The Brain & Body Podcast with Allegra Foxlie

Allegra Foxlie

Where we discuss a holistic approach to healing and health.  This podcast will feature leading experts, and authors from different healing domains, as well as friends, clients and people who suffer from the specific condition we’re discussing.  We will talk about the interconnection between biology, psychology and socioenvironmental factors that can and do impact the brain and body.  Let’s use post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an example – this is a huge subject, so will involve multiple episodes on all aspects related to it.  The aim is to give you a solid overview where you’ll be able to understand the causes, its impact on the brain, the body etc. giving you information on how it’s typically diagnosed, the relevant questions to ask your medical doctor, psychiatrist etc. the different treatments available, offering different perspectives on the subject matter ranging from ancient Eastern wisdom to Western neurophysiology and traumatology, which will hopefully give you a supra model for healing and or managing the condition.  The link to my book HTR: Hormone Tension Release:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BNLTDHCR?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_8CG6HP01NDTGPTGKMN7R_1https://amzn.eu/d/4QpOrK7https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1739275608 IG: https://www.instagram.com/allegrafoxlie LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allegrafoxlie Website: https://thefoxlieplan.com/  For full show notes visit https://thefoxlieplan.com/podcast

  1. Birth Trauma- with Richmond Heath | Executive Director of Trauma Release, Australia

    EPISODE 2

    Birth Trauma- with Richmond Heath | Executive Director of Trauma Release, Australia

    This podcast episode brings together insights on how Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) can address birth trauma, facilitate emotional and physical healing, and potentially improve childbirth experiences. Host Allegra, is a trauma-informed body worker, and her guest Richmond Heath, Head of TRE Australia, discuss the broad impacts of birth trauma on babies, parents, and healthcare professionals, highlighting both physiological and behavioral consequences. The conversation explores Richmond’s journey with TRE, its foundational role in healing trauma through neurogenic exercises, and the importance of a body-focused approach to therapy over traditional psychological methods. The episode emphasizes TRE’s capability to tap into the body's intrinsic healing mechanisms via spontaneous tremors, underscoring its utility not just for trauma survivors but also in preparing for childbirth. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, the podcast aims to shed light on the significance of reconnecting with one’s body through neurogenic movement to heal trauma, balance the nervous system, and potentially transform childbirth experiences by embracing the body’s natural wisdom and tremor response. Contact Richmond Heath https://treaustralia.com TIME STAMPS 00:00 Meet Allegra: Exploring Trauma Healing Through TRE 01:51 Richmond Heath's Journey into TRE and Personal Transformation 07:26 Understanding Trauma: A Deep Dive with Richmond Heath 16:36 The Profound Impact of Birth Trauma 31:38 Exploring the Healing Power of TRE and Neurogenic Movement 33:58 The Cultural and Medical Misunderstanding of Birth Trauma 45:12 Personal Reflections and the Universal Nature of Trauma 50:39 Exploring the Body's Response to Trauma and Stress 51:07 The Impact of Medication and Muscle Relaxation on Anxiety 52:01 Understanding Hormonal Influences and PTSD 53:14 The Role of the Nervous System in Menopause Symptoms 54:03 The Science of Oxytocin and Its Effects 55:40 The Physiology of Birth and Its Aftermath 57:05 Addressing Post-Traumatic Stress and Its Delayed Onset 58:33 The Healing Power of Spontaneous Movement and TRE 59:42 The Importance of Hormonal Balance and Emotional Health 01:04:19 Personal Stories of Birth Trauma and Recovery 01:05:39 Exploring Visceral Trauma Beyond the Birthing Process 01:19:08 The Potential of Neurogenic Tremoring for Healing 01:34:55 Innovative Approaches to Pain Management and Healing 01:37:24 Concluding Thoughts on TRE and Its Future in Birth Education Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    1h 41m
  2. Trauma and the female body: Episode 1 with Victoria Hardy, on behalf of Pause Live

    EPISODE 4

    Trauma and the female body: Episode 1 with Victoria Hardy, on behalf of Pause Live

