
Building Resilience
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with anxiety, stress, a dysregulated nervous system, or constant overthinking.But here's the good news: you're not alone, and relief is possible.I'm Leah Davidson, a nervous system resilience coach and speech-language pathologist, and I'm here to help you navigate life's ups and downs by teaching you practical tools for nervous system regulation. On this podcast, you'll learn how to manage anxiety, reduce stress, stop overthinking, and support a healthier, more regulated nervous system.Together, we'll share inspiring stories, practical tips, and compassionate support to build resilience and create a life filled with purpose, joy, and connection.Ready to befriend your nervous system and reclaim your peace? Let's get started! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

May 24, 2023 • 18min
Affect Labeling
Ever found yourself unable to put your feelings into words? Or felt overwhelmed by emotions that seem to have a life of their own? Many of us have been there—and fortunately, there is help.In this episode of Building Resilience, we'll explore the transformative power of affect labeling, a mindfulness technique that lets us name and navigate our emotions effectively. Using a variety of resources, from the comforting reassurance of worry dolls to scientific studies that explain why our emotions can feel so overwhelming, I'll walk you through why recognizing, labeling, and even just speaking about our emotions can lead to a significant boost in our emotional wellbeing. Whether it's talking to a friend, a coach, or even a worry doll, remember—your feelings are valid, and understanding them is the first step towards mastering them.Links:Mood Meter AppWhat is a feeling wheel?Resources:The "Memory Matters" course---in the end, our memories are really all we are ever left with, so protect them.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training, starting in May---all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution", a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout---particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect with me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 17, 2023 • 18min
Being More Playful
As adults, sometimes we lose the magic of play—when we’re kids, it’s effortless, and it almost seems like we can make fun in any situation. However, as adults, sometimes feeling pressured to have fun can make it even more difficult.On this episode of Building Resilience, I discuss the power of playfulness and how it can help us feel more connected, creative, and resilient. I share nine ideas for integrating more play into your life, such as reconnecting with childhood memories, engaging in enjoyable physical activities, and embracing authenticity.Listen in for some great tips to help you live a more genuine life, like embracing your quirks, and not worrying about what others think. Join me as we dive into the world of play and discover what it can do to help us thrive. Resources:The "Memory Matters" course---in the end, our memories are really all we are ever left with, so protect them.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training, starting in May---all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution", a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout---particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 10, 2023 • 28min
Understanding the Role of Neuroception (AKA Your Internal Surveillance System)
Ever wondered why you're drawn to (or away from) certain people or places? Your body's got an unconscious surveillance system that constantly scans for safety and danger—and it influences your daily life, sometimes without you even knowing it.In this episode of Building Resilience, we dive into that system: neuroception. We'll discuss the various sensory systems that contribute to neuroception, and the role of the polyvagal theory in understanding the autonomic nervous system. We'll also explore the practical application of neuroception in regulating our nervous system, offering a three-step process to establish safety, check for tension in the body, and invoke a relaxation response. Links/Past Episodes I Mentioned:Ep. 116: The Seven Things I Do to Anchor MyselfSteven Porges and the Polyvagal Theory Resources:The "Memory Matters" course—in the end, our memories are really all we are ever left with, so protect them.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training, starting in May— all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution", a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout---particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 3, 2023 • 24min
The Power of Your Breath (Pt 2)
Did you know that the way you breathe can greatly impact your stress, anxiety, mood, and even your lifespan? Discover the power of breath in part two of our series, where we delve into the power of breath and its impact on various aspects of life, from stress and anxiety to sleep and energy levels.Today, we’ll investigate how to use breath for building awareness, relaxation and activation and you learn practical strategies and techniques that you can start using today. Links/Past Episodes I Mentioned:Ep. 123: The Power of Your Breath, Part OneEp. 110: The Zone of ResilienceEp. 82: Grounding with the FivesEp. 94: The Gap and the GainResources:The "Memory Matters" course—in the end, our memories are really all we are ever left with, so protect them.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training, starting in May—all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.My video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 2023 • 20min
The Power of Your Breath (Pt I)
