Every pain you’ve ever felt is sent by, communicated through, or interpreted by your nervous system - so when pain becomes chronic, the nervous system often becomes the main story, not just the injured tissue.

Dr. Megan Steele breaks down how the nervous system is organized (central vs. peripheral), why “fight or flight” isn’t the enemy, and what it really means to build a *flexible* system that can shift between activation and recovery. The conversation also unpacks central sensitization - when the alarm stays loud even after healing - and how stress, sleep, digestion, and past experiences can influence the body’s threat detection.

You’ll also get clear guidance on a common internet claim: that trauma is “stored” in muscles and can be released through dramatic bodywork. Learn what’s supported, what’s risky, and what questions to ask any practitioner so you stay safe and supported.

Links to interesting things from this episode:

• “The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma” by Bessel van der Kolk
• WHOOP band
• Ōura Ring