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This week, trauma expert Dr. Aimie Apigian is here to change how we understand trauma. She shares how becoming a foster parent led her into trauma healing—and y'all, her story is powerful. Dr. Aimie explains the difference between stress and trauma, reveals how our bodies hold onto past experiences, and offers practical steps for us to start releasing them. Get ready for real talk, actionable tools, and hope—this episode is for all of us ready to heal from the inside out.In this episode:How becoming a foster parent shaped Dr. Amie's path to becoming a trauma expertThe three qualities shaped by trauma responsesHow the body recognizes and stores traumaCommon patterns of stored trauma in the bodyActionable steps to begin healing trauma in the bodyHere is my favorite quote from this episode:"The body does not allow us to leave our past in the past." - Dr. Aimie ApigianExperience Bible Life Guides: Forgiven and Free — a 21-day Bible-based journey to emotional freedom, available free at https://try.biblelifeguides.com/products/forgiven-free-with-kim-gravelTake the Quiz: Which Maribelle and the Manger character are you? Find out here: https://bit.ly/4pxUqF8If you want your questions answered then leave a comment or call me and leave me a voicemail at 404-913-6460There is BONUS CONTENT in our free newsletter so make sure to subscribe at https://www.kimgravelshow.comNEW! Order Kim's Holiday Children's BookEmbark on a magical adventure with five friends as they journey together to witness the birth of Jesus! It's a heartwarming holiday tale your whole family will love.Kim's brand-new storybook Maribelle and the Manger is available now: https://maribelleandthemanger.com/?utm_source=lwya.beehiiv.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=pre-order-kim-s-new-book&_bhlid=075a4287c5257cbe2d43cc23e857262cc9cf39cdConnect with Dr. Aimie Apigian:InstagramLinkedInYouTubeWebsitePodcast: The Biology of TraumaBook: The Biology of TraumaConnect with Me:YouTubeFacebookInstagramTikTok WebsiteNew episodes of The Kim Gravel Show drop every Wednesday at 6pm EST.Support our show by supporting our Sponsors:Aura FramesThe holidays are almost here, and Aura Frames is the gift that brings memories to life. Aura is a digital photo frame with unlimited storage that can be updated instantly from any phone, anywhere. It's an easy way to share moments, keep traditions alive, and feel connected every day. You can't wrap togetherness, but you can frame it.For a limited time, visit https://on.auraframes.com/KIM and get $45 off Aura's best-selling Carver Mat frame with promo code KIM at checkout. This exclusive Black Friday/Cyber Monday offer is their best of the year—order before it ends!HERSMenopause can bring hot flashes, fatigue, brain fog, and other challenging symptoms—but getting help doesn't have to be hard. HERS now offers menopause care through their trusted online health platform. Complete a simple medical intake, and if eligible, a licensed provider creates a personalized treatment plan with access to FDA-approved options. Many women start feeling relief in 4–6 weeks, with better sleep, fewer hot flashes, and improved overall well-being.Visit https://www.forhers.com/kim to get a personalized plan. Not available in all 50 states. Perimenopause & Menopause by Hers includes hormonal health support, educational resources, digital tools, and prescription options, if appropriate. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Discover how trauma lives in the body—and how the vagus nerve, nervous system shutdown, and somatic healing explain why stillness can feel unsafe. Through the Biology of Trauma® lens, Dr. Aimie shares the trauma response sequence and the Essential Sequence needed to heal stored trauma without overwhelm. If we've ever felt like we can't stop moving—like sitting still feels unsafe—this episode helps us understand why. I share Jess's story, a 45-year-old marketing director whose chronic busyness protected her from an 8-year-old's stored terror. When her 17-year-old daughter said, "Mom, we never really got to be together," Jess knew something had to change. We'll explore how nervous system dysregulation shows up as high-functioning exhaustion, emotional disconnection, and perfectionism. We'll see how trauma becomes biology—and why our body holds on until it feels safe enough to let go. In this episode you'll learn: [00:00] Why a "good childhood" doesn't guarantee a nervous system free of trauma [02:15] How Jess's busyness, weight gain, and exhaustion were signs of stored trauma [06:40] Why stillness feels unsafe when the body equates pausing with overwhelm [09:10] Thinking vs feeling: how living in your head blocks somatic trauma healing [12:45] The real definition of trauma: overwhelm inside the body, not just events [16:05] Startle → stress → freeze → shutdown: the trauma response sequence in the nervous system [18:40] How the vagus nerve turns overwhelm into a whole-body shutdown response [21:20] Overwhelm as biology: fatigue, gut issues, emotional eating, and chronic anxiety [24:05] Why somatic work can retraumatize you if you don't feel safe first [26:30] The essential safety sequence: safety → support → growth into calm aliveness [28:15] How Jess used the Foundational Journey to break the cycle with her daughter Main Takeaways: Trauma Happens Inside the Body: Trauma isn't defined by events—it's what happens inside of us when overwhelm outpaces our capacity to cope. Overwhelm Is Trauma Biology: When the size of the problems we face feels bigger than our resources, our nervous system shifts from stress into trauma—leading to freeze, shutdown, and hopelessness. Chronic Busyness and Perfectionism Can Be Functional Freeze: What looks like overachieving may actually be a protective response. Our body may be using busyness to avoid stored pain. The Vagus Nerve Makes Trauma Physical: It carries the signal of shutdown throughout our system—leading to fatigue, gut issues, disconnection, and a loss of aliveness. We Must Follow the Same Path Out That We Took In: Skipping straight to calm never works. True healing follows this path: Safety → Support → Expansion. Healing Breaks Generational Patterns: Jess's journey shows what becomes possible when we regulate our nervous system and choose presence over protection. Notable Quotes: "Trauma isn't what happened to us—it's what happened inside of us". "Busyness kept me safe. It kept me from drowning in emotions I couldn't process". "We have to follow the same path that our body took." "Our body holds its truth. Our mind tells us what it wants us to hear." "Safety first, then Support, then Expansion. You cannot skip the sequence." "Our body needs safety to come out of shutdown. Until we create that, it will stay closed." Episode Takeaway: Trauma isn't about what happened—it's about what overwhelmed our nervous system and pushed it into survival mode. Chronic busyness, perfectionism, and emotional disconnection are often signs our body is still trying to protect us. But when we follow the Essential Sequence—Safety, then Support, then Expansion—we can safely access and resolve what our body has been holding. Healing becomes possible when our body finally knows it's safe to feel, to rest, and to be present. Resources/Guides: Take the Attachment Pain Quiz: Discover your attachment patterns and how they show up in your nervous system Attachment Trauma Healing Roadmap: Get your personalized roadmap for healing attachment wounds Foundational Journey - If you are ready to create your inner safety and shift your nervous system, join me and my team for this 6 week journey of practical somatic and mind-body inner child practices. Lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely and is the pre-requisite for becoming a Biology of Trauma® professional. Related Episodes: Episode 36: How to Integrate Somatic and Parts Work Part 2: Mind-Body Dialog Questions with Dr. Aimie Apigian Episode 37: How to Integrate Somatic and Parts Work Part 2: Mind-Body Dialog Questions with Dr. Aimie Apigian Your host: Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician (Preventive/Addiction Medicine) with master's degrees in biochemistry and public health, and author of the national bestselling book "The Biology of Trauma" (foreword by Gabor Maté) that transforms our understanding of how the body experiences and holds trauma. After foster-adopting a child during medical school sparked her journey, she desperately sought for answers that would only continue as she developed chronic health issues. Through her practitioner training, podcast, YouTube channel, and international speaking, she bridges functional medicine, attachment and trauma therapy, facilitating accelerated repair of trauma's impact on the mind, body and biology. Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please share and use your name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free and the discussion positive
What if the reason you keep saying "I'm fine" isn't about denial or stubbornness—but about your nervous system being programmed to avoid looking at problems because looking feels too dangerous? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian explores the powerful story Dr. Tom O'Bryan shared about Ray—a beloved janitor who said "I'm fine" for three years until the day he finally agreed to testing, pulled over on his way home, and died. This tragic story reveals something critical about trauma: avoidance isn't just psychological, it's a biological survival response. And it's creating a dangerous feedback loop where the very act of avoiding health problems generates more cellular damage through oxidative stress. This episode unpacks why trauma makes us afraid to look at our health, how this avoidance creates the exact biology that makes our problems worse, and most importantly—how to break free from the "I'm fine syndrome" through baby steps and biology repair. In this episode you'll hear more about: The "I'm fine syndrome": How Ray's story illustrates the deadly cost of health avoidance, and why so many people refuse testing even when symptoms are clear—it's not about money or time, it's about fear The first step of trauma: Understanding that avoidance is actually Step 1 of the body's instinctual trauma response (the startle), where blocking our threat assessment tells our body danger is real and escalates the survival response The oxidative damage cascade: Dr. Tom's powerful mousetrap analogy—976,000 mousetraps on a football field, one ping pong ball creating a cascade reaction of "pop, pop, pop"—exactly what's happening inside your cells when you avoid addressing health problems The avoidance-damage feedback loop: How saying "I'm fine" while avoiding health assessments creates more oxidative stress, which damages cells and DNA, which creates more danger signals, which makes you want to avoid even more—a vicious cycle driving disease development Why glyphosate matters for your future family: The shocking research showing 74% of men at fertility centers have glyphosate in their blood, with 300% higher levels in their semen, causing oxidative damage to sperm DNA that leads to 40% increased miscarriage rates and contributes to the autism epidemic (1 in 12 boys in California) The trauma-toxin connection: How stored trauma and toxic chemicals create the same biology—both generate oxidative stress that damages your mitochondria, immune system, and DNA, which is why trauma and toxins always go together as "sisters" or "best friends" Base hits win the ball game: Dr. Tom's strategy for men (and everyone) who feel overwhelmed—allocate one hour per week to learn about ONE health topic, make ONE change, and watch how baby steps transform your health in six months without trying to hit home runs The essential supplements for oxidative stress: What Dr. Tom takes when flying (GS packs with 22 nutrients) and what Dr. Aimie uses (vitamin C, NAC, and injectable NAD) to combat radiation exposure and cellular damage from travel and daily life The Total Tox Burden and Oxidative Stress Profile: The two tests everyone should know about to assess their cellular damage and toxic load before trying to start a family—and why being proactive prevents a lifetime of grief Why "I'm fine" is actually "I'm frozen": Understanding that health avoidance is your nervous system's way of protecting you from feeling powerless, but recognizing this pattern is the first step to building the courage to look and take action The three phases of safe detoxification: Why you must resource your body first, open drainage pathways second, and only then use active binders—jumping straight to celery juice or fasting can actually retraumatize your system The antioxidant repair toolkit: Starting with the fundamentals (vitamin C at 1,000mg, selenium at 200mcg, NAC at 2,000mg daily) plus lifestyle tools like red-light therapy, outdoor morning walks, colorful fruits and vegetables, and optimizing sleep in complete darkness The energy to leave toxic relationships: Why people can't leave toxic environments until they have the biological energy to do so—supporting the body's detoxification and energy production creates the capacity to clear out emotional toxins too 77% and 1 in 12: The devastating statistics that should wake us up—77% of military-age Americans are ineligible to serve due to obesity or cognitive decline, and 1 in 12 boys in California are diagnosed on the autism spectrum by age four, both driven by our toxic environment and the biology of trauma Your body isn't broken—it's trying to protect you from the pain of looking at what feels dangerous. But here's the truth: every moment you avoid looking at your health while saying "I'm fine," you're accumulating more oxidative damage. You're literally rusting from the inside. The good news? You don't have to take the whole mountain in one step. Baby steps—or as Dr. Tom says, base hits—win the ball game. Start with one hour a week. Start with basic antioxidant support. Start with getting curious instead of afraid. Your body has been waiting for you to look with compassion instead of fear.
