery and self-understanding.

Show Resources:

Nichole Saches Journal Speak

Dr. Pennebaker journal study


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal With Grace podcast, I dive into the importance and transformative power of journaling for personal healing. Covering its benefits in mental and physical health, the episode emphasizes journaling as a tool for self-expression and reflection, aiding in the process of bringing subconscious thoughts and emotions to the conscious level. I discuss the concept of expressive writing, share research evidence supporting its positive impact on various health conditions, and present different methods and tips for effective journaling practices. These include the expressive writing protocol by Dr. James Pennebaker and Journal Speak by Nicole Sachs, tailored for individuals dealing with chronic pain or seeking deep emotional healing. The episode aims to guide listeners on how to utilize journaling as a safe, private means to explore their inner world and facilitate a journey towards recovery and self-understanding.

Show Resources:

Nichole Saches Journal Speak

Dr. Pennebaker journal study


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Buzzsprout-15123428 Tue, 04 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1304 full false 22.Embodied Self Awakening: Exploring Trauma Healing and the Nervous System with Nityda Gessel 22.Embodied Self Awakening: Exploring Trauma Healing and the Nervous System with Nityda Gessel In this episode, I welcome Nityda Gessel, a seasoned yoga teacher, trauma therapist, and somatic therapist with nearly two decades of experience. Nityda, a licensed clinical social worker, discusses her approach to supporting individuals by examining how their past and present manifest in their bodies and using body-based embodiment interventions for healing and evolution. She introduces the Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, a blend of somatic psychotherapy practices and trauma-conscious yoga, and discusses her book, 'Embodied Self Awakening: Somatic Practices for Trauma Healing and Spiritual Evolution.' The conversation delves into the effects of trauma on the body, the importance of community and validation in the healing process, and the concept of embodied self-awakening. Nityda emphasizes the role of the vagus nerve, polyvagal theory, the significance of compassion and community support, and introduces internal family systems therapy as a model for understanding and integrating different parts of oneself towards healing. She encourages embracing the journey of healing as an ongoing process of self-discovery and awakening.

Connect with Nityda:

https://traumaconsciousyoga.com/

https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Trauma-Conscious-Yoga-Institute/100063494533157/?modal=admin_todo_tour

https://www.instagram.com/trauma_conscious_yoga_method/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, I welcome Nityda Gessel, a seasoned yoga teacher, trauma therapist, and somatic therapist with nearly two decades of experience. Nityda, a licensed clinical social worker, discusses her approach to supporting individuals by examining how their past and present manifest in their bodies and using body-based embodiment interventions for healing and evolution. She introduces the Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, a blend of somatic psychotherapy practices and trauma-conscious yoga, and discusses her book, 'Embodied Self Awakening: Somatic Practices for Trauma Healing and Spiritual Evolution.' The conversation delves into the effects of trauma on the body, the importance of community and validation in the healing process, and the concept of embodied self-awakening. Nityda emphasizes the role of the vagus nerve, polyvagal theory, the significance of compassion and community support, and introduces internal family systems therapy as a model for understanding and integrating different parts of oneself towards healing. She encourages embracing the journey of healing as an ongoing process of self-discovery and awakening.

Connect with Nityda:

https://traumaconsciousyoga.com/

https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Trauma-Conscious-Yoga-Institute/100063494533157/?modal=admin_todo_tour

https://www.instagram.com/trauma_conscious_yoga_method/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Nityda Gessel Buzzsprout-15114270 Tue, 28 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3806 #22, #trauma, #yoga 22 full false 21. How to use visualization for healing 21. How to use visualization for healing In this episode we delve into the underestimated practice of visualisation and its significance in the healing journey, exploring both the scientific studies and practical guidance on how to effectively utilise this technique for health and vitality. I explain how the brain cannot differentiate between real and visualised experiences, thereby offering an opportunity to influence the body's response and initiate healing. I discuss chronic conditions, the root causes being stress and a dysregulated brain and body, and how visualisation can shift perceptions of pain and symptoms. I provide evidence from studies showing the effectiveness of guided imagery in pain management and stress reduction. Furthermore, I give detailed instructions on visualising for soothing the amygdala to reduce fear and anxiety, improving functional status, and rewiring food sensitivities, emphasising the practice of visualisation as a powerful tool for self-empowerment and resilience in healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode we delve into the underestimated practice of visualisation and its significance in the healing journey, exploring both the scientific studies and practical guidance on how to effectively utilise this technique for health and vitality. I explain how the brain cannot differentiate between real and visualised experiences, thereby offering an opportunity to influence the body's response and initiate healing. I discuss chronic conditions, the root causes being stress and a dysregulated brain and body, and how visualisation can shift perceptions of pain and symptoms. I provide evidence from studies showing the effectiveness of guided imagery in pain management and stress reduction. Furthermore, I give detailed instructions on visualising for soothing the amygdala to reduce fear and anxiety, improving functional status, and rewiring food sensitivities, emphasising the practice of visualisation as a powerful tool for self-empowerment and resilience in healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-15057983 Tue, 21 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1239 #21, #visualisation, #self-healing 21 full false 20. How craniosacral therapy helps you heal 20. How craniosacral therapy helps you heal In this episode, Grace is joined by Liana, a support therapist in the mind-body healing method at Elevate Therapy and Wellness, and Amy Sanders, a licensed massage therapist and craniosacral therapist.

Amy shares her background in occupational and massage therapy, and explains the principles and benefits of craniosacral therapy, emphasizing its role in treating various conditions by working with the body's craniosacral system to influence the central nervous system and thus, the entire body.

Liana shares her personal journey of seeking craniosacral therapy for painful jaw degeneration, highlighting the significant pain relief and nervous system regulation she experienced without undergoing invasive surgery, thanks to Amy's holistic approach. The episode delves into how craniosacral therapy aids self-healing, the impact of respecting the body's pace and signals for safety, and introduces the Safe and Sound Protocol as an additional tool for achieving nervous system regulation.

Amy and Liana's experiences underscore the importance of a trusted therapeutic relationship in navigating chronic symptoms and achieving wellness.

Connect with Amy
It is a blessing to be a practitioner in a field that makes a difference in people’s lives. From an early age, I knew that being a therapist was what I was destined to become.

That path has lead me to a deeper understanding of how manual therapy techniques are extremely effective therapies in the treatment of many conditions that create pain and cause problems in the daily lives of both adults and children.

As a graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s program of Occupational Therapy, I began my professional practice in rehabilitation settings ranging from acute to outpatient.

Subsequently, I decided to continue my professional skills by doing post- graduate training in Massage Therapy in 2001. Working as an Occupational Therapist, I witnessed the effectiveness of utilizing manual therapy techniques in treatment of a variety of clinical conditions. After becoming experienced as a massage therapist, I received additional training in CranioSacral Techniques through the Upledger Institute with completion of my Diplomate certification in CranioSacral Therapy. 

