Hello Inner Circle Members!  

If you're new here, welcome! :) Each month you will receive two premium content emails where I share about the "topic of the month" as well as all the things I've been loving! 

This month, we're kicking off our 6-part Nervous System Healing Series, and I couldn't be more excited! Throughout the month of June, we'll learn how to identify and heal from adrenal fatigue, so we can support our physical bodies while we work to address the root cause: chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation.

TOPIC OF THE MONTH

Identifying & Healing From Adrenal Fatigue

The time has come! Today marks the beginning of our nervous system healing journey together. Most of you are here because you want to address your chronic health issues and recognize that healing the nervous system is integral to achieving this. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, fatigue, back pain, autoimmune, headaches, weight gain, gut issues, insomnia, or more, you're in the right place. Chronic health issues often resolve when we prioritize healing the nervous system, and it's crucial to acknowledge that our bodies do have the capacity to heal.

Before diving into part one of our nervous system healing series, I want to emphasize this: the primary fuel sources for chronic health issues is: fear and focus. No amount of adrenal or nervous system healing will be effective if we don't address these underlying causes. So, let's not overlook this fact because if you continue to be motivated or driven by fear and hyper-focus on your symptoms (topics we'll be addressing in the workshop), true healing won't occur, regardless of how much work you put into it. You must begin by becoming aware of and removing the source of dysregulation: fear and focus.

Fear and hyperfocus on symptoms can heighten our body's threat response leads to more nervous system dysfunction. This  can make healing from chronic health issues challenging. If we remain trapped in a cycle of fear and symptom fixation, it can hinder progress despite our efforts. Breaking free from this cycle is essential for effective healing and recovery.

During the workshop, I'll explain how to do this in more detail, but for now, I want you to shift your ‘why’ and your motivation to heal your adrenals from "I need to do this to fix myself because I'm broken" to "I'm excited to learn how I can begin to take better care of myself." By practicing mindfulness and observing your inner dialogue without judgment, you can identify when fear is influencing your approach to healing. Reframing your mindset to view healing as an opportunity for self-nurturing rather than fixing perceived flaws is key. In fact, this shift is absolutely crucial in determining whether or not you can heal. Our bodies reflect our state of being (thoughts and emotions), so if we remain stuck in a state of fear, fixing, and helplessness, believing "I'm broken," our bodies will continue to reflect this. Ultimately, we cannot heal with the same approach (stress and fear) that made us sick.

We'll delve deeper into this soon, but it's something to be aware of throughout this journey. Okay, let’s dive in!

WHY HEALING THE ADRENALS IS SO CRITICAL

We're going to start this journey by understanding HOW stress impacts our bodies and WHY healing the nervous system is so critical. We're also going to learn how to determine which state of adrenal fatigue we're in, what are the signs and symptoms to look for, and how we can support our physical bodies while we take the remaining months of the series to address the root cause of adrenal insufficiency and nervous system dysregulation.

Before we dive into the details, it's essential to grasp the profound impact of chronic stress on our physical well-being. Many struggle to understand how stress can dramatically affect the physical body.

Here’s a list of bodily functions impacted by cortisol imbalances or chronic stress:

1. Energy Production: Abnormal adrenal function affects cell energy production, leading to low energy levels and poor blood sugar regulation.

2. Immune System Function: Disrupted cortisol cycles affect immune cell trafficking, suppressing immune response and increasing susceptibility to infections and allergies.

3. Skin Integrity: Normal cortisol rhythm is crucial for optimal skin health, as it influences skin regeneration during the night.

4. Muscle and Joint Function: Abnormal adrenal rhythms compromise tissue healing, leading to muscle and joint wasting and chronic pain.

5. Bone Health: Adrenal rhythm affects bone rebuilding, with elevated cortisol levels increasing the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in postmenopausal women.

6. Allergies/Autoimmune Disorders: Disruption of the adrenal axis predisposes individuals to autoimmune diseases and allergies.

7. Sleep Quality: High cortisol levels at night and in the morning interrupt REM sleep cycles, leading to reduced mental vitality and depression.

8. Thyroid Function: Cortisol levels control thyroid hormone production, and adrenal maladaptation can cause hypothyroid symptoms.

9. Blood Sugar Regulation: Chronic hypoglycemia can impair adrenal function, leading to insulin resistance and diabetes.

10. Brain Function and Emotional Health: Elevated cortisol levels are associated with depression, while cortisol disruptions are typical in attention deficit disorders.