Our bodies hold onto trauma, toxins, and pain for biological reasons—not willpower. Dr. Aimie Apigian shares her bathtub breaking point and the 3-phase Biology of Trauma® framework that changed everything: how to prepare, open channels, and safely release what our nervous systems have been protecting us from. After her third collarbone break in a 2017 car accident, Dr. Aimie found herself back in depression, chronic fatigue, and developing chronic pain—despite years of therapy and functional medicine work. Crying in a bathtub, she realized her body wasn't broken; it was scared to let go. This episode reveals her discovery of the hidden connection between emotional toxins, psychological toxins, and biochemical toxins—and why our nervous systems hold on to all three. You'll learn the exact six-step process that moves through preparation, opening drainage pathways, and active release, plus why forcing detoxification before our bodies feel safe makes symptoms worse, not better. This framework bridges somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and functional medicine for both individuals struggling with stored trauma and practitioners helping clients who feel stuck. Whether we're dealing with chronic pain, autoimmunity, insomnia, or anxiety that won't shift, or we're therapists or health professionals seeking trauma-informed approaches, this episode explains how to create a biology of letting go. Dr. Aimie shows us how to work with our bodies' protective wisdom instead of fighting against it—so we can finally experience the freedom, authenticity, and healing our nervous systems have been waiting to feel safe enough to allow. In this episode you'll learn: [03:32] Why Your Body Holds On: The relationship with the past that serves survival and the parts that aren't ready to let go [07:00] The Body Trauma Loop: Nervous system pattern of looping between stress and overwhelm that keeps you stuck holding on [12:37] Holding On to Regrets: How regret creates bracing and collapse in the body and why it's one of the hardest things to release [14:58] When Life Didn't Go as Supposed: The deep sadness of holding on to how things were meant to be instead of what is [19:21] The Biggest Myth About Letting Go: Why letting go isn't a decision you make but a biology your body needs to feel safe enough to create [20:33] Three Types of Toxins We Hold: Emotional toxins, psychological toxins, and biochemical toxins all accumulate the same way in your body [23:32] Why Bodies Hold Biochemical Toxins: When you have a biology of holding on emotionally, you also hold mold, metals, parasites, and environmental toxins [28:00] Three Phases of Letting Go: Preparation, opening channels, and deep cleaning—why skipping preparation makes everything worse [31:52] What Happens When You Detox Wrong: Fatigue, mood issues, sleep problems, and brain fog all worsen when deep cleaning happens without open channels [34:11] The Six-Week Process: Creating safety, building support, working with breath, pacing the release, feeling emotions, and active detoxification [38:45] Opening Drainage Pathways: Why poop, pee, and sweat matter for letting go and how constipation keeps trauma stuck [41:00] Always Do Phases One and Two: Why you should always be resourced with open channels even when not actively detoxifying Main Takeaways: Letting Go is Biology, Not Decision: Your body holds on because it doesn't believe letting go is safe yet, not because you lack willpower or haven't decided to move forward with your mind Emotional and Biochemical Toxins Connect: When you hold emotional toxins from regrets and psychological toxins from limiting beliefs, your biology also holds biochemical toxins like mold, heavy metals, and parasites The Body Trauma Loop Keeps You Stuck: Nervous systems that loop between stress and overwhelm without reaching calm aliveness create a biology of holding on rather than releasing Deep Cleaning Without Preparation Retraumatizes: Doing intensive trauma work or detoxification before opening your channels and creating safety brings pain to the surface without allowing it to leave, making symptoms worse Regrets Create Bracing and Collapse: Holding on to regrets shows up as simultaneous bracing in shoulders and collapse in chest and heart, demonstrating how past pain lives in present body Dysregulation Multiplied by Time Becomes Chronic Conditions: Twenty years of nervous system dysregulation creates autoimmunity, chronic pain, and long-haul syndromes through accumulated toxin burden that body won't release Three Phases Must Follow Sequence: Preparation creates safety, opening channels allows ventilation, and deep cleaning releases what's ready—skipping steps or reversing order causes more harm than healing Always Resource and Keep Channels Open: Even when not actively detoxifying, you should always be doing phases one and two to prevent accumulation and stay ready for life's hard experiences Notable Quotes: "If it makes you sick 20 years later, that wasn't stress—that was trauma. You see childhood through adult eyes now, but that's not how you lived it." "Trauma becomes our biology. Then our biology blocks our healing, joy, and authenticity." "The more emotional toxins we hold, the more biochemical toxins our body holds—mold, plastics, heavy metals, parasites." "Deep cleaning without release retraumatizes us. We surface the trauma but don't let it leave. It makes things worse." "Once we recognize we're holding on, the choice becomes clear: stay small and safe, or let go safely and live freely." Episode Takeaway: Letting go isn't about willpower—it's biology our nervous system needs to feel safe to create. When we hold emotional toxins, our body creates a biology of holding on. That same biology holds biochemical toxins: mold, heavy metals, parasites. Our bodies don't distinguish between toxic emotions and toxic chemicals. Both require the same three-phase process to release safely. Preparation creates safety so our nervous system considers letting go. Opening channels provides ventilation so what surfaces can actually leave. Deep cleaning happens last because without preparation, pain surfaces with nowhere to go. This is why intensive trauma work or aggressive detox makes fatigue, mood, and pain worse. The key insight: always do phases one and two, even when not actively detoxifying. Keep our drainage pathways open to prevent accumulation. When we're emotionally or physically constipated, toxins build up instead of moving through. Letting go becomes a way of being—creating a biology that releases rather than holds on. Resources/Guides: Visit biologyoftrauma.com for more resources on the Biology of Trauma® framework The Biology of Trauma book - Available now everywhere books are sold. Get your copy Foundational Journey - If you are ready to create your inner safety and shift your nervous system, join me and my team for this 6 week journey of practical somatic and mind-body inner child practices. Lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely and is the pre-requisite for becoming a Biology of Trauma® professional. Related Episodes: Episode 1: What Professionals Need to Know About the Chronic Freeze Response with Dr. Peter Levine Episode 57: ACEs: How the Body Holds and Hides Pain with Dr. Vincent Felitti our host: Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician (Preventive/Addiction Medicine) with master's degrees in biochemistry and public health, and author of the national bestselling book "The Biology of Trauma" (foreword by Gabor Maté) that transforms our understanding of how the body experiences and holds trauma. After foster-adopting a child during medical school sparked her journey, she desperately sought for answers that would only continue as she developed chronic health issues. Through her practitioner training, podcast, YouTube channel, and international speaking, she bridges functional medicine, attachment and trauma therapy, facilitating accelerated repair of trauma's impact on the mind, body and biology. Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please share and use your name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free and the discussion positive
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Aimie Hines and Simon Wilson. First up, Cabinet has signed off on an overhaul of the country's gun laws. Some have been worried that this signals a liberalisation of firearm legislation. The panel talks to Abdur Razzaq, the Chair of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand. Then, is it time for a reform of the Clean Slate Act to give former prisoners a second chance? The panel hears from a person who spent ten years in the prison system and has long since turned his life around.
In part two, it's been revealed that private prison operator Serco is eyeing up our public hospital infrastructure. Would you be happy with Serco running the health system? Then, Age Concern Whanganui wants donations for this year's secret Santa campaign: giving Christmas gifts to the elderly who are alone this Christmas.
What if the reason connection feels so hard isn't about willpower or awareness—but about your brain literally not getting the dopamine reward that makes relationships feel joyful and worth pursuing? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian dives into groundbreaking 2009 research that revealed something shocking: mothers with insecure attachment showed almost no dopamine response to their own babies' faces—whether smiling or crying. This isn't about not loving their children; it's about their brains not experiencing the biological reward that makes caregiving feel naturally joyful. This episode explores why attachment rupture and addiction are so deeply connected (hint: they're both about dopamine), how your attachment style literally changes your brain's reward response to connection, and most importantly—what you can do about it at the biological level. In this episode you'll hear more about: The dopamine discovery: How the 2009 brain imaging study revealed that insecurely attached mothers showed almost no dopamine response to their own babies, while securely attached mothers had robust reward center activation Why connection feels hard: Understanding that dopamine is the "meaning-making" neurotransmitter that says "this is good, do this again"—and without it, authentic connection doesn't bring the same sense of joy or motivation The attachment-addiction link: Why addictions are fundamentally about managing dopamine, and how attachment rupture creates the same dopamine dysregulation that drives addictive patterns The blunted response reality: What it actually means when a mother doesn't get the dopamine hit from her baby's face—she's fighting her own biology to find joy in caregiving, making everything feel harder than it should The ripple effect beyond parenting: How insecure attachment creates a blunted dopamine response to ALL authentic relationships, not just with children—affecting your capacity for joy in connection throughout your life The neurotransmitter soup: How dopamine interfaces with oxytocin (the bonding neurotransmitter and stress reducer), serotonin, endorphins, and GABA to create the biology of attachment Why talking isn't enough: The critical understanding that we must repair attachment at the biology level, not just through awareness—otherwise we're literally fighting against our own neurotransmitter systems Dr. Aimie's personal biology: Her vulnerable sharing about being born with undermethylation, creating naturally lower serotonin and dopamine activity from birth, making her nervous system less available for bonding The practical repair toolkit: How to support dopamine production through tyrosine (the amino acid building block for dopamine) and DL-Phenylalanine (the gentler option for sensitive systems) The cofactor support: Why B6 and magnesium are essential nutrients your body needs to actually make dopamine from these building blocks The root cause approach: How supporting undermethylation with SAM-e helped Dr. Aimie change her epigenetics and eventually get off two mood medications by addressing the biology underneath The biochemical imbalances: Why the same three biochemical imbalances show up in both stored trauma and attachment insecurities—and how to assess your own biology Your attachment style isn't just psychological—it's biological. When we understand that insecure attachment creates measurable changes in neurotransmitter responses, we can stop blaming ourselves for why connection feels so hard and start addressing the root cause. The good news? Your biology can change.
I am delighted to have Dr. Aimie Apigian with me today to explore why stress reduction techniques may not work for you if you have unresolved trauma. Finding Your Sense of Safety • Notice when your body and mind feel safe and calm • Identify environments or situations that allow you to feel safe • Start small: Focus on moments that feel manageable, not overwhelming Bio: Dr. Aimie Apigian Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double-board-certified physician in Preventive and Addiction Medicine, with Master's degrees in Biochemistry, Public Health, and specialized training in Functional Medicine. Dr. Aimie's unique integration of multiple modalities from medicine to neuroscience to therapy modalities, has helped thousands of people and practitioners around the world to be in their best health and their best authentic selves. Her recent book, The Biology of Trauma, is groundbreaking, exploring the science of how the body experiences trauma, why it holds on, and what it needs for healing. The book is endorsed by Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned expert in trauma and addiction, who has written the foreword. In this episode: How habits like “people-pleasing” or “fixing others” are used as survival strategies The nervous system's role in directing how the body reacts to stress Why stress management alone is not enough to heal chronic trauma How early life trauma impacts people's health, relationships, and fertility The five universal steps of the body's trauma response How to develop an internal sense of safety How to build resilience Ways to avoid retraumatization and support lasting healing Links and Resources: Guest Social Media Links: The Biology of Trauma (Book) The Biology of Trauma Podcast Dr. Aimie Apigian on LinkedIn Dr. Aimie Apigian on Instagram Dr. Apigian on YouTube Relative Links for This Show: Your Longevity Blueprint Omega 3s – 60 capsules Your Longevity Blueprint 5HTP – 90 capsules Your Longevity Blueprint Adrenal Calm – 60 capsules Use code CREATINE to get 10% off Creatine Follow Your Longevity Blueprint On Instagram| Facebook| Twitter| YouTube | LinkedIn Get your copy of the Your Longevity Blueprint book and claim your bonuses here Find Dr. Stephanie Gray and Your Longevity Blueprint online Follow Dr. Stephanie Gray On Facebook| Instagram| Youtube | Twitter | LinkedIn Integrative Health and Hormone Clinic Podcast production by Team Podcast
Understanding the Biology of Trauma with Dr. Aimie Apigian: From Cellular Stress to Healing In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, Margaret Floyd Barry sits down with Dr. Aimie Apigian, who discusses how childhood adversity leaves an imprint on our biology, outlining the five-stage progression from acute stress to trauma and how this fundamentally alters our body's energy systems. We discuss why conventional approaches may overlook deeper trauma roots of chronic health issues—and what clinicians and clients alike can do to start addressing trauma at the cellular level. In this interview, we discuss: Dr. Aimie's personal story and entry into trauma work Reframing chronic disease through the lens of trauma How to identify patterns of stored trauma How a stress response is different from a trauma response The physiological and cellular mechanisms of trauma Strategies for trauma recovery and nervous system repair The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/ Connect with Dr. Aimie Apigian: Website: https://biologyoftrauma.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/draimie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aimie-apigian YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAimieApigian Check out her new book, The Biology of Trauma: https://book.biologyoftrauma.com/book Timestamps: 00:00 "Dr. Amy: Trauma & Healing" 04:48 "From Fostering to Forever" 08:50 Understanding Trauma and Healing 13:10 "Recognizing Trauma Through Patterns" 14:15 Breaking Free from Chronic Freeze 17:30 Nervous System: Relaxation to Alarm 20:34 Stress vs Trauma: Cellular Impact 25:16 Trauma Response: Shock to Collapse 28:45 Body's Innate Survival Mechanism 32:49 "Restorative Health Dive-In Opportunity" 34:28 "Stress, Trauma, and Energy" 40:09 Survival Instincts: Freeze and Hide 41:22 "Modern Struggles vs. Survival Instincts" 44:19 "Stored Trauma and Relationships" 50:04 "Overcoming Trauma Responses" 51:56 "Magnesium: Boosting Biology Safely" 54:48 Clinician's Corner: Join & Share Speaker bio: Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, is a trainer, speaker, and physician, double board-certified in preventive and addiction medicine with masters degrees in biochemistry and public health. Beyond her conventional medical and surgical training, Dr. Aimie has training in Psychosomatic Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Mental Health Nutrition. Her extensive training in trauma therapies, including the Instinctual Trauma Response Model, Somatic Experiencing, NeuroAffective Touch, and Relational Trauma Repair with Psychodrama, have formed her knowledge and services in attachment, trauma, and addictions, focusing on trauma at a cellular level. Her original inspiration came from her experience as a foster-adoptive mom during medical school. Dr. Aimie is also the host of the Biology of Trauma® Podcast. She has spoken at Oxford University, Institute for Functional Medicine, Psychotherapy Innovations, Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and has been featured on The Trauma Therapist Project, Therapy in a Nutshell, The Healing Trauma Podcast, and more. You can find her on YouTube and Instagram. Keywords: functional medicine, trauma response, adverse childhood experiences, attachment trauma, chronic disease reversal, fatigue, anxiety, autoimmune disease, psychosomatic medicine, mental health nutrition, trauma therapies, instinctual trauma response, somatic experiencing, neuroaffective touch, relational trauma repair, stress physiology, startle response, sympathetic nervous system, vagus nerve, dorsal vagal shutdown, cell danger response, mitochondria, energy production, chronic stress, burnout, magnesium supplementation, trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, childhood adversity, functional freeze, biological mechanisms of trauma Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.
