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In this episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals introduce listeners to the foundational ideas behind AHA—and to the influential voice of biologist and author Scott Turner. Although technical glitches kept Scott’s voice from being captured in this recording, his words and insights remain at the heart of the conversation.

Together, Ruth and Tom unpack the shift from mechanistic models of the human body to a living systems approach—one where homeostasis isn’t just a function, but a purpose. Tom shares how Scott’s book Purpose and Desire helped crystallize AHA’s core concepts, especially the role of interoception and the idea that healing begins when we stop trying to control the body and start listening to it. Ruth reflects on the surprising story of how they connected with Scott, and why his perspective is essential to understanding how wellness really works.

Tune in for a story-rich, science-grounded conversation that reframes the body not as a machine to fix, but as a living system that knows how to heal—if we let it.

Key Topics:

• How Scott Turner’s book Purpose and Desire shaped the origins of AHA
• The difference between mechanistic and living systems models of the body
• Why homeostasis is more than balance—it’s the body’s deepest intelligence
• The role of interoception in healing from trauma and chronic stress
• How curiosity, observation, and conversation drive true transformation

Join Ruth and Tom as they lay the groundwork for the next two episodes with Scott Turner—and reveal why changing how we see the body might be the first step in helping it heal.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals explore why safety is a non-negotiable foundation for true wellness. Building on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, they unpack how feeling safe—both physically and psychologically—is essential before we can access higher states like love, connection, and self-actualization.

Tom offers a deep dive into the neurobiology of safety, explaining how our autonomic nervous system processes both real and perceived threats, and how chronic stress can keep us stuck in survival mode. Ruth shares relatable stories and personal reflections on how subtle cues—like a shadow mistaken for a mouse—can reveal deeper patterns of unsafety in the body. Together, they illuminate why so many people, even with their basic needs met, still don’t feel safe—and how that affects everything from parenting to productivity.

Tune in for a compassionate, science-informed conversation on how to recognize when your nervous system is stuck in overdrive, and how to begin creating the conditions for calm, connection, and healing.

Key Topics:

• Why safety is foundational in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
• The role of the sympathetic nervous system in chronic stress and trauma
• How perceived threats shape our experience of reality
• Practical tools for restoring a sense of safety
• Why safety is the gateway to love, connection, and true wellness

Join Ruth and Tom as they uncover the hidden dynamics of safety and offer a hopeful path forward—one rooted in awareness, regulation, and the power of your brain to heal.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals dive deep into the fascinating relationship between the brain and the mind, unpacking how they work together to achieve wellness in body, mind, and spirit. They explore how the brain functions as a powerful sensory tool—capable of guiding us toward homeostasis and healing—while the mind shapes our experiences and perceptions.

Tom explains the crucial distinction between the brain's wisdom and the mind's interpretive processes, discussing concepts like interoception, subconscious influence, and the importance of allowing the brain to inform the mind. Ruth shares personal insights on how understanding this dynamic has empowered her own wellness journey, including a powerful example from her daughter’s study experience. Together, they highlight why truly understanding the brain’s role is vital for wellness and stress management.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how these two systems, when in harmony, help us thrive. Don’t miss out on practical takeaways to shift from a reactive, mind-driven approach to a more holistic, brain-informed path to well-being.

Key Topics:

• The difference between the brain and the mind
• Interoception and its role in homeostasis
• How subconscious influences shape our thoughts and behaviors
• Practical insights for activating brain wellness

Join Ruth and Tom as they unravel these fascinating concepts and guide you toward a deeper understanding of your body’s wisdom.

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Are the people, habits, and perspectives in your life fueling your flourishing—or quietly draining it? In this candid conversation, Ruth and Tom unpack a deceptively simple filter that can transform every choice: beneficial vs. detrimental. From there, they reveal the Five P’s that either propel us toward thriving or pull us back into mere survival:

1. People – Why the company you keep (including you) shapes every other dimension of health.
2. Purpose – How clarifying “why I’m here” guards you from living everyone else’s agenda.
3. Perspective – Expanding (or shrinking) your worldview and its ripple effects on resilience.
4. Perception – The sensory lens—SOS, anyone?—that colors your emotions and decisions.
5. Passion – Turning reclaimed energy into a laser-focused, life-giving drive.

