Understanding Neurodivergence Through Family Experiences

This chapter explores the speakers' personal experiences with neurodivergence in their family, highlighting childhood interactions with a neurodivergent sibling and parent. It emphasizes the impact of misunderstanding and overstimulation on family dynamics, advocating for greater awareness and understanding of these challenges.

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Episode 198 with Raquel Devillé.

“The idea of just sitting still to meditate was always terrifying. I need movement — something active — otherwise I can’t calm down.”

Raquel is a therapist, yoga teacher, and the author of It’s Not Your Period! Beyond Moods and Myths: Understanding Unexplainable Emotions and the Hidden Roots of Pain, Stress, and Anxiety. Originally from Portugal and now based in Belgium, Raquel was diagnosed with ADHD and autism in adulthood after recognizing the signs through her children’s experiences.

Drawing from her personal journey and professional training, Raquel developed the EnCorps Method — a body-centered, practical framework designed to help neurodivergent individuals manage sensory overwhelm, chronic stress, and emotional dysregulation. Her work offers a refreshing, empowering path to self-acceptance and nervous system regulation.

In this episode, Raquel and I discuss:

The connections between chronic stress, masking, sensory overwhelm, and chronic pain
How TRE (Tension & Trauma Release Exercises) helps discharge stress stored in the body
Why stillness-based meditation often doesn’t work for ADHDers — and what does
Practical ways to weave body-based practices like TRE and somatic healing into daily life
Highlights from her EnCorps Method, including embracing sensations, nurturing the body, and stabilizing the nervous system over time

Whether you're newly diagnosed or deep into your neurodivergence journey, Raquel’s approach offers some fascinating and tangible strategies for stabilizing the nervous system over time

Website: encorps.be ; raqueldeville.be

Instagram: @raqueldeville

Links & Resources:

Video: Peter Levine's Secret to Releasing Trauma from the Body

Video: Impala Escapes Death & Shakes off Stress

Book: When The Body Says No by Gabor Maté

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Episode edited by E Podcast Productions

Find the transcript of this episode at www.womenandadhd.com/transcripts

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Women & ADHD coaching: www.womenandadhd.com/coaching

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