The holidays can feel magical… and incredibly overwhelming. In this episode, Melissa and Sarah sit down with nervous system specialist Dani Larsen to unpack why this season triggers stress, sensory overload, inflammation, and old emotional patterns—and what you can do to stay regulated.

Dani explains what nervous system dysregulation really is, the subtle signs you’re stuck in fight-or-flight, and why women with sensitive systems (MCAS, CIRS, mold illness, hypersensitivity) often feel worse during the holidays. You’ll learn how travel, sugar highs/lows, disrupted routines, expectations, and family dynamics add to your physiological load—and why none of this is your fault.

Then they dive into simple, practical tools to support regulation, including:

• Vagus nerve + breathwork basics
• Limbic system retraining
• Sensory reduction strategies
• Polyvagal-informed movement
• Creating safety cues and reducing triggers

They also cover the biggest holiday pitfalls—overscheduling, people-pleasing, ignoring early warning signs, and slipping into old relational patterns—and how to avoid them.

If you want to feel calmer, steadier, and more like yourself this season, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and tools you can use right away.

Get in touch with us!
Sarah:
Instagram: @simply.well.nourished
Website: www.simplywellnourished.co
Melissa:
Instagram: @rootedrocker
Website: www.rootedwellness.care

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Disclaimer:
This podcast is for educational purposes only. We are not medical doctors, and this content is not medical advice. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or medical treatment.
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