In this week's special episode we are joined by director Ali Gill and producer Aimie Sullivan to discuss their new short film, Party Animal, an innovative satire exploring the structural absurdities that underpin contemporary communication.Contact UsEmail: contact@jimmybernasconi.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmsfortoday/?hl=en
What if your struggle with goodbyes isn't just about being emotional—but reveals something deeper about how you've been protecting yourself from grief? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian shares one of her most personal stories about transformation: how her lifelong pattern of avoiding goodbyes led to carrying decades of unprocessed grief, and how learning to stay present through endings completely changed her life—and became the foundation for the 21-Day Journey. This episode explores the hidden costs of emotional avoidance, why goodbyes can feel unbearable, and how learning to feel complete with experiences is essential for moving forward without regret. Dr. Aimie vulnerably shares her journey from someone who would literally book trips to avoid final goodbyes, to someone who could sit with her dying friend David and ask the question she'd never been able to ask before. In this episode you'll hear more about: The pattern of goodbye avoidance: How Dr. Aimie would emotionally distance herself long before endings arrived, protecting her heart but never feeling complete with experiences The hidden burden of unfinished goodbyes: Getting busy, finding escapes, leaving early—even booking trips specifically to avoid being present for closures The grief underneath: Why each goodbye felt so hard—it was tugging on a lifetime of accumulated, unprocessed grief from every goodbye she'd never properly faced The embarrassment of emotional sensitivity: Hiding her feelings to appear strong and tough, then sobbing alone once she was by herself The pattern of depletion: Always wanting more, never feeling like there was enough time, never feeling complete—and how this connected to her inability to say goodbye David's story: Meeting an 82-year-old man who became a dear friend during the pandemic, and the decision to bring him home from isolation when he was dying alone The question that changed everything: "Is there anything you feel you need to feel complete before you pass on?"—a question Dr. Aimie had never been able to ask patients in her years working in general surgery The moment of transformation: Sitting with David as he held her hand over his heart, not bracing herself, heart wide open—becoming a completely different person than the Aimie who would've found dishes to do or papers to file The birth of the 21-Day Journey: How the specific exercises and sequence were designed in those final hours with David, born from the realization that if she could change this much, anyone could The commitment to not do it alone: Why Dr. Aimie designed the journey to safely guide others through their healing, just like she did for David—providing not just exercises, but the science and support so no one has to figure it out alone Your relationship with goodbyes reveals more about you than perhaps any other aspect of your life. Learning to stay present through endings, to feel complete with experiences, and to honor what's been while still moving forward—this is the gift of true closure.
Send us a textThis week on the Less Stressed Life, we're unpacking The Biology of Trauma with Dr. Aimie Apigian to reveal how your cells, not just your mind, hold stress and why your body can't heal when it doesn't feel safe.Dr. Aimie shares her personal crash-and-rebuild story and explains how stress becomes biology through the “cell danger response.” We talk about high achiever burnout, unconscious stress, and simple ways to create a sense of safety so your body can finally repair.If you've ever pushed through exhaustion or wondered why your symptoms linger even after doing everything right, this episode gives you language, awareness, and practical tools to help your body exhale.
In part two, a community pool in Whangamata could close if more funding isn't found. Then: lawnmower racing. It's a sport, it's a way of life.
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Aimie Hines and Andrew Clay. First up, the traditional family GP consult is being slowly replaced by video chats with a corporate employed doctor you might have never met. Is the business of telehealth care leaving patients sidelined? Then, the remarkable 21-year-old woman who waded into a group of 15 teenagers beating up another. She says you shouldn't need to be told when it's the right time to do something.
After treatment, Dirci was told by her oncologist to go back to her life as “normal.” But as she steps into the cancer support groups, everyone is in fear of remission. Melanie received the diagnosis of breast cancer, felt the fear of if treatment would get it all, and decided now was the best time for nervous system healing -not later. She finds herself on the radiation table using her somatic tools and finding a calm and a freedom that surprises the nurses. Many people receive cancer diagnoses without anyone explaining how stress, trauma and nervous system dysregulation create the biological conditions where disease can be welcomed. For practitioners supporting clients through cancer treatment, and for individuals navigating their own healing journey, understanding the connection between stored trauma and physical health changes everything about experiencing freedom from the fear that accompanies a diagnosis, even after successful treatment. This episode shares two stories about breast cancer and the nervous system regulation work that became essential to their ability to find freedom during and after the treatment. You'll hear from Dirci, a mother of twins who developed breast cancer during the pandemic after years of daily overwhelm, and Melanie, whose postpartum anxiety and childhood hypervigilance preceded her diagnosis. Both women went where their oncologists said wouldn't make a difference—yet addressing their nervous system dysregulation became the missing, foundational piece for their emotional health. Their journeys reveal what becomes possible when we heal the underlying Biology of Trauma® instead of returning to the patterns that created illness. In this episode you'll learn: [02:01] Dirci's Story: How her sister's death, twins' therapy sessions, and daily overwhelm preceded breast cancer [10:54] When Doctors Say "Go Back to Normal": Why returning to life as usual after treatment felt wrong [14:09] The Moment Everything Clicked: Discovering trauma in her body through Dr. Aimie's interview [18:30] From Information to Embodiment: How the 21 Day Journey created awareness and presence in daily life [21:04] The Transformation Others Noticed: Looking better after cancer treatment than before diagnosis [27:02] Melanie's Story: Postpartum anxiety, rage, and hypervigilance that preceded her breast cancer diagnosis [36:04] Using Rage as a Pause Button: How anger became a coping mechanism to control overwhelming environments [41:45] Going Through Treatment with Peace: Using the heart hold on the radiation table instead of panic [48:26] Tools That Don't Wear Out: Why nervous system regulation practices remain effective years later [49:40] Healing the Next Generation: Breaking intergenerational trauma patterns by regulating your own nervous system Main Takeaways: Normal Was What Made Them Sick: When doctors said "return to life as normal," both women recognized that normal—daily overwhelm, hypervigilance, pushing through exhaustion—was what had created the conditions for illness in their bodies. Too Much Too Fast and Too Little for Too Long: Dirci's story shows how these two trauma patterns combined—sudden losses and daily therapy stressors—created chronic nervous system dysregulation that manifested as breast cancer two years later. Cancer Communities Can Create More Fear: Traditional cancer support groups focused on recurrence statistics and survival rates kept both women in fear states, while trauma healing communities offered a path toward joy and aliveness instead. Awareness Creates Different Parenting: Learning to regulate her own nervous system helped Dirci recognize when her children were in sympathetic or shutdown states, allowing her to parent from understanding rather than trying to change behaviors. The Body Needs Tending During Treatment: Melanie went through radiation and biopsies with peace by using tools like the heart hold and orienting—creating connection with medical staff instead of panic. Healing Tools That Don't Wear Out: Unlike other modalities that lose effectiveness over time, the nervous system regulation tools from the 21 Day Journey remained relevant and powerful for both women years later. Moving From Hours to Presence: Dirci shifted from feeling like she never had enough hours in the day to actually being present in her life—the essence of the healing journey. Notable Quotes: "I knew that the way my life was happening was what put me into cancer. So I needed to find help." - Dirci Souza "I don't want to have fear, I just want to support my body. I would rather be working towards finding a path to feel joy and feel alive than to take a path that brings along the fear." - Dirci Souza "Until then, I had no idea. Didn't cross my mind. Trauma. Am I traumatized? For me it was just life. What I was going through and I needed to be brave, I was surviving." - Dirci Souza "I used anxiety to fuel myself. So I would keep doing whatever it is I needed to do. That's the energy I ran on." - Melanie "I could not have imagined remaining so calm and centered going through cancer treatment. I could put my hand over my heart right there on the radiation table. That was one of my favorite moments through the whole cancer journey." - Melanie Episode Takeaway: When oncologists say "return to life as normal" after cancer treatment, they miss a critical piece: normal was often what created the conditions for illness. Both Dirci and Melanie's stories reveal how years of nervous system dysregulation—chronic hypervigilance, pushing through exhaustion, using anxiety as fuel—created the biological environment where cancer could develop. Dysregulation multiplied by time creates disease. Their diagnoses arrived after years of too much too fast combined with too little for too long. The remarkable insight: both women looked better after cancer treatment than before diagnosis. Why? They finally addressed underlying nervous system dysregulation, not just the cancer. Simple tools like the heart hold and vu breath created immediate regulation—Melanie used the heart hold on the radiation table and experienced peace instead of panic. Most powerfully, healing your nervous system heals the next generation through co-regulation, breaking intergenerational trauma biology that manifests as chronic illness decades later. Resources/Guides: The Biology of Trauma book - Available now everywhere books are sold. Get your copy Foundational Journey - If you are ready to create your inner safety and shift your nervous system, join me and my team for this 6 week journey of practical somatic and mind-body inner child practices. Lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely and is the pre-requisite for becoming a Biology of Trauma® professional. Related Episodes: Episode 32: What are the Ways the Body Communicates Stored Trauma? with Dr. Aimie Apigian Episode 74: Why Stored Traumas Become Syndromes & Somatic Solutions with Peter Levine Your host: Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician (Preventive/Addiction Medicine) with master's degrees in biochemistry and public health, and author of the national bestselling book "The Biology of Trauma" (foreword by Gabor Maté) that transforms our understanding of how the body experiences and holds trauma. After foster-adopting a child during medical school sparked her journey, she desperately sought for answers that would only continue as she developed chronic health issues. Through her practitioner training, podcast, YouTube channel, and international speaking, she bridges functional medicine, attachment and trauma therapy, facilitating accelerated repair of trauma's impact on the mind, body and biology. Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please share and use your name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free and the discussion positive
What if the brain fog you're experiencing isn't just tiredness—but your nervous system's way of disconnecting you from an unbearable reality? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian answers a question from Rachel, a therapist in Seattle, about why the freeze response is associated with brain fog. Many people think of the freeze response as simply paralysis, not understanding the sophisticated biological mechanisms happening at the cellular level. This episode dives deep into the freeze response—when it happens, why it happens, and the brain inflammation that creates the disconnection and fog we experience. Understanding this biology helps us recognize when we or someone we're working with has a chronic functional freeze, so we know where to start with healing. In this episode you'll hear more about: The five steps the body takes to go into a trauma response—starting with activation and crossing the critical line of overwhelm The two reasons we cross that critical line: "too much too fast" (excessive activation) and "too little for too long" (prolonged stress without recovery) Why your nervous system decides certain situations are life threats—even when logically they're not (like being berated in residency or hearing hurtful words from someone you care about) The cellular biology of brain fog: How immune cells in your brain (microglia) unleash inflammation, cytokines, and chemokines that create the mental disconnection and fog The surreal feeling of freeze: Why voices sound distant, why you feel like you're in a daze, and why people around you seem far away even though they're right there Chronic functional freeze: The state where you're still functioning and going through life, but secretly wanting to hide, using substances like caffeine or food (especially histamine-producing foods) to push through Why anxiety is often your body fighting the freeze—using stress to stay out of shutdown, which is why relief from anxiety can sometimes make you fall into that heaviness The brain inflammation protocol: Specific nutrients and practices to keep your microglia in their resting state, including NAC, magnesium L-threonate, luteolin, GABA, resveratrol, and turmeric Ocular-cardiac reflex (eye support): A simple but powerful tool where gently pressing on closed eyes activates the vagus nerve for immediate calm Why starting with the freeze is essential—opening up the chronic functional freeze gives you more energy to dedicate to the healing journey Dr. Aimie's personal story of a biking accident and concussion—experiencing the freeze response firsthand as she regained consciousness on the sidewalk The freeze response isn't weakness or paralysis—it's your nervous system's sophisticated survival strategy when it perceives a life threat. Brain fog is always part of the freeze response, created by immune cells in your brain that help you disconnect from unbearable reality. Understanding this biology helps you recognize the freeze in yourself or others, and know that working with it is where healing must start.
