How Myths, Consciousness, and Integration Teach Us to Grow

Welcome back to Taste of Truth Tuesdays, where curiosity meets skepticism and we dig beneath the surface of what we think we know. This week, I had the pleasure of talking with Melissa Monte, host of Mind Love. If you’ve ever tuned into her show, you know she brings a rare combination of depth, practicality, and playfulness. Navigating the hard stuff of spirituality without floating above it.

We explored three big ideas during our conversation: how to read your worst moments as sacred curriculum, why the same myths appear across cultures, and the difference between spiritual bypassing and true integration. These topics naturally overlap psychology, consciousness, and meaning-making, and the conversation got real, and deeply human: full of laughs, a few tears, and plenty of insights.

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Turning Chaos into Consciousness Medicine

We started by digging into Melissa’s concept of “sacred curriculum”: the idea that our worst moments can be transformed into lessons if we approach them consciously. I asked her how this works in practice, because let’s be honest: chaos often makes people cling to control. We reach for belief systems, strict rules, or ideologies because the alternative… facing the rawness of life… is unbearable.

Melissa explained that the antidote isn’t control; it’s meaning. People who build coherent narratives of their lives tend to have better mental health and a deeper sense of agency. She emphasized the first step is awareness. Noticing the meanings we unconsciously assign to our mistakes, conflicts, and hardships. By stepping back and observing without judgment, we start to move out of victim consciousness and see the lessons hidden in our experiences.

She shared her seven-step framework, inspired by The Hero’s Journey, for turning life into personal medicine. It’s not about fast fixes or inspirational slogans; it’s about inch-by-inch integration. The framework encourages seeing yourself as the hero of your story and using your life as a mirror to identify what needs learning, growth, and healing.

We also talked about the line between transforming pain and just telling a story that makes it tolerable. Melissa reminded me that wisdom can’t come from a wound you’re still pretending doesn’t hurt, and the slow work of reframing chaos is where real growth happens.

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Why the Same Myths Appear Across Cultures

Next, we moved into myth and the patterns of consciousness. Melissa described her view that consciousness leaves identical fingerprints wherever it evolves. This led to a fascinating discussion about her deconstruction of Christianity. Trauma, early adulthood experiences, and a world religion class opened her eyes to how cultural narratives shape spirituality. She referenced Joseph Campbell and the idea that the “hero’s journey” shows up across cultures because humans are wired to process chaos in similar ways.

We explored how many Genesis stories, like the flood or creation, come from older Mesopotamian myths. Yahweh began as a regional tribal deity and was later elevated through political adaptation. Christianity borrowed heavily from prior traditions too (resurrection figures, virgin births, and mystery cult rituals are echoes of older spiritual systems). Carl Jung’s notion of the collective unconscious came up here, suggesting that stories and archetypal patterns emerge naturally from the human psyche. In essence, consciousness may be “teaching itself” through narrative, disguised as entertainment or sacred history.

Melissa believes that much of this deeper knowledge has been stripped from mainstream culture, leaving us disconnected from the ways myths were intended to guide awareness. We also talked about Rupert Sheldrake’s morphic resonance theory. The idea that learning and memory may be transmitted across space and time– as a modern way of understanding how patterns persist culturally and neurologically.

Her journey out of faith involved anxiety and questioning the nature of God. Reading authors like Bart D. Ehrman helped her untangle the layers of teaching, belief, and mythic narrative, while gnostic texts like the Gospel of Thomas inspired her to integrate lessons from many paths without needing certainty. As she put it, the only real certainty is moving understanding from the external into the internal.

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Spiritual Bypassing vs. True Integration

Finally, we explored the difference between bypassing and integration. Melissa explained that spiritual bypassing happens when we try to “vibe higher” instead of feeling deeper. It’s common in both high-control religions and some New Age communities, where transcendence can mask repression or avoid accountability. Integration, by contrast, involves metabolizing your story so it no longer unconsciously dictates your life.

We discussed the importance of holding space for the full spectrum of human emotion (anger, grief, confusion) because skipping over these experiences with a mantra or a positive thought is denial dressed in incense. Integration feels like returning to wholeness, aligning with the living world rather than escaping it. This mirrors older, animistic approaches to healing, where connection to the earth and embodied experience were central.

Melissa emphasized that this work is slow, intentional, and ongoing. True growth comes from confronting reality rather than avoiding it. Consciousness expands not by fleeing from life but by learning to navigate it with awareness, reflection, and compassion.

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Wrapping Up

Throughout our conversation, three themes kept looping back: sacred pain, mythic meaning, and integration. In different ways, all three point to the same lesson: consciousness evolves through engagement with reality, not through avoidance or superficial transcendence.

Melissa Monte’s work reminds us that suffering, storytelling, and self-awareness are inseparable — and that chaos, when approached intentionally, becomes a teacher rather than a curse. For anyone feeling lost, stuck, or overwhelmed, her framework offers a path to transform personal chaos into meaningful growth.

You can find Melissa’s work here

Her Instagram

MindlovePodcast Insta

As always, keep questioning, stay curious, and continue to build meaning through awareness, responsib

How Dogma Limits Progress in Fitness, Nutrition, and Spirituality

In 2013, biologist Rupert Sheldrake gave a TEDx talk titled The Science Delusion at TEDx Whitechapel. The event theme was Visions for Transition: Challenging Existing Paradigms and Redefining Values. Sheldrake’s talk, which questioned the rigidity of scientific dogma, quickly sparked controversy. Protesters labeled it dangerous and unscientific, leading TED to remove it from their main site and relegate it to an obscure corner of the internet with a warning label.