My approach to treatment is to help identify the underlying physical patterns that create the symptoms reported by my clients. I achieve this by listening to both the personal reports of my client, and the symptoms manifested within the body. My goal is to help my clients achieve balance both physically and emotionally. I feel it is important to empower my clients to understand how to care for themselves between treatment sessions so that the body can self-correct and heal naturally.

www.amysanderstherapy.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode, Grace is joined by Liana, a support therapist in the mind-body healing method at Elevate Therapy and Wellness, and Amy Sanders, a licensed massage therapist and craniosacral therapist.

Amy shares her background in occupational and massage therapy, and explains the principles and benefits of craniosacral therapy, emphasizing its role in treating various conditions by working with the body's craniosacral system to influence the central nervous system and thus, the entire body.

Liana shares her personal journey of seeking craniosacral therapy for painful jaw degeneration, highlighting the significant pain relief and nervous system regulation she experienced without undergoing invasive surgery, thanks to Amy's holistic approach. The episode delves into how craniosacral therapy aids self-healing, the impact of respecting the body's pace and signals for safety, and introduces the Safe and Sound Protocol as an additional tool for achieving nervous system regulation.

Amy and Liana's experiences underscore the importance of a trusted therapeutic relationship in navigating chronic symptoms and achieving wellness.

Connect with Amy
It is a blessing to be a practitioner in a field that makes a difference in people’s lives. From an early age, I knew that being a therapist was what I was destined to become.

That path has lead me to a deeper understanding of how manual therapy techniques are extremely effective therapies in the treatment of many conditions that create pain and cause problems in the daily lives of both adults and children.

As a graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s program of Occupational Therapy, I began my professional practice in rehabilitation settings ranging from acute to outpatient.

Subsequently, I decided to continue my professional skills by doing post- graduate training in Massage Therapy in 2001. Working as an Occupational Therapist, I witnessed the effectiveness of utilizing manual therapy techniques in treatment of a variety of clinical conditions. After becoming experienced as a massage therapist, I received additional training in CranioSacral Techniques through the Upledger Institute with completion of my Diplomate certification in CranioSacral Therapy. 

My approach to treatment is to help identify the underlying physical patterns that create the symptoms reported by my clients. I achieve this by listening to both the personal reports of my client, and the symptoms manifested within the body. My goal is to help my clients achieve balance both physically and emotionally. I feel it is important to empower my clients to understand how to care for themselves between treatment sessions so that the body can self-correct and heal naturally.

www.amysanderstherapy.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Amy sanders Buzzsprout-14953993 Tue, 14 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2270 #20, #Craniosacral , #Therapy 20 full false 19. Healing fibromyalgia, pelvic pain & food intolerances: Amal’s transformative journey 19. Healing fibromyalgia, pelvic pain & food intolerances: Amal’s transformative journey In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Amal Hawari shares her profound journey of mind-body healing, overcoming pelvic pain, histamine intolerance, fibromyalgia, and other health issues through nervous system regulation and brain training. Starting with her struggle, Amal recounts how her life was severely impacted by various health conditions and her eventual discovery of a holistic approach to healing. She emphasizes the importance of nervous system regulation, the support from Grace and the program, and how mind-body connection techniques provided her the tools for recovery. Amal also discusses the incremental steps to her healing, indicating that recovery is a non-linear process that requires persistence, self-awareness, and a willingness to engage deeply with emotional trauma and stress management. This episode dives into the significance of mental health in physical recovery and offers hope to those experiencing chronic health issues.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Amal Hawari shares her profound journey of mind-body healing, overcoming pelvic pain, histamine intolerance, fibromyalgia, and other health issues through nervous system regulation and brain training. Starting with her struggle, Amal recounts how her life was severely impacted by various health conditions and her eventual discovery of a holistic approach to healing. She emphasizes the importance of nervous system regulation, the support from Grace and the program, and how mind-body connection techniques provided her the tools for recovery. Amal also discusses the incremental steps to her healing, indicating that recovery is a non-linear process that requires persistence, self-awareness, and a willingness to engage deeply with emotional trauma and stress management. This episode dives into the significance of mental health in physical recovery and offers hope to those experiencing chronic health issues.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Amal Hawari Buzzsprout-14949119 Tue, 07 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3379 #19, #pelvic pain, #histamine, 19 full false 18. Embracing Your True Self with Rachel of Intuitively Wild 18. Embracing Your True Self with Rachel of Intuitively Wild In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace is joined by special guest, Rachel, the creator and owner of Intuitively Wild. Rachel shares her journey from being deeply involved in yoga to exploring herbalism and human design as tools for healing and personal growth. She discusses how yoga contributed to her eating disorder and how she had to re-evaluate her relationship with it. Rachel also delves into the concept of human design, explaining how it serves as a blueprint for living in alignment with one's true self. She offers insights into how different energy types, such as projectors and manifesting generators, operate in the world. The discussion also covers the importance of journaling, yoga therapy, and custom herbalism for mental health and nervous system regulation. Rachel highlights the significance of embracing change and being authentic and shares information on how listeners can connect with her through her mentorship programs, podcast, and upcoming retreat.

About Rachel Levine

Rachel Levine is the creator and owner of Intuitively Wild. Intuitively Wild is a lifestyle brand for everyone and anyone seeking to better understand themselves. She helps people live Intuitively Wild - dedicated to their true authentic self with confidence and compassion.

Rachel is a Human Design Guide, Herbalist, and Yoga Therapist. She has studied with the best teachers all over the world in each modality, and has most recently finished her herbalism apprenticeship with her mentor in England.  Through her podcast, mentorship, group programs, apothecary and more she aims to help all connect deeper to themselves, others and the world around them. Together we learn how to embrace our imperfections and rewild our spirit.

Connect with Rachel

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> In this episode of the Heal with Grace podcast, Grace is joined by special guest, Rachel, the creator and owner of Intuitively Wild. Rachel shares her journey from being deeply involved in yoga to exploring herbalism and human design as tools for healing and personal growth. She discusses how yoga contributed to her eating disorder and how she had to re-evaluate her relationship with it. Rachel also delves into the concept of human design, explaining how it serves as a blueprint for living in alignment with one's true self. She offers insights into how different energy types, such as projectors and manifesting generators, operate in the world. The discussion also covers the importance of journaling, yoga therapy, and custom herbalism for mental health and nervous system regulation. Rachel highlights the significance of embracing change and being authentic and shares information on how listeners can connect with her through her mentorship programs, podcast, and upcoming retreat.

About Rachel Levine

Rachel Levine is the creator and owner of Intuitively Wild. Intuitively Wild is a lifestyle brand for everyone and anyone seeking to better understand themselves. She helps people live Intuitively Wild - dedicated to their true authentic self with confidence and compassion.

