In this episode, we sit down with somatic nutritional counselor Stephanie Mara Fox to explore how tuning into our physical bodies changes how we relate to food and ourselves. We dive into the science behind somatics, learning how communication flows from the body up to the brain through the vagus nerve. Stephanie breaks down how past trauma and restrictive diets disconnect us from our internal cues, shrinking our window of tolerance. We discuss how binge eating and dieting often act as protective responses rather than personal failures or lack of willpower. Together, we explore practical ways to build nervous system flexibility, move through intense urges, and reconnect with neutral bodily sensations. This conversation offers a gentle path away from shame and into deeper body peace.

Key Takeaways

• Somatic therapy works bottom-up, using body awareness to shift our thoughts and internal responses.
• Eighty percent of communication travels from our body to our brain via the vagus nerve.
• Dieting and restrictive eating patterns often function as coping mechanisms for unresolved trauma and threat.
• Binge eating can be an attempt by the nervous system to mobilize or find comfort.
• Connecting with neutral body parts helps re-establish safety without over-stimulating your nervous system.

Resources

• Stephanie Mara Fox's Website: StephanieMara.com
• Somatic Eating Website: SomaticEating.com
• Stephanie’s Podcast: Satiated
• Instagram: @_stephaniemara
• TikTok: @StephanieMaraFox

Connect with Nina and Jennie

Nina Manolson M.A. Body-Peace® Founder & Coach Stay connected & pick up your FREE Practicing Body-Peace Journal:⁠⁠ https://ninamanolson.com/practicingbodypeace/⁠⁠ Contact: Nina@NinaManolson.com Connect:⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/bodypeacepodcast⁠

Jennie Kramer LCSW-R,CEDS Subscribe to Jennie’s Newsletter & a complimentary 15min phone consult:⁠⁠ https://mbhany.com/connect-with-jennie/⁠⁠ Contact: jkramer@mbhany.com