    In this episode, trauma-informed body worker Allegra and Victoria Hardy, known as Ginge Unhinged, explore the intricate links between trauma, chronic pain conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis, and menopause.  Allegra shares perspectives from her book 'HTR: Hormone Tension Release' and emphasizes the impact of adverse childhood experiences on women's health.  Victoria recounts her personal journey with surgical menopause, discussing early medical interventions, chronic pain and her book "My Menopause, My Journal, My Rules".  Their conversation underscores the importance of education and understanding how trauma influences health, advocating for holistic and alternative therapies. The episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge and strategies to manage menopausal symptoms actively and holistically. 00:00 Introduction to Allegra and Her Work 00:39 Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) 02:39 Meet Victoria Hardy: Author and Advocate 03:37 Victoria's Journey with Endometriosis 19:12 The Impact of Trauma on the Body 34:48 Victoria's Experience with PTSD 46:04 Natural Neurogenic Tremors and Birth Experiences 47:00 Male Perspective on Birth Trauma 47:39 Understanding Neurogenic Tremoring 48:20 Gazelle Example and Stress Response 49:54 Twin Towers and PTSD 52:33 Personal Experience with TRE 01:11:40 Surgical Menopause Journey 01:21:28 Writing and Advocacy 01:27:43 Final Thoughts and Reflections Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    1h 33m
  3. Unlocking ADHD: Insights from Dr. Rachel V. Gow on Nutrition and Neurodevelopment

    EPISODE 5

    Unlocking ADHD: Insights from Dr. Rachel V. Gow on Nutrition and Neurodevelopment

    Exploring ADHD, Nutrition, and Neurodevelopment: An Interview with Dr. Rachel V. Gow In this episode, Dr. Rachel V. Gow, a distinguished neuroscientist and neuropsychologist and the author of the highly acclaimed book “Smart Foods for ADHD and Brain Health", discusses her extensive research and personal journey focusing on the impact of nutrition on brain development and behaviour. Dr. Gow shares her experiences as a mother to a child with ADHD, her groundbreaking work on how diet influences cognitive function, and her advocacy for better public health understanding. She explains the challenges she faced within the educational system concerning her son's ADHD, the significance of omega-3 fatty acids, and the role of nutrition in early brain development. Dr. Gow also talks about her charity, Nutritious Minds Trust,  which aims to support children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families, offering diagnostic evaluations and community support. The episode highlights the importance of holistic approaches, community engagement, and understanding the biological basis of ADHD. To buy Rachel's book: https://amzn.to/2IPSHvl To get involved with her charity: http://www.nutritiousminds.org/  00:00 Introduction to Dr. Rachel V. Gow 01:51 Rachel's Early Career and Personal Journey 04:25 Challenges with Son's Education and Diagnosis 07:30 Understanding ADHD and Its Implications 18:50 Medication and Its Effects 29:08 Exploring Nutritional Interventions 36:24 Challenges in Preventative Health Research 37:15 The Deceptive Food Industry 38:55 Preventing Metabolic Diseases Through Diet 39:45 Impact of Processed Foods on Health 42:22 Early Childhood Nutrition and Brain Development 43:23 The Role of Omega-3 in Neurodevelopment 45:15 Nutritional Deficiencies and Cognitive Impairment 52:37 The Gut-Brain Axis and Mental Health 54:53 Supporting Children with ADHD and Autism 55:28 The Importance of Community and Support 59:42 Nutritious Minds Trust Charity 01:07:19 Advice for Parents of Children with ADHD 01:10:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The List of Studies mentioned in this podcast: Hibbeln JR, Davis JM, Steer C, Emmett P, Rogers I, Williams C, Golding J. Maternal seafood consumption in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes in childhood (ALSPAC study): an observational cohort study. Lancet. 2007 Feb 17;369(9561):578-85. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(07)60277-3. PMID: 17307104. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17307104/ Golding J, Steer C, Emmett P, Davis JM, Hibbeln JR. High levels of depressive symptoms in pregnancy with low omega-3 fatty acid intake from fish. Epidemiology. 2009 Jul;20(4):598-603. doi: 10.1097/EDE.0b013e31819d6a57. PMID: 19289957. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19289957/ Hibbeln JR. Depression, suicide and deficiencies of omega-3 essential fatty acids in modern diets. World Rev Nutr Diet. 2009;99:17-30. doi: 10.1159/000192992. Epub 2009 Jan 9. PMID: 19136836. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19136836 Hibbeln JR, Gow RV. The potential for military diets to reduce depression, suicide, and impulsive aggression: a review of current evidence for omega-3 Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    1h 13m
  4. Understanding Narcissism: Episode 01

