On Somatics for Nervous System Regulation with Dr Kaitlin Harkess
In this heart-opening conversation, I sat down with Dr Kaitlin Harkess (she/her) to explore the transformative role of somatic practices, compassion, and lifestyle medicine in supporting mental health.
Together, we dive into:
- The importance of connection for mental health and wellbeing
- How understanding the nervous system can help us manage anxiety
- Practical somatic strategies from her new book for regulation and grounding
- The role of physical activity, nature, and recreation in reducing stress
- Why relationships, community, and service are pillars of wellbeing
- How a compassionate perspective reduces stigma around anxiety
- The power of flexibility and personalisation in health practices
Dr Kaitlin N. Harkess, PhD, is the author of The Somatic Workbook for Nervous System Regulation and Anxiety Management, host of the Wisdom for Wellbeing podcast, and founder of the holistic therapy practice Wisdom for Wellbeing. A Clinical Psychologist and long-time yoga and meditation teacher, Kaitlin has helped hundreds of individuals experiencing anxiety, overwhelm and burnout reconnect with their bodies and build resilience through integrative, evidence-informed practices.
Kaitlin’s new Somatic Workbook offers step-by-step, body-based strategies that complement psychological tools—an empowering resource for anyone navigating anxiety or stress and wanting to live with more balance, presence, and resilience.
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Dr Lauren Tober (she/her) is a Clinical Psychologist, Yoga Teacher, founder of the Yoga Psychology Institute, host of the A Grateful Life podcast and author of Mental Health Aware Yoga: A Guide for Yoga Teachers.
Lauren developed the Mental Health Aware Yoga training to help yoga teachers make their classes safe, nourishing and transformative for all.
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The information provided on this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance or come and join one of our programs for professional training.
Any statements, claims or endorsements expressed by our guest authors, speakers and podcast sponsors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Mental Health Aware Yoga and the Yoga Psychology Institute.
HOW TO TEACH YOGA FOR NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION MASTERCLASS
Learn how to sequence and teach yoga for nervous system regulation (no matter what style of yoga you teach) with Clinical Psychologist and Yoga Teacher, Dr Lauren Tober.
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As a Clinical Psychologist and Yoga Teacher of nearly two decades and the author of Mental Health Aware Yoga: A Guide for Yoga Teachers, I'm passionate about integrating yoga and psychology on the mat, in the counselling room and in the world.
With the growing interest in mental health and yoga, yoga students are attending yoga classes for the mental health benefits in unprecedented numbers.
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