What if having the same gene as your sister doesn't mean you'll have the same outcome? What if trauma and nervous system dysregulation could be the difference between expressing a genetic disease—or not? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian answers a question from Rachel in Texas, who discovered she carries the BRCA gene mutation. Despite making the same lifestyle changes as her sister—who also has the mutation—Rachel developed breast cancer while her sister remained healthy. Why? Dr. Aimie reveals the biological mechanism that connects nervous system dysregulation to genetic expression: oxidative stress. This episode offers a scientifically grounded yet hopeful perspective on why two people with identical genetics can have vastly different health outcomes—and what you can do about it. In this episode you'll hear more about: Why BRCA mutation carriers have a 45-72% lifetime breast cancer risk (versus 12-13% in the general population)—but not everyone with the gene develops cancer The biological link between nervous system dysregulation and oxidative damage to DNA How BRCA genes interact with NRF2 antioxidant pathways, creating increased vulnerability to oxidative stress Why both sympathetic activation (stress/anxiety) and dorsal vagal shutdown (depression/numbness) decrease your body's ability to clear oxidative stress The "calm alive" state: when your body naturally engages its healing and antioxidant repair mechanisms Dana's story from The Biology of Trauma—a physician with childhood trauma who found a breast lump and learned to repair nervous system dysregulation Practical tools: why vitamin C and antioxidant-rich foods (broccoli, blueberries) matter for genetic conditions How somatic self-practices can quickly shift your nervous system state and support cellular repair Why having a genetic condition doesn't mean you're powerless—epigenetics shows us DNA expression can change Genetics load the gun, but environment and nervous system state pull the trigger. This episode is a powerful reminder that even when you carry genetic risk, your nervous system regulation, oxidative stress levels, and daily practices can dramatically influence whether those genes are expressed. Your biology is not a life sentence.
Join us for a powerful conversation with Dr. Aimie Apigian, author of "The Biology of Trauma," as we explore the hidden impact of trauma on our physical and mental health. In this episode, Dr. Aimie shares her groundbreaking insights on how trauma shapes our biology, the science behind the body's trauma response, and why addressing trauma is essential for true healing. We discuss the five Ds of trauma patterns, the difference between stress and trauma, and how unresolved trauma can manifest as chronic health conditions, addiction, and mental health struggles. Dr. Aimie also offers practical steps for recognizing and healing trauma, and shares resources for families and individuals seeking support. Whether you're a healthcare professional, parent, or someone on a personal healing journey, this episode will empower you with knowledge and hope. Don't miss Dr. Aimie's expert advice, inspiring stories, and actionable tips for creating a biology of safety and resilience. Get the book, explore additional resources, and start your journey toward healing today! — Resources mentioned: "The Biology of Trauma" by Dr. Aimie Apigian (available on Amazon) Free nervous system reset and more at biologyoftrauma.com Timestamps : 00:00 – Introduction & Host Welcome 00:26 – Introducing Dr. Aimie Apigian and the Book 01:36 – The Hidden Impact of Trauma on Health 03:25 – What is Trauma? The Internal Response 05:34 – The Five Ds of Trauma Patterns 06:45 – Freeze Response vs. Stress 08:37 – Addiction, Trauma, and Chronic Health 09:45 – Mental Health Crisis and Cyberbullying 11:01 – Personal Healing Journey and Functional Medicine 13:10 – The Fear of Addressing Trauma 15:12 – Book Recommendations and Practical Steps ---- Learn more about Dr. Madiha Saeed at https://holisticmommd.com, or follow her on social media @HolisticMomMD
This episode covers:In this episode, we discuss how trauma is stored in the body, the difference between stress and trauma, and practical somatic tools to start healing, and so much more.Dr. Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, is a double Board-Certified Physician, boarded in both Preventive and Addiction Medicine with a Masters in Biochemistry and a Masters in Public Health. She is a leader, speaker and founder of Trauma Healing Accelerated, LLC where she not only continues to lead individuals in their own healing journey but trains professionals around the world to do the same.After a few years in a general surgery residency in Portland, OR, Dr. Aimie decided to forge her career path as a Trauma, Attachment and Addiction Medicine Physician. She believes the healing journey can be accelerated by bringing in the biology piece to trauma and applying strategic tools to address the chronic effects of trauma in one's body. Having both parented children with effects from attachment and trauma issues and then having her own health challenges from chronic stress and traumas, she is intensely invested on finding what actually works practically and how to restore the body to its highest potential for health optimizing the biology.Links mentioned during this episode:Dr. Aimie's Book, The Biology of Trauma: https://book.biologyoftrauma.com/landing-pageFree Initial Consultation with Dr. Megan: https://p.bttr.to/3a9lfYkLyons' Share Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelyonsshareJoin Megan's Newsletter: www.thelyonsshare.org/newsletter
Tonight, on The is joined by panellists Aimie Hines and Richard Pamatatau. First up, Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters turned heads over the weekend by announcing that New Zealand would not yet recognise a Palestinian state. He told the UN General Assembly such a move would be used by Hamas as a bargianing chip. The panel hears reaction from Maher Nazzal, co-chair of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa. Then, rules measuring the risk of earthquake damage to buildings will be relaxed, as announced by the government today. Property Council chief executive Leonie Freeman says it will save building owners billions.
In part two, is it a pond or a pool? Motueka lodge owners battled with the council for years over a small body of water that has frogs and tadpoles in it. Then, rainy days in Invercargill have just got better with a spruce up of the local bowling alley, Retrobowl. The panel catches up with owner Angela Caughey.
I talked with Dr. Aimie Apigian, author of the Biology of Trauma, about how trauma impacts the body and nervous system, and how that can create challenges in recovery. She explains how trauma healing creates more safety in the body and nervous system, which gives you more access to your decision-making abilities, and therefore supports recovery. Dr. Aimie shares insights from her medical expertise and personal experience, and also discusses how a trauma-informed approach helped her overcome her own binge eating issue. If you tend to binge during times of high anxiety or dysregulation—even when you know it won't help—this episode is for you. Get the FREE 30-day Inspiration Booklet Learn more about Dr. Aimie Apigian: Get the book: The Biology of Trauma BiologyofTrauma.com 5 Day Nervous System Reset Brain over Binge resources: Get personalized support with one-on-one coaching or group coaching Subscribe to the Brain over Binge Course for only $18.99 per month Get the Second Edition of Brain over Binge on Amazon and Audible, BarnesandNoble.com, Apple iBooks, or Kobo. Get the Brain over Binge Recovery Guide Disclaimer: *The Brain over Binge Podcast is produced and recorded by Brain over Binge Recovery Coaching, LLC. All work is copyrighted by Brain over Binge Recovery Coaching, LLC, and all rights are reserved. As a disclaimer, the hosts of the Brain over Binge Podcast are not professional counselors or licensed healthcare providers, and this podcast is not a substitute for medical advice or any form of professional therapy. Eating disorders can have serious health consequences and you are strongly advised to seek medical attention for matters relating to your health. Please get help when you need it, and good luck on your journey.
Welcome to this bonus episode of The Happier Life Project with host Gabby Sanderson. We're following on from Tuesday's main episode with Dr. Aimie Apigian, and today we're diving even deeper. This bonus conversation explores the powerful connection between relationships and trauma; how to support someone close to us who is struggling, and the vital inner work we need to do when their trauma responses trigger our own. Dr. Aimie is a double board-certified physician in Preventive and Addiction Medicine, and founder of the Mind-Body-Biology Institute. She's changing the way we understand trauma by showing us that it isn't just stored in the mind—it's stored in the body at a cellular level. Her brand-new book, The Biology of Trauma (with a foreword by Dr. Gabor Maté), has just been released. This conversation was recorded shortly before publication, so you'll hear Dr. Aimie sharing her insights right as the book was about to launch. If you haven't already, make sure you go back and listen to Tuesday's episode too as it's packed with even more tools and insights. As a practical takeaway, Dr. Aimie has also shared her 5-Day Nervous System Reset, a resource with five somatic exercises (worth $99) designed to calm and reset your body for those who purchase the book: http://biologyoftrauma.com/book Whether you're on your own healing journey or walking alongside someone else on theirs, this bonus episode offers practical tools and compassionate insights to help you navigate those challenges. To download the free My Possible Self App: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself/ For all links Dr Aimie Apigian: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aimie-apigian YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAimieApigian Website: https://biologyoftrauma.com/ Podcast: https://biologyoftrauma.com/biology-of-trauma-podcast/ Book: http://biologyoftrauma.com/book
Unresolved trauma can physically alter your brain and nervous system, trapping your body in a perpetual state of fight-or-flight. This isn't just a mental health issue; it's a fundamental biological response that can lead to chronic illness and a host of other physical ailments. Join me and my guest, Dr. Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, author of The Biology of Trauma, on how to identify when you've reached your breaking point. Discover how to shift your mind, body, and biology toward safety, unlocking the key to healing from chronic pain and finding lasting freedom. Don't miss this powerful conversation on how to break free from the past and reclaim your physical and emotional well-being. Tune in to this life-changing episode! Discover how The Tapping Solution app can help you reduce stress, manage pain, and find emotional balance with this exclusive offer for the Wellness By Design community: https://cf.thetappingsolution.com/app-download-sp-aff?fpr=jane70&fp_sid=bydesign In this episode you'll learn: ⏰ 02:58 - Why Aimie wrote The Biology of Trauma ⏰ 04:45 - How to know if you've experienced trauma ⏰ 07:07 - The hidden ways trauma shows up in daily life ⏰ 14:52 - How trauma impacts the body over time ⏰ 21:38 - What to do when you've exceeded your capacity ⏰ 29:30 - Repeating patterns that keep the body trapped in trauma ⏰ 32:02 - Behavioral adaptations that keep us in the loop (and how to move past them) ⏰ 33:42 - Chronic pain: shifting mind, body, and biology to safety ⏰ 40:40 - Aimie's big message ⏰ 41:56 - The ONE thing you can do to shift body into that healing state Check out Dr. Aimie Apigian's Bio: Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, is a trainer, speaker, and physician, double board-certified in preventive and addiction medicine with master's degrees in biochemistry and public health. Beyond her conventional medical and surgical training, Dr. Aimie has training in Psychosomatic Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Mental Health Nutrition. Her extensive training in trauma therapies, including the Instinctual Trauma Response Model, Somatic Experiencing, NeuroAffective Touch, and Relational Trauma Repair with Psychodrama, have formed her knowledge and services in attachment, trauma, and addictions, focusing on trauma at a cellular level. Her original inspiration came from her experience as a foster-adoptive mom during medical school. Dr. Aimie is also the host of the Biology of Trauma® Podcast. She has spoken at Oxford University, Institute for Functional Medicine, Psychotherapy Innovations, Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and has been featured on The Trauma Therapist Project, Therapy in a Nutshell, The Healing Trauma Podcast, and more. Guest's gift and link: In her new book, The Biology of Trauma, Dr. Aimie shares key insights and practical strategies to finally heal at the cellular level and restore balance to the nervous system. This book will help you: Heal trauma at the root—beyond mindset alone, Regulate your nervous system and restore emotional balance, Break free from fatigue, anxiety, and chronic stress for good. Pre-order your copy of the Biology of Trauma® book before it's published, and access the Special Bonuses Now! https://biologyoftrauma.com/book Connect with Dr. Aimie Apigian: Website: https://traumahealingaccelerated.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/draimie/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aimie-apigian/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAimieApigian ***** Hi there! I am Jane Hogan, the Wellness Engineer, and the host of Wellness By Design. I spent 30 years designing foundations for buildings until the pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis led me to hang up my hard hat and follow my heart. Now I blend my backgrounds in science and spirituality to teach people how to tap into the power of their mind, body and soul. I help them release pain naturally so they can become the best version of themselves. Wellness By Design is a show dedicated to helping people achieve wellness not by reacting to the world around them but by intentionally designing a life based on what their own body needs. In this show we explore practices, methods and science that contribute to releasing pain and inflammation naturally. Learn more at https://thewellnessengineer.com Would you like to learn how to release pain by creating more peace and calm? Download my free guided meditation audio bundle here: https://www.thewellnessengineer.com/audio-bundle Connect with Jane: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaneHoganHealth/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessengineer/
Leveling Up: Creating Everything From Nothing with Natalie Jill
Did you know that by the time you reach midlife, your nervous system has been storing trauma responses for decades - even if you can't identify a single "traumatic" event? What if the chronic back pain, autoimmune issues, and stubborn weight gain plaguing so many midlife women aren't just random health problems, but your nervous system's way of expressing stored survival responses from years past? In this insightful conversation, Dr. Aimie Apigian reveals how seemingly normal childhood experiences - from crying yourself to sleep as a baby in the 1970s to being a latchkey kid - can create lasting biological changes that show up as health issues decades later through stored trauma in your nervous system. We dive into the science behind trauma, its long-term biological effects, and the importance of addressing trauma at different levels – mind, body, and biology and how accumulative, often unrecognized trauma can impact our health, aging, emotional regulation, and relationships. Discover why your nervous system might still be stuck in survival mode, keeping you vulnerable to injuries, illnesses, and that constant underlying anxiety. Dr. Aimie explains the science behind why some people seem immune to health issues while others collect diagnoses, and most importantly, what nervous system healing can actually do about stored trauma. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube Learn More About Dr. Aimie Apigian: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/draimie Website ➜ https://biologyoftrauma.com/ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the Enzymes & Probiotics & Gut Support I use daily at https://bioptimizers.com/nataliejill QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to http://qualialife.com/nataliejill for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15% Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