Rachel is a Human Design Guide, Herbalist, and Yoga Therapist. She has studied with the best teachers all over the world in each modality, and has most recently finished her herbalism apprenticeship with her mentor in England.  Through her podcast, mentorship, group programs, apothecary and more she aims to help all connect deeper to themselves, others and the world around them. Together we learn how to embrace our imperfections and rewild our spirit.

Connect with Rachel

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker / Rachel Levine Buzzsprout-14947664 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600 2463 #18, #yoga, #humandesign, 18 full false 17. How to use breathwork to calm the nervous system 17. How to use breathwork to calm the nervous system This episode delves into the significance of breathwork in the healing journey, emphasising its role in regulating the nervous system and achieving presence. With my background in yoga and meditation, I explain that breathwork is more than basic breath control; it's a conscious practice that can restore balance within the body and mind, and even alter the body's stress response.

I also include the scientific basis of breathwork, citing studies on its benefits such as enhancing parasympathetic activity, managing pain, and regulating emotions. My personal anecdotes and practical guides on breathwork practices are shared, demonstrating its accessibility and effectiveness in daily life. My session concludes with a guided breathwork and encouragement to incorporate breathwork into routine self-care for improved well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> This episode delves into the significance of breathwork in the healing journey, emphasising its role in regulating the nervous system and achieving presence. With my background in yoga and meditation, I explain that breathwork is more than basic breath control; it's a conscious practice that can restore balance within the body and mind, and even alter the body's stress response.

I also include the scientific basis of breathwork, citing studies on its benefits such as enhancing parasympathetic activity, managing pain, and regulating emotions. My personal anecdotes and practical guides on breathwork practices are shared, demonstrating its accessibility and effectiveness in daily life. My session concludes with a guided breathwork and encouragement to incorporate breathwork into routine self-care for improved well-being.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-14854966 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600 1319 #breathwork, #stress, #breathe, #17, 17 full false 16. Healing POTS & Hypermobility Through the Vagus Nerve and Shame Resiliency 16. Healing POTS & Hypermobility Through the Vagus Nerve and Shame Resiliency Welcome to Episode 16 of the Heal with Grace Podcast, featuring a special guest, Kendel Lipe, a multifaceted expert who uniquely combines her expertise in physical therapy, chronic illness health coaching, biomedical engineering, and integrative manual therapy. 

Kendel shares her personal journey from being bedridden to thriving despite the challenges posed by Ehlers Danlos syndrome. This episode offers invaluable insights into the power of diet, exercise, manual therapy, and meditation in unlocking our inherent healing potential.

In this podcast episode, Kendel and I discuss:

  • Kendel's transition from engineering to specializing in physical therapy for chronic conditions, emphasizing a holistic and manual therapy approach.
  • Understanding Ehlers Danlos syndrome and its relationship with hypermobility, including the spectrum of symptoms that can lead individuals to seek help.
  • The significance of the nervous system in managing chronic conditions and practical strategies for engaging the parasympathetic nervous system to promote healing and well-being.
  • Kendel's exploration of craniosacral and visceral work as innovative methods to listen to the body's cues and facilitate healing from within.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of chronic illnesses, seeking to understand their body better, and exploring holistic approaches to health. Kendel's journey and insights demonstrate the importance of advocating for oneself, embracing our bodies' wisdom, and finding personalized pathways to healing.

Resources:

Connect with Kendall:

Kendel Lipe is a physical therapist, chronic illness health coach, biomedical engineer and integrative manual therapist. About 10 years ago, Kendal went from thriving to bed-ridden, struck by symptoms she now knows to be associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Specific types of diet, exercise, manual therapy and meditation helped me to get back to thriving. Through that journey, Kendel devoted herself to learning everything she could (and still learning more every day!) so that she can help those going through similar journeys to access their own inherent healing potential.

Kendel does virtual PT and coaching for people around the world:

Website: Roots Integrative Physical Therapy

Instagram 

Email: dr.kendel@roots-integrative.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 16 of the Heal with Grace Podcast, featuring a special guest, Kendel Lipe, a multifaceted expert who uniquely combines her expertise in physical therapy, chronic illness health coaching, biomedical engineering, and integrative manual therapy. 

Kendel shares her personal journey from being bedridden to thriving despite the challenges posed by Ehlers Danlos syndrome. This episode offers invaluable insights into the power of diet, exercise, manual therapy, and meditation in unlocking our inherent healing potential.

In this podcast episode, Kendel and I discuss:

  • Kendel's transition from engineering to specializing in physical therapy for chronic conditions, emphasizing a holistic and manual therapy approach.
  • Understanding Ehlers Danlos syndrome and its relationship with hypermobility, including the spectrum of symptoms that can lead individuals to seek help.
  • The significance of the nervous system in managing chronic conditions and practical strategies for engaging the parasympathetic nervous system to promote healing and well-being.
  • Kendel's exploration of craniosacral and visceral work as innovative methods to listen to the body's cues and facilitate healing from within.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of chronic illnesses, seeking to understand their body better, and exploring holistic approaches to health. Kendel's journey and insights demonstrate the importance of advocating for oneself, embracing our bodies' wisdom, and finding personalized pathways to healing.

Resources:

Connect with Kendall:

Kendel Lipe is a physical therapist, chronic illness health coach, biomedical engineer and integrative manual therapist. About 10 years ago, Kendal went from thriving to bed-ridden, struck by symptoms she now knows to be associated with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Specific types of diet, exercise, manual therapy and meditation helped me to get back to thriving. Through that journey, Kendel devoted herself to learning everything she could (and still learning more every day!) so that she can help those going through similar journeys to access their own inherent healing potential.

Kendel does virtual PT and coaching for people around the world:

Website: Roots Integrative Physical Therapy

Instagram 

Email: dr.kendel@roots-integrative.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-14873640 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600 3606 1 16 full false 15. Why Am I Sick But No One Else Is? 15. Why Am I Sick But No One Else Is? Welcome to Episode 15 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, we tackle a complex question many of us grapple with: "Why do I get sick when others around me don't?" It's a reflection often born out of frustration and confusion, especially for those of us navigating chronic health issues without clear causes. 

Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Grace dives into the nuanced interplay between our nervous system, stress, and health. She shares how understanding and managing our unique stress triggers can lead to profound healing and well-being.

In this episode, Grace discusses:

  • How stress and trauma, regardless of their scale, trigger physiological changes that can lead to chronic health conditions.
  • The impact of a constantly activated stress response on our bodies and brains, including heightened cortisol levels and compromised emotional regulation.
  • Effective strategies for calming both the mind and body, focusing on nervous system regulation, brain training, and emotional healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 15 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, we tackle a complex question many of us grapple with: "Why do I get sick when others around me don't?" It's a reflection often born out of frustration and confusion, especially for those of us navigating chronic health issues without clear causes. 

Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Grace dives into the nuanced interplay between our nervous system, stress, and health. She shares how understanding and managing our unique stress triggers can lead to profound healing and well-being.

