The Brain Has a Mind of Its Own (Part 2): From Survival Loops to Cognitive Homeostasis

The Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast

The Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast
The Brain Has a Mind of Its Own (Part 2): From Survival Loops to Cognitive Homeostasis
Jan 25, 2026 Season 4 Episode 93
Thomas Pals and Ruth Lorensson

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In this episode of the Autonomic Homeostasis Activation Podcast, Tom Pals and Ruth Lorensson explore how the brain thinks independently of the conscious mind—and how this capacity supports healing, clarity, and thriving.

Building on their previous conversation, they examine the difference between mind-based problem solving and brain-based wisdom, introducing the concept of cognitive homeostasis. The discussion unpacks why the mind often loops in fear, trauma, and overanalysis, while the brain integrates information holistically and delivers insight through spontaneous “aha” moments.

You’ll learn:

  • What cognitive homeostasis is and how it differs from somatic homeostasis
  • Why the brain generates involuntary insights, memories, and realizations
  • How trauma and stress disrupt the brain–mind partnership
  • Why “thinking harder” often blocks healing and problem-solving
  • How Autonomic Homeostasis Activation (AHA) facilitates access to the brain’s wisdom

This episode is especially relevant for anyone experiencing chronic stress, trauma patterns, health anxiety, or feeling stuck despite trying to “figure things out.”

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Episode Artwork The Brain Has a Mind of Its Own (Part 2): From Survival Loops to Cognitive Homeostasis 25:36 Episode Artwork When the Brain Solves What the Mind Can’t 25:30 Episode Artwork The Brain Has a Mind of Its Own: The Oldest Way to Solve Problems 42:44 Episode Artwork Maslow's Last Lesson: Transcendence 37:22 Episode Artwork Self-Actualization — The Me-We of Wellness 36:37 Episode Artwork The Heart of Esteem: Seeing Ourselves and Others Clearly 34:58 Episode Artwork Change as Life: How the Brain Navigates Transformation 33:24 Episode Artwork Beyond Stress: Finding Real Love and Belonging 28:49 Episode Artwork AHA Therapy: Changing the Conversation within the Body 43:59 Episode Artwork Purposeful Homeostasis: Agency, Adaptation, and the Many Little Lives Within Us 39:19 Episode Artwork Purpose, Desire, and the Design of Life: Introducing Scott Turner 39:24 Episode Artwork Why You Don’t Feel Safe (Even When You Are) 40:26 Episode Artwork Brain-fulness: Achieving Optimal Homeostasis in Body, Mind, and Spirit | Nervous System Regulation 34:13 Episode Artwork Beneficial or Detrimental? The Five P’s of Wellness 41:52 Episode Artwork Wellness on the Clock: From Fight-or-Flight to Rest-and-Digest 40:03 Episode Artwork Pain: Your Body's Secret Healing Language 40:28 Episode Artwork Don't Scratch the Itch: Working with Your Body's Natural Healing 28:00 Episode Artwork The Truth About Homeostasis: Why Balance is a Myth 35:56 Episode Artwork The Well Within: Drawing from the Deep Source of Wellness 26:30 Episode Artwork Wellness vs. Illness: Trusting Your Brain’s Innate Power to Heal 32:20 Episode Artwork Brain-Informed Wellness: The Foundations of AHA 38:01 Episode Artwork Wellness: The Ground Beneath our Feet on the Path to Thriving 38:04 Episode Artwork Christmas Special 2024 - Light, Love & Life 32:22 Episode Artwork Zest 27:45 Episode Artwork Yield 36:36