But why such a strong reaction? And what does this have to do with fitness, nutrition, and spirituality? Let’s dig in.

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The Roots of Scientific Dogma

Before we begin, who is Rupert Sheldrake? He’s not just some random pseudoscientist screaming into the void. Sheldrake is a biologist with a solid academic background: Cambridge University, developmental biology, plant physiology, you name it. But what makes him controversial is that he challenges what he calls ‘the dogmas of modern science.’

Sheldrake’s central argument is that science, for all its progress, has its own form of orthodoxy—a set of assumptions so deeply ingrained they’re treated as immutable truths. These include beliefs like the universe operating as a closed system, the brain being the sole origin of consciousness, and nature adhering strictly to fixed laws.

The Ten Commandments of Science

These aren’t explicitly stated principles but rather deeply embedded assumptions that shape scientific inquiry. These dogmas include beliefs like:

1. Nature operates mechanically, like a machine.
2. Matter is unconscious, and the mind is an illusion created by the brain.
3. The laws of nature are fixed and unchanging.
4. Biological inheritance is entirely material, encoded in DNA.
5. Memories are stored physically in the brain.
6. Unexplained phenomena, like telepathy, are illusory.
7. Free will is an illusion.
8. Mechanistic medicine is the only truly effective medicine.
9. The total amount of matter and energy in the universe is constant.
10. Nature is purposeless, without direction or goals.

Sheldrake argued that treating these assumptions as unquestionable truths creates a rigid framework that stifles innovation and discovery.

TED claimed the talk was removed because it promoted ‘pseudoscience.’ But critics of that decision—including Sheldrake—argue it was about protecting the scientific status quo.

In science, materialism is the idea that everything that exists is made of physical matter, and that things like thoughts, feelings, and consciousness come from how this matter interacts. This view has been the dominate worldview in science because it fits well with how modern science works and what it discovers. Sheldrake’s talk challenged this idea, suggesting that the way we approach science might be limiting progress because it shuts down alternative ideas too quickly. His critique is part of a larger conversation about how science is done and where its limits are.

One group associated with this perspective is the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS), founded by astronaut Edgar Mitchell in 1973. The institute explores topics like consciousness, intuition, and human potential, suggesting that scientific materialism does not fully explain human experience, especially phenomena such as non-local consciousness, near-death experiences, and psi phenomena.

Imagine this: you’re a materialist scientist, and someone questions the foundations of your entire worldview on one of the biggest intellectual platforms in the world. Of course, you’re going to push back.

But if you’re so confident someone is wrong, why not let their ideas stand on their own? Why censor them unless they hit a nerve?

How Science is Weaponized More Than Politics and Religion

In this system, the scientific establishment becomes the new authority—replacing the monotheistic idea of God with the “god” of reason and data. For those in the Ex-Christian/Atheist worldview, this is a new form of dogma. It stifles curiosity, dismisses dissent, and discourages critical thinking—all in the name of progress. This mirrors the rigid certainty and tribalism found in the religious structures people sought to escape.

From my own experience, I’ve seen how this plays out in the deconstruction community. Leaving behind the dogma of fundamentalist religion, many are drawn to what feels like the opposite extreme: atheism and materialism. Figures like Britt Hartley, a self-proclaimed “atheist spiritual director,” and Brandon of MindShift, who both do not believe in the idea of free will, and present materialism as a comforting certainty. I once found myself deep in this space, captivated by the “rational” certainty it promised, only to realize it led me toward nihilism.

The rejection of free will, for instance, might appear “scientific,” but it’s a reflection of the reductionist thinking that ignores the richness of human experience. These ideas, presented as intellectual progress, often dismiss the value of intuition, spirituality, and personal meaning. Escaping the dogma of atheism and rediscovering intellectual humility was transformative for me, allowing me to embrace curiosity and critical thinking without succumbing to despair.

This is where the religion of scientism enters the picture—where reason and science are elevated to the status of ultimate truth. Figures who present themselves as “experts” rely on surface-level expertise and selective data to craft narratives that appear authoritative yet fail under scrutiny. They become the “fake intellectuals,” as Franklin O’Kanu calls them, feeding the cult of expertise while often lacking real intellectual rigor.

The Revolving Door: Corporate Interests in Public Health

The “revolving door” refers to the movement of personnel between regulatory agencies and the pharmaceutical industry. This cycle blurs the lines between public service and corporate interests, with former regulators influencing policies that benefit the very companies they once oversaw—creating a potential conflict of interest that’s staggering.

Recent developments have sparked new concerns about this dynamic. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a lawyer with a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding corporate influence in public health, has been appointed by President Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy has spent years taking on large corporations directly, advocating for more transparency and rigorous safety testing of vaccines, and questioning aspects of vaccine policy. His background in law and environmental advocacy gives him a unique perspective on the “revolving door” between regulatory agencies and corporate interests. He has long been critical of the influence large corporations wield over regulatory bodies, which directly impacts public health outcomes.

Kennedy’s mission extends beyond vaccine safety, addressing broader concerns about chronic diseases, environmental toxins, and corporate practices that affect public health. His advocacy has earned both praise and criticism.

