The Autonomic Healing Podcast - Conversations with Tom Pals

Welcome to the Autonomic Healing Podcast with your hosts, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson. Tom and Ruth talk about creating contentment in their ABCs of thriving. They delve into the deeper layers of contentment, challenging conventional definitions and emphasizing the importance of understanding it within the context of community and connection.Tom challenges the traditional definition of contentment as a state of satisfaction and happiness, asserting that it doesn't necessarily involve happiness. He introduces the term "autarky," emphasizing individual sufficiency within collectiveexperience. The discussion touches on the myths of rugged individualism and human interdependence.Tom and Ruth highlight the need to navigate the balance between independence and dependence, stressing the importance of recognizing humanity's communal nature. They introduce the concept of "me, we" or "we, me" - acknowledging individual sufficiency while being integral to the collective experience.Drawing on insights from previous episodes, such as accepting adversity and believing in beneficence, Tom and Ruth discuss the significance of perspective in creating contentment. They explore the idea that contentment arises from a realistic and rational perspective that deals with challenges authentically.Join Tom and Ruth in the next episode as they continue exploring the fundamentals of thriving on the Autonomic Healing Podcast.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode of the "Autonomic Healing Podcast," hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson delve into the concept of believing in beneficence in the face of adversity. They discuss how adversity can challenge the innate benevolence within us and how choosing to act in ways that are beneficial can fundamentally alter our experience of adversity.Tom and Ruth emphasize that it's not just about wishful thinking or optimism; it's about living out the good within us even when faced with difficulties. They encourage listeners to not let adversity define their identity and actions, but to recognize their own agency in choosing to act in a beneficial way.The episode sets the stage for the upcoming discussion on contentment, highlighting the idea that contentment can be achieved independent of external circumstances when we practice believing in beneficence.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, Tom and Ruth dive deep into the concept of thriving in the face of adversity. They explore the idea that accepting adversity is the first step towards achieving personal growth and empowerment. By accepting what is in front of us, we can shift from a fight-or-flight response to a state of homeostasis, where we can find the capacity to thrive.Tom and Ruth discuss the importance of challenging the perception of inadequacy and insecurity, and how accepting adversity is a form of engagement and empowerment. They share real-life examples of individuals who have thrived in the midst of difficult circumstances by embracing the reality of their situation. Join them as they lay the foundation for the next episode, where they'll delve into the concept of "believing in benevolence" as a continuation of the journey toward holistic healing and authentic living. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on what it means to thrive instead of merely surviving.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, Tom and Ruth explore the transition from surviving to thriving and how activating the autonomic healing response can help manage stress and trauma, promoting healing in the mind, body, and spirit. The discussion centers around the symbolism of the hummingbird, which is known as a messenger and guardian of time. The hummingbird's ability to fly backward serves as a metaphor for remembering the past without dwelling on it, emphasizing the importance of being present in the moment. They delve into the significance of appreciating every moment, even in the face of change, and the role of change as a counselor in our lives. Join them in this enlightening conversation as they unpack the concept of thriving in the midst of life's challenges. Stay tuned for more episodes that explore autonomic healing and its potential to transform lives. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, we delve into the final stage of rational intimacy, Stage Eight: Motivation. Join us as we explore the profound connection between motivation and our innate human needs, as outlined by Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Discover how motivation isn't just a driving force but also an informed choice that can lead us towards authentic healing in mind, body, and spirit.We explore how the Mobius-like nature of rational intimacy creates an eternal loop, propelling us forward in our journey to holistic well-being. Tom and Ruth unravel the significance of motivation within this paradigm and how it fuels the ongoing cycle of contentment, grace, engagement, devotion, and commendation.Gain insights into the deep interplay between our motivations, needs, and the pursuit of genuine self-actualization. Learn how rational intimacy empowers individuals to break free from the tsunami of stress and trauma, allowing the brain to become the therapist and guide us towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.Join us for this insightful conversation on motivation, and discover how it's a vital part of our journey to becoming free to live authentically as humans. Thank you for tuning in to the "Autonomic Healing Podcast."Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Welcome to the Autonomic Healing Podcast with your hosts, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson. In this episode, Tom and Ruth delve into the intricacies of stage seven in the journey of Rational Intimacy: Commendation and Praise. They explore the challenges people often face when it comes to receiving compliments and delve into the underlying factors that may cause discomfort or resistance to praise.Ruth shares her personal journey of learning to accept compliments and differentiate between genuine affirmation and flattery. Tom discusses the importance of aligning one's self-image and self-esteem with external praise and highlights how rational intimacy can promote a healthy self-perception.They explore the concept of giving compliments wisely and empathetically, emphasizing the mutual joy and enrichment that both the giver and receiver can experience in these interactions.Tune in to discover how commendation and praise can be transformative in promoting emotional healing, fostering authentic connections, and igniting motivation for personal growth. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Welcome to another episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast with your hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson. In this enlightening conversation, Tom and Ruth delve into the heart of rational intimacy, exploring its essence, challenges, and the transformative power it holds. They explore the challenges that hinder the path to rational intimacy, including ignorance, denial of truth, fear of change, and the allure of fantasy-driven living. They draw parallels between individual behaviors and society's patterns, highlighting the need for a shift in perception and action. Listeners are invited to consider the paradigm shift required for rational intimacy, empowering them to live authentically, embrace truth, and create a world rooted in mutual benefit and well-being.Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to gain insights into the transformative power of rational intimacy and its potential to shape our relationships, communities, and planet.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson delve into the concept of envisioning as a key stage of rational intimacy. Building on their previous discussions about various stages of rational intimacy, Tom and Ruth explore the crucial distinction between fantasy and envisioning.Tom defines the difference between fantasy and envisioning, highlighting how fantasizing can be detrimental when it feeds into self-gratification and unrealistic desires. Envisioning, on the other hand, is rooted in the practicable, aiming to explore possibilities that are achievable and beneficial for personal growth and well-being. They discuss how avoidance, isolation, and disassociation can hinder the ability to stay engaged and present in challenging moments, leading to the allure of fantasy.Join Tom and Ruth as they provide insights into the dynamics of rational intimacy, helping listeners navigate the fine line between fantasy and meaningful envisioning for a more fulfilling life journey. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation and explore the transformative power of rational intimacy in managing stress, building genuine connections, and achieving true well-being.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