You’ll hear practical exercises—like the “People List” audit—to diagnose hidden drains, plus stories of extrovert overwhelm, introvert isolation, and the surprising boost of cross-cultural friendships. Whether you’re recalibrating mid-year goals or just feeling “funky,” this episode hands you a roadmap to evaluate every input through a wellness lens.

Listen in and learn how to trade survival mode for sustainable, whole-person thriving—one beneficial choice at a time.

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Personal wellness does not happen in isolation. In this Fundamentals of Wellness episode, Tom and Ruth examine how health is shaped by both individual habits and our shared environment.

Using the recent Fort Collins mall incident as a case study, they address:

• Vicarious trauma – why events you only hear about can still activate your stress response.
• Me-We homeostasis – the science of co-regulation and how supportive communities shift us from fight-or-flight to rest-and-recovery.
• Chronos vs. Kairos – understanding linear time versus “the opportune moment” to steer your well-being in a healthier direction.
• The power of “AND” – moving from anxious “yeah, but …” thinking to productive “yes, and …” mindsets that open space for healing.

You’ll learn practical ways to notice sympathetic surges, create collective resilience rituals, and make time work for—rather than against—your health.

Listen in to turn moments of strain into pathways toward shared strength.

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In this eye‑opening installment of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson peel back the layers of a sense most of us never knew we had—interoception, the brain’s moment‑to‑moment read‑out of everything happening inside the body. Moving beyond Aristotle’s famous “five senses,” Tom explains why modern neuroscience recognizes at least 21 human senses and argues that interoception is the one that lets us feel all the others.

Together they explore:

• Pain as a homeostatic emotion – drawing on A.D. (Bud) Craig’s groundbreaking work to show how pain isn’t just a warning siren but a built‑in motivation to heal, rest, and restore balance.
• The sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous systems, and how our mind‑jerk reactions can flip pain from a helpful signal into runaway anxiety, anger, or depression.
• Real‑life stories—from Ruth’s post‑spine‑surgery recovery to lived battles with hypochondria—illustrating how re‑interpreting internal sensations can turn distress into a path toward wellness.
• Practical tips for “letting the brain inform the mind”: noticing bodily cues without judgment, shifting from threat mode to curiosity, and partnering with the body’s natural drive toward equilibrium.

Whether you’re a clinician, a bio‑hacker, or simply tired of being ruled by aches, twitches, and racing thoughts, this conversation will change how you feel about…well, how you feel. Tune in and discover how activating interoception can unlock true mind‑body‑spirit homeostasis.

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In this enlightening episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson dive deep into the fascinating world of bodily healing and homeostasis. Challenging conventional wisdom about wellness, they explore the counterintuitive concept of "not scratching the itch" - both literally and metaphorically.

Discover why those uncomfortable sensations like itching, pain, and fever might actually be your body's intelligent healing mechanisms at work. Learn how our typical responses to discomfort often disrupt natural healing processes and what it truly means to work with - not against - our body's innate wisdom.

Through engaging discussions and practical insights, Tom and Ruth reveal how understanding homeostasis can transform our approach to physical and emotional wellness. Whether you're dealing with physical recovery, emotional healing, or simply seeking a more holistic understanding of your body's capabilities, this episode offers profound perspectives on natural healing.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding homeostatic pruning
• Why discomfort isn't always a bad sign
• How to support your body's natural healing processes
• Insights into working with, not against, your body's intelligence

Join us for an eye-opening conversation that will change how you think about health, healing, and your body's remarkable capabilities.

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Is achieving balance really the key to wellness? Or have we misunderstood homeostasis all along? In this eye-opening episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson dive deep into the science of homeostasis and uncover why true wellness isn’t about achieving perfect equilibrium—it’s about thriving in dynamic disequilibrium.

