In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Steph sits down with Christina P. Kantzavelos Gameiro, LCSW, MSW, MLIS, an Integrative Lyme, Chronic Illness/Pain, Neurodivergent, C PTSD Psychotherapist and Coach.
Christina brings a unique perspective to chronic illness because she has lived it herself.
After years of unexplained symptoms, countless medical appointments and eventually becoming so sick that she could no longer work, Christina was diagnosed with Lyme disease. Her own healing journey led her to explore the nervous system, trauma informed care and the mind body connection, ultimately inspiring her to help others navigating chronic illness.
In this episode, Dr. Steph and Christina dive into the often overlooked layers of chronic illness and Lyme, including:
• Why the nervous system can become stuck in fight, flight, freeze or fawn
• The connection between chronic illness, trauma and the window of tolerance
• Why some people become incredibly sensitive to supplements, foods and their environment
• Why building safety and nervous system capacity can be an important part of the healing process
• The complicated relationship between Lyme, chronic illness, environmental stressors and the body
• Why there is no single protocol or one size fits all approach
• The emotional experience of losing your health and wondering if you will ever feel like yourself again
• Learning to trust your body instead of living in fear of every new symptom
Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that your body is not your enemy.
It is constantly trying to protect you, adapt and keep you safe.
As Christina says, we don’t get sick in isolation, and we don’t heal in isolation.
This is a conversation about chronic illness, nervous system regulation, trauma, resilience, hope and learning to work with your body rather than constantly fighting against it.
Let us know your thoughts on this episode here
For any further information, feel free to email us at info@vagusclinic.com. Our team is happy to help. We offer 20-minute complimentary health calls, and you can sign up for one here.