Speaking of criticism, last week at the Roundtable Discussion on Vaccines and Public with Bernie Sander’s he stated:

So, at a time of growing distrust not only with vaccines but of government and of science in general who’s telling us the truth? Who is the truth teller? Somebody on the Internet of truth tell who’s read a book someplace and try to make money off a book or people who’ve done research and work for years? That’s really kind of what this discussion is about.

Bernie going after RFK Jr on vaccines is basically like the captain of the revolution abandoning ship saying, “Trust the people in charge!” Bernie, you’re breaking our hearts here!! Let’s actually look at some facts public trust and physicians and hospitals went down from 71.5% in April of 2020 to 40.1% in January of 2024. People on the Internet can tell the truth especially when sources are cited from .gov resources like Just the Inserts who we had on last season talking about the importance of informed consent.

Reading books is a perfectly acceptable way of researching products and industries, and sure, if you start making money off of the book that can introduce potential financial conflicts of interest (and you know Bernie is no stranger to conflicts of interest) so I think this comment is SUSPECT and obviously Big Pharma has paid him off. What an epic disappointment but that’s why I left…. the left, they’re just a big disappointment these days.

Bernie used a logical fallacy here which is called appeal to authority, and it occurs when someone argues that a claim is true simply because an authority or an expert said so without providing further evidence or reasoning to support their claim. And yes, it’s important to distinguish between a legitimate appeal to authority and a fallacious one when the authority is not actually qualified, or the topic is outside their expertise or not supporting evidence.

Here’s the key– RFK Jr has provided lots of evidence he even wrote a book called The Real Anthony Fauci Bill Gates Big Pharma and the Global War on Democracy and Public Health and it’s filled with extensive research (if you haven’t read it, you should) and if it weren’t credible, it would have been pulled or he’s facing a serious lawsuit by now. So, here’s Bernie Sanders appealing to the cult of authority blindly backing the establishment. 🤦‍♀️

Yet, there’s no denying Robert Kennedy’s intelligence and his ability to bring much-needed scrutiny to the relationships between government agencies and big business.

As this conversation unfolds, Kennedy’s leadership could challenge the status quo and push for greater transparency, fairness, and accountability in public health. His deep understanding of these issues makes him a key figure in the broader debate over corporate influence and the “revolving door.”

The Flaws in Clinical Trials

Worshipping “science” or blindly trusting clinical trials can be misleading. While clinical trials are seen as vital for medical progress, they are often heavily influenced by the pharmaceutical industry, which funds a vast majority of these trials. This creates a conflict of interest that can skew results and delay critical information about the risks of drugs.

Examples like the Vioxx scandal, where a painkiller was marketed despite internal knowledge of its dangers, and the Tamiflu case, where the effectiveness of the drug was overstated, show how corporate interests can shape clinical trial outcomes. Clinical trials, while important, are not always as objective or transparent as they seem.

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How Dogma Affects Health and Fitness

Science has transformed our understanding of the human body, yet it has also created rigid paradigms that resist change. Here are some examples:

1. The Overemphasis on Calorie Counting

For decades, the mantra “calories in, calories out” has reigned supreme in weight loss discussions. This reductionist approach, while simple, overlooks metabolic individuality, the complexity of hormones, and the overall quality of food we consume. Despite modern research revealing its flaws, the calorie myth persists in diet culture and public health policies.

One glaring issue with the calorie-counting approach is that it assumes a universal response to food, when in fact, each body is different. Metabolic rates, insulin sensitivity, and how we process and utilize energy vary from person to person. A one-size-fits-all approach to food intake simply doesn’t acknowledge these differences, leaving many people frustrated and confused about why their efforts aren’t producing the desired results.

But let’s take this a step further and examine how our mindset and beliefs about food influence our body’s physiological responses. Consider the Milkshake Study, which highlighted the power of perception in regulating hunger hormones like ghrelin. In this study, participants were given two milkshakes—one labeled as indulgent, and one labeled as “healthier.” Even though both shakes were identical in calories, participants who drank the indulgent shake had lower ghrelin levels, signaling that they felt fuller. Those who drank the “healthier” shake had higher ghrelin levels, suggesting they were still hungry.

This phenomenon directly challenges the traditional calorie-counting narrative. The way we perceive our food, its quality, and our beliefs about its impact can literally alter our body’s hormonal responses. So, while the calories may be the same on paper, the body’s hormonal reaction to that food can be entirely different, making “calories in, calories out” an oversimplified and outdated framework.

This insight breaks apart the reductionist narrative that so heavily dominates our cultural understanding of weight and health. If our hormones—like ghrelin—are affected by our mindset, we can start to see how our thoughts and beliefs around food directly influence how our body responds to it. It’s not just the food’s calorie content; it’s how we interpret and internalize it.

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with food labels and diet rules, understanding the deeper connection between mind and body is key to breaking free from the calorie myth. After all, food is more than fuel; it’s a relationship, a psychological experience, and a biological trigger—all of which deserve attention beyond just the numbers on a nutrition label.

