Episode 87 - Nervous System Regulation for Anxiety with Clinical Psychologist Dr Kaitlin Harkess

In this episode, I am joined by clinical psychologist, yoga instructor, and meditation teacher Dr Kaitlin Harkess to explore how somatic practices, nervous system regulation, and body awareness can support mental health, especially anxiety and overwhelm.

Dr Kaitlin and I chat about: 

• How yoga and somatic practices support the nervous system
• The role of interoception (listening to internal body signals)
• Practical tools for managing anxiety and overwhelm
• Supporting kids in emotional awareness and regulation
• The importance of values-based living over external expectations
• Self-compassion, parenting, and realistic approaches to self-care
• Simple nervous system tools like the dive reflex, movement, and breathwork

Dr Kaitlin Harkess, host of the Wisdom for Wellbeing podcast and founder of the holistically oriented therapy practice of the same name, is an award-winning Clinical Psychologist and Senior Yoga Instructor who helps burnt-out individuals develop the psychological skills they need to change their lives for the better. 

Kaitlin’s research on the psychoneuroimmunological impact of a yoga practice for chronic stress has been featured in Time, while her expertise on the therapeutic use of mindfulness and meditation has seen her featured in The Holistic Approach television series. As a result of her scientific research and clinical practice, Kaitlin understands how to maximize the healing and performance enhancing benefits of integrating mindful wisdom practices with modern psychological interventions.

Episode Links:

• Say hi to Dr Kaitlin on Instagram
• Read her book The Somatic Workbook 
• Find out more about Dr Kaitlin on her website

Come say hi to me on Instagram

Helpful Articles: Read my articles on wellness, motherhood, picky eating, and thriving as a mom.

Books to Thrive in Motherhood: Dive into The Motherhood Reset, Nourished Mama, and Mama Let It Go to overcome burnout and become a healthy, energized mom. 

Picky Eating Guide: Learn about common but lesser-known reasons kids are picky eaters and practical strategies to help children enjoy healthy foods.

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Wild and Well is a podcast dedicated to holistic health for moms, postpartum recovery, and children’s wellness. We explore everything from functional health for women and gut health to pregnancy and postpartum wellness to nervous system regulation and motherhood burnout. Each episode offers practical tips for self-care for new moms, guidance on picky eating and parenting, and strategies to support your family’s natural kids’ health, so you can feel healthy, strong, and vital in motherhood.