Biology Behind It: Why the Mind & Body Can't Heal Without Oxytocin
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Jun 13, 2025
Discover why common relaxation methods can sometimes increase anxiety. Learn how oxytocin acts as "nature's fire extinguisher" in healing, and find out the surprising interplay between oxytocin and vasopressin. Understand how past experiences can make quiet moments feel threatening. Gain insights into how your brain assesses safety and explore simple strategies to create a sense of security before attempting relaxation techniques. This discussion provides valuable tools for both practitioners and anyone struggling with mindfulness.
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insights INSIGHT
Oxytocin and Vasopressin Dance
Oxytocin, called nature's fire extinguisher, is key for healing and calming the nervous system.
It partners with vasopressin, a stress hormone, to shift emotional and nervous system states.
insights INSIGHT
Complementary Hormones in Stress
Vasopressin mobilizes energy for sudden fear responses and is crucial alongside oxytocin.
Both hormones work together to help us adapt, not just compete with each other.
insights INSIGHT
Trauma Alters Hormone Balance
Trauma disrupts hormonal balance, affecting oxytocin and vasopressin regulation.
Trauma survivors may perceive calming states as threats, making relaxation practices anxiety-inducing.
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Why the Mind & Body Can't Heal Without Oxytocin with Dr. Sue Carter
Aimie Apigian
In 'The Biology of Trauma', Dr. Aimie Apigian delves into the intricate ways that traumatic experiences alter our physiological responses, keeping us stuck in cycles of fear and reactivity. The book highlights how the hypothalamus, a key area in the brain, responds to signals from the body, such as blood sugar levels, and triggers hormonal imbalances. These imbalances, involving hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin, create a constant state of alert, preventing individuals from feeling safe and secure. Dr. Apigian offers practical strategies and insights to help readers understand their body's responses and create an environment of safety that fosters healing. By addressing the biological roots of trauma, the book provides a comprehensive approach to recovery and well-being.
Why is it that sometimes the things that are supposed to help us feel calm actually make us feel more anxious instead? In this mini-episode, Dr. Aimie explores why this happens, expanding on her conversation with Dr. Sue Carter from Episode 125. She answers therapist Sarah's question about why some people struggle with relaxation techniques and reveals the surprising science behind it.
You'll hear more on:
Why oxytocin is called "nature's fire extinguisher" and how it helps you heal
How oxytocin and vasopressin work together (not against each other!)
Why past difficult experiences can make your body think "quiet time" is dangerous
How your brain's control center decides if you're safe or not
Simple ways to feel safer in your body before trying relaxation techniques
If you're a practitioner working with clients who struggle with calming techniques or if you've ever wondered why meditation or mindfulness makes you feel worse instead of better, this episode explains what's happening in the body and gives practical ways to work with it instead of against it.
The Biology of Trauma® With Dr. Aimie