2. Germ Theory vs. Terrain Theory

One area ripe for scrutiny is germ theory, which forms the backbone of modern medicine. While it’s undeniable that pathogens play a role in disease, germ theory often overshadows other critical factors like the terrain theory, which emphasizes the internal environment of the body. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a stark illustration of terrain theory in action, highlighting how it impacted individuals differently depending on their underlying health, lifestyle factors, and susceptibilities. While germ theory emphasizes the role of pathogens in causing disease, it often overlooks how the body’s internal environment—the terrain—determines its ability to resist or succumb to these pathogens.

Germ theory, the cornerstone of modern medicine, attempts to identify and address specific pathogens. However, during the pandemic, it became clear that two people with identical exposure to the virus could experience vastly different outcomes. One might have mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic, while another might develop severe illness or even die. Why? The answer lies in the individual’s terrain—their overall health, immune function, nutrition, and stress levels.

Terrain theory suggests that the internal environment of the body is just as important, if not more so, in determining how well we respond to pathogens. If the terrain is weak—due to chronic stress, poor nutrition, or underlying health conditions—the body becomes more vulnerable to disease. Conversely, if the terrain is strong, with a balanced immune system, good nutrition, and robust overall health, the body can better withstand pathogens. This is why not everyone who contracted COVID-19 suffered the same consequences. The internal environment of each individual played a major role in their response.

While it’s undeniable that pathogens are significant contributors to disease, focusing solely on germs has led to a narrow, reductionist view of health. For example, our overreliance on antibiotics—driven by germ theory—has had unintended consequences, such as antibiotic resistance and neglect of preventative health measures that could strengthen the body’s defenses in the first place. Nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep are all vital factors in maintaining a resilient terrain, yet they often take a backseat in discussions about health in favor of a more germ-centric approach.

3. The Suppression of Alternative Modalities

Many holistic and alternative health practices—from acupuncture to herbal medicine—have been dismissed as pseudoscience, despite mounting evidence for their efficacy. Why? Because they challenge the pharmaceutical-centric model that dominates Western medicine. This isn’t about rejecting conventional medicine but about expanding the scope of what we consider valid.

In Season 2, I do believe I was caught up in a cult-like environment of the Ex-Christian/deconstruction space that led me to hardcore atheism—a sharp turn I had never anticipated. This shift was born from anger and disillusionment with the spiritual manipulation I had endured. But as I moved away from the rigidity of religious dogma, I realized that wasn’t the first cult I’d been a part of. Another had been the world of wellness cults and MLMs, particularly with my experience in Isagenix. This MLM promised quick fixes and a one-size-fits-all approach to health, yet I realized that much of the advice was misleading and ultimately harmful.

Just like the high-control religion I left, the wellness industry often employs manipulative tactics, leveraging people’s vulnerabilities and insecurities. I became frustrated at the false promises of weight loss and detoxification, which claimed to have all the answers to health problems. Yet, here I was, critiquing the dogmatic practices of the religious groups I had been involved in, only to find myself caught in another form of blind faith.

Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t about rejecting holistic and alternative health practices outright. In fact, many of these modalities—like acupuncture, herbal medicine, or even certain aspects of spiritual healing—are based on centuries of empirical knowledge and cultural traditions. There’s mounting evidence supporting their efficacy, particularly in areas that conventional Western medicine tends to overlook. But here’s the issue: when these practices are presented as miracle cures without scientific backing, or worse, as the only “true” path to health, we fall into the same trap of uncritical thinking and blind faith that we should be avoiding.

This isn’t a call to reject conventional medicine or the advancements it offers. Rather, it’s an invitation to expand the scope of what we consider valid in our health journeys. We should question all dogma, whether it comes from the mainstream pharmaceutical industry, the alternative wellness world, or any other realm that promises a singular, universal truth. What we need is intellectual humility—the willingness to critically examine all ideas, sift through the pseudoscience, and allow for diverse approaches to coexist. and I mean what really is ‘pseudoscience’? It seems something deemed fake, can be proven real, the difference is a matter of time.

In the end, it’s not about the “right” system of health or the “wrong” one; it’s about being open to learning, growing, and questioning. The journey from cult-like spiritualism to hardcore atheism to exploring holistic health practices has taught me one vital lesson: health—whether physical, mental, or spiritual—is complex, there is the grey zone, and it’s best navigated with curiosity, skepticism, and a deep commitment to truth, wherever it may lead.

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The Ripple Effects on Spirituality

Scientific dogma doesn’t just shape our understanding of health; it profoundly influences how we perceive spirituality and consciousness. For centuries, science has drawn a clear line between the physical world and the mystical, often relegating spiritual experiences to the realm of the unexplained, labeling them as “brain glitches” or mere psychological phenomena. But what if this divide is artificial? What if science and spirituality aren’t fundamentally opposed, but instead, each can offer a piece of the puzzle we’ve been overlooking?

Consider the hypothesis of morphic resonance by Rupert Sheldrake, which posits that memory and learning aren’t confined to individual brains but exist in shared fields, accessible beyond our immediate physical experience. Sheldrake’s theory challenges the reductionist view that consciousness is simply a product of brain activity. Instead, it suggests that our minds are interconnected through a kind of collective memory, transcending the limits of individual brains. This bold idea is frequently dismissed by mainstream science as “pseudoscience”, yet it opens the door to a much larger understanding of how consciousness might operate.

The current scientific paradigm often dismisses phenomena like telepathy, shared memories, and other spiritual experiences as anomalies or “glitches.” Whether it’s a moment of deep meditation, a profound sense of interconnectedness during prayer, or experiencing someone else’s thoughts without any verbal communication—these moments are often written off in purely material terms. But what if these experiences are more than mere coincidental or explainable brain activities? What if, instead, they point toward a deeper, quantum-level connection between all living things?

