Functionally Enlightened - Better ways to heal from chronic pain and illness

Functionally Enlightened
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to the Functionally Enlightened podcast. We interview well-respected medical and functional practitioners as well as patients who have overcome disabling chronic conditions, such as dysautonomia. These important guests provide helpful tips on managing chronic pain and illness, using a combination of traditional and whole-body healing modalities, that you can begin to implement into your daily life. By listening, subscribing and leaving a review, you have already begun on your wellness journey.

  1. Jul 9

    Eps 79. Restless Legs Syndrome & Sleep Deprivation: A Neurological Condition Explained with Andy Gritti

    What if the reason you can’t sleep isn’t just stress—but your nervous system?In this episode of the Functionally Enlightened Podcast, Sharon sits down with Andy Gritti to unpack the reality of living with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)—a neurological condition that disrupts sleep, impacts dopamine signaling, and can significantly reduce quality of life.After decades of severe symptoms, including nights without sleep and increasing reliance on medications, Andy shares how he found meaningful relief through the Nidra by Noctrix Health—a non-drug, FDA-authorized wearable therapy designed to calm symptoms and improve sleep.In this conversation, we explore:-What Restless Legs Syndrome really feels like (beyond “just discomfort”)-The connection between dopamine, the brain, and nervous system dysregulation-How chronic sleep disruption impacts overall health and healing-Why many conventional treatments stop working over time-The role of stress and nervous system activation in worsening symptoms-How wearable therapies like Nidra may support symptom relief-The importance of tracking symptoms and advocating for proper care-This episode is especially relevant for those navigating:✔ Chronic illness and unexplained symptoms✔ Implant illness and nervous system dysregulation✔ Sleep disturbances and fatigue✔ Neurological or dopamine-related conditionsIf you’ve ever felt like your symptoms worsen at night—or your body won’t “shut off”—this conversation offers both validation and direction.📘 Featured ResourcesMeshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illnesshttps://go.functionallyenlightened.com/home-page-3409Learn more about RLS support and solutions:https://noctrixhealth.com/#RestlessLegsSyndrome #RLS #SleepDisorder #NervousSystem #ChronicIllness #ImplantIllness #Dopamine #HealingJourney #FunctionallyEnlightened

    Eps 79. Restless Legs Syndrome & Sleep Deprivation: A Neurological Condition Explained with Andy Gritti

  2. Jun 26

    Eps 78. Genetics, Detox Pathways & Implant Illness: What You Need to Know

    What if your symptoms aren’t random—but rooted in how your body is genetically wired to respond to toxins, hormones, and stress?In this episode of the Functionally Enlightened Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Laura Varden, PhD in Cellular Biology & Molecular Genetics, to break down how functional genomics influences detoxification pathways, hormone metabolism, and gut mucosal integrity.We explore how your genetic blueprint interacts with environmental exposures—and why two people can respond completely differently to the same toxin, implant, or stressor.Dr. Varden simplifies complex genetic pathways using real-world analogies and shares how to turn genetic data into clear, actionable health strategies.In This Episode, We Cover:-How genetics impacts detox pathways (Phase I & Phase II)-Key genes involved in inflammation, antioxidants, and hormone metabolism-Why some people struggle with detox, histamine, or estrogen clearance-The connection between cortisol, stress, and gut barrier integrity-How genetics influences insulin sensitivity and metabolic health-A systems biology approach to interpreting genetic data-How to use genomics to personalize your healing strategy🔬 Want to take a root-cause approach to your health?Book a free discovery call:https://functionallyenlightened.biocanic.com/selfbooking/657b12ff516c88076108095f🔗 Featured Resources📘 Book: Meshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illness👉 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/meshed-up-sharon-surita/1149979444?ean=9781917496094👉 Amazon (eBook available now): https://a.co/d/0dLRuhFi🧬 Functional Genomics Testing & EducationLearn more at The DNA Company👉 https://thednacompany.com🎙️ Breast Implant Illness + Genetics (Candice Barley Feature)👉 https://thednacompany.com/blogs/dna-talks-podcast/navigating-through-breast-implant-inflammation-and-undergoing-explant-surgery-with-candice-barleyHave you ever done genetic testing for your health?I’m curious—did it clarify your next steps, or leave you feeling overwhelmed?