In this episode, Grace discusses:

  • How stress and trauma, regardless of their scale, trigger physiological changes that can lead to chronic health conditions.
  • The impact of a constantly activated stress response on our bodies and brains, including heightened cortisol levels and compromised emotional regulation.
  • Effective strategies for calming both the mind and body, focusing on nervous system regulation, brain training, and emotional healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker Buzzsprout-14851423 Tue, 09 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600 995 1 15 full false 14. Healing ME/CFS Using Brain Training and Nervous System Regulation 14. Healing ME/CFS Using Brain Training and Nervous System Regulation Welcome to Episode 14 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, we're honored to have Lindsay Vine as our guest. Lindsay is an advocate and guide for individuals navigating the complexities of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Long COVID, Fibromyalgia, and other sensitivity disorders.

With a Master’s degree in Public Health and a personal journey of recovery from a debilitating illness, Lindsay is committed to connecting people with the resources and support they need to heal.In this episode, Lindsay shares her story of illness, discovery, and ultimately, healing. She delves into the importance of finding passion in recovery, the transformative power of connecting with others, and the essential role of various healing programs tailored to individual needs.

In this episode, Lindsay and Grace discuss:-

  • Lindsay's personal battle with ME/CFS and her path to wellness.
  • The development of her role as a program navigator, helping others select the right recovery program for their unique situation.
  • An insightful discussion on mind-body medicine, including the difference between brain retraining and somatic healing, and how these approaches integrate with nervous system regulation for holistic healing.
  • The significance of community support, personal passion, and a positive mindset in the healing journey.- Practical advice for anyone beginning to explore the root causes of their illness, emphasizing the value of curiosity, hope, and consistency in practice.


Resources:


Connect with Lindsay:
Lindsay Vine helps people with ME/CFS, long Covid, Fibro and other sensitivity disorders heal through coaching and online recovery programs navigation support.

With a masters degree in Public Health and after 7 years of healing from debilitating illness she is dedicated to connecting those suffering with the resources they need to heal.

Her and Liz Carlson have an in-depth Online CFS Recovery Programs guide out available here: https://healwithliz.com/programs-guide/

She hosts a popular recovery podcast called Post Viral Podcast, where she interviews world renowned experts in different healing modalities. You can check out her services at www.lindsayvine.com. 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 14 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, we're honored to have Lindsay Vine as our guest. Lindsay is an advocate and guide for individuals navigating the complexities of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Long COVID, Fibromyalgia, and other sensitivity disorders.

With a Master’s degree in Public Health and a personal journey of recovery from a debilitating illness, Lindsay is committed to connecting people with the resources and support they need to heal.In this episode, Lindsay shares her story of illness, discovery, and ultimately, healing. She delves into the importance of finding passion in recovery, the transformative power of connecting with others, and the essential role of various healing programs tailored to individual needs.

In this episode, Lindsay and Grace discuss:-

  • Lindsay's personal battle with ME/CFS and her path to wellness.
  • The development of her role as a program navigator, helping others select the right recovery program for their unique situation.
  • An insightful discussion on mind-body medicine, including the difference between brain retraining and somatic healing, and how these approaches integrate with nervous system regulation for holistic healing.
  • The significance of community support, personal passion, and a positive mindset in the healing journey.- Practical advice for anyone beginning to explore the root causes of their illness, emphasizing the value of curiosity, hope, and consistency in practice.


Resources:


Connect with Lindsay:
Lindsay Vine helps people with ME/CFS, long Covid, Fibro and other sensitivity disorders heal through coaching and online recovery programs navigation support.

With a masters degree in Public Health and after 7 years of healing from debilitating illness she is dedicated to connecting those suffering with the resources they need to heal.

Her and Liz Carlson have an in-depth Online CFS Recovery Programs guide out available here: https://healwithliz.com/programs-guide/

She hosts a popular recovery podcast called Post Viral Podcast, where she interviews world renowned experts in different healing modalities. You can check out her services at www.lindsayvine.com. 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 72c1459e-2824-4ea4-b033-9474b6d7a2eb Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0600 3311 1 14 full false 13. How Grief Impacts Your Mind, Body and Spirit 13. How Grief Impacts Your Mind, Body and Spirit Welcome to Episode 13 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, I take you on a personal journey through the multifaceted experience of grief, exploring its effects not only on our emotions but on our physiological and spiritual well-being.

Drawing from my own recent experiences of loss, I aim to illuminate the path of healing and adaptation, sharing insights and strategies that have offered me solace and strength.

In this episode, I discuss:

  • An exploration into the essence of grief, revealing it as a response not just to death, but to the loss of relationships, jobs, and familiar ways of life.
  • Insight into how grief manifests physically, altering our brain chemistry, hormone levels, and even impacting heart health.
  • A look at grief's activation of our fight or flight response and its potential to lock us into a state of chronic stress if not addressed.
  • The unpredictable nature of grief, highlighting its ability to surface at unexpected times and in various forms.
  • Practical advice on managing the complex emotions and physical responses triggered by grief.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 13 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today, I take you on a personal journey through the multifaceted experience of grief, exploring its effects not only on our emotions but on our physiological and spiritual well-being.

Drawing from my own recent experiences of loss, I aim to illuminate the path of healing and adaptation, sharing insights and strategies that have offered me solace and strength.

In this episode, I discuss:

  • An exploration into the essence of grief, revealing it as a response not just to death, but to the loss of relationships, jobs, and familiar ways of life.
  • Insight into how grief manifests physically, altering our brain chemistry, hormone levels, and even impacting heart health.
  • A look at grief's activation of our fight or flight response and its potential to lock us into a state of chronic stress if not addressed.
  • The unpredictable nature of grief, highlighting its ability to surface at unexpected times and in various forms.
  • Practical advice on managing the complex emotions and physical responses triggered by grief.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 1bf1139d-64ac-4f72-8a92-e64492387319 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0600 1909 1 13 full false 12. The Science Behind Nervous System Healing 12. The Science Behind Nervous System Healing Welcome to Episode 12 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today’s special guest is Isabelle Tierney, where she shares her journey through burnout to the development of the Feel Good Methodology. Isabelle, a licensed marriage and family therapist, stress management expert, educator, and international speaker, brings her vast experience and personal journey of transformation to enlighten us on fostering a life filled with aliveness, inspiration, and happiness.

In this episode, Grace and Isabelle discuss:

  •  How Isabelle’s experiences and education in international relations, child development, and energy healing provided the foundation for her to confront and transform her life challenges.
  •  Originating from Isabelle's darkest moments of health and marital collapse, how this methodology emerged as a lifeline, not just for her but for many others seeking change.Isabelle reflects on the importance of facing our traumas, acknowledging our past, and the profound growth that comes from navigating through life's adversities.
  •  Isabelle opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder and the double life of appearing successful while battling significant personal turmoil, highlighting a common but often hidden struggle among many, especially women.
  •  The Feel Good Methodology is outlined as a practical tool for identifying stress responses and consciously moving towards a state of balance, or the "Green Zone," through awareness and actionable steps.