Recent advances in quantum physics have begun to suggest that consciousness may not be solely confined to the brain but instead might be a quantum action that extends beyond the physical boundaries of our bodies. The idea that our minds may exist in a non-local space—transcending the physical brain—is a provocative one. If quantum entanglement allows particles to be interconnected over vast distances, could the same phenomenon apply to consciousness itself? Could thoughts and experiences extend beyond our personal mind and into the collective field of human consciousness? I think so.

One area that brings these concepts to light is the study of telepathy—the transmission of thoughts or information from one mind to another without using any known physical means of communication. For years, telepathy was relegated to the realm of pseudoscience, dismissed by mainstream science as implausible. But emerging research and anecdotal evidence have begun to challenge this view. The Telepathy Tapes podcast, for instance, explores real-world experiences of telepathy and other paranormal phenomena, drawing on decades of research and firsthand accounts. The podcast offers a fascinating exploration of how people have experienced thought transfer in ways that don’t conform to our traditional understanding of the brain and its boundaries.

The more we explore the connection between consciousness and the quantum field, the more we realize that the mind might not just be a byproduct of brain activity. Instead, it might be a more expansive phenomenon—an energetic force that connects all living things. Telepathy, and similar phenomena, might not be mere coincidences or “glitches” of the brain, but rather, expressions of the interconnectedness of consciousness at a quantum level. And as we move further into understanding the complexities of the quantum world, we may find that spirituality and science can indeed coexist, each offering insights into the deeper nature of our existence.

Rather than reducing these experiences to the limitations of materialism, what if we expanded our understanding? What if we allowed for the possibility that consciousness operates beyond the confines of the brain, and that our minds might be connected to a larger, shared field of information? Exploring ideas like morphic resonance and quantum consciousness could lead to a more integrated view of our existence, one where science and spirituality aren’t at odds but are part of a much larger picture—one that invites curiosity, exploration, and a deeper understanding of the mind’s true potential.

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The Cost of Certainty

The real danger of scientific dogma is that it blinds us to new possibilities. Let’s revisit germ theory as an example. When Louis Pasteur first proposed that microorganisms caused disease, the idea was ridiculed. It took decades for the medical establishment to accept it, and countless lives were lost in the interim. Today, germ theory’s dominance risks overshadowing other valid frameworks, like terrain theory, that emphasize holistic health.

The same pattern occurs across fields. In fitness, calorie-counting persists despite advances in understanding metabolism. In spirituality, materialist assumptions limit our exploration of consciousness. In all cases, dogma shuts down inquiry, replacing curiosity with certainty.

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A Call for Open-Mindedness

Sheldrake’s work reminds us that science is a tool, not a belief system. Its strength lies in its ability to evolve, but evolution requires questioning assumptions. This isn’t about rejecting science; it’s about freeing it from the shackles of dogma.

Whether you’re navigating your health, your fitness journey, or your spiritual growth, the lesson is the same: embrace curiosity. Challenge the “sacred cows” of conventional wisdom. Explore new ideas, even if they seem outlandish. Progress depends on our willingness to ask uncomfortable questions.

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Final Thoughts

Rupert Sheldrake’s banned TED talk isn’t just a critique of science; it’s a call to action. It challenges us to rethink the frameworks that shape our understanding of the world—and ourselves. In fitness, nutrition, and spirituality, the cost of dogma is too high to ignore. So, let’s commit to a more open-minded approach, one that values curiosity over certainty and exploration over orthodoxy.

The future depends on it.

Ever reacted impulsively and wondered why? Dive into the fascinating world of the “amygdala hijack” with our expert guest, J. Gulinello, MS, CNSc, FNTP. Discover how this primal brain response influences our emotions, especially in high-stress or dogmatic environments.

In this episode, we explore:

• The science behind the amygdala’s override of rational thought.
• How nutrition plays a pivotal role in emotional regulation and preventing these hijacks.
• The hidden impacts of historical events like the Flexner Report and the rise of Crisco on our health and dietary guidelines.
• Strategies to foster critical thinking and maintain objectivity in a world filled with consensus narratives.

Join us for an eye-opening discussion that blends neuroscience, nutrition, and history, offering insights to better manage our reactions and health. Don’t miss this deep dive into understanding how our brains and diets intertwine!

Listen now and empower yourself with knowledge.

Understanding the Amygdala Hijack and Its Implications on Nutrition and Emotional Regulation

Guest: J Gulinello MS, CNSc, FNTP

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Introduction: In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of the “amygdala hijack,” a term that describes how our brains can override rational thinking in the face of perceived threats. We’ll explore how this phenomenon impacts our emotional responses, decision-making, and behavior—especially within dogmatic communities. Our guest, J Gulinello, shares insights into how diet and nutrition can support better emotional regulation and help prevent these hijacks. We also touch on the role of nutrition in modern health and the influence of historical factors like the Flexner Report and Crisco on the medical and food industries.