What if your body wasn't broken, but brilliantly designed to survive?In today's episode, Luis speaks with Dr. Aimie Apigian — medical doctor, biochemist, and foster parent — about her new book The Biology of Trauma. After her foster son told her he was going to kill her, Dr. Apigian's search for answers revealed that trauma is rooted in biology, not weakness.Tune in as they discuss how trauma rewires the nervous system, why connection and standard attachment strategies often fail for trauma survivors, and how chronic stress becomes disease.Read more about Dr. Aimie and her work here: https://biologyoftrauma.com/Purchase her book: https://book.biologyoftrauma.com/homeYou can read more about, and register for, the live 7-week foundational course here: https://www.holisticlifenavigation.com/course Sign up for our 6-month Embodied Relationships group, beginning in October: https://www.holisticlifenavigation.com/relationship-group----You can learn more on the website: https://www.holisticlifenavigation.com/ Learn more about the self-led course here: https://www.holisticlifenavigation.com/self-led-new Join the waitlist to pre-order Luis' book here: https://www.holisticlifenavigation.com/the-book You can follow Luis on Instagram @holistic.life.navigationQuestions? You can email us at info@holisticlifenavigation.com
Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - 5 Ways to Measure & Improve Your Menopause Fitness At Home Right Now Next Episode - 5 Things I Do When I Need a Reset or I've Had a Fitness Plateau More Like This - Turning Your Personal Drama and Trauma into Transformation Resources: Don't know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra. Join the Flipping50 Insiders Group in Facebook to connect with Debra and other podcast listeners. Are you doing all the right things but aren't working in menopause? What is it beyond exercise, hormones and supplements? I was at a women's retreat in a sound healing. During the session, I experienced tears and came back to the circle after realizing I thought of my biological father during that session. I hadn't thought about him over the years much at all. Is that stored trauma? Is stored trauma something we all deal with on some level? Is it something that could be limiting our ability to reach a physical health or fitness goal. Is it related to what is blocking our ability to lose weight, to heal our gut, or on a bigger level is it putting us at risk for more serious health issues? We're unpacking all of this today. If all the right things aren't working in menopause, it may go beyond hormones and gut health. My Guest: Dr. Aimie Apigian is a leading expert in trauma, attachment, and biology, and the founder of the Biology of Trauma™. She integrates her medical expertise with specialized training in trauma therapy to address the biological patterns that maintain chronic health conditions. Through her programs and upcoming book "The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Experiences and Holds Pain, Fear and Overwhelm and How to Heal," Dr. Aimie helps people understand why common health issues persist despite perfect nutrition and lifestyle changes, and provides practical tools for complete healing at the cellular level. Connect with Dr. Aimie: Book - Biology of Trauma Facebook Group - Biology of Trauma Instagram - @draimie Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:06:22] Do we have to remember something traumatic for it to actually have happened to us? [00:07:57] Are both physical and emotional traumas the same in the way they manifest in the body? What is trauma? [00:14:32] Many women in midlife experience unexplained weight gain, fatigue, or hormone issues despite 'doing everything right.' Are you saying past trauma is contributing to these challenges? [00:22:53] Is there a "too late" when it comes to healing the body from these early experiences? What does stored trauma look like inside the body physiologically? [00:28:41] What are the steps to address trauma impacting body composition for women in midlife — like belly fat that "won't budge" despite good habits? [00:33:25] How do you help strong, independent women recognize that “pushing through” might sometimes be prolonging unresolved trauma patterns in the body? [00:35:13] What attachment patterns from childhood can affect our health into adulthood? [00:41:04] If you could tell every 50-something woman one thing about the link between her past experiences and her future vitality, what would it be?
Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - 5 Ways to Measure & Improve Your Menopause Fitness At Home Right Now Next Episode - 5 Things I Do When I Need a Reset or I've Had a Fitness Plateau More Like This - Turning Your Personal Drama and Trauma into Transformation Resources: Don't know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra. Join the Flipping50 Insiders Group in Facebook to connect with Debra and other podcast listeners. Are you doing all the right things but aren't working in menopause? What is it beyond exercise, hormones and supplements? I was at a women's retreat in a sound healing. During the session, I experienced tears and came back to the circle after realizing I thought of my biological father during that session. I hadn't thought about him over the years much at all. Is that stored trauma? Is stored trauma something we all deal with on some level? Is it something that could be limiting our ability to reach a physical health or fitness goal. Is it related to what is blocking our ability to lose weight, to heal our gut, or on a bigger level is it putting us at risk for more serious health issues? We're unpacking all of this today. If all the right things aren't working in menopause, it may go beyond hormones and gut health. My Guest: Dr. Aimie Apigian is a leading expert in trauma, attachment, and biology, and the founder of the Biology of Trauma™. She integrates her medical expertise with specialized training in trauma therapy to address the biological patterns that maintain chronic health conditions. Through her programs and upcoming book "The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Experiences and Holds Pain, Fear and Overwhelm and How to Heal," Dr. Aimie helps people understand why common health issues persist despite perfect nutrition and lifestyle changes, and provides practical tools for complete healing at the cellular level. Connect with Dr. Aimie: Book - Biology of Trauma Facebook Group - Biology of Trauma Instagram - @draimie Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:06:22] Do we have to remember something traumatic for it to actually have happened to us? [00:07:57] Are both physical and emotional traumas the same in the way they manifest in the body? What is trauma? [00:14:32] Many women in midlife experience unexplained weight gain, fatigue, or hormone issues despite 'doing everything right.' Are you saying past trauma is contributing to these challenges? [00:22:53] Is there a "too late" when it comes to healing the body from these early experiences? What does stored trauma look like inside the body physiologically? [00:28:41] What are the steps to address trauma impacting body composition for women in midlife — like belly fat that "won't budge" despite good habits? [00:33:25] How do you help strong, independent women recognize that “pushing through” might sometimes be prolonging unresolved trauma patterns in the body? [00:35:13] What attachment patterns from childhood can affect our health into adulthood? [00:41:04] If you could tell every 50-something woman one thing about the link between her past experiences and her future vitality, what would it be?
Support the show and get 50% off MCT oil with free shipping—just leave us a review on iTunes and let us know!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-beyond-the-norms/id1714886566 Trauma isn't only about what happened in your past. It lives in your biology today, shaping how your cells respond, how your nervous system reacts, and how your body heals.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Aimie Apigian, a double board-certified physician and author of The Biology of Trauma. She reveals how unresolved trauma creates patterns of stress at the cellular level, driving chronic illness, exhaustion, and even self-sabotage. Dr. Aimie explains why stress and trauma are not the same, how to recognize trauma patterns in your life, and most importantly, how to begin rewiring your biology for lasting resilience."What makes something a trauma is the inner experience of the person." ~ Dr. Aimie ApigianMentioned in the Episode:- Dr. Aimie's book The Biology of Trauma: https://a.co/d/ieMVUNe About Dr. Aimie Apigian:Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine. She holds master's degrees in biochemistry and public health and has advanced training in functional medicine, mental health nutrition, and trauma work. She is the founder of the Biology of Trauma® Method and trains practitioners worldwide in helping patients release stored trauma from their bodies. Her mission is to empower people to address unresolved trauma safely and effectively so they can reclaim their health and energy.Connect with Dr. Aimie Apigian:- Website: https://biologyoftrauma.com - Podcast: https://biologyoftrauma.com/biology-of-trauma-podcast/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.aimie Connect with Chris Burres:- Website: https://www.myvitalc.com/ - Website: http://www.livebeyondthenorms.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisburres/ - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myvitalc - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisburres/
Trauma isn't one-size-fits-all; it exists on a spectrum, from quiet emotional wounds to experiences that reshape an entire life. Living through it is hard enough, but revisiting or reliving it can feel even more overwhelming. Joining host Gabby Sanderson is Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician in Preventive and Addiction Medicine, founder of The Mind-Body-Biology Institute, and author of the groundbreaking new book The Biology of Trauma, with a foreword by renowned expert in trauma and addiction Dr. Gabor Maté. In this conversation, Dr. Aimie shares her journey into understanding trauma, revealing how it's not only stored in our minds but also in our cells, and why this matters for both mental and physical health. Dr. Aimie explains the crucial differences between stress and trauma, and why time does not heal trauma, but can worsen its effects. She also explores the role of numbing and self-protection, and highlights the importance of creating safety in healing. The Biology of Trauma is a groundbreaking book that explores the science of how the body experiences trauma, why it holds on, and what it needs for healing. This empowering episode offers fresh insights and practical steps drawn from the book to help navigate trauma responses and move towards a healthier, more authentic life. Make sure to tune in on Friday for the next bonus episode, where Dr. Aimie dives deeper into how trauma shapes our relationships and what we can do about it. To download the free My Possible Self App: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself/ For all links Dr Aimie Apigian: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aimie-apigian YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAimieApigian Website: https://biologyoftrauma.com/ Podcast: https://biologyoftrauma.com/biology-of-trauma-podcast/
What if your physical health issues actually stem from childhood trauma? Whether you're struggling with chronic fatigue, digestive issues, or autoimmune conditions, healing from your past might actually heal your body. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Aimie Apigian, physician, trauma expert, and author of The Biology of Trauma. Dr. Aimie explains how trauma doesn't just affect your emotions—it impacts your physical health too. Fortunately, you can heal from the inside out by addressing the mind-body connection. Some of the things we talk about are: How trauma gets stored in the body and shows up as physical symptoms Why traditional approaches to trauma recovery might not be effective Why so many medical professionals don't ask about trauma The surprising role of safety in the recovery process Why small, consistent steps are the key to rewiring your nervous system How to create daily practices that help you feel safe and grounded By the end of the episode, you'll have actionable strategies to start healing your body and mind as you grow mentally stronger. Subscribe to Mentally Stronger Premium for exclusive content like bonus episodes, signed books, and 30-day challenges that will keep you growing stronger. Links & Resources Aces Test BiologyofTrauma.com Biology of Trauma Connect with the Show Buy a copy of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do Connect with Amy on Instagram — @AmyMorinAuthor Visit my website — AmyMorinLCSW.com Sponsors Cowboy Colostrum — Get 25% Off @CowboyColostrum with code STRONGER at cowboycolostrum.com. #CowboyColostrumPod HoneyLove — Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/STRONGER #honeylovepod CocoaVia — Get 20% off with code Amy2025 at cocoavia.com. OneSkin — Get 15% off OneSkin with the code STRONGER at https://www.oneskin.co/ Quince — Go to Quince.com/stronger for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ZocDoc — Go to Zocdoc.com/STRONGER to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Shopify — Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/mentallystronger Life Kit — Listen to the Life Kit podcast from NPR. Mentally Strong App — Take your mental strength to the next level. Sign up at AmyMorinLCSW.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Trauma isn't just about the big, obvious events. It's not only about war vets, abusive relationships, or catastrophic loss. Trauma is the stuff our bodies never fully processed — the shock, fear, or helplessness that got stuck in our nervous systems. And here's the kicker: it doesn't live in the past. It lives in your biology, right now. We're joined by Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician, addiction and preventative medicine expert, and author of The Biology of Trauma. With her background in biochemistry, public health, somatic experiencing, and trauma therapy, Dr. Aimie is uniquely qualified to help us understand how trauma gets stored in the body — and why we can't just think our way out of it. This is the kind of conversation that flips the script on “pushing through” and gives you permission to see that maybe your body isn't betraying you — maybe it's protecting you. And maybe the exhaustion, migraines, or that sense of stuckness aren't a mindset problem at all. They're trauma patterns. Understanding this is not just science, it's liberation. Connect with Aimie: Website: https://biologyoftrauma.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Biology-Trauma-Body-Holds-Overwhelm/dp/1637746237 IG: https://www.instagram.com/draimie/ Related Podcast Episodes Your Body Already Knows with Nidhi Pandya | 315 Normalize It: Breaking The Silence & Shame That Shape Women's Lives with Dr. Jessica Zucker | 303 How To Breathe: Breathwork, Intuition and Flow State with Francesca Sipma | 267 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