Resources and Links:


About Isabelle:
Isabelle Tierney is a licensed marriage and family therapist, stress management expert, and international speaker and educator. She holds two master's degrees—one in International Relations from Boston University and another in Child Development from Tufts University. She also holds an energy healing certification from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing. 

After running a successful therapy practice for more than 10 years, Isabelle’s journey took a turn when burnout led to the loss of her health and her marriage. In response, she developed a transformative methodology aimed at fostering a life of aliveness, inspiration, and joy. This methodology, a simple, proven map derived from neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality, has been successfully implemented with diverse audiences, from individuals to corporations such as L’Oréal. For the past several years, Isabelle has trained and certified hundreds of people to practice and facilitate the methodology. She is committed to reaching as many people as possible through her online training programs, speaking engagements, and app.

Website: www.thefeelgoodlife.com

Quiz: www.lifeauditquiz.com

Facebook: Isabelle Terney

Instagram: @isabelletierneytherapist

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 12 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

Today’s special guest is Isabelle Tierney, where she shares her journey through burnout to the development of the Feel Good Methodology. Isabelle, a licensed marriage and family therapist, stress management expert, educator, and international speaker, brings her vast experience and personal journey of transformation to enlighten us on fostering a life filled with aliveness, inspiration, and happiness.

In this episode, Grace and Isabelle discuss:

  •  How Isabelle’s experiences and education in international relations, child development, and energy healing provided the foundation for her to confront and transform her life challenges.
  •  Originating from Isabelle's darkest moments of health and marital collapse, how this methodology emerged as a lifeline, not just for her but for many others seeking change.Isabelle reflects on the importance of facing our traumas, acknowledging our past, and the profound growth that comes from navigating through life's adversities.
  •  Isabelle opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder and the double life of appearing successful while battling significant personal turmoil, highlighting a common but often hidden struggle among many, especially women.
  •  The Feel Good Methodology is outlined as a practical tool for identifying stress responses and consciously moving towards a state of balance, or the "Green Zone," through awareness and actionable steps.


Resources and Links:


About Isabelle:
Isabelle Tierney is a licensed marriage and family therapist, stress management expert, and international speaker and educator. She holds two master's degrees—one in International Relations from Boston University and another in Child Development from Tufts University. She also holds an energy healing certification from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing. 

After running a successful therapy practice for more than 10 years, Isabelle’s journey took a turn when burnout led to the loss of her health and her marriage. In response, she developed a transformative methodology aimed at fostering a life of aliveness, inspiration, and joy. This methodology, a simple, proven map derived from neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality, has been successfully implemented with diverse audiences, from individuals to corporations such as L’Oréal. For the past several years, Isabelle has trained and certified hundreds of people to practice and facilitate the methodology. She is committed to reaching as many people as possible through her online training programs, speaking engagements, and app.

Website: www.thefeelgoodlife.com

Quiz: www.lifeauditquiz.com

Facebook: Isabelle Terney

Instagram: @isabelletierneytherapist

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 003beff7-07ca-45a1-bab7-cb4f6181d874 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0600 2610 1 12 full false 11. What Emotional Regulation Looks Like, Part 2 11. What Emotional Regulation Looks Like, Part 2 Welcome to Episode 11 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

In today's episode, Grace welcomes back Liana Mauro from Elevate Therapy & Wellness. Liana joins us to dive deeper into the intricate relationship between our emotions and physical well-being. Building on the insights from Episode 10, this discussion explores the critical importance of truly experiencing our emotions for holistic healing.

In this episode, Grace and Liana discuss:

  • The significance of embracing our emotions and the impact this has on our body.- Practical guidance on how to feel emotions, addressing common questions about the process of emotional engagement.
  •  The concept of repressed emotions and their connection to chronic illness, offering insights into recognizing and addressing these hidden feelings.
  • Strategies for emotional regulation, including the role of physical movement, journaling, and other practices in emotional processing.
  • The journey of grieving and the importance of creating a safe space for our emotions, allowing for healing and transformation.


Resources and Links:


About Liana:
Liana is a holistic psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness and guiding clients in discovering their purpose and meaning.Liana got her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2008. She then founded her own Pilates studio which she sold after 10.5 years because she felt called to work with clients in a more holistically healing way.  She believes the integration of holistic modalities more effectively heals than approaching healing in parts and incorporates a variety of modalities like movement, dance, breathwork, mindfulness, sound and spirituality.She is an LPC-A, Reiki Master, and fully certified Pilates instructor. 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 11 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

In today's episode, Grace welcomes back Liana Mauro from Elevate Therapy & Wellness. Liana joins us to dive deeper into the intricate relationship between our emotions and physical well-being. Building on the insights from Episode 10, this discussion explores the critical importance of truly experiencing our emotions for holistic healing.

In this episode, Grace and Liana discuss:

  • The significance of embracing our emotions and the impact this has on our body.- Practical guidance on how to feel emotions, addressing common questions about the process of emotional engagement.
  •  The concept of repressed emotions and their connection to chronic illness, offering insights into recognizing and addressing these hidden feelings.
  • Strategies for emotional regulation, including the role of physical movement, journaling, and other practices in emotional processing.
  • The journey of grieving and the importance of creating a safe space for our emotions, allowing for healing and transformation.


Resources and Links:


About Liana:
Liana is a holistic psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness and guiding clients in discovering their purpose and meaning.Liana got her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2008. She then founded her own Pilates studio which she sold after 10.5 years because she felt called to work with clients in a more holistically healing way.  She believes the integration of holistic modalities more effectively heals than approaching healing in parts and incorporates a variety of modalities like movement, dance, breathwork, mindfulness, sound and spirituality.She is an LPC-A, Reiki Master, and fully certified Pilates instructor. 

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 98438ca0-40e4-4d47-884a-4f0e02811946 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0600 3184 1 11 full false 10. Healing Migraines and Unexplained Jaw Pain with Liana Mauro 10. Healing Migraines and Unexplained Jaw Pain with Liana Mauro Welcome to Episode 10 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!
In this episode, Grace is joined by Liana Mauro, one of the holistic psychotherapists and nervous system coaches at Elevate Therapy & Wellness. Liana specializes in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness, and guiding clients to discover their purpose and meaning. Her unique journey from counseling to founding a Pilates studio and returning to holistic therapy offers valuable insights into mind-body healing.

In this episode, Grace and Liana discuss:

  •  Liana's journey from earning a master's degree in counseling to founding a Pilates studio and returning to holistic therapy.
  •  The power of integrating holistic modalities like movement, dance, breathwork, mindfulness, sound, and spirituality for more effective healing.- Liana opens up about her own challenges, including chronic jaw pain and facing difficult medical decisions, and how she managed to find resilience and healing through a holistic approach.
  •  Liana discusses the profound connection between mind and body, emphasizing the importance of addressing both aspects for true healing.