During this episode, Tom and Ruth discuss the stages of Rational Intimacy - particularly the stage when connectedness to others and ourselves thrives. The basis of this is cultivating a consenting relationship. Listen to them as they explore what a consensual relationship requires and what it does not require to be successful. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Listen to this episode as Tom and Ruth discuss the key takeaways from Scott Turner's Conversation on Homeostasis and share with you their thoughts and observations. In particular, they discuss the differences between mechanisms and organisms, and how a healthy environment is the result of many little lives working together. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, our guest Scott Turner shares his insights on homeostasis.  J Scott Turner is a distinguished scientist and author known for his groundbreaking work in the field of biology. With a passion for understanding the intricate relationship between organisms and their environment, Turner has made significant contributions to the study of animal physiology, behavior, and ecology. He is also one of the leading voices on the topic of homeostasis in the nation and in this episode he shares his knowledge with Ruth & Tom. Understanding homeostasis is a key area for Autonomic Healing and Scott’s work and writing have deeply impacted Tom over the years as a therapist as he’s developed Autonomic Healing Activation. Listen to part two of this fascinating conversation.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, our guest Scott Turner shares his insights on homeostasis.  J Scott Turner is a distinguished scientist and author known for his groundbreaking work in the field of biology. With a passion for understanding the intricate relationship between organisms and their environment, Turner has made significant contributions to the study of animal physiology, behavior, and ecology. He is also one of the leading voices on the topic of homeostasis in the nation and in this episode he shares his knowledge with Ruth & Tom. Understanding homeostasis is a key area for Autonomic Healing and Scott’s work and writing have deeply impacted Tom over the years as a therapist as he’s developed Autonomic Healing Activation. Listen to part one of this fascinating conversation.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Ruth and Tom explore the concept of grace. They discuss how grace is not only a place of poise, but also a place of gifting. So many people who want to contribute to the world with their gifts are limited because of their perceptions, especially when they encounter the tsunami of stress. Through their conversation, Ruth and Tom they offer insights and strategies for cultivating grace in our daily lives. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Join hosts Ruth and Tom on this episode of The Autonomic Healing Podcast. They delve into the topic of contentmentand its crucial role in rational intimacy. In spite of the fact that many of us desire contentment, in our never-ending to-do lists it is often pushed to the side. Ruth and Tom discuss why this is the case and offer practical tips on cultivating a content mindset. They also explore how contentment positively impacts our relationships, leading to deeper emotional connections and increasing healthy intimacy with others. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation and learn how to prioritize contentment in your own life. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this podcast episode, hosts Ruth and Tom delve into the concept of Rational Intimacy and how it can be seen as life's beautiful offering. Ruth shares a poem she wrote about the revelation she had regarding this idea and how it has impacted her life.They explore the biblical reference to Rational Intimacy in Ephesians 2:10 where Paul writes that we are God's workmanship - the Greek word here is "poiēma" meaning masterpiece. In this scripture, Paul emphasizes that our relationship with God is one of intimacy, not obligation. We are constantly being shaped into the masterpiece God has created for us by His constant work.Tune in to this thought-provoking podcast episode to learn more about Rational Intimacy and how it can transform our relationships and lives.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode Ruth & Tom explore the neuroscience behind the secure and insecure pathways of the brain. When we feel safe and secure, the brain's secure pathway is activated, and the parasympathetic nervous system takes over. This system helps us relax, slow down our heart rate, and decrease blood pressure, allowing our body to rest and recover. When we feel calm and relaxed, we can think more clearly and make better decisions.On the other hand, when we sense or perceive a threat or feel  insecure, the insecure pathway of the brain is activated, and the sympathetic nervous system takes over. This triggers the fight or flight response, which prepares our body to either confront the threat or flee from it. Autonomic Healing Activation intervenes in this predictable brain trajectory - empowering people to stop the inevitable pathway of the insecure and seemingly rational perceptions. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, Tom and Ruth discuss the dynamics behind our perceptions of ourselves, others, and situations.Listen to them explain why seemingly rational perceptions exist, why they follow a distinct pattern, and how they can be transformed into rational perceptions through the activation of homeostasis. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In this episode, Tom and Ruth discuss perceptions, the role they play in our lives, and the importance of understanding them. The risks of our seemingly rational perceptions are real - unchecked they keep us in the detrimental patterns of the tsunami of stress.Learn why perceptions seem rational, how AI is a reflection of this, and why discovering our actual rational perceptions is so important.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Community is a word that's tossed around lightly these days. But how do we create our own sense of community in a world that feels less and less safe? The epidemic of loneliness continues even though we are more connected than ever. There is a real ache in people's hearts for a sense of belonging to a genuine community. But how do people approach community when the risk of being hurt or let down by others is real?Listen to this episode where Tom and Ruth talk about these dynamics. They discuss the differences between vulnerability and availability, secrecy and privacy, and how knowing the difference can allow you to build healthy intimate relationships with others.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