They break down the history of homeostasis, from Walter Cannon’s groundbreaking research to modern-day misunderstandings that could be holding us back in our pursuit of health and resilience. Learn how your body naturally adapts to constant change, why chasing "balance" can be counterproductive, and how embracing the natural fluctuations of life can lead to greater well-being in mind, body, and spirit.

Join the conversation as we challenge conventional wellness wisdom and explore how to work with change, rather than against it.

🎧 Tune in now to shift your perspective on what it truly means to be well!

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In this episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the true essence of wellness—what it means, where it comes from, and how to cultivate it in daily life. They dive into the origins of the word well, linking it to ancient water sources and the fundamental human need for nourishment, both physically and emotionally.

Through rich conversation and insightful reflections, they outline five key elements of wellness: love, self-awareness, self-acceptance, significance, and intention. These pillars form the foundation for holistic well-being and personal transformation. They also discuss how wellness coaching helps individuals draw from their inner well—unlocking the deep reserves of well-being that already exist within.

Join Tom and Ruth as they challenge listeners to embrace wellness as an essential part of life, not just an afterthought. Whether you’re on a personal journey of healing or seeking deeper meaning, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights to guide you forward.

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Join Tom Pals and co-host Ruth Lorensson as they explore the often-overlooked ways our brains naturally work to restore balance—body, mind, and spirit. Learn why discomforts like itching, pain, and even unexpected emotional responses aren’t always signs of illness, but can be signals of a deeper healing process. Discover practical insights into how our brains orchestrate homeostasis, and why redefining “symptoms” can help us live with greater ease and confidence. If you’re ready to trust your body’s inherent wisdom and embrace a more holistic path to wellness, this conversation is for you.

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In this episode of the AHA Podcast, Ruth Lorensson and Thomas Pals introduce the groundbreaking concept of brain-informed wellness as part of their new series, The Fundamentals of Wellness. As the new year begins, many of us look to reset and embrace healthier habits, but what if the key to wellness isn’t about adding more to your plate, but about tapping into the innate wisdom of your brain?

Join Ruth and Tom as they discuss the difference between traditional wellness approaches like mindfulness and the AHA process, which focuses on activating your brain's natural ability to restore homeostasis and guide your body, mind, and spirit toward optimal well-being.

You'll also learn about interoception—your "sixth sense" for understanding your body—and hear real-life examples of how engaging the brain as a coach can uncover profound solutions to challenges in health and daily life.

Whether you're new to the AHA process or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is the perfect starting point for exploring a revolutionary approach to wellness.

Key Takeaways:

• The difference between mindfulness and brain-informed wellness.
• What interoception is and why it’s critical to your well-being.
• How the brain's innate wisdom can transform your approach to health and problem-solving.

Get ready to rethink wellness and start your journey to a more balanced and intentional 2025!

#WellnessJourney #BrainInformedWellness #AHAProcess #Mindfulness #Interoception #HolisticHealth #Homeostasis #WellnessPodcast #BrainHealth #NewYearNewYou #IntentionalLiving #MindBodySpirit #Neuroscience #SelfCareRevolution

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Ready to dive into wellness? 🌱 Join hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson as they kick off an exciting new season, The Fundamentals of Wellness, a fresh exploration of what it means to thrive in body, mind, and spirit.

In this debut episode, Tom shares his transformative journey from trauma survivor to psychotherapist, and now certified wellness coach. He reveals how he integrates cutting-edge autonomic homeostasis activation (AHA) with a holistic coaching approach to support well-being. Ruth reflects on her impactful work with Love Bristol and her current focus on leadership coaching, offering insights into how wellness fuels both personal growth and organizational success. Together, they explore the foundational principles of wellness, the critical link between our environment and overall well-being, and the importance of embracing proactive wellness in today’s fast-paced world.

🔥 What to Expect in This Episode:

• The shift from The ABCs of Thriving to The Fundamentals of Wellness.
• How the "triple bottom line of wellness" (body, mind, spirit) creates balance and resilience.
• The transformative power of wellness coaching, backed by Tom’s personal and professional expertise.
• Ruth’s insights into wellness leadership and how environment shapes success.
• A sneak peek at upcoming episodes, packed with actionable tips and inspiration.