One secret to dramatically improving your mental health and well-being might just be hidden in something as simple as the way you breathe.Join me on this episode of Building Resilience as we explore the importance of nasal breathing, the drawbacks of mouth breathing, and how consciously controlling our breath can help reverse the stress response. We'll also discuss the benefits of breathwork in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and how different types of breathwork can help access buried emotions and promote mental calmness and focus.Links/Past Episodes I Mentioned: “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” by James NestorLimitless with Chris Hemsworth (specifically episode 1!)Resources:The "Memory Matters" course—in the end, our memories are really all we are ever left with, so protect them.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training, starting in May—all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.My video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 19, 2023 • 23min
What I'd Tell My Younger Self
If you could go back in time and give your younger self some advice, what would it be? In this special episode of Building Resilience, I open up about my life experiences and share the invaluable lessons I would pass on to my 21-year-old self.Together, we'll explore eight of these lessons: trusting the process, embracing life's ups and downs, valuing education, prioritizing travel, building a solid career, not settling in love, and being kind to ourselves. I'll also delve into the importance of embracing authenticity, the significance of having a higher purpose, and the power of laughter and forgiveness.I also want to share the advice you would give to your younger self! DM me on Instragram or send me an email at leah@leahdavidsonlifecoaching.com.Check out my "Memory Matters" course, now live!Here’s the link if you are interested in the Advanced Nervous System Resilience training—starting in May. It will cover all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.Also, don’t forget to check out my new video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 12, 2023 • 32min
The Three Stories You Tell (Story Follows State)
The stories we tell are truly the way we perceive the world. We’re in control of them….MOST of the time. In this episode of Building Resilience, we delve deep into the connection between our nervous system, stories, and emotions, and how this understanding can help us manage our responses and (of course) build resilience. We'll also reveal how physiology affects our thoughts and emotions in each state—and what to do if we find ourselves in those states.Join us as we discuss practical tips for shifting between states and moving from a shutdown state to a safe and secure zone of resilience. Plus, stay tuned for an upcoming episode on breathing techniques and exercises to regulate your state!Links/Past Episodes I mentioned:Ep. 110: The Zone of ResilienceEp. 116: Polyvagal TheoryEp. 120: The Drama Triangle and The Empowerment Dynamic Here’s the link if you are interested in the Advanced Nervous System Resilience training—starting in May. It will cover all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.Also, don’t forget to check out my new video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 5, 2023 • 29min
The Drama Triangle and The Empowerment Dynamic
Are you caught in the Drama Triangle, playing the roles of Victim, Persecutor, or Rescuer? In this episode of Building Resilience, we discuss how to break free from these roles, which can be really unhelpful, and embrace the Empowerment Dynamic instead.We’ll explore the origins of the Drama Triangle, its three roles, and how self-awareness can help you recognize and change these roles in your life. Then, we’ll dive into the Empowerment Dynamic and how shifting to the roles of Creator, Challenger, and Coach can lead to a more fulfilling and empowered existence.Links/Past Episodes I mentioned:Ep. 113: The Power Shift: Transforming from Victim to Agent Ep. 16: Post-Traumatic GrowthEp. 94: The Gap and the GainEp. 43: 100% Responsibility and 0% ExcusesMichael Caine: Use the DifficultyCheck out my "Memory Matters" course, now live!Here’s the link if you are interested in the advanced Nervous System Resilience training—starting in May. It will cover all things nervous system, personally and professionally, and how to integrate it in your coaching.Also, don’t forget to check out my new video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 29, 2023 • 23min
How to Sleep Better (Pt. 2)
Struggling with sleep deprivation and eager for more solutions? In this second part of our sleep series, we delve deeper into transforming your sleep habits and mindset to help you achieve the restorative rest you deserve.In this episode, we explore the science of sleep, the significance of a bedtime routine, and the crucial role our mindset plays in sleep quality. We'll provide practical tips for creating an ideal sleep environment, as well as strategies for calming your busy mind before bed. Additionally, we'll discuss how self-compassion and staying present can make it easier to drift off to sleep.Links/Past Episodes I mentioned:Ep. 82: Grounding with the FivesEp. 83: The Five ChannelsApps:BalanceHeadspaceCalmCheck out my "Memory Matters" course, now live!Also, don’t forget to check out my new video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 22, 2023 • 27min
How to Sleep Better (Pt. 1)
There's a daily box we have to check that's crucial for our overall health and wellbeing. It seems easy, but it can be much harder than it seems: getting a good night's sleep.Did you know that lack of sleep can be due to sleeping disorders, medical conditions, and mental health challenges, and it affects people of all ages? That's why on today's episode, I want to share with you some insights on the importance of sleep—and how it's linked to our immune health, boosting creativity, and even prevention of Alzheimer's disease. Join me on this first of two parts where we explore sleep in depth, and all the ways it affects our waking hours too.Links/Past Episodes I mentioned:Ep. 114: The 5 Pillars of Physical and Mental Health Check out my "Memory Matters" course, now live!Also, don’t forget to check out my new video series, “The 30 Second Burnout Solution”, a resource I created to help those dealing with stress and burnout—particularly compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Visit me on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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