There can be a lot of stress associated with change. Generally, it involves the loss of something, someone, or a situation from the past that is no longer present. As a result of it, we are moved towards new realities and led towards the possibilities of what might be. The way in which we respond to change in a healthy way is crucial because either we are able to take advantage of its benefits or we become stuck in damaging ways of thinking. Listen in as Tom and Ruth talk about these dynamics within a change context. In particular, they discuss how grief plays a key role in the acceptance of the seeds of change that are being planted. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Welcome to Season Two of The Autonomic Healing Podcast! As Ruth & Tom introduce the upcoming season's overarching journey, they'll be taking us on a deep dive into rational intimacy, which is the focus of the new season. A huge aspect of our lives is how we relate to ourselves and to each other as a whole. It can either be a stressful experience or a life-affirming experience. When a person finds themselves in a state of homeostasis, rational intimacy becomes accessible as the alternative paradigm to the tsunami of stress. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

As we close out Season One of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, we look at Hope's importance in our lives.Listen as Ruth & Tom talk about the role of Hope in our lives. Hope is the antidote to negative anticipation. It resembles light coming in the darkness and new life being around the corner. As we enter 2023, we wish you all a hopeful New Year! See you in January for Season Two. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Merry Christmas from the Autonomic Healing Podcast! In this special Christmas episode, Ruth & Tom read excerpts from Margery Williams British Children’s novel ‘The Velveteen Rabbit - How Toys Become Real.’ First published in 1922, this beautiful story depicts themes humans can easily relate to - the desire and journey we all embark on to become real versions of ourselves and the productive pain we can all experience as we embrace love. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

The great discovery of every human is to find out who we are. Finding out about our identity is fundamental to our being. Listen as Ruth and Tom explore how Autonomic Healing and the activation of homeostasis in Spiritual Formation brings Identity formation—allowing us to thrive instead of just surviving.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

In Greek, the root word from which we get 'faith' is the noun Pistis. The word 'faith' can be a loaded word carrying all sorts of connotations for people - good and bad (depending on the person's experience) but at the heart of faith is the invitation to take healthy risks into the unknown so that we get to adventure into the expanse of purpose and desire. Listen in as Ruth and Tom deeply dive into what Autonomic Healing Spiritual Formation is, why it matters and how it brings life, adventure, and freedom as we discover our humanity. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Ruth and Tom continue to talk about Autonomic Healing and Spiritual formation. In this episode, Ruth unpacks her AHA spiritual formation session, sharing how God spoke to her very visually, which has dramatically impacted her life.Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!

Tom and Ruth continue to unpack Autonomic Healing Problem Solving, where the brain informs the mind what is actually rational. Tom shares the patterns of seemingly rational perceptions that people have and how AHA PS empowers them to move into their actual rational alternatives. Thanks for listening!You can follow us onFacebook Instagram Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Check out the Autonomic Healing Website We appreciate you!