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Segment 1: The Amygdala Hijack Explained

• Definition: The amygdala hijack, a concept introduced by Daniel Goleman in his book Emotional Intelligence, refers to an immediate, overwhelming emotional response to a perceived threat, where the brain’s rational thinking is bypassed by the amygdala, leading to a fight-or-flight reaction.
• Impact on Behavior: When triggered, this response can lead to actions driven by emotion rather than logic, often resulting in regretful decisions or unnecessary conflicts.
• Research Insights: Studies show that once the amygdala hijack occurs, it takes time for the brain to return to normal as stress hormones like adrenaline need to dissipate. Mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral strategies can help manage these responses.

Segment 2: Amygdala Hijack in Dogmatic Communities

• Fear-Based Teachings: In dogmatic environments, fear is often used to enforce compliance, leading to a constant state of alertness. This can perpetuate the cycle of amygdala hijack, reducing the capacity for rational thought.
• Groupthink: Heightened emotional states can foster groupthink, where individuals suppress dissenting opinions to maintain harmony, further entrenching dogmatic beliefs.
• Manipulation and Control: Leaders may exploit the amygdala hijack to maintain control by presenting continuous threats, keeping members in a heightened state of emotional arousal, making them more susceptible to manipulation.

Emotional Hijacking’s connection to Complex PTSD.

I’m currently reading Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker, which ties in closely with Daniel Goleman’s work on Emotional Intelligence, a topic we’re diving into today. Walker’s exploration of emotional flashbacks sheds light on what Goleman refers to as “amygdala hijacking”—an intense, overwhelming emotional regression that pulls us back to the states of fear, shame, and depression we experienced in childhood.

When caught in an emotional flashback, you might feel small, fragile, and utterly helpless. Life can suddenly seem too difficult, and even the idea of being seen by others feels excruciatingly vulnerable. Your energy feels depleted, like your battery is completely drained. In the most severe flashbacks, it can feel as if an impending apocalypse is looming.

These flashbacks aren’t just reliving bad memories; they are reliving the worst emotional experiences of your childhood. Everything becomes overwhelming and confusing, especially because, unlike typical flashbacks, there are rarely visual components to CPTSD episodes. As Goleman explains, this is because amygdala hijackings are intense reactions in the emotional memory part of the brain that override rational thinking. These reactions can become so ingrained that even minor triggers can send someone spiraling into a panicky state, a reaction known as the “4F” response (Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Fawn).

How do I know if I’m experiencing an Amygdala Hijack or Emotional flashback?

Recognizing when you’re in an emotional flashback, especially when you feel small, helpless, or overwhelmed, can be challenging. However, certain signs can indicate that you’re in this state:

• Overwhelming Fear or Panic:
  • You might suddenly feel intense fear or anxiety without a clear cause in the present moment, as if you’re in imminent danger.
• Feeling Small or Helpless:
  • You may feel as though you’ve reverted to a childlike state, experiencing a sense of powerlessness or vulnerability.
• Negative Self-Talk:
  • Your inner critic might become louder, filling your mind with harsh, self-critical thoughts, such as “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t handle this.”
• Sense of Doom or Despair:
  • A pervasive feeling of hopelessness or believing that the situation will never improve can dominate your thoughts.
• Intense Shame or Guilt:
  • You might experience a sudden wave of shame, feeling as though you’re fundamentally flawed or bad.
• Emotional Numbness or Dissociation:
  • You may feel disconnected from your emotions, body, or surroundings, as if you’re watching yourself from the outside.
• Physical Symptoms:
  • You might notice physical reactions like a racing heart, shallow breathing, sweating, or feeling frozen in place.
• Urgency to Escape or Hide:
  • A strong desire to retreat, isolate yourself, or avoid others can arise, driven by the need to feel safe.
• Heightened Sensitivity to Criticism:
  • You may become overly sensitive to perceived criticism or rejection, reacting strongly to things that wouldn’t normally bother you.
• Feeling Overwhelmed by Simple Tasks:
  • Even routine tasks can feel insurmountable, leading to procrastination or avoidance.
• Flashbacks or Intrusive Memories:
  • Vivid memories or images from past traumatic experiences may surface, blurring the lines between past and present.
• Excessive People-Pleasing or Compliance:
  • You might find yourself excessively trying to please others or agreeing to things you normally wouldn’t, out of fear of conflict or abandonment.
• Avoidance of Eye Contact or Social Interaction:
  • Avoiding eye contact, withdrawing from social situations, or feeling a strong need to hide can be signs of being in an emotional flashback.
• Being aware of these signs can help you identify when you’re in an emotional flashback and take steps to manage it, such as grounding yourself, reaching out for support, or practicing self-compassion.

13 steps for managing emotional flashbacks

Here are the 13 tips that Peter Walker provides in Chapter 8, “Managing Emotional Flashbacks,” from his book Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving:

