11: Kari Azuma - Can Inner Safety Boost Your Ability to Hold Boundaries?

I Come First!

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In this episode of the "I Come First" podcast, host Amie Barsky welcomes nervous system leadership coach Kari Azuma. They delve into the intricacies of the nervous system and its impact on daily life, particularly for women. Kari explains how chronic stress affects our bodies and the importance of cultivating inner safety to set and maintain boundaries. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding and addressing deep-rooted patterns of safety and threat, often established in childhood.

Kari shares insights on how to shift from a problem-oriented mindset to a solution-oriented one, emphasizing the need for self-compassion and resourcing oneself to stand in authority. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of nervous system regulation and personal growth.

What We Explored This Episode

05:09 Nervous System and Safety

18:30 Fawning Response in the Nervous System

28:52 Nervous System Work and Personal Evolution

36:42 Importance of Self-Care and Connecting with Ancestors

Memorable Quotes

"We don't have a nervous system; we are a nervous system. It's always looking for a threat, called neuroception, which means the nervous system is always listening, even when we're not thinking about it."

"Boundaries are the most activating act for our nervous system to carry out because they require us to stand in our authority and power. It can feel like confrontation, but they are also the most connecting aspect of a relationship."

"My work is really grounded in embodied leadership, rites of passage work for women, and deep root nervous system work. The combination of these is about rediscovering a deep, innate trust in yourself and building that inner world into a strong base."

Episode Resources

Polyvagal Theory - A theory that explains how the nervous system responds to stress and trauma - https://www.stephenporges.com/

Kimberly Ann Johnson - Expert in nervous system work - https://kimberlyannjohnson.com/

Connect With Kari

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kariazuma/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kari.Azuma.3?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Connect With Amie

Website: https://amiebarsky.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amie-barsky/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amiebarskycoaching/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmieBarsky?sub_confirmation=1

Download My Free Breathwork Practice

https://www.amiebarsky.com/free-breathwork

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