    Eps 78. Genetics, Detox Pathways & Implant Illness: What You Need to Know

  3. Jun 11

    Eps 77. Living with invisible illness: Misdiagnosis, Faith & Resilience | Sydney Anne Bennett

    What happens when your life changes overnight and healing doesn’t come the way you expected?In this deeply moving episode of the Functionally Enlightened Podcast, Sharon sits down with Sydney Anne Bennett, author of Fearfully and Wonderfully Broken, to explore her journey into disability just two weeks after her honeymoon.Diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder, Sydney shares what it’s like to live with daily seizures, chronic pain, and mobility loss and how she found meaning, faith, and identity in the midst of it.Together, we unpack:-The reality of invisible illness and medical dismissal-Parallels between FND, nervous system dysregulation, and implant-related illness-How chronic illness reshapes your relationship with your body--The difference between true hope vs toxic positivity-Navigating faith when healing doesn’t come-Parenting, purpose, and redefining strength through limitation-The role of social media in connecting chronic illness communitiesThis conversation is especially powerful for those navigating:✔ Chronic illness✔ Implant illness or unexplained symptoms✔ Nervous system dysregulation✔ Faith during prolonged sufferingSydney reminds us that even in the hardest seasons—nothing is wasted.📘 Featured ResourcesFearfully and Wonderfully Broken – Available nowMeshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illness – Your roadmap to understanding symptoms, reducing toxic load, and rebuilding trust with your body🔗 Connect with SydneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.annegirlYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the.annegirlWebsite: https://www.sydneyannebennett.com🧠 Who This Episode Is ForIf you’ve ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck in your healing journey—this conversation will meet you where you are.#ChronicIllness #InvisibleIllness #FunctionalNeurologicalDisorder #FaithAndHealing #NervousSystem #ImplantIllness #HealingJourney #FunctionallyEnlightened

    Eps 77. Living with invisible illness: Misdiagnosis, Faith & Resilience | Sydney Anne Bennett

  4. May 28

    Eps 76. Autoimmune Healing Starts Here: The 6 Habits That Change Everything | Dr. Amy Behimer

    Autoimmune conditions are often approached from a purely physical lens—but what if the missing piece is your mindset and daily habits?In this episode of the Functionally Enlightened Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Amy Behimer, pharmacist, board-certified health coach, and autoimmune specialist, to explore her powerful Habit Hub framework—a six-pillar approach to navigating chronic illness with more clarity, resilience, and control.Dr. Amy shares her personal journey with multiple sclerosis (MS), how she transitioned from pharmacy to coaching, and why “trusting in the tiny” changes can lead to lasting transformation.We dive into:The 6 core pillars of autoimmune healthHow mindset directly impacts physical symptomsWhy small, consistent habits outperform extreme protocolsThe role of stress in autoimmune diseaseHow to build sustainable health—even during setbacksIf you’ve been stuck in cycles of overwhelm, fear, or plateau—this episode will help you shift how you approach healing.Reach out to Dr. Amy:https://amybehimercoaching.com/https://thehabithubpodcast.amybehimercoaching.com/https://www.instagram.com/amybehimercoaching/Ready to go deeper with functional testing and root-cause healing?Book a free discovery call: https://functionallyenlightened.biocanic.com/selfbooking/657b12ff516c88076108095f📘 Meshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant IllnessAvailable now (eBook) | Paperback May 28https://go.functionallyenlightened.com/mesheduphomeLink in bio⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.

    Eps 76. Autoimmune Healing Starts Here: The 6 Habits That Change Everything | Dr. Amy Behimer

  5. May 14

    Eps 75. From Bedridden to Running Again: Healing Dysautonomia & Hidden Head Injury | Rita’s Story

