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61. Befriending Your Nervous System: A Conversation with Trauma Expert Leah Davidson
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What if the overwhelm, anxiety, and exhaustion you're feeling aren't signs of weakness, but your body's brilliant attempt to protect you? In this illuminating conversation with nervous system resilience coach Leah Davidson, we dive deep into the hidden language of your nervous system and how it shapes everything from your sleep quality to your ability to trust after betrayal.
Leah explains why our nervous systems toggle between hyperarousal (anxiety, irritability, racing thoughts) and shutdown (numbness, exhaustion, disconnection) when we perceive danger. She demystifies the vagus nerve—that mysterious communication highway carrying messages between brain and body—and reveals why 80% of these signals travel from body to brain, not the other way around. This explains why trying to "think yourself calm" rarely works as effectively as bottom-up approaches like breathwork and movement.
For those struggling with sleep issues, Leah offers a powerful reframe: "Your sleep is usually indicative of your nervous system state throughout the day." Sleep difficulties after betrayal trauma aren't coincidental—they're directly connected to your body's heightened vigilance. The good news? Your nervous system is remarkably adaptable, and with consistent practice, you can rewire those protective patterns.
Perhaps most reassuring is Leah's compassionate reminder that dysregulation isn't a character flaw but an adaptive response: "It's not because I was broken. It's because I brilliantly adapted to whatever was going on in my world that was very overwhelming." Through simple daily practices, community connection, and self-compassion, you can gradually create more safety in your nervous system and access the resilience that's always been within you.
Ready to befriend your nervous system and transform your relationship with stress? Subscribe to the Q&A Files for more conversations that blend cutting-edge science with practical wisdom.
Have a question for us? Email [email protected]—your curiosity might spark our next episode!
Is your marriage on the rocks? Schedule a free 30 min consult with Trisha, the "marriage whisperer!" Email her at [email protected] today!
If you’re looking to dive deeper into nervous system regulation, resilience, and self-growth, Leah Davidson is an incredible resource. Here’s where you can connect with her and explore her work:
Website:
Instagram:
Facebook:
Join the Nervous System Journaling Club:
Connect with a community of like-minded individuals and dive into nervous system regulation practices.
Check Out Her Resilience Journal on Amazon:
Part of the Resilient Brilliance brand—this guided journal is designed to support nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and self-care.
Mental Health Journal for Anxiety Relief, Stress Management & Personal Growth (BlueGrey)
Chapters
1. Introduction to Nervous System Resilience (00:00:00)
2. Italy Trip and Travel Celebrations (00:09:43)
3. Understanding Nervous System Regulation Basics (00:14:27)
4. The Vagus Nerve and Its Function (00:22:23)
5. Sleep Struggles and Nervous System Connection (00:28:25)
6. Healing from Betrayal Trauma (00:39:46)
7. Daily Habits for Nervous System Regulation (00:45:16)
8. Community Connection and First Steps (00:52:15)
9. Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:58:54)
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