Spiritual Misfits Podcast Hardwired for Wholeness: The Neuroscience of Embodied Spirituality (with Jana Holland)
In this illuminating conversation, Will Small speaks with Jana Holland, founder of Celu Selah Wellness, about the powerful intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatic healing.
In this episode:
- Jana shares her fascinating backstory of traveling as a nomadic folk family band through 26 countries over 12 years, and how this experience shaped her understanding of spiritual connection
- The meaning behind "Celu Selah" - combining words for "heaven/wholeness" and "to pause/rest"
- How encountering people from different spiritual traditions helped Jana recognize her "spiritual mother tongue" while opening her to the beauty of other spiritual languages
- The science behind heart coherence and how our bodies communicate wisdom beyond what our minds can process
- Understanding polyvagal theory and how our nervous systems are constantly seeking safety and connection
- The groundbreaking research in neurotheology showing how spiritual practices activate specific areas of the brain, offering neuroprotective benefits
- The difference between being "religious but not spiritual" versus having an authentic spiritual practice
- Practical ways to incorporate embodied spiritual awareness into everyday activities
- How trauma can disconnect us from our bodies and how somatic practices can help restore wholeness
- The concept of "super-regulation" - accessing spiritual awareness through our neurological "docking station"
Jana offers a compassionate framework for those who may feel like misfits in traditional religious spaces but still long for authentic spiritual connection. Her integration of cutting-edge neuroscience with contemplative practices provides a path toward wholeness that honors both ancient wisdom and modern understanding.
About Jana Holland:
Jana Holland is the founder of Celu Selah, a wellness practice dedicated to fostering emotional and spiritual well-being. As a Spiritual Director and Somatic Coach, she has spent two decades exploring the intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatics. Her approach is deeply rooted in the Way of Yeshua while embracing an open, compassionate stance toward diverse spiritual paths. Jana supports individuals in seasons of awakening, transition, disappointment, or grief, providing a space to explore, heal, connect, and rediscover purpose.
Connect with Jana:
Website: www.celuselah.com
The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguide
Sign up to our mailing list:
https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/
Join our online Facebook community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcast
Support the pod:
https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/
View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com