    In this powerful follow-up episode, Sharon reconnects with Rita to hear how her healing journey has evolved since their first conversation in 2023.After years of severe chronic illness—including dysautonomia, POTS, neurological symptoms, and being bedridden—Rita discovered a critical missing piece in early 2026: an untreated head and neck injury.Through specialized care with an upper cervical chiropractor, Rita began a new phase of healing using low-force, neurologically focused techniques, including:Upper cervical adjustmentsNetwork spinal analysisLogan Basic techniqueRed light and cold laser therapyThe results were profound—Rita went from being unable to function to running again for the first time in years.This conversation explores the connection between structural alignment, nervous system regulation, trauma, and chronic illness recovery, offering hope for those who feel stuck despite trying everything.🔬 What We Cover in This EpisodeRita’s progression since her original 2023 interviewThe discovery of an undiagnosed head and neck injuryThe link between trauma, nervous system dysregulation, and chronic illnessUpper cervical chiropractic care and its role in healingThe impact of low-force, precision-based techniquesCold laser therapy and mitochondrial supportWhy healing requires multiple modalitiesMindset, pacing, and self-compassion in recovery🌿 Key TakeawaysChronic illness may have structural and neurological contributorsHealing is layered and non-linearNervous system regulation is foundationalThe right practitioner can shift outcomes dramaticallyConsistency and safety outperform intensity👤 About RitaRita is a former police officer with over 15 years of service whose chronic illness journey included dysautonomia, neurological symptoms, and severe functional decline. Her recovery highlights the often-overlooked role of head trauma and nervous system dysregulation in chronic illness.🔗 Resources & LinksListen to Part 1 of Rita's story here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eps-17-rita-curley-dysautonomia-and-mcas-relief/id1675786285?i=1000637119942🧠 Upper Cervical Chiropractor (Dr. McCann):https://www.atlas-chiropractic.us/🌐 Functionally Enlightened:https://functionallyenlightened.com🌿 Join the Healing Community:https://go.functionallyenlightened.com/implant-illness-point-approach-home⚠️ DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.🧾 Show NotesIn this follow-up episode, Rita shares a major turning point in her healing journey after discovering an untreated head and neck injury—something that had gone undetected despite years of severe symptoms.After being bedridden with dysautonomia, neurological dysfunction, and systemic inflammation, Rita explored upper cervical chiropractic care using low-force, highly targeted techniques. These interventions helped restore nervous system balance and led to significant functional improvements.The episode explores how trauma—particularly head and neck trauma—can contribute to long-standing dysregulation, and why these structural factors are often overlooked in chronic illness.Rita also shares insights from her time in law enforcement, noting that a significant percentage of officers experience head injuries that go unreported, which may contribute to long-term health consequences.The conversation reinforces that healing often requires a multi-layered approach, combining structural, biochemical, and nervous system support.

    Eps 75. From Bedridden to Running Again: Healing Dysautonomia & Hidden Head Injury | Rita’s Story

  6. Apr 30 ·  Bonus

    Eps 74. Meshed Up - The Truth about Implant Illness No One Told You

    In this special episode, I’m sharing something deeply personal—the release of my book:“Meshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illness.”This book was born out of my own experience following what was supposed to be a routine mesh implant surgery… that led to years of unexplained symptoms including:Chronic painDysautonomiaBrain fogFatigueNervous system dysregulationLike so many, I was told everything looked “normal.”But my body told a very different story.This episode walks you through:✔ Why implant illness is often misunderstood✔ How symptoms are frequently dismissed or misdiagnosed✔ The framework I used to rebuild my health✔ And how you can begin navigating your own healing journey📘 About the BookMeshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illness is structured into three core parts:1. Understanding What’s Really HappeningWhy symptoms aren’t random—and how immune, nervous system, and toxic burden intersect2. The 3D Detox ApproachHealing across:Body (physiology & biochemistry)Home (environmental exposures)Mind (nervous system & emotional health)3. Supporting Healing & Moving ForwardBuilding sustainable rhythms, self-advocacy tools, and long-term resilience🌿 Key Concepts Discussed“Detox is readiness, not aggression”Why consistency beats intensity in healingUnderstanding chronic symptoms as physiological overwhelm—not personal failureHow to rebuild trust in your bodyThe importance of pattern recognition over perfection🧠 Practical Tools You’ll LearnHow to track your top symptoms for clarityHow to use labs as guidance, not absolutesHow to reduce toxic exposure without overwhelmHow to stabilize your nervous systemHow to advocate for yourself in medical settings👥 Who This Is ForThis episode—and this book—is for anyone experiencing:Unexplained chronic symptomsImplant-related concerns (mesh, breast, dental, orthopedic)Inflammation, fatigue, or nervous system dysregulationFeeling dismissed, misdiagnosed, or unheard🔗 Resources📘 Get the book: Meshed Up: A Guide to Healing from Implant Illness🌐 Learn more + resources:https://functionallyenlightened.com🌿 Join the Healing Community:https://go.functionallyenlightened.com/implant-illness-point-approach-home⚠️ DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult with a qualified practitioner for personalized care.

    Eps 74. Meshed Up - The Truth about Implant Illness No One Told You

  7. Apr 12

    Eps 73. Healing from Mercury Toxicity, Gut Dysfunction & Chronic Illness | Stephen Heuer