    EPISODE 6

    Understanding Narcissism: Episode 01

    This is Part 1 of Understanding Narcissism between Allegra Foxlie, a trauma-informed bodyworker, and Elizabeth Shaw, the author of "A Narcissist Handbook" and many other books on narcissism, to discuss the impacts of emotional abuse and narcissistic behaviour on mental and physical well-being. This is a must for anyone who believes they or their friends are being abused. Elizabeth Shaw explains the nature of Narcissistic Personality Disorder and differentiates it from general narcissistic traits, emphasizing that most abusers exhibit narcissistic behaviors due to their lack of empathy and exploitative tendencies. The discussion explores the different types of narcissistic abuse, including overt, covert, and emotional abuse, and how these behaviours create confusion and self-doubt in victims. Elizabeth explains the concept of 'hoovering,' where narcissists attempt to suck victims back into abusive relationships. The conversation also highlights how narcissists treat children as accessories and manipulate them for their own benefit, causing harm and confusion. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries with narcissists, recognizing their patterns, and maintaining emotional, psychological, and physical distance when possible. She underscores that true narcissists don't change their behaviours fundamentally, even though some might seek therapy or support. The conversation also touches on how narcissistic individuals operate within families and court systems, often manipulating the narrative to appear as the victim. Allegra and Elizabeth plan to continue their discussion in a future episode to further explore topics such as safely exiting narcissistic relationships, recognizing narcissistic behaviour, and understanding the long-term impacts of such relationships and importantly healing from them. Elizabeth's books:  A Narcissists Handbook,  https://amzn.eu/d/fRbRBcH 15 Rules to deal with Narcissistic People https://amzn.eu/d/7kvk4zf Boundaries with Narcissists https://amzn.eu/d/5EeSL78 To contact Elizabeth: coachelizabethshaw As an FYI  all the clients discussed in this episode remain anonymous and consented to their individual stories being discussed. Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    59 min
  5. Navigating Bipolar Disorder with Briony Davies: Insights, Complexities, Challenges, and Support

    EPISODE 7

    Navigating Bipolar Disorder with Briony Davies: Insights, Complexities, Challenges, and Support

    In this episode, Allegra, a trauma-informed bodyworker, speaks with Briony Davies, a passionate mental health advocate who has lived with bipolar disorder since 2013.     Briony, who transformed her personal experiences into a source of strength and empowerment, discusses the complexities of bipolar disorder, including its different types, the challenges in getting an accurate diagnosis, and the disorder's intersection with neurodivergence and trauma. The conversation covers the impact of bipolar disorder on relationships, the importance of support systems, the effects of substance misuse, and the significant role of sleep and perimenopause.     Briony candidly shares her personal journey, highlighting the stigmatization faced by individuals with mental health conditions and offering strategies for managing the disorder, including the importance of a strong support network and self-care practices. The episode aims to educate and inspire listeners, providing valuable insights into living with bipolar disorder.    00:00 Introduction to the Episode  02:05 Understanding Bipolar Disorder  03:53 Personal Experiences with Mania  09:02 Challenges of Bipolar II  17:16 Gender Differences in Bipolar Disorder  23:56 Impact of Trauma and Addiction  43:17 The Long Road to Diagnosis  53:57 Struggles with Medication and Addiction  55:24 Misdiagnosis and Overlapping Symptoms  56:49 Challenges in Mental Health Support  58:14 Impact of Childhood Experiences  01:01:04 Neurodivergence and Bipolar Disorder  01:03:40 Systemic Issues in Mental Health Care  01:11:28 Grief and Bipolar Disorder  01:15:05 Advice for the Newly Diagnosed  01:20:14 Perimenopause and Bipolar Disorder  01:26:26 Invisible Disabilities and Discrimination  01:33:26 Supporting Someone with Bipolar Disorder Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    1h 43m
  6. What Makes Men Want to Live?: Mark Walsh's, powerful approach to helping men thrive.

    EPISODE 8

    What Makes Men Want to Live?: Mark Walsh's, powerful approach to helping men thrive.