11. Poor Nervous System Function: Cortisol dysregulation can negatively impact the nervous system, contributing to various neurological symptoms and disorders.

In summary, adrenal fatigue is essentially "cellular dysfunction," where the mitochondria in our cells struggle to produce enough energy for healing and thriving. Chronic stress or adrenal insufficiency can push the body into a "catabolic" or diseased state, where it breaks down faster than it can heal. As the body reaches this state, the adrenal glands become fatigued and malfunction, leading to long-term health issues. Unable to handle chronic stressors, it becomes increasingly difficult for us to cope with life's challenges.

Before diving into how to test for adrenal dysfunction, let's first explore the most common causes.

COMMON CAUSES OF ADRENAL DYSFUNCTION

Here’s a list of some of the most common causes of adrenal dysfunction and nervous system dysregulation (all of which we will cover in the months to come):

• Repressed emotions and unresolved trauma: Emotional suppression and unaddressed traumatic experiences can lead to chronic stress and dysregulation of the adrenal and nervous systems.
• Poor breathing patterns: Improper breathing techniques, such as shallow or erratic breathing, can contribute to stress and disrupt the body's natural rhythm.
• Disrupted blood sugar regulation: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels, often caused by unhealthy dietary habits or insulin resistance, can strain the adrenal glands and disrupt the body's stress response.
• Inadequate sleep: Insufficient or poor-quality sleep can impair adrenal function and increase susceptibility to stress-related disorders.
• Negative self-talk and a negative self-concept: Negative beliefs about oneself and persistent self-criticism can perpetuate stress and impact adrenal health.
• Patterns of self-neglect: Disregarding our own needs and failing to adequately identify and address them inevitably leads to depletion, both physically and emotionally.
• Over-scheduling and overworking: Maintaining a hectic schedule and constantly pushing oneself to meet unrealistic expectations can lead to chronic stress and adrenal fatigue.
• Lack of healthy boundaries: Failing to establish and maintain boundaries in relationships and work can result in chronic stress and emotional exhaustion.
• Excessive use of social media: Over-engagement with social media platforms can increase stress levels and negatively impact mental health, contributing to adrenal dysfunction.
• Dopamine imbalances: Imbalances in dopamine levels, often influenced by factors like substance abuse or chronic stress, can disrupt the body's stress response and contribute to adrenal dysfunction.
• Rest and play deficiencies: Inadequate rest and leisure activities can prevent the body from fully recovering from stressors, leading to adrenal fatigue.
• Lack of connection with others: Social isolation and a lack of meaningful connections can increase stress and exacerbate adrenal dysfunction.

After coaching thousands of individuals with adrenal fatigue and nervous system dysregulation, the above list encapsulates the factors that contribute most significantly. Over the next six months, we will delve deeply into addressing each of these factors and uncovering the root causes of patterns of depletion.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE ADRENAL FATIGUE AND/OR WHAT STAGE YOU'RE IN?

Determining whether you have adrenal fatigue and identifying your current stage can be instrumental in tailoring your approach to support your body's specific needs. Understanding if your cortisol levels are high (stage 1-2) or low (stage 3-4) can guide the selection of supplements and interventions that are most suitable for your condition.

While testing can provide valuable insights for some individuals, it's important to note that it's not always necessary. You can also rely on symptoms or your awareness of prolonged stress to gauge your adrenal health. If you've been under significant stress for an extended period and are experiencing symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, and other related issues, it may indicate adrenal fatigue.

Ultimately, the goal is to reverse the damage caused by chronic stress and restore optimal function to your body's cells. Whether through testing or symptom observation, understanding your adrenal health status is the first step towards implementing effective strategies for recovery and well-being.

HOW TO TEST FOR ADRENAL FATIGUE

Testing for adrenal fatigue typically involves an Adrenal Stress Index (ASI) test, which assesses cortisol levels at various points throughout the day. This test measures cortisol rhythms, usually collected from saliva samples taken at different times. By analyzing cortisol levels, particularly morning and evening levels, the ASI test can determine whether cortisol production follows a healthy pattern or if there are abnormalities indicative of adrenal dysfunction.

For those who find testing both helpful and empowering, here is the test I personally use:

*This test package includes a 30-minute coaching call with a skilled health practitioner who can assist in recommending the most suitable supplements tailored to your individual needs.