💡 Discover how wellness is more than the absence of illness—it’s your pathway to thriving.

👉 Subscribe now to dive into this season's practical strategies and inspiring stories to help you build a vibrant, balanced life.

🎧 Start listening today and take the first step toward your wellness transformation!

#WellnessPodcast #HolisticHealth #WellnessJourney #CoachingForSuccess #LeadershipWellness

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🎄 AHA Podcast Christmas Special: Light, Love, and Life 🎄

As the Christmas season unfolds, Ruth and Tom delve into the heart and soul of what makes this time of year truly special. From cherished traditions and the joy of Christmas lights to the deeper meaning of connection, they explore what truly lights up this time of year.

Hear heartwarming stories—from Tom's magical visit to the Denver Zoo Lights with his granddaughter to Ruth's moving experience singing carols in Fort Collins. Together, they unpack the "Three L's" of Christmas: Light, Love and Life.

Whether you’re navigating the highs or lows of the season, this episode reminds us of the universal gift of Christmas—a time to reflect, connect, and find hope in the midst of it all.

🎧 Tune in to discover how embracing the light, love, and life of Christmas can prepare us for the new year.

Merry Christmas from Ruth and Tom! 🎁✨

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In this momentous finale of the "ABCs of Thriving" series, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the vibrant power of zest—both as a metaphor and a mindset. Unpacking its roots in citrus and its neurobiological impact, they discuss how zest can refresh, balance, and enhance life, even in challenging seasons. From small choices like savoring a quiet moment to big adventures like climbing a 14er, this episode inspires you to add zest to your life, making the unpalatable palatable and the palatable extraordinary.

Celebrate this journey through the ABCs with us and get ready for what’s next. Let’s thrive together! 🌟

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the profound concept of yielding as an essential element of thriving. They delve into the multiple facets of yielding—from the idea of giving way to receive something of value, to the interconnectedness of human relationships and community. Through insightful stories about navigating traffic, the symbolism of the sunflower, and reflections on personal wellness, Tom and Ruth highlight how yielding can lead to holistic growth and balance in mind, body, and spirit. Join them for a thoughtful conversation on embracing both the challenges and blessings that come with learning to yield and why it's vital for personal and collective well-being.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the transformative concept of xenophilia—"the love of strangers"—and how embracing this mindset fosters resilience and connection in a world where change and movement are constant. 

Together, they unpack the contrasts between xenophobia and xenophilia, illuminating how a hospitality mindset toward strangers can enrich our lives, strengthen our communities, and move us from survival mode to thriving. 

With personal stories, insights into human nature, and an inspiring call to embrace the humanity in each of us, this episode offers a fresh take on building a truly connected, thriving world.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson continue their journey through the ABCs of Thriving, focusing on the letter "W" for Wisdom. They delve into how wisdom is essential for thriving in life, influencing everything from our health to our decision-making. Tom and Ruth explore the neurobiology behind wisdom, discussing the role of the prefrontal cortex, the limbic system, and the enteric nervous system in creating balanced, insightful decision-making. They also explain the distinction between intelligence, common sense, and wisdom, emphasizing how wisdom balances immediate needs with long-term perspectives to achieve holistic well-being. Tune in to discover how wisdom plays a foundational role in both individual and collective thriving, and learn practical insights for accessing your brain’s wisdom for a more fulfilling life.

4o

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the concept of Verity—a transcendent form of truth that goes beyond mere facts. As part of their ongoing series on the ABCs of Thriving, they unpack how embracing Verity can help individuals align their minds, bodies, and spirits to truly thrive. Tom and Ruth discuss the distinction between truth and Verity, how our minds can distort the truth, and the importance of pairing truth with love to experience genuine growth and freedom. Tune in for a conversation that dives deep into the impact of truth on personal and relational well-being.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals explore the profound power of "understanding"—both intrapersonal and interpersonal—in fostering a thriving life. As part of their ongoing ABCs of Thriving series, they break down the letter "U," focusing on how understanding impacts personal growth, relationships, and empathy.