So many women in midlife are running on fumes—stretched thin, burned out, and downplaying what they've experienced just to make it through the day. But all that stress can show up in your physical body, affecting your biology at a cellular level. That's why in this episode, I'm sitting down with trauma and biology expert Dr. Aimie Apigian to uncover how unprocessed trauma can manifest in the form of physical symptoms. Dr. Aimie shares how overtime, those hidden shifts can alter your immune system and even set the stage for disease years later. The good news? Healing doesn't have to be complicated! Dr. Aimie introduces simple practices that can help you shift your inner state in seconds and learn to process your trauma with care. Tune in here to explore how reconnecting with your biology can help you feel more alive than ever! Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine. She has masters in biochemistry and public health and specialized training in Psychosomatic Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Mental Health Nutrition. Dr. Aimie is a functional medicine physician with specialized training in neuro-autoimmunity, nutrition, and genetics for addictions, mental health, mood, and behavioral disorders. She has extensive training in trauma therapy, which has formed her knowledge and services in trauma, attachment, and addiction medicine, focusing on trauma at a cellular level. IN THIS EPISODE How the body biologically absorbs experiences of trauma Recognizing adaptations and better managing reactions The importance of finding safety in the whole body How your lifestyle affects your emotions Why effective healing from trauma takes time and work Stress biology vs. trauma biology All about Dr. Aimie's new book: The Biology of Trauma QUOTES “Anything that overwhelms our capacity to respond becomes a trauma for our body. And those changes impact us down to the cellular level– the immune system level. They are what become our diseases often decades later.” “The greatest impact on their life was me teaching them a few simple somatic self-practices that could shift their inner state to one safe enough within seconds.” “It really shifted my perspective to know how much more alive I could be– I don't even know the possibilities because I've never lived that. I've never been that. I've never been that version of myself. And it keeps me in a place of curiosity, it keeps me in a place of learning.”RESOURCES MENTIONED
What if the symptoms you're battling aren't just about your thyroid, hormones, or even your genetics, but about unresolved trauma living in your body? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Aimie Apigian to explore the fascinating and often overlooked connection between trauma biology, nervous system regulation, and thyroid health. We break down how unresolved experiences (ones you may not even think of as trauma) can keep your body stuck in survival mode, fueling autoimmunity, hormone imbalances, and even chronic disease. Dr. Aimie explains the five steps of the trauma response, why traditional talk therapy often falls short, and what it really takes to rewire your nervous system for healing. You'll also hear us dive into how perfectionism, stress patterns, and unresolved childhood experiences can show up decades later as Hashimoto's, hormone chaos, or even cancer—and what to do if you're tired of chasing protocols that never seem to work. If you've ever wondered why your labs look fine but you still feel awful, this conversation will change the way you think about health, healing, and your own biology. Preorder The Biology of Trauma https://book.biologyoftrauma.com/preorder Shop ALL of Dr. Amie's Fixxr® Supplements: betterlifedoctor.com LET'S GET YOUR LIFE BACK...Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman Book a free application call: https://dramiehornaman.com/pages/book-a-call FREE DOWNLOADS… What Are the Optimal Lab Ranges? What Steps Can I Take? Don't know where to start...don't know which labs are useful? And what to do when you get your results? “How To” Guide For Supplements Here's your Fixxr® supplement timeline and guide. Fix Your Thyroid and Adrenals To Fix Your Life Check your symptoms of hypothyroidism and know OPTIMAL thyroid lab values. Learn why you are being told you're “NORMAL” by your doctor. Can Supplements Help with Hypothyroidism? Grab this thorough guide to help you select the most advantageous supplements that will best suit your health circumstances. RATE, REVIEW AND FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS Show your love for Amie and The Thyroid Fixer Podcast! If you're enjoying our journey together, I'd be thrilled if you could take a moment to rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps me reach and help more people just like you, guiding them towards their optimal selves! Just click HERE, scroll all the way down, give us those 5 stars, and share what you enjoy about my episodes in a review. Haven't subscribed yet? Make sure to follow The Thyroid Fixer Podcast to catch all the new episodes that come out every week. Follow HERE and never miss out on a moment of the journey! CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Join my exclusive Facebook Group, Dr. Amie…The Thyroid Fixer®...Love Your Mirror, for a Community of HOPE and Support in your thyroid journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/dramie/ Like me on Facebook: Amie Hornaman Nutrition and Functional Medicine Subscribe on Youtube: Dr. Amie Hornaman Follow me on Instagram: @dramiehornaman
What if healing from trauma wasn't just about your nervous system, but also your immune system? What if science could show us that your body is capable of renewal—faster than you think? In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie Apigian is joined by Dr. Jeffrey Bland, founder of the Institute for Functional Medicine and one of the leading voices in integrative health. Together, they discuss why trauma isn't just psychological—it's biological, affecting the nervous, immune, and metabolic systems in ways that can keep people stuck in cycles of fatigue, pain, and emotional struggle. Dr. Bland shares groundbreaking research on immune rejuvenation, including how certain ancient foods like tart buckwheat can reverse signs of immune aging in as little as 90 days. Paired with Dr. Aimie's insights on trauma biology, this conversation offers hope that no matter your past, your biology is not a life sentence. In this episode you'll hear more about: Why trauma acts like a “dimmer switch” on joy and vitality The powerful crosstalk between the immune and nervous systems How trauma biology accelerates immune system aging—and how to reverse it Clinical trial results showing a 47% reduction in immune age in 90 days Why the immune system renews every 90–120 days and what that means for healing The three pillars of immune rejuvenation: polyphenols, microbiome integrity, and Omega-3s Why trauma healing is about applying the right tools at the right leverage points Trauma doesn't just live in your past—it can live in your cells. But the science shows us that your immune system and nervous system can both be renewed. This episode is a reminder that healing is possible, and your body knows the way forward.
In this episode of How Humans Heal, I have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Aimie Apigian, the author of "The Biology of Trauma". This is such an important topic for everyone, and it's of great interest to me because I've been researching how trauma affects us as humans and how we can recover it for over 25 years. Sometimes in our attempt to heal, we end up just re-traumatizing ourselves. We find that there's been a reason why our body and our mind have wanted to keep everything stuffed down and to keep everything packed tightly away. There's a fear in the healing process of not even knowing if we want to look inside because of all the stuff we're afraid we're going to uncover. Dr. Apigian's intention is to help people not feel as scared about the healing process. She went through the process of healing from trauma herself, and now hopes to help people before they reach the breaking point she hit. We're here to help you! LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: Check out Dr. Aimie's book: www.biologyoftrauma.com/book Start your 21 Day Journey: https://traumahealingaccelerated.mykajabi.com/a/2147704575/LPnkwbhr Take Dr. Doni's Stress Type Quiz: https://doctordoni.com/quiz/stress-quiz/ Sign up For Dr. Doni's Masterclasses: https://doctordoni.com/masterclasses/ Schedule A Chat With Dr. Doni: https://intakeq.com/new/hhsnib/vuaovx Read the full episode notes and find more information: https://doctordoni.com/blog/podcasts/ MORE RESOURCES FROM DR. DONI: Quick links to social media, free guides and programs, and more: https://doctordoni.com/links Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are product links and affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission at no cost to you. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
We talk a lot about how trauma affects our mental health, but have you thought about what it does to your body? In this episode, host Paula Felps sits down with Dr. Aimie Apigian, author of The Biology of Trauma, to explore how trauma is stored not just in our minds but in our bodies — and how that impacts our physical health, relationships, and overall well-being. Drawing from her experience as a physician and foster parent, Dr. Aimie shares how traditional talk therapy often misses the mark, and why understanding trauma as a biological process opens the door to more effective healing. In this episode, you'll learn: How trauma differs from stress — and why trauma, not stress, is what makes us sick. Why stored trauma shows up in physical symptoms, emotional patterns, and relationship dynamics. How somatic self-practices can help shift your nervous system and begin healing —even when energy is low.
Traditional healing approaches often focus on managing symptoms or returning to who you were before. But what if healing could take you beyond recovery to discovering capacities you never knew you had? What if your patterns of responding to stress getting stronger over time isn't a sign of failure, but your nervous system following predictable patterns that can be redirected? In this episode, I share excerpts from my book, The Biology of Trauma. I share a section from Chapter 8 on the "Body trauma loop" - explaining how the body holds on to trauma from our past. More importantly, we discover how the same neuroplasticity that automated these survival patterns can create new ones - through specific neuroscience principles. Key Topics & Timestamps: [04:31] The Body Trauma Loop: Understanding why incomplete trauma responses compound over time like collecting rocks while hiking [06:56] Danger-Colored Glasses: How neuroception gets programmed to see threats everywhere, even in safety [09:03] Neuroplasticity and Trauma: Why "neurons that fire together, wire together" applies to both harmful and healing patterns [10:56] Book Community Insights: Early readers share experiences with the first three chapters - difficulty putting it down, compelling writing style, and wishing they had this resource decades ago [14:21] Consistency Over Intensity: The key principle for rewiring neural pathways and creating lasting change [19:02] The Seabiscuit Story: Finding hope in the journey from broken to magnificent [21:27] True Expansion: Moving beyond healing symptoms to discovering who you can become [25:41] From Healing to Living: The shift from "what needs fixing" to "how can I be more alive" [29:35] Community Transformations: Real stories of cellular-level changes and newfound aliveness [34:32] Four-Year Journey Wisdom: Taking healing one step at a time and trusting the process [36:47] Reader Feedback: Deeper understanding even after taking multiple courses Main Takeaways: The Body Trauma Loop: Incomplete trauma responses compound over time, making reactions stronger through accumulated cellular danger and nervous system dysregulation Neuroplasticity Works Both Ways: The same mechanism that automates trauma patterns can create healing patterns through consistent daily practices Consistency Changes Everything: Small daily actions rewire neural pathways more effectively than big one-time efforts - it's about what you can do today that you can also do tomorrow Danger-Colored Glasses: Neuroception can get stuck viewing everything as a threat, even normal cues of safety, keeping you trapped in activation or overwhelm True Expansion Has No End: Healing is like a spiral staircase where each step takes you higher and deeper, with no limit to how far you can go Safety Must Come First: Your nervous system needs felt safety before it can release stored trauma - forcing expansion crushes growth From Fixing to Living: The ultimate shift is from asking "what's wrong with me?" to "how can I be more alive?" Notable Quotes "Whatever is repeated will be habituated to save us energy from having to think about how to do the same process in the future." "Small hinges move big doors. The small choices made consistently change the big doors in our life." "How can I be more alive? How can I be more present? As we identify what is holding us back from being more alive in the ways we want, we discover the next layer of the spiral staircase." "I believe not only that trauma is curable, but that the healing process can be a catalyst for profound awakening, a portal opening to emotional and genuine spiritual transformation." - Peter Levine Episode Takeaway The healing journey doesn't have to be a lifelong struggle. When you understand that trauma responses are automated through neuroplasticity - the same process that helps you learn to drive or brush your teeth - you can harness this same mechanism for healing. The key is consistency over intensity, following the right sequence of safety-support-expansion, and recognizing that your body has an innate capacity to heal when given the proper conditions and understanding. True expansion moves beyond just pushing through or managing symptoms to discovering who you can become when no longer held back by the past. Resources Related To This Episode Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - Bonuses are available with Pre-order only. Go Deeper With Dr. Aimie with The Biology of Trauma Book (available only until September 22nd): Guided Seeker: Get the Workbook + Mastercourse to go with the book - walking you through each chapter's key concepts Accelerated Implementer: Everything above + live half-day online group intensive with Dr. Aimie for implementation support Fast Track Professional: Everything above + one full day in-person with Dr. Aimie at her home to identify your biggest personal block to your next level of healing and regulation as a professional and guide for others Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in the Roadmap and the book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world with practical somatic and parts self-practices to lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are the daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Related Episodes: Episode 135: The Hidden Difference Between Stress and Trauma In How The Body Keeps Score Episode 134: The Biology of Overwhelm: Why Small Demands Feel Impossible Related YouTube Episode: Why You're Still in Survival Mode (Even After Years of Therapy and Healing Work) | Dr. Aimie Apigian About Dr. Aimie Apigian Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine who bridges the gap between Western medicine and somatic healing practices. After her own health crisis in 2014 while in medical residency, she discovered how stored trauma was affecting her biology. She has since dedicated her career to helping others understand and heal the biological impacts of trauma through her courses, clinical practice, and her new book "The Biology of Trauma." Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please share your constructive feedback by using personal name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free, and let's keep the discussion positive!
