Most of us move through life reacting—stressed, overwhelmed, and disconnected—without ever realizing why. But what if the key to feeling more grounded, resilient, and in control isn’t about “doing more” but about understanding how your nervous system actually works?

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and powerhouse educator, Danielle Brunson. With decades of experience in education, wellness, and trauma-informed practices, she’s on a mission to bring real, accessible healing tools to schools, communities, and everyday people. We unpack why so many people struggle to regulate stress, how mainstream self-care advice often misses the mark, and what it really takes to create lasting change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in old patterns or unsure why certain things trigger you, this conversation will shift the way you see yourself.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• Why self-regulation isn’t about perfection—and what actually works instead
• The hidden ways trauma impacts your daily reactions (even when you don’t realize it)
• How “wellness” has been repackaged—and why some practices may not be helping you
• The unexpected reason slowing down feels wrong—and how to shift that

All show notes are available at www.deanapanza.com!

Resources Mentioned:

Start Therapy or Coaching with Deana Panza: https://www.deanapanza.com/

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Email: deana@deanapanza.com

Reminder: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a replacement for therapy or individualized mental health or medical care.