Tom and Ruth discuss three key facets of understanding: knowledge, empathy, and agreements. They emphasize how gaining knowledge (knowing stuff), showing empathy (caring about stuff), and creating informal agreements (doing stuff) are essential for holistic healing and personal fulfillment. Whether it's navigating workplace dynamics, managing relationships, or learning about oneself, they highlight the importance of accurate information and meaningful connections in creating a thriving environment.

Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights on how understanding can propel both individuals and communities toward greater emotional, mental, and relational health.

Join the journey to thrive!

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, Tom and Ruth discuss the common habit of letting past traumas and experiences dictate our present and future, often keeping us stuck in survival mode. They offer practical insights on how to shift from this mindset to one that embraces the present moment and uses it as a foundation for thriving. Join them as they unpack the significance of living in the "now" and how this simple yet powerful shift can transform your life. Whether you're new to the series or have been following along, this episode will inspire you to make "time to thrive" your new mantra.

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In this episode of "The ABCs of Thriving," Tom and Ruth dive deep into the letter S, exploring the ancient Greek concept of "Psyche". Psyche goes beyond just the mind—it's the essence of being, encompassing body, mind, and spirit. Tom and Ruth discuss the importance of sustaining Psyche for true thriving, emphasizing the balance between support and relief. They explore how to sustain our well-being in a world filled with pressures and distractions and share practical ways to foster holistic health. Whether you're familiar with their work or just tuning in, this conversation will inspire you to focus on sustaining your Psyche for a life that thrives, not just survives. Tune in next time as they continue the series with the letter T!

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore the profound connection between calm and questing as they dive into the letter "Q" in their ABCs of Thriving series. They examine the concept of quiescence—a state of calm and rest—and how it can be a foundation for embarking on life's quests. Discover the importance of a centering practice, the role of the autonomic nervous system, and the interplay between rest and purposeful action. Tune in to learn how to thrive from a place of well-being and balance, and uncover the deeper meaning behind quiet questing.

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In this episode of the Autonomic Healing Podcast, hosts Ruth Lorensson and Tom Pals delve into the concept of being "poised for possibilities" during stressful situations. They discuss holistic approaches to managing stress and trauma that foster empowerment and growth. Ruth opens up about a personal experience of feeling overwhelmed, yet discovering new opportunities through self-reflection and maintaining poise. Tom offers a neuroscientific perspective on stress responses and highlights the benefits of rational thinking. Together, they emphasize the importance of shifting one's perspective from seeing obstacles to engaging in creative problem-solving and embracing possibilities for positive change, even amidst unexpected challenges or setbacks.

Join Ruth and Tom as they unpack practical strategies for maintaining composure and balance, making the most of life's unforeseen events.

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What if embracing change could transform your life from mere survival to thriving? Join us in this episode as we uncover the transformative power of being open to change.

We begin by exploring the profound implications of the word "open" and how it contrasts with the rigidity of being "closed." Openness invites curiosity, receptivity, and a willingness to question the status quo. Using real-life examples like seasonal shifts and parenting during long summer vacations, we illustrate how adaptability is not just a survival skill but a catalyst for personal growth.

Next, we dive into the concept of homeostasis, often misunderstood as a static state of equilibrium. Instead, we reveal homeostasis as a dynamic process of constant adjustment, much like the precarious balance of a Jenga game. This metaphor helps us understand how small changes can disturb our perceived equilibrium, triggering survival instincts. By redefining homeostasis as a state of persistent, dynamic disequilibrium, we emphasize that embracing change isn't just about coping—it's about thriving.

We also dissect the nature of first-order and second-order changes, highlighting the difference between incremental adjustments and transformational shifts. Through engaging discussions, we advocate for diagnosing underlying issues rather than just addressing symptoms, particularly in areas like health and well-being. We conclude by exploring how second-order change can lead to profound transformations, empowering us to tackle personal, organizational, and global challenges with bold, systemic solutions.

Tune in to this enlightening episode to discover how being open to change can be the key to unlocking your full potential.

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