Did you know that trauma can be stored in your body and have a significant impact on your bones and overall health? It's often an unseen force, but the good news is, once it's recognized, healing is possible. In our latest episode, I'm joined by Dr. Aimie Apigian, a trauma expert and physician, to explore how trauma affects our body, especially our bones. We discuss the five steps of the body's trauma response and how stored trauma can manifest in ways you may not even realize. Dr. Aimie's work has helped countless people, including myself, unlock the healing power within their bodies. I'm so excited for you to hear this conversation and discover how to begin healing stored trauma. (On stress vs. trauma) "Stress grows us. Stress is what allows us to do more. Stress is what takes us to the next level in our life." ~ Dr. Aimie Apigian In this episode: - [00:00] - Introduction to Dr. Aimie Apigian and her backstory - [06:30] - The difference between stress and trauma - [14:20] - Understanding the five steps of the trauma response - [22:38] - How to recognize if trauma is stored in the body - [33:54] - What you can get from Dr. Aimie's book - [39:48] - Somatic exercises for healing trauma - [45:34] - Where to learn more about Dr. Aimie's work Resources mentioned - Check Dr. Aimie's website and order her book: The Biology of Trauma - https://biologyoftrauma.com/ - On-Demand class Dr. Aimie did with the Happy Bones community - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/releasing-hidden-trauma-for-stronger-bones-on-demand - Free Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.
In this powerful episode we speak with Dr. Aimie Apigian—double board-certified physician and author of The Biology of Trauma. Together, they explore how trauma is stored not only in the mind, but also in the cells and biology of the body, affecting everything from mental health to chronic fatigue and even fertility. Dr. Aimie shares her transformative personal journey from allopathic medicine to trauma healing, and how unresolved stress patterns manifest as physical symptoms like brain fog, hormone imbalances, and autoimmune conditions.Whether you're struggling with health issues, infertility, or burnout—or you're a practitioner supporting others—this episode sheds light on how to recognize, repair, and restore your biology from the inside out using an integrative mind-body-somatic approach.Key Takeaways:Trauma is stored in the cells and nervous system, not just the mind—affecting your energy, mood, and health.Stress and trauma are different states: stress is high-energy survival; trauma is shut down when the body feels it can't cope.Morning fatigue, brain fog, and emotional reactivity are signs your body may be stuck in a trauma response.Somatic practices can shift biology quickly, often more effectively than supplements or traditional therapy.True resilience is adaptability—the ability to meet change with flexibility, not by shrinking or avoiding.Dr. Aimie Apigian Bio:Dr. Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, is a double board-certified physician in Preventive and Addiction Medicine with advanced degrees in Biochemistry and Public Health. She is the founder of The Mind-Body-Biology Institute and creator of The Biology of Trauma®, a pioneering framework that integrates medicine, neuroscience, and somatic therapies to address how trauma is stored in the body—and how to heal it. Inspired by her personal journey as a foster and adoptive mother, Dr. Aimie blends rigorous science with deep compassion to help individuals and practitioners achieve lasting transformation. Her book, The Biology of Trauma, reveals the cellular and emotional roots of fear, pain, and overwhelm, and offers a practical path to true mind-body-biology healing.Where to find Dr. Aimie Apigian:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draimie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-aimie-apigianYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAimieApigianWebsite: https://biologyoftrauma.com/Podcast: https://biologyoftrauma.com/biology-of-trauma-podcast/Book: https://book.biologyoftrauma.com/landing-page***** I am giving away my 5 Day Nervous System reset, a Masterclass on the book and the 1st three chapters of my book to those who pre-order the book now. *** How to connect to Lorne Brown online and in person (Vancouver, BC)
Why does trauma therapy sometimes make you feel worse physically? What if the key to healing isn't just changing your mindset, but understanding your cellular capacity for stress? When you dive into trauma work without addressing your biology first, you might be opening Pandora's box in ways that overwhelm your body's ability to cope. Dr. Aimie Apigian discovered this the hard way - developing multiple health conditions including autoimmunity and chronic fatigue while doing "cutting-edge" trauma therapy. Her physical reactions to emotional healing led to a groundbreaking understanding: trauma isn't just stored in your mind, it's living in your cells, and your body has a limited capacity for processing stress. In this illuminating conversation with Dr. Tom O'Bryan, Dr. Aimie reveals why the popular focus on mindset and "being stronger" actually sabotages healing. She breaks down the three biological survival mechanisms that keep trauma locked in your body and explains why addressing toxic burden is essential for emotional recovery. You'll hear more on: Why trauma therapy can trigger physical flare-ups including gut issues, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune symptoms The critical difference between emotional capacity and physical homeostatic capacity for healing How cellular capacity - not mindset - determines how much stress you can handle without breaking The three survival mechanisms your body uses during trauma: dissociation, immobilization, and energy conservation Why you crave specific foods like bread and sweets after emotional breakthroughs (and the biology behind it) How gluten affects your brain through opiate receptors and hypoperfusion, creating a "dumbed down" state The connection between trauma burden and toxic burden - why they're the same at the cellular level Dr. Tom's four-quadrant approach to chronic conditions: structure, biochemistry, emotional/spiritual, and electromagnetic Why all chronic health conditions are related to trauma biology, according to adverse childhood experiences research How to recognize if your body is holding trauma through specific biological patterns The "emergency brake" effect: why comprehensive medical care fails when trauma biology isn't addressed How to approach trauma healing while staying within your capacity and building resilience safely Whether you've experienced physical reactions during emotional healing work, struggle with chronic health conditions that don't respond to treatment, or are supporting someone through trauma recovery, this episode reveals why befriending your body and honoring your biological limits is essential for lasting transformation. Dr. Aimie's groundbreaking approach, validated by Dr. Tom's decades of clinical experience shows us that healing trauma isn't about pushing through or being stronger - it's about creating safety at the cellular level so your body can finally let go of what it's been holding to protect you.
In this special reverse interview episode, my friend and colleague Steven Wright from Healthy Gut interviews me about the core concepts from my upcoming book, The Biology of Trauma. Steven understands the somatic work, the parts work, the biology, the capacity, and the overwhelm from his own healing journey, making this conversation uniquely insightful. I share stories I haven't told anywhere else - including my keto diet disaster during surgery residency that became my first clue about the biology of trauma. We explore why I rewrote this book seven times, how I discovered I had all three major biochemical imbalances, and the painful decision to place my adopted son Miguel in a different home - the grief that ultimately led to my autoimmune diagnosis and this entire body of work. Key Topics & Timestamps [00:00] The Eight Drafts of the book: Dr. Aimie's journey as an author [04:12] Beyond ACEs Scores: Why we can become obsessed with our score [08:36] Capacity is Everything: Understanding your nervous system's dynamic capacity [13:47] The Biology Block: How Dr. Aimie discovered her own biology was sabotaging her trauma healing [21:55] The Pain Equation: When humans decide to change [25:44] Perception vs. Reality: How we create mountains from molehills [28:19] The Healing Timeline: Why trauma work doesn't have to be a lifelong journey [34:04] Safety First: The critical sequence for healing trauma without retraumatization [37:18] Stress vs. Trauma: The crucial distinction that changes everything [38:18] Miguel's Story: The heartbreaking adoption journey that changed Dr. Aimie Main Takeaways The Three-Legged Stool: True trauma healing requires addressing psychological, emotional, AND biological aspects simultaneously Biology Keeps You Stuck: Inflammation, oxidative stress, and biochemical imbalances create internal danger signals that perpetuate trauma responses Capacity Changes Moment to Moment: Your nervous system's capacity is dynamic and requires constant awareness, not just daily check-ins Perception Creates Your Reality: Your body responds to your perception of danger, not actual danger - making that molehill into a mountain The Right Sequence Matters: Creating safety must come before attempting to process trauma, or symptoms worsen Fast Healing is Possible: When addressing all three domains properly, healing happens faster than medication with only positive "side effects" Notable Quotes "If something makes you sick, that is not stress. Let's call it for what it is. That is your body having gone into a trauma response." "Our capacity is not being measured up against our reality, it's being measured up against our perceptions." "The pain of staying the same has to become so bad that we're willing to undergo the pain of change." "If their body had already felt safe, it would have already opened up all of this stuff and let all of these emotions and trauma go. It hasn't felt safe." Episode Takeaway Trauma healing doesn't have to be a lifelong journey. By understanding that trauma lives in your biology - not just your mind - and following the proper sequence of safety, support, then expansion, you can heal faster than traditional approaches suggest. The key is addressing all three aspects: psychological, emotional, and biological, rather than focusing on just one. Resources Related To This Episode Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - Bonuses are available when you Pre-order now. Go Deeper With Dr. Aimie with The Biology of Trauma Book (available only until September 22nd): Guided Seeker: Get the Workbook + Mastercourse to go with the book - walking you through each chapter's key concepts Accelerated Implementer: Everything above + live half-day online group intensive with Dr. Aimie for implementation support Fast Track Professional: Everything above + one full day in-person with Dr. Aimie at her home to identify your biggest personal block to your next level of healing and regulation as a professional and guide for others Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in the Roadmap and the book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world with practical somatic and parts self-practices to lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are the daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Steven Wright - Healthy Gut - Learn more about Steven's gut-brain support products: HoloZyme™ digestive enzymes with dual-strain activation technology, Tributyrin-X™ for microbiome diversity and gut lining health, and HCL Guard™ for protein digestion support Related Episode: Episode 122: Shutdown Before Stress: The Misstep in Trauma Healing That Often Gets Missed Related YouTube Video: Shutdown Before Stress: The Misstep in Trauma Healing That Often Gets Missed | Dr. Aimie Apigian About Dr. Aimie Apigian Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine who bridges the gap between Western medicine and somatic healing practices. After her own health crisis in 2014 while in medical residency, she discovered how stored trauma was affecting her biology. She has since dedicated her career to helping others understand and heal the biological impacts of trauma through her courses, clinical practice, and her new book "The Biology of Trauma." Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please share your constructive feedback by using personal name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free, and let's keep the discussion positive!
Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH, is a trainer, speaker and physician, double board-certified in preventive and addiction medicine with masters degrees in biochemistry and public health. Beyond her conventional medical and surgical training, Dr. Aimie has training in Psychosomatic Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Mental Health Nutrition. Her extensive training in trauma therapies, including the Instinctual Trauma Response Model, Somatic Experiencing, NeuroAffective Touch, and Relational Trauma Repair with Psychodrama, have formed her knowledge and services in attachment, trauma, and addictions, focusing on trauma at a cellular level. Her original inspiration came from her experience as a foster-adoptive mom during medical school. Dr. Aimie is also the host of the Biology of Trauma® Podcast. She has been featured on The Trauma Therapist Project, Therapy in a Nutshell, The Healing Trauma Podcast, and more. You can find her on YouTube, Instagram or her website.
