When you’re told “it’s just stress” it’s about as helpful as someone telling you to “calm down”.

Our simplistic and binary “fight or flight” and “rest and digest” understanding of the nervous system is outdated.

After Dr. Dave finally got her name right, our angelic guest and expert vagal knob-twiddler Dr. Kristina Kastalanac ND helped us understand how polyvagal theory and her experience with somatic experiencing can help your nervous system unwind in ways that go beyond wine, bubble baths, and essential oils.