Resources and Links:

About Liana:
Liana is a holistic psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness and guiding clients in discovering their purpose and meaning. Liana got her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2008. She then founded her own Pilates studio which she sold after 10.5 years because she felt called to work with clients in a more holistically healing way.She believes the integration of holistic modalities more effectively heals than approaching healing in parts and incorporates a variety of modalities like movement, dance, breath-work, mindfulness, sound and spirituality.She is an LPC-A, Reiki Master, and fully certified Pilates instructor. 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 10 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!
In this episode, Grace is joined by Liana Mauro, one of the holistic psychotherapists and nervous system coaches at Elevate Therapy & Wellness. Liana specializes in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness, and guiding clients to discover their purpose and meaning. Her unique journey from counseling to founding a Pilates studio and returning to holistic therapy offers valuable insights into mind-body healing.

In this episode, Grace and Liana discuss:

  •  Liana's journey from earning a master's degree in counseling to founding a Pilates studio and returning to holistic therapy.
  •  The power of integrating holistic modalities like movement, dance, breathwork, mindfulness, sound, and spirituality for more effective healing.- Liana opens up about her own challenges, including chronic jaw pain and facing difficult medical decisions, and how she managed to find resilience and healing through a holistic approach.
  •  Liana discusses the profound connection between mind and body, emphasizing the importance of addressing both aspects for true healing.

Resources and Links:

About Liana:
Liana is a holistic psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, trauma, chronic pain and illness and guiding clients in discovering their purpose and meaning. Liana got her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology in 2008. She then founded her own Pilates studio which she sold after 10.5 years because she felt called to work with clients in a more holistically healing way.She believes the integration of holistic modalities more effectively heals than approaching healing in parts and incorporates a variety of modalities like movement, dance, breath-work, mindfulness, sound and spirituality.She is an LPC-A, Reiki Master, and fully certified Pilates instructor. 


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 83cebc79-67be-4e74-b8c8-664534453173 Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0600 2923 1 9 full false 9. 3 Tips to Regulate Your Emotions, Part 1 9. 3 Tips to Regulate Your Emotions, Part 1 Welcome to Episode 9 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

In this episode, we’re exploring the concept of emotional regulation. Grace shares three actionable tips for managing your emotions in a healthy way. This episode is a guide to navigating your emotional world with ease and understanding. Whether emotions overwhelm you or you struggle to feel them, you'll find strategies here to help you achieve emotional balance.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • An introduction to emotional regulation and how to manage reactions to emotions in healthy ways.
  •  Grace’s three tips for regulating your emotions.
  •  The differences between 'feelers' and 'avoiders' and how each can better manage their emotions.
  •  How our past experiences influence our emotional reactions and ways to view them objectively.

Resources:

  • Free Nervous System Training: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/training


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 9 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!

In this episode, we’re exploring the concept of emotional regulation. Grace shares three actionable tips for managing your emotions in a healthy way. This episode is a guide to navigating your emotional world with ease and understanding. Whether emotions overwhelm you or you struggle to feel them, you'll find strategies here to help you achieve emotional balance.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • An introduction to emotional regulation and how to manage reactions to emotions in healthy ways.
  •  Grace’s three tips for regulating your emotions.
  •  The differences between 'feelers' and 'avoiders' and how each can better manage their emotions.
  •  How our past experiences influence our emotional reactions and ways to view them objectively.

Resources:

  • Free Nervous System Training: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/training


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker b102f025-37c0-445e-895e-d5681e660b66 Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0600 992 1 9 full false 8. Healing IBS Through Your Nervous System as a Dietitian 8. Healing IBS Through Your Nervous System as a Dietitian Welcome to Episode 7 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast!

In this episode, we explore the connection between diet, lifestyle, and the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with the help of dietitian and nutritionist, Crystal Austin. Crystal brings a wealth of knowledge from her online nutrition practice, helping clients worldwide to find relief from their symptoms, pinpoint their unique triggers, and improve gut health.

In this episode, we discuss:

  •  Crystal's personal journey with IBS and how it led her to specialize in this area as a dietitian.
  •  The significant role of the nervous system in managing IBS and its symptoms.- Strategies for identifying food triggers and the importance of a tailored approach to diet and lifestyle changes.
  •  Crystal's perspective on common treatments and interventions for IBS, including the low FODMAP diet, and why they should be considered as part of a broader, holistic approach to health.

Resources:

  • Free Nervous System Training: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/training


Connect with Crystal

Crystal is a dietitian and nutritionist who works with people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). She has an online nutrition practice where she works with clients worldwide to help them find relief from their symptoms, pinpoint their unique triggers and improve gut health. Instagram: @ibsfodmapdieticianWebsite: www.crystalaustinnutrition.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 7 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast!

In this episode, we explore the connection between diet, lifestyle, and the management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with the help of dietitian and nutritionist, Crystal Austin. Crystal brings a wealth of knowledge from her online nutrition practice, helping clients worldwide to find relief from their symptoms, pinpoint their unique triggers, and improve gut health.

In this episode, we discuss:

  •  Crystal's personal journey with IBS and how it led her to specialize in this area as a dietitian.
  •  The significant role of the nervous system in managing IBS and its symptoms.- Strategies for identifying food triggers and the importance of a tailored approach to diet and lifestyle changes.
  •  Crystal's perspective on common treatments and interventions for IBS, including the low FODMAP diet, and why they should be considered as part of a broader, holistic approach to health.

Resources:

  • Free Nervous System Training: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/training


Connect with Crystal

Crystal is a dietitian and nutritionist who works with people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). She has an online nutrition practice where she works with clients worldwide to help them find relief from their symptoms, pinpoint their unique triggers and improve gut health. Instagram: @ibsfodmapdieticianWebsite: www.crystalaustinnutrition.com

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker e1899af4-e033-46b8-b8ea-778fe966dc3e Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600 2036 1 8 full false 7. Healing ME/Chronic Fatigue Through the Mind-Body Healing Method 7. Healing ME/Chronic Fatigue Through the Mind-Body Healing Method Welcome to Episode 7 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!
This episode features Sydney, a past client of Grace’s who has experienced significant progress in both her mental and physical health. Sydney shares her journey through chronic fatigue, ME/CFS, and her exploration of both scientific research and esoteric healing modalities. 

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Sydney's battle with chronic fatigue and ME/CFS, starting from her college years after contracting the Epstein Barr virus.
  • The realization of the missing holistic piece in Western medicine and how Grace's mind-body approach resonated with Sydney.
  • The significant impact of recognizing and addressing underlying shame cycles and perfectionism on Sydney's health.
  • Sydney's insights into the science behind chronic illnesses and the importance of acknowledging both physical manifestations and stress-induced symptoms.
  •  The role of mindfulness and setting authentic code words for living, which provided Sydney with a structured approach to her healing process.

