The Autonomic Healing Podcast - Conversations with Tom Pals

Join hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson on the Autonomic Healing Podcast as they explore the profound impact of kindness in managing stress and trauma. In this episode, Tom and Ruth delve into how acts of kindness alleviate burdens, foster connections, and trigger shifts from stress to well-being. Through personal anecdotes and psychological insights, they highlight kindness as a simple yet potent tool for self-care and healing. Tune in to discover how embracing kindness can lead to transformative changes in both individuals and communities.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 explore the concept of joy beyond mere happiness, delving into its connection to well-being, gifting, and grace. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, they discuss how joy can be found amidst suffering and challenge listeners to seek joy in the gifts they give and receive. Emphasizing the importance of understanding joy within the journey of life, Tom and Ruth offer practical advice for cultivating joy and invite listeners to embrace the ABCs of thriving.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 delve into the importance of inviting intimacy as they explore the ABCs of thriving. They discuss how trust, autonomy, initiative, industry, identity, and empowerment form the foundational layers leading to healthy intimacy. Drawing insights from developmental psychologist Erik Erikson's stages of psychosocial development, they highlight the significance of each stage in shaping one's ability to form intimate connections.Tom and Ruth emphasize the role of empowerment in fostering intimacy, enabling individuals to commit to relationships and make personal sacrifices for their well-being. They reflect on their personal experiences and share practical strategies for overcoming barriers to intimacy, such as mistrust, doubt, guilt, and inferiority.Throughout the conversation, they underscore the transformative power of rational intimacy, where individuals feel empowered to be themselves, share openly, and mutually support others. They invite listeners to explore their own journey towards intimacy and offer guidance on navigating challenges and embracing joy in the process.Join Tom and Ruth as they invite you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and relational fulfillment, where inviting intimacy becomes a pathway to holistic healing and thriving in mind, body, and spirit.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 delve deep into the concept of hope and its transformative power in managing stress and trauma. They explore the difference between wishful thinking and genuine hope, emphasizing how hope is not just a passive desire for things to be different but an active, rational anticipation of positive outcomes.Drawing on scientific research and personal insights, Tom and Ruth discuss the physiological and psychological effects of hope, highlighting its connection to the parasympathetic nervous system and its role in promoting resilience and well-being. They reveal how cultivating a mindset of hope can shift our perspective from survival to thriving, enabling us to navigate challenges with optimism and resilience.Through engaging dialogue and practical insights, Tom and Ruth empower listeners to embrace hope as a choice and a pathway to a more fulfilling life. Join them as they explore the profound impact of hope on the mind, body, and spirit, and discover how activating hope can lead to authentic, thriving living.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 navigate through the nuances of generosity, emphasizing its connection to kindness, compassion, and thriving mentality. Drawing from philosophical insights and personal anecdotes, they unravel the hidden beauty inherent in acts of generosity, highlighting its cryptic nature that transcends mere selflessness. They delve into the significance of integrity and virtue, underscoring how generosity fosters a sense of well-being, purpose, and deeper connections with others and oneself.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 dive into the topic of forgiveness, specifically exploring the concept of "forgive fearlessly." The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding forgiveness as giving, rooted in the ancient Greek term "charismi," which means to give something. They shed light on the physiological aspects of forgiveness, highlighting the role of the sympathetic nervous system and the stress response triggered by harm or offense.Tom and Ruth explore the connection between forgiveness and thriving, emphasizing that forgiveness is not just about survival but a key element in leading a fulfilled life. They discuss the physical and mental health benefits supported by research, highlighting the positive relationship between forgiveness and personal well-being.The episode touches on the challenges individuals face in forgiving fearlessly, delving into the complex emotions and fears associated with offenses. They encourage listeners to explore the root of their fears and acknowledge the physical impact of holding onto unforgiveness.As the episode concludes, the hosts leave listeners with a hopeful message, emphasizing the potential for personal and collective transformation through the practice of forgiving fearlessly. They invite listeners to consider forgiveness as a gift to oneself and others, fostering a thriving existence.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 Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson. In this episode, Tom and Ruth dive into the ABCs of thriving, focusing on the letter E—Energize Empathy. They explore the crucial difference between sympathy and empathy, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotions and maintaining healthy boundaries.Tom introduces the concept of "with" and "in," highlighting the significance of distinguishing between feeling with someone and feeling into or in their emotions. The discussion unfolds as they share examples of when sympathy is appropriate and beneficial, such as during shared experiences like loss or celebration.The term "energize empathy" becomes a central theme, signifying the intentional act of giving energy to empathy. The conversation expands to how empathy can be applied in various relationships, preventing the pitfalls of sympathy and fostering healthier emotional connections.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 Christmas Edition !In this episode Ruth and Tom take you on a trip back in time, with a flight of Christmas Carols, exploring their history and meaning.Listen in, to hear Ruth and Tom's share stories from their heritage, some singing, and merry conversation. We hope you enjoy this festive episode! 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 powerful concept of "deferring to loving." They reflect on their previous discussions about accepting adversity, believing in beneficence, and creating contentment, setting the stage for the current topic of deferring to loving. They highlight the distinction between "love" and "loving," emphasizing that the latter involves a proactive, intentional choice rather than a mere feeling.Drawing inspiration from the Beauty and the Beast narrative, they discuss how the main character's transformation from a beastly state to a loving one involves a willingness to take risks and embrace vulnerability. The conversation explores the inherent challenges in deferring to loving, including the potential for unreciprocated love and the discomfort that arises when love is not met with love.As the conversation unfolds, Tom and Ruth explore the challenges and rewards of deferring to loving. They recognize its potential to break destructive cycles and contribute to a thriving life. The episode encourages listeners to embrace the concept of deferring to loving as a force for positive change in their lives and communities.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. 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!