1. Say to yourself: “I am having a flashback.”
   • Acknowledge that you are in a flashback and recognize that these intense feelings come from the past.
2. Remind yourself: “I feel afraid, but I am not in danger.”
   • Assure yourself that although the fear is real, it’s not about something happening now.
3. Own your right/need to have boundaries.
   • Recognize that it’s okay to set boundaries with others, even if it feels uncomfortable.
4. Deconstruct eternity thinking.
   • Understand that the flashback will pass, and the feelings are temporary, not eternal.
5. Remind yourself: “I am in the body of an adult and I have choices.”
   • Reaffirm your ability to make choices and take actions as an adult, unlike when you were a child.
6. Ease back into your body.
   • Ground yourself physically by engaging in sensory activities like deep breathing, walking, or self-hugging.
7. Seek support.
   • Reach out to trusted friends, a therapist, or a support group who can provide understanding and help you navigate the flashback.
8. Remember that you have time to recover.
   • Give yourself the time and space to recover; don’t rush the process.
9. Practice self-compassion.
   • Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing the pain and fear from the flashback.
10. Challenge your inner critic.
    • Actively dispute the negative thoughts and beliefs that arise from your inner critic during a flashback.
11. Allow yourself to grieve.
    • Permit yourself to feel and process the sadness and loss connected to the original trauma.
12. Employ grounding techniques.
    • Use techniques like focusing on the present moment, engaging with your senses, or repeating grounding phrases to stay anchored.
13. Cultivate safe relationships.
    • Develop and nurture relationships that are supportive, trustworthy, and understanding of your experiences.

These tips are designed to help individuals recognize and manage the intense emotional responses triggered by past traumas, allowing them to regain control and navigate through the flashbacks more effectively.

Segment 3: Nutrition’s Role in Emotional Regulation

• Nutrition and the Limbic System: J Gulinello explains how our diet impacts the function of the limbic system, particularly the amygdala. Certain foods and nutrients can help support emotional regulation, reducing the likelihood of an amygdala hijack.
• Blood Sugar Levels and the Limbic System: Exploring the Connection
• Emerging research highlights a significant connection between blood sugar levels and the functioning of the limbic system, which is crucial for emotional regulation. The limbic system, including the hippocampus and amygdala, plays a key role in managing our emotional responses and memory processing. Recent studies suggest that fluctuations in blood sugar levels can directly impact these brain regions, influencing mood and emotional stability.
• Dietary Impacts on Blood Sugar Levels
• Dietary habits significantly affect blood sugar levels, causing swings between high and low levels. For instance, consumption of high-glycemic index foods can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar, followed by swift declines, potentially resulting in feelings of irritability, fatigue, and mood swings. On the other hand, low-glycemic index foods promote more stable blood sugar levels, supporting better mood stability and emotional regulation.

The Sensitivity of the Hippocampus to Blood Sugar Fluctuations

• The hippocampus, a critical part of the limbic system responsible for memory formation and emotional regulation, is particularly sensitive to changes in blood sugar levels. Research published in the Journal of Diabetes in 2018 found that fluctuations in blood sugar can affect the function of neurons in the amygdala, a key component of the limbic system involved in processing emotions such as fear and pleasure. The study demonstrated that significant swings in blood glucose levels could alter the activity of amygdala neurons, potentially leading to emotional instability and impaired memory function.

Implications for Emotional Health

• Understanding the impact of blood sugar levels on the limbic system underscores the importance of maintaining stable glucose levels for emotional well-being. Individuals experiencing frequent emotional swings may benefit from dietary adjustments aimed at stabilizing blood sugar levels. This could include incorporating more whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber-rich foods into their diets while reducing the intake of sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates.
• By recognizing the interplay between diet, blood sugar levels, and brain function, we can better appreciate how dietary choices influence emotional health and take proactive steps to support a more balanced and stable emotional state.
• Foods for Emotional Balance: Nutrients like branched-chain amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting brain health and mitigating stress responses.
• Food as a Hormone: The idea that food components act like hormones, affecting cell signaling and gene transcription, shifts our understanding of nutrition. J elaborates on how this perspective impacts health and disease management.

I mention my good friend and dietitian Nicole Fennel of Chewsfoodwisely! Check out her article on Optimal Brain Health.

The Art and Science of Low-Carb Performance by Dr. Paul Jaminet and Dr. Shou-Ching Jaminet primarily focuses on how a low-carb diet can improve athletic performance and general health. The research and recommendations in the book are based on a variety of studies, many of which involve male participants.

While the book does provide some general information applicable to both sexes, it is worth noting that the specific research and data on how low-carb diets impact female athletes and women in general are less emphasized. The principles outlined are generally applicable, but individual responses can vary, and more specific research on females might be required for a comprehensive understanding. If you’re looking for information tailored specifically to women, you might need to look for studies or resources that focus on female physiology and metabolism in the context of low-carb diets.

Blood Sugar, Metabolism, and Women’s Health: Understanding the Complex Interactions

Gender-Specific Research Gaps

It’s crucial to note that much of the research on low-carb diets and intermittent fasting has been conducted primarily on male participants. This distinction is significant because female physiology is different from male physiology when it comes to dietary responses. As of 2024, many nutrition and fitness studies still underrepresent women, despite growing awareness of this issue.

For example, early cardiovascular health studies were predominantly male-focused, leading to differences in the recognition and treatment of heart disease between men and women. Women often experience different symptoms during a heart attack, and treatments may vary accordingly. Similarly, women’s metabolic responses to dietary changes differ due to hormonal variations, affecting how they lose weight and manage blood sugar levels.

Potential Issues with Intermittent Fasting and Low-Carb Diets for Women

Adding intermittent fasting on top of exercise can sometimes be harmful to both performance and health, especially for women. Many women are unknowingly under-eating due to a fear of eating too much, past experiences with chronic dieting, or a lack of understanding of their energy needs. A recent review of 42 studies published between 2013 and 2020 found that women are more likely to be deficient in essential nutrients, with between 30% and 70% of women in the studies being energy deficient. Low energy availability is common among female athletes, with a 2019 survey published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine estimating that more than 47% of female athletes may not consume enough calories to meet their body’s energy needs.