Resources and Links

  •  Mind-Body Healing Method: https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com/mindbody-healing-method
  •  Free Nervous System Workbook: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/guide
  • Curable: https://www.curablehealth.com/deal/healwithgrace
  •  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2srAPivtpz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

About Sydney: When working in COVID research left her with burnout, Sydney began searching for tools to help her heal. As a yoga teacher and energy healer, Sydney brings a holistic mind-body-soul perspective to her health and healing journey, which she has found reciprocated in her work with Grace. Sydney currently lives in Austin, TX with her husband and two cats, Jimi and Tuna. Instagram: @syds___soul


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 7 of the Heal with Grace Podcast!
This episode features Sydney, a past client of Grace’s who has experienced significant progress in both her mental and physical health. Sydney shares her journey through chronic fatigue, ME/CFS, and her exploration of both scientific research and esoteric healing modalities. 

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Sydney's battle with chronic fatigue and ME/CFS, starting from her college years after contracting the Epstein Barr virus.
  • The realization of the missing holistic piece in Western medicine and how Grace's mind-body approach resonated with Sydney.
  • The significant impact of recognizing and addressing underlying shame cycles and perfectionism on Sydney's health.
  • Sydney's insights into the science behind chronic illnesses and the importance of acknowledging both physical manifestations and stress-induced symptoms.
  •  The role of mindfulness and setting authentic code words for living, which provided Sydney with a structured approach to her healing process.

Resources and Links

  •  Mind-Body Healing Method: https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com/mindbody-healing-method
  •  Free Nervous System Workbook: https://healwithgrace.mykajabi.com/guide
  • Curable: https://www.curablehealth.com/deal/healwithgrace
  •  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2srAPivtpz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

About Sydney: When working in COVID research left her with burnout, Sydney began searching for tools to help her heal. As a yoga teacher and energy healer, Sydney brings a holistic mind-body-soul perspective to her health and healing journey, which she has found reciprocated in her work with Grace. Sydney currently lives in Austin, TX with her husband and two cats, Jimi and Tuna. Instagram: @syds___soul


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 1b19996b-ba4f-4359-989b-a08d69893ea7 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600 2086 1 7 full false 6. 4 Mistakes You're Making in Regulating Your Nervous System 6. 4 Mistakes You're Making in Regulating Your Nervous System Welcome to Episode 6 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast. In this episode, I dive into the common mistakes we often make while learning to regulate our nervous system. My aim is not to point out faults but to provide valuable insights that can aid in your journey towards self-connection and nervous system regulation.

In this episode, I discuss:

  • Understanding why making small, gradual changes is more beneficial for your nervous system than overhauling your life with numerous health practices.
  • How adhering strictly to certain health rules and routines can add stress and hinder your progress, and the importance of flexibility.
  •  The crucial role of internal mental and emotional health in driving physical dysregulation and the importance of addressing these alongside physical symptoms.
  •  Examining how your immediate environment and lifestyle choices play a significant role in nervous system regulation and overall well-being.

Resources:Mind-Body Healing Method: https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com/mindbody-healing-method


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 6 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast. In this episode, I dive into the common mistakes we often make while learning to regulate our nervous system. My aim is not to point out faults but to provide valuable insights that can aid in your journey towards self-connection and nervous system regulation.

In this episode, I discuss:

  • Understanding why making small, gradual changes is more beneficial for your nervous system than overhauling your life with numerous health practices.
  • How adhering strictly to certain health rules and routines can add stress and hinder your progress, and the importance of flexibility.
  •  The crucial role of internal mental and emotional health in driving physical dysregulation and the importance of addressing these alongside physical symptoms.
  •  Examining how your immediate environment and lifestyle choices play a significant role in nervous system regulation and overall well-being.

Resources:Mind-Body Healing Method: https://www.elevatetherapywellness.com/mindbody-healing-method


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 944a4956-1e93-40f2-947a-223466ee2bea Thu, 08 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600 1606 1 6 full false 4. Healing Interstitial Cystitis Through the Nervous System 4. Healing Interstitial Cystitis Through the Nervous System Welcome to Episode 5 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast!In this episode, we are thrilled to have Callie Krajcir as our special guest. Callie, a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis, shares her personal journey and professional insights on managing this condition. With her unique perspective, she offers invaluable advice for those navigating similar challenges.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Callie's personal experience with interstitial cystitis and her journey towards finding relief through lifestyle changes.
  • The impact of nervous system regulation on interstitial cystitis and overall health.- Callie's approach as a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis, including the importance of addressing diet sensitivities and stress management.

Resources and Links:

  • Curable Health App - https://getcurable.com/healwithgrace
  • "The Way Out" by Alan Gordon
  •  “Why Pelvic Pain Hurts” by Adriaan Louw
  •  Nervous system-focused Instagram accounts: @thathealingfeeling, @vitalside, @cfsschool, @healyournervoussystem


Connect with Callie:
Callie Krajcir is a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis. Having lived with IC from a young age, Callie found relief through lifestyle changes and developed her signature program, "Road To Remission," to help others achieve long-term relief from their symptoms.www.callieknutrition.comhttps://www.callieknutrition.com/podcasthttps://www.instagram.com/callieknutrition/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 5 of the "Heal with Grace" Podcast!In this episode, we are thrilled to have Callie Krajcir as our special guest. Callie, a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis, shares her personal journey and professional insights on managing this condition. With her unique perspective, she offers invaluable advice for those navigating similar challenges.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Callie's personal experience with interstitial cystitis and her journey towards finding relief through lifestyle changes.
  • The impact of nervous system regulation on interstitial cystitis and overall health.- Callie's approach as a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis, including the importance of addressing diet sensitivities and stress management.

Resources and Links:

  • Curable Health App - https://getcurable.com/healwithgrace
  • "The Way Out" by Alan Gordon
  •  “Why Pelvic Pain Hurts” by Adriaan Louw
  •  Nervous system-focused Instagram accounts: @thathealingfeeling, @vitalside, @cfsschool, @healyournervoussystem


Connect with Callie:
Callie Krajcir is a Registered Dietitian specializing in interstitial cystitis. Having lived with IC from a young age, Callie found relief through lifestyle changes and developed her signature program, "Road To Remission," to help others achieve long-term relief from their symptoms.www.callieknutrition.comhttps://www.callieknutrition.com/podcasthttps://www.instagram.com/callieknutrition/

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker c4e52f47-b85a-4967-a540-ec7dcc80b32b Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600 2668 1 5 full false 3. The Secret to Regulating Your Nervous System: Slowing Down 3. The Secret to Regulating Your Nervous System: Slowing Down Welcome to Episode 4 of the Heal with Grace podcast! In this episode, I talk about slowing down in life, a key element in regulating your nervous system and fostering a deeper connection with your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual selves. While it might seem counterintuitive, especially for those dealing with chronic fatigue or other symptoms that induce sluggishness, slowing down offers profound benefits that go beyond mere relaxation.