    Allegra, a trauma-informed bodyworker, hosts Mark Walsh, a pioneer in embodiment and trauma recovery, on her podcast. They discuss the alarming suicide rates among men under 40 in the UK, and Mark's innovative approaches to addressing this issue. Mark shares his experiences, including his work in war zones and his development of the "Feral Philosophy" to help young men with their mental and physical health. Mark's latest Book: The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques eBook Mark's company: www.embodimentunlimited.com Mark's "Feral Philosophy": https://www.youtube.com/@FeralPhilosophy_mw Mark's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warkmalsh/ Timestamp: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 Mark Walsh's Background and Work 02:09 Defining Embodiment 03:12 Mark's Personal Journey 04:29 ADHD and Coping Mechanisms 06:05 Trauma and Resilience 08:29 Understanding Trauma 18:18 Toxic Masculinity and Male Suicide 25:10 The Impact of Traditional Masculinity 26:24 Physical Health and Mental Well-being 26:45 Brotherhood and Mentorship 28:18 The Role of Embodiment in Fitness 29:22 Combining Embodiment with Weightlifting 30:08 Challenges and Growth in the Gym 31:36 The Importance of Male Role Models 34:29 Training Programs and Certifications 37:19 The Dark Side of Fame and Narcissism 44:29 The Value of Humor in Coaching 47:08 Final Thoughts and Reflections Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    50 min
  7. How Trauma shows up on Brain SPECT Scans, with Dr Hector Rodriguez

    EPISODE 9

    How Trauma shows up on Brain SPECT Scans, with Dr Hector Rodriguez

    In this episode, Allegra Foxlie, a trauma-informed bodyworker, speaks with Dr. Hector Rodriguez, a psychiatrist based in Miami who specializes in analyzing SPECT scans to understand the unique brain patterns associated with trauma and mental health conditions. Dr. Rodriguez, who previously worked as a fashion photographer, discusses his journey into psychiatry and his current work with Dr. Daniel Amen, a pioneer in brain health and imaging. The conversation covers several key areas: 1.   Dr. Rodriguez's career transition from fashion photography to psychiatry. 2.   The importance of viewing mental health through the lens of brain health rather than stigmatizing labels. 3.   An explanation of SPECT scans and their role in analyzing brain activity related to trauma. 4.   The distinct brain patterns, such as the "diamond pattern," observed in individuals who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) or significant trauma. 5.   The difference between ADHD and trauma symptoms, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatments. 6.   The impact of trauma on the brain's limbic system and how it manifests in both psychological and physical symptoms. 7.   Various therapeutic approaches to treating trauma, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, and somatic therapies like dance therapy. 8.   The societal and cultural impacts on how ADHD and trauma are perceived and diagnosed. 9.   Practical advice for individuals dealing with trauma, especially during challenging times like the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of connection and self-care. The discussion emphasizes a compassionate and individualized approach to mental health, highlighting the importance of understanding the brain's role in trauma and advocating for specialized treatment to help individuals heal. Support the show Buy Allegra's book, HTR: Hormone Tension Release on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/1KiWiai Follow Allegra's Instagram account: @allegrafoxlie Book a session with Allegra by visiting her website: www.thefoxlieplan.com

    59 min

About

Where we discuss a holistic approach to healing and health.  This podcast will feature leading experts, and authors from different healing domains, as well as friends, clients and people who suffer from the specific condition we’re discussing.  We will talk about the interconnection between biology, psychology and socioenvironmental factors that can and do impact the brain and body.  Let’s use post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an example – this is a huge subject, so will involve multiple episodes on all aspects related to it.  The aim is to give you a solid overview where you’ll be able to understand the causes, its impact on the brain, the body etc. giving you information on how it’s typically diagnosed, the relevant questions to ask your medical doctor, psychiatrist etc. the different treatments available, offering different perspectives on the subject matter ranging from ancient Eastern wisdom to Western neurophysiology and traumatology, which will hopefully give you a supra model for healing and or managing the condition.  The link to my book HTR: Hormone Tension Release:  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BNLTDHCR?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_8CG6HP01NDTGPTGKMN7R_1https://amzn.eu/d/4QpOrK7https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1739275608 IG: https://www.instagram.com/allegrafoxlie LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allegrafoxlie Website: https://thefoxlieplan.com/  For full show notes visit https://thefoxlieplan.com/podcast