"Trauma becomes a burden that the body carries…and it's up to you to decide, do I still want to carry this or do I want to put it down?" - Dr. Aimie Apigian You know how some women say they sailed through menopause like it was no big deal, while others struggle intensely with symptoms that seem to come out of nowhere? I used to think it was just hormones and genetics, but what I've discovered through my conversation with Dr. Aimie Apigian completely shifted my perspective on trauma healing women over 40. Here's what blew my mind: that autoimmune condition, the weight that won't budge, the anxiety that hits during perimenopause, the gut issues that seemed to appear overnight - they might not just be about declining hormones. They could be your body finally revealing trauma that's been stored in your tissues for years, waiting for the right biological trigger to surface. And menopause? That's often the perfect storm that brings it all to light. Dr. Aimie, a double board-certified physician and author of "The Biology of Trauma," explains why traditional therapy often falls short and why your body needs very specific things to heal - things that address not just your psychology, but the actual biological changes trauma creates in your cells, your immune system, and your nervous system. What's even more encouraging? She's seeing profound shifts in just 21 days when people get the right tools. Notice when you create unnecessary stress for yourself this week - rushing out the door, picking fights, or choosing stimulating foods. Ask yourself: "How does this serve me?" You might be surprised by the answer. What you'll learn: Why your capacity for stress shrinks during perimenopause - and how trauma stored in your body gets amplified during hormonal transitions The critical difference between stress and trauma - one energizes you, the other shuts down your mitochondria, thyroid, and metabolism How to recognize if you're living at your overwhelm line - and why trauma survivors unconsciously seek out that dangerous edge The real reason traditional talk therapy might have left you feeling worse - and what your body actually needs to release stored trauma Why lifting weights isn't just about building muscle - it's about building your capacity to handle hard things emotionally The three nervous system states you cycle through daily - and how to shift from overwhelm back to calm using somatic techniques How trauma shows up in your relationships, health, and daily life patterns - even if you scored zero on childhood adverse events The surprising connection between the vagus nerve and gut health - and why "vagus nerve toning" can sometimes backfire Love the Podcast? Here's what to do: Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 55,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive. Want to listen to the show completely ad-free? Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/bot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Many people struggle with chronic fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and exhaustion that no amount of sleep seems to cure. They've tried medications, supplements, therapy, and self-care practices, yet still find themselves needing daily naps just to function. They can't understand why their body seems to be working against them instead of healing, or why they feel so disconnected from the energy they once had. In this episode, you'll meet Kecia, whose story reveals what's possible when we finally address trauma where it lives - in the nervous system. After 30 years on medical disability and needing daily three-hour naps just to survive, Kecia was sleeping 16-18 hours daily and housebound for years. By age 25, autoimmune illness had taken her career as a respiratory therapist, her ability to hike, even basic tasks. After completing the Foundational Journey, something happened that might sound impossible - she went seven weeks without needing a single nap for the first time in decades. Her husband said she became "like the person I knew 30 years ago." This isn't about willpower or positive thinking. It's about understanding how unresolved attachment wounds show up as physical symptoms decades later, and why trauma healing requires addressing the nervous system directly. You'll hear more on: [3:30] Why Kecia never expected to live past 18 and how autoimmune disease changed everything for her by age 25 [8:00] The struggle to get medical validation and how one doctor's compassion literally changed her physiology [14:00] The shift that seemed impossible - seven weeks without daily naps after 30 years of needing them [16:00] What's actually happening in your body during chronic freeze and why extreme sleep needs make biological sense [19:00] How coming out of freeze brought back joy, energy, and the ability to experience life fully again [25:00] Why being praised for "resilience" can actually create stored trauma patterns in your body [29:00] Dr. Aimie's guidance on capacity management and energy investment for sustainable healing Whether you're personally dealing with chronic fatigue and autoimmune conditions that doctors can't fully explain, or you're a practitioner supporting clients with unexplained physical symptoms, this episode shows how addressing trauma at the nervous system level can create changes that seem impossible when we've been stuck for so long. Helpful Links Related To This Episode Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - how the body experiences and holds fear, pain and overwhelm, and how to heal. Pre-order now and, at the time of this recording, you'll get over $400 in bonuses included! Those bonuses are only for the pre-order window which goes until Sept 22, 2025. Book Bundles (available only until September 22nd) - Go deeper with exclusive bundles that include the book plus additional support: Guided Seeker Bundle: Book + workbook + master course walking you through each chapter's key concepts Accelerated Implementer Bundle: Everything above + live half-day online group intensive with Dr. Aimie for implementation support Fast Track Practitioner Bundle: Everything above + one full day in-person with Dr. Aimie at her home to identify your personal blocks and create your customized 30-day healing plan Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in the Roadmap and the book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world with practical somatic and parts self-practices to lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are the daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 71: Understanding the Trauma Connection Between Attachment, Autoimmunity, and Fatigue Episode 133: Autoimmunity and Childhood Trauma: How Your Immune System Reflects Your Past Related Youtube Videos: Childhood Freeze & Autoimmunity: Insights with Keesha Ewers | Dr. Aimie Apigian Prevent Autoimmunity: Trauma, Toxins & Diet Steps | Dr. Aimie Apigian Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please share your constructive feedback by using personal name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free, and let's keep the discussion positive!
Many adults struggle with patterns they can't explain: feeling responsible for everything, working harder than everyone else without realizing it, or getting triggered by chaos even when their current life is stable. They might find intimacy difficult, feel disconnected from their emotions, or notice their nervous system going into overdrive in situations that don't seem threatening. What they don't realize is that these patterns often trace back to growing up in chaotic environments where they had to become the adult in the room as a child. The truth is, when children are forced to take on adult responsibilities - managing emotions, solving problems, or keeping the family together - it rewires their nervous system in ways that show up decades later as chronic overwhelm, relationship difficulties, and an inability to recognize their own limits. In this episode, Dr. Tian Dayton joins Dr. Aimie to explore how early relational trauma and chaotic family dynamics create lasting patterns in our nervous system. You'll discover why traditional talk therapy often isn't enough for trauma resolution, how movement and body-based approaches can complete what words cannot, and why environments like 12-step programs can create the perfect container for nervous system healing. You'll hear about: [2:00] The hidden signs of early relational trauma and why chaos is so hard to identify [5:30] How children adapt to become "project managers" in dysfunctional families [8:00] Why some people feel like the "crazy one" while others become the "uptight one" [9:00] Understanding "thwarted intention" and how it creates emotional blocks in adulthood [12:00] How sense memory gets triggered in relationships and intimacy [14:00] The critical importance of early touch and bonding for nervous system development [18:00] When nervous systems "freeze" and brace for danger with intimate partners [21:00] Why 12-step programs create ideal conditions for trauma healing [27:30] The power of "limbic baths" and co-regulated nervous system states [32:00] How "act hunger" and movement help complete unresolved trauma responses [35:00] Why the body needs catharsis and energy release for true healing Whether you're recognizing your own patterns from a chaotic childhood, supporting someone who grew up in dysfunction, or you're a practitioner working with clients who have early relational trauma, this episode provides both the understanding and practical approaches needed to break generational cycles and create lasting healing. Dr. Tian Dayton is a leading expert in psychodrama therapy have developed her approach of Relational Trauma Repair and is the author of numerous books on trauma, addiction, and family dynamics. Helpful Links Related To This Episode Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - how the body experiences and holds fear, pain and overwhelm, and how to heal. Pre-order now and, at the time of this recording, you'll get over $350 in bonuses included! Those bonuses are only for the pre-order window (before Sept 23). Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in my book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world to create calm aliveness with somatic and parts healing practices. This lays the foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are a specific sequence of 42 different daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 45: Can Adoption or Childhood Trauma Cause Bipolar Disorder? with Dr. Christina Bjorndal Episode 48: How to Heal Bracing and Hypervigilance with Cat Dillon Episode 58: Parenting in a Traumatizing World: The answer Our Children Need with Dr. Gordon Neufeld Episode 73: Early Attachment Shocks: How Unexpected Stressors Can Cause Developmental Trauma & What To Do Related Youtube Videos: What You Need First Before Processing Your Childhood Trauma | Dr. Aimie Apigian Early Relationships Shape Biology: Attachment Insights | Dr. Aimie Apigian Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Trauma Healing Accelerated, any guests or contributors to The Biology of Trauma® podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Trauma Healing Accelerated be responsible for damages arising from the use or misuse of the content provided in this podcast. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please share your constructive feedback by using personal name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free, and let's keep the discussion positive!
Being praised for strength or handling everything so well might seem like a positive thing. But what if those compliments aren't celebrating resilience, but actually highlighting stored trauma masquerading as strength? Being called resilient might be one of the most dangerous compliments you've received. True resilience flows from safety and support, but trauma resilience is your nervous system running on emergency biology that will eventually make you sick. In this mini episode, Dr. Aimie goes into the biology behind the difference between healthy resilience and trauma resilience. She explains why the child who never complains and the adult who never misses work despite chaos are running on trauma biology that leads to chronic illness decades later. You'll hear more on: The two types of resilience and why only one is actually healthy How trauma biology creates leaky gut, inflammation, and autoimmune responses Why your nervous system is actually stuck in survival mode The connection between adverse childhood experiences and adult chronic illness How stored trauma shows up as digestive issues, fatigue, brain fog, and autoimmunity Why traditional stress management doesn't work for trauma biology What needs to be repaired in order to start building authentic resilience Whether you're the person everyone calls mature for your age or supporting someone whose strength might be stored trauma, this episode gives you practical tools to move from functioning in survival mode to building authentic resilience from a place of safety and support.
Most people think stress and trauma are just different points on the same scale. But what if that belief has kept people stuck in cycles of chronic illness, autoimmune flare-ups, and emotional overwhelm? Many people are doing everything "right." They're eating well, exercising, going to therapy, yet they still struggle with gut issues, brain fog, anxiety, and fatigue that won't go away. They can't understand why their body seems to be working against them instead of healing. In this episode, Dr. Aimie reveals the crucial difference between stress and trauma, and why understanding this distinction changes everything about how you heal. She explains how unresolved trauma gets stored in the body and creates a biology of trauma that keeps your nervous system stuck in survival mode. You'll discover why trauma doesn't have to be "big" to be significant, how it shows up as chronic health conditions decades later, and the repair tools that address trauma at the emotional, somatic, and cellular levels, creating accelerated healing that single approaches cannot. You'll hear more on: [2:30] The simple question that reveals childhood trauma you may have downplayed [6:45] How chronic conditions like autoimmunity follow predictable trauma patterns [9:00] What happens during nervous system shifts and why they affect your whole body [15:30] How brain inflammation fuels “body trauma loops” that keep you stuck [19:44] Why brain inflammation is part of your trauma response (and how to recognize it!) [25:00] The three levels of repair needed for lasting trauma healing [27:30] How generational trauma passes through epigenetics (and how to break the cycle) [30:15] The #1 thing to prioritize for nervous system regulation and recovery [32:45] Daily habits that increase resilience, healing capacity, and overall well-being Whether you're personally dealing with chronic health issues and unresolved trauma, or you're a practitioner helping clients understand the mind-body connection, this episode provides the scientific framework and practical tools you need to start addressing trauma at all levels and create lasting healing. Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - how the body experiences and holds fear, pain and overwhelm, and how to heal. Pre-order now and, at the time of this recording, you'll get over $400 in bonuses included! Those bonuses are only for the pre-order window which goes until Sept 22, 2025. Essential Sequence Guide - Discover why doing the right things in the right order is key to releasing trauma and achieving your full potential. Get the insights you need to make lasting change. Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in the Roadmap and the book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world with practical somatic and parts self-practices to lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are the daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 48:How To Heal Bracing And Hypervigilance with Cat Dillon Episode 122: Shutdown Before Stress: The Misstep in Trauma Healing That Often Gets Missed Related Youtube Videos:
Have you ever been so mentally drained that even choosing breakfast cereal felt impossible? It's not just that you're being indecisive. It's decision fatigue, and it's your nervous system's way of saying your nervous system capacity is running low. Think of nervous system capacity like an internal energy bank account. Every decision, big or small, is a withdrawal. When that account is empty, even simple choices can feel like climbing a mountain. Your brain hits “insufficient funds,” and suddenly you're overwhelmed. In this Biology Behind It mini episode, Dr. Aimie responds to a listener who shared his embarrassing moment of having to leave the grocery store because choosing cereal felt impossible! This question opens the door to understanding decision fatigue, neuroception, and why our survival system treats every choice as a potential threat. You'll hear more on: Why every decision is a withdrawal from your capacity account Why your nervous system doesn't distinguish between small and big decisions What happens when your energy reserves can't meet the demands you're facing How attachment filters from early life determine which decisions drain more energy than others Why low energy triggers trauma biology and chronic functional freeze Practical strategies to reduce decision fatigue Whether you're struggling with decision overwhelm or supporting someone experiencing these "adult meltdowns," this episode helps you understand why small decisions can feel impossible and gives you concrete tools to build your capacity back up.
In this powerful episode, Darin Olien sits down with Dr. Aimie Apigian, a double board-certified physician and leading expert in the biology of trauma, to dive deep into how our nervous systems carry the scars of early life experiences—and what we can do to finally heal. Dr. Aimie shares her deeply personal story of adopting a traumatized child while in medical school, how it led her to challenge traditional medicine, and the revolutionary model she's created for resolving trauma through biology—not just psychology. This conversation is full of practical insights, emotional resonance, and hope for those who've struggled to find healing through conventional paths. What You'll Learn: [00:00] Welcome to the SuperLife Podcast [01:45] Who is Dr. Aimie Apigian? [03:20] The biology of trauma vs. psychology of trauma [06:05] The moment her adopted son changed her path forever [08:30] Trauma is stored in the body, not just in the mind [11:40] Fight, flight, freeze... and “functional freeze” explained [15:30] How stored trauma becomes a health issue [18:45] The body's role in trauma healing: polyvagal theory basics [23:15] Trauma vs. chronic stress: understanding the distinction [27:00] Why somatic therapy is critical and where to begin [32:10] Dr. Aimie's 3-step roadmap to trauma healing [36:40] The role of the vagus nerve and nervous system regulation [40:55] How trauma shows up in physical illness and fatigue [45:15] Tools to move from freeze to flow [49:35] Why high-performers often suppress their trauma [53:20] Rewriting your biology: real healing is possible [57:10] Parenting with regulated nervous systems [1:00:20] The science behind how trauma affects DNA [1:04:15] Final reflections: healing yourself is how we heal the world [1:08:00] Where to find Dr. Aimie and her upcoming programs [1:10:00] Closing thoughts from Darin Thank You to Our Sponsors: Bite Toothpaste: Go to trybite.com/DARIN20 or use code DARIN20 for 20% off your first order. Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% of Find More From Dr. Aimie Apigian: Website: www.biologyoftrauma.com Instagram: @draimie Follow her YouTube Channel Accelerate your trauma healing with her 21 Day Journey Pre-Order her upcoming book: The Biology of Trauma Find More from Darin Olien: Instagram: @darinolien Podcast: SuperLife Website: https://superlife.com Book: Fatal Conveniences Key Takeaway: “The body doesn't forget trauma—even when the mind does. True healing starts when we stop trying to 'think' our way out and start reconnecting with the biology underneath the story.”
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