    Why gut healing is foundational for detoxificationThe importance of trace minerals and metabolic functionStrategies to support liver detox pathways and glutathione productionThe connection between implants, inflammation, and systemic symptomsWe also discuss practical tools including probiotic protocols, detox strategies, and dietary shifts that can support long-term healing.This conversation is especially relevant for those navigating chronic illness, environmental toxicity, implant-related symptoms, and complex inflammatory conditions.🔬 What We Cover in This EpisodeStephen’s journey healing from mercury toxicityHow heavy metals impact the gut, thyroid, and energy systemsDetoxification strategies (including binders and liver support)The role of trace minerals in enzyme and cellular functionGut microbiome restoration and oxalate metabolismChronic inflammation and implant-related illness connectionsWhy healing requires a multi-system, bioindividual approach🌿 Key TakeawaysChronic illness is often driven by toxic burden + impaired detox pathwaysGut health is central to both detoxification and immune regulationMineral depletion can disrupt metabolism, hormones, and cellular repairHealing is not one intervention—it’s a coordinated system-wide process🔗 Resources & LinksLearn more about Stephen Heuer:🌐 https://synergisticnutrition.com📞 Phone: 864-895-6250🌱 Join Our CommunityIf you’re navigating implant illness, chronic inflammation, or complex health challenges, join our community for deeper support and guidance:👉 https://go.functionallyenlightened.com/implant-illness-point-approach-home⚠️ DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any new protocol.

    Eps 73. Healing from Mercury Toxicity, Gut Dysfunction & Chronic Illness | Stephen Heuer

  8. Apr 2

    Eps 72. Healing Dysautonomia & Chronic Illness Through Nervous System Regulation | Elizabeth Stauder

    In this episode of the Functionally Enlightened Podcast, Sharon Surita, PhD, BCFDNP sits down with Elizabeth Stauder, practitioner and founder of Body and Soul Sanctuary, to explore the role of nervous system regulation, somatic trauma reprocessing, and mind-body repatterning in chronic illness recovery.Elizabeth shares her deeply personal healing journey after developing dysautonomia following a vaccine injury, compounded by profound personal loss. When conventional approaches failed to provide answers, Elizabeth began integrating her training in somatic trauma work, neuroscience, and ancient healing practices to reclaim control over her nervous system and restore balance in her body.Together we explore how hypervigilance, trauma physiology, and nervous system dysregulation can perpetuate chronic illness, and how simple daily practices can begin shifting the body out of survival mode.This conversation is especially relevant for individuals navigating implant illness, dysautonomia, mast cell activation, Lyme disease, autoimmune conditions, and chronic inflammation, where nervous system resilience often becomes a critical piece of recovery.In This Episode We Discuss• Elizabeth’s personal story of dysautonomia and recovery• How trauma and medical PTSD can affect chronic illness• Understanding hypervigilance and functional freeze states• The importance of validating emotions during illness• Somatic practices to help regulate the nervous system• Journaling, breathwork, and visualization tools for daily healing• How nervous system coherence supports immune and inflammatory balance• Reclaiming agency in the healing process• The role of community and guided support in recoveryAbout Our GuestElizabeth Stauder specializes in somatic trauma reprocessing and mind-body repatterning. Her work integrates neuroscience, trauma physiology, and ancient healing practices to help individuals restore nervous system regulation and reclaim personal agency during chronic illness recovery.Following a life-altering health crisis involving dysautonomia, Elizabeth applied her training and lived experience to develop practical approaches for healing that combine emotional validation, somatic practices, and daily rhythms that support the nervous system.She currently leads the Body and Soul Sanctuary, a membership program focused on somatic healing and developmental trauma work.Resources & LinksElizabeth StauderWebsite: https://www.bodyandsoulsanctuary.comYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@elizabethenteringthestreamFacebook https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.stauder.5Free Community https://www.skool.com/body-soul-village-3993/aboutAbout the Functionally Enlightened PodcastThe Functionally Enlightened Podcast explores root-cause healing strategies for chronic illness, implant-related illness, autoimmune conditions, environmental toxicity, and metabolic dysfunction.Host Sharon Surita, PhD, BCFDNP interviews leading experts, practitioners, and individuals who have successfully navigated complex health challenges.Episodes are available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast platforms.Chapters00:00 Introduction02:15 Elizabeth’s health crisis and dysautonomia journey06:20 When conventional medicine didn’t have answers10:40 Trauma, grief, and nervous system dysregulation15:10 Understanding hypervigilance in chronic illness19:30 Functional freeze and the body’s survival response24:45 Why emotional validation is critical to healing29:10 Somatic tools for nervous system regulation33:30 Breathwork, journaling, and visualization practices37:20 Reclaiming agency in the healing process40:00 Elizabeth’s Body & Soul Sanctuary community42:00 Final thoughts and resources

    Eps 72. Healing Dysautonomia & Chronic Illness Through Nervous System Regulation | Elizabeth Stauder
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Welcome to the Functionally Enlightened podcast. We interview well-respected medical and functional practitioners as well as patients who have overcome disabling chronic conditions, such as dysautonomia. These important guests provide helpful tips on managing chronic pain and illness, using a combination of traditional and whole-body healing modalities, that you can begin to implement into your daily life. By listening, subscribing and leaving a review, you have already begun on your wellness journey.

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