Intermittent fasting and keto diets can disrupt the production of kisspeptin, a neuropeptide essential for reproductive hormone regulation. Women are particularly sensitive to kisspeptin, which affects endocrine and reproductive function. This disruption can lead to endocrine dysfunction, increased abdominal fat, and a higher risk of depression, which are counterproductive to health and fitness goals. Such dietary approaches can also negatively affect menstrual cycles, thyroid function, and overall health.

A Better Approach for Women

Instead of focusing on restrictive diets, consider the following strategies:

1. Balanced Nutrition: Support your adrenals and thyroid by incorporating a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats every 3-4 hours. Opt for high-quality fats such as ghee, butter, tallow, coconut oil, MCT oil, and dairy fats.
2. Nutrient Intake: Ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Historical research, including the work of McCollum, highlights that deficiencies in these nutrients can be exacerbated by diets high in refined grains.
3. Manage Energy Levels: Focus on not just avoiding excess but also ensuring you are not under-eating. Proper caloric intake supports energy levels, metabolism, and overall health.
4. Exercise and Autophagy: Regular exercise can induce autophagy, a process beneficial for cellular health, providing a sustainable approach compared to intermittent fasting.
5. Hormonal Balance: Women should be aware of how complex carbs impact serotonin levels, progesterone, and insulin metabolism. Hormonal changes due to inadequate carb intake can lead to conditions like acne, endometriosis, or PCOS. Perimenopausal and menopausal women may experience increased cortisol and estrogen levels, worsening symptoms.

Certain groups should be cautious with intermittent fasting and restrictive diets:

• Individuals with a history of eating disorders or disordered eating
• People with hypothyroidism
• Women trying to conceive or who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Highly stressed individuals
• Those with autoimmune disorders
• Women with PCOS
• Individuals managing diabetes
• Women experiencing menstrual irregularities

Personalized Nutrition and Professional Guidance

Each individual’s needs are unique. It’s crucial to work with a professional to determine your metabolic identity and optimize your nutrition based on personal needs. Pay attention to biofeedback such as hunger, cravings, self-talk, menstrual cycles, sleep, recovery, and energy levels. Avoid cookie-cutter meal plans and focus on individualized approaches that align with your body and lifestyle.

Understanding the intricate relationship between diet, blood sugar levels, and gender-specific responses is essential for achieving optimal health and performance. By focusing on balanced nutrition and personalized dietary strategies, women can better support their metabolic health and overall well-being.

Segment 4: The Impact of Historical Influences on Nutrition

• The Flexner Report and Crisco: We discuss how the Flexner Report and the introduction of Crisco shaped the landscape of nutritional science, often to the detriment of public health.
  • Crisco’s Role: The industrialization of food with products like Crisco led to the widespread use of trans fats, which have been linked to various health issues, including heart disease.
  • Medicalization of Health: The Flexner Report shifted medical education towards pharmaceutical treatments, sidelining nutrition and preventive care, a trend that continues to impact healthcare today.

Segment 5: Maintaining Objectivity in Nutritional Science

• Avoiding Activism in Science: J emphasizes the importance of maintaining objectivity in nutritional research to ensure credibility and public trust. We explore how biases can influence research outcomes and discuss strategies for fostering a more open and critically evaluative research environment.

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Conclusion: The amygdala hijack is a powerful brain response that can override our rational thinking, especially in high-stress or dogmatic environments. However, understanding its mechanisms and the role of nutrition in emotional regulation can help us manage our responses more effectively. Historical factors like the Flexner Report and the introduction of Crisco have also shaped our approach to health and nutrition, often with long-lasting negative impacts. As we move forward, it’s crucial to maintain objectivity in nutritional science to foster a more informed and healthy society.

RESOURCES:

• Perpetual Health/Nutritionist (@perpetualhealthco)
• Find J Gulinello on Substack
• Understanding the Amygdala Hijack
• Emotional Neglect and Complex PTSD By Pete Walker
• Fierce Self-Compassion: A Revolutionary Guide for Women in Religious Trauma – Taste0ftruth Tuesdays
• Food as a Hormone
• PerpetualHealthCo (rumble.com)
• Mitochondria – In Sickness & In Health Pt I
• Mitochondria – In Sickness & In Health Pt II
• Priority Micronutrient Density in Foods
• Elmer McCollum and the Discovery of Vitamins | SciHi Blog

• Low energy availability surrogates correlate with health and performance consequences of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport – PubMed (nih.gov)
• Role of Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients with Menstrual Disorders in Tertiary Care Center of Walled City of Delhi – PMC (nih.gov)
• Role of Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients with Menstrual Disorders in Tertiary Care Center of Walled City of Delhi – PubMed (nih.gov)
• Ormdl3 regulation of specific ceramides is dispensable for mouse β-cell function and glucose homeostasis under obesogenic conditions – PubMed (nih.gov)
• Metabolic regulation of kisspeptin — the link between energy balance and reproduction | Nature Reviews Endocrinology
• Dr. Stacy Sims
• Defining the Optimal Dietary Approach for Safe, Effective and Sustainable Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Adults – PMC (nih.gov)
• Nutritional treatment of obesity in adults. What is certain and what uncertain (researchgate.net)