In this episode, I discuss:

  •  The importance of changing how you relate to your symptoms, rather than focusing on the symptoms themselves.
  •  The value of introspection and self-awareness.
  • The concept of pacing in life for nervous system regulation.

This episode is particularly insightful for anyone looking to understand the deeper aspects of their mental and physical health and seeking practical ways to improve their overall well-being through mindfulness and self-awareness. Tune in to explore how embracing a slower pace can lead to significant personal growth and healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 4 of the Heal with Grace podcast! In this episode, I talk about slowing down in life, a key element in regulating your nervous system and fostering a deeper connection with your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual selves. While it might seem counterintuitive, especially for those dealing with chronic fatigue or other symptoms that induce sluggishness, slowing down offers profound benefits that go beyond mere relaxation.

In this episode, I discuss:

  •  The importance of changing how you relate to your symptoms, rather than focusing on the symptoms themselves.
  •  The value of introspection and self-awareness.
  • The concept of pacing in life for nervous system regulation.

This episode is particularly insightful for anyone looking to understand the deeper aspects of their mental and physical health and seeking practical ways to improve their overall well-being through mindfulness and self-awareness. Tune in to explore how embracing a slower pace can lead to significant personal growth and healing.

How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker 8018934a-7172-4026-8810-da268be1c584 Wed, 24 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600 1141 1 4 full false 2. How to Take Radical Self-Care Through Messy Action with Kaylin Zabienski 2. How to Take Radical Self-Care Through Messy Action with Kaylin Zabienski Welcome to Episode 2 of the "Heal with Grace" podcast! In this episode, I have a heartwarming conversation with Kaylin Zabienski, a dear friend and fellow therapist, focusing on self-care and its profound impact on our overall well-being.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Kaylin's journey as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in stress and anxiety management among millennial women, and her transition into the wellness coaching world.
  • A deep dive into the concept of self-care beyond superficial activities. We explore how true self-care involves introspection, acknowledging the 'shadowy' parts of ourselves, and building healthy habits.
  • The idea of 'messy action' in self-care, emphasizing the importance of experimentation and personalization in wellness practices.
  •  A discussion on perfectionism and people-pleasing, exploring how these traits relate to stress responses and impact our self-care routines.
  •  Insights on navigating the journey of self-care, especially when dealing with chronic symptoms or trauma, and how understanding our individual needs and responses is crucial.

Join us as we unravel the layers of self-care, stressing the importance of understanding ourselves better to cultivate habits that truly nurture our mental, physical, and emotional health. Whether you're seeking strategies to manage stress or insights into holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable perspectives on taking care of ourselves in the most authentic way.


CONNECT WITH KAYLIN:
Kaylin is a licensed marriage and family therapist, yoga teacher, and general wellness fanatic. Her passion is to teach high achievers and perfectionists how to take the effing break they deserve and build a lifestyle that actually supports rest and recovery... while allowing them to still get shit done. Follow her on IG at @kzabswellness.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to Episode 2 of the "Heal with Grace" podcast! In this episode, I have a heartwarming conversation with Kaylin Zabienski, a dear friend and fellow therapist, focusing on self-care and its profound impact on our overall well-being.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Kaylin's journey as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in stress and anxiety management among millennial women, and her transition into the wellness coaching world.
  • A deep dive into the concept of self-care beyond superficial activities. We explore how true self-care involves introspection, acknowledging the 'shadowy' parts of ourselves, and building healthy habits.
  • The idea of 'messy action' in self-care, emphasizing the importance of experimentation and personalization in wellness practices.
  •  A discussion on perfectionism and people-pleasing, exploring how these traits relate to stress responses and impact our self-care routines.
  •  Insights on navigating the journey of self-care, especially when dealing with chronic symptoms or trauma, and how understanding our individual needs and responses is crucial.

Join us as we unravel the layers of self-care, stressing the importance of understanding ourselves better to cultivate habits that truly nurture our mental, physical, and emotional health. Whether you're seeking strategies to manage stress or insights into holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable perspectives on taking care of ourselves in the most authentic way.


CONNECT WITH KAYLIN:
Kaylin is a licensed marriage and family therapist, yoga teacher, and general wellness fanatic. Her passion is to teach high achievers and perfectionists how to take the effing break they deserve and build a lifestyle that actually supports rest and recovery... while allowing them to still get shit done. Follow her on IG at @kzabswellness.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker ccba5a2d-6869-4e91-9fb1-f11dcf0fac66 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:29:21 -0600 2375 1 3 full false 1. Welcome to Heal with Grace 1. Welcome to Heal with Grace Welcome to the very first episode of the Heal with Grace podcast. Here, we’ll delve into a world where mental, physical, and spiritual health are intertwined, and where your journey through life's challenges is met with kindness and understanding. This podcast is my heartfelt mission to share groundbreaking yet not widely known principles of healing, rooted in science and research. It's a space where I want you to know that enduring healing is within reach, and suffering isn't a perpetual state.

In this podcast, we'll explore the essence of holistic healing, breaking down what it means in practical, accessible ways that won't overwhelm you or strain your resources. This podcast is more than just a platform; it's a haven for rediscovering or reinventing yourself, a place where you can find solace and direction.


As a trained holistic psychotherapist, yoga therapist, nervous system coach, and more, I bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to this journey. I'm here to share inspiring stories of resilience and recovery, offering you science-based tools for healing. This podcast has been a dream long in the making, and I'm thrilled to finally bring it to life, sharing the wisdom I've gained from mentors and leaders in therapy, healing, and spirituality. Join me in this journey of healing and self-discovery.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Welcome to the very first episode of the Heal with Grace podcast. Here, we’ll delve into a world where mental, physical, and spiritual health are intertwined, and where your journey through life's challenges is met with kindness and understanding. This podcast is my heartfelt mission to share groundbreaking yet not widely known principles of healing, rooted in science and research. It's a space where I want you to know that enduring healing is within reach, and suffering isn't a perpetual state.

In this podcast, we'll explore the essence of holistic healing, breaking down what it means in practical, accessible ways that won't overwhelm you or strain your resources. This podcast is more than just a platform; it's a haven for rediscovering or reinventing yourself, a place where you can find solace and direction.


As a trained holistic psychotherapist, yoga therapist, nervous system coach, and more, I bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to this journey. I'm here to share inspiring stories of resilience and recovery, offering you science-based tools for healing. This podcast has been a dream long in the making, and I'm thrilled to finally bring it to life, sharing the wisdom I've gained from mentors and leaders in therapy, healing, and spirituality. Join me in this journey of healing and self-discovery.


How to work with Grace:

Connect with Grace

]]> Grace Secker bf61343c-32aa-4309-9bc9-0589e0138b50 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:47:20 -0600 533 1 1 full false