(Without coaching call)

Again, while testing can be beneficial for some individuals, it may contribute to stress for others. For those who prefer not to undergo testing or find it anxiety-inducing to receive test results, relying on symptoms as a guide may be a better option. Whether you choose to test or not, the primary focus remains on addressing the root issue: reducing stress. Therefore, regardless of the approach taken, our collective goal is to work towards lowering stress levels and improving overall well-being.

During the workshop, I will discuss how I decipher my results, the supplements I use to support my adrenals, highlighting those effective for managing both high and low cortisol levels, and share insights on how I support my body through various phases of adrenal dysfunction. It's important to note that this workshop doesn't include personalized supplement treatment plans. If you're interested in such support, consider purchasing the test kit, which includes a coaching call as mentioned above.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ADRENAL DYSFUNCTION AND HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT STAGE WE MAY BE IN (WITHOUT TESTING)?

Understanding the phases of adrenal fatigue can help identify symptoms associated with different cortisol levels. In the initial stages (stage 1-2), characterized by high cortisol levels, symptoms often include feeling wired but tired, experiencing weight gain, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. As adrenal fatigue progresses to later stages (stage 3-4), cortisol levels may drop, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, poor memory, and joint pains. By recognizing these symptoms and their correlation with cortisol levels, individuals can better understand their adrenal health status and take appropriate steps to address it.

However, the most accurate way to determine adrenal function is through testing. Personally, I opt for testing at least once a year. Rather than inducing further stress, I find that understanding my adrenal health empowers me to make informed decisions about supporting my body effectively. This knowledge motivates me to continue working towards stress reduction and optimal health. Whether you choose to undergo testing is entirely your decision, but it can provide valuable insights into your well-being and guide your journey toward better health.

While testing can be helpful in tracking adrenal health over time, it's essential to understand that regardless of whether you choose to test or not, relying solely on supplements recommended for different stages of adrenal dysfunction (based on test results) won't resolve adrenal issues. Instead, it's the deeper nervous system healing work we'll be undertaking in the months ahead that will truly make a difference. While supporting our adrenal glands through a balanced diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes is beneficial, it's the deeper work that will results in the most significant long-term improvements.

In the next email, I'll demonstrate how I interpret my results. This test is straightforward and accessible to everyone. However, none of this is medical advice. I'm simply sharing how I test and support my adrenal glands to enhance their function. Once we've learned how to identify our adrenal health status, we'll delve into precisely how to support the body during different stages of healing. I'll outline the most effective ways to restore adrenal health as we work together to address the underlying sources of chronic stressors.

CLOSING...

Over the coming months, we will be taking a much deeper dive into healing from chronic stress, but I want to leave you with this: Healing from chronic stress requires a deep level of self-awareness. It's about understanding the why and motivation behind every action we take, from how we live and eat to how we move and breathe. Often, our motivations are driven by fear—fear of symptoms, dissatisfaction with our bodies, and so on. But as long as fear remains our primary motivator, true healing becomes elusive.

Instead of immediately trying to change this dynamic, it's essential to first become aware of it. Spend the next few weeks simply observing the state you're in when you make choices throughout your day. Notice the underlying motivations behind your actions—whether they stem from a place of fear or from a genuine desire for well-being.

Remember, it's not just about WHAT you do but HOW you do it. The mindset and intention you bring to each moment matter profoundly. Everything in your life—whether it's a supplement or a breathing exercise—can either contribute to your healing or perpetuate the cycle of stress and dis-ease. Recognize that you have the power to choose who you want to be and how you want to live. Little by little, this is how we make our life our medicine.

By cultivating this awareness and making conscious choices aligned with your true well-being, you can gradually shift away from fear-based motivations and move toward a state of healing and wholeness.

I'm incredibly excited about the coming months, as this is the stuff that transformed my health and that of countless others I've coached, the most!

WHAT I'M LISTENING TO

I remember listening to this podcast a while back and just revisited it. I think these two do a great job of explaining how important healthy cortisol balance is in our ability to heal and thrive. Have a listen and make sure you understand WHY healing from cortisol imbalance is so critical before we spend the next several months working on healing it! :)

PS. In the interview, Dr. Kinney mentioned that "stress is a factor in chronic health issues." This is where I don't agree. Stress stands out as the primary factor. It's crucial not to get sidetracked by chasing after potential issues like food sensitivities, infections, or co-infections, as this often doesn't lead to healing and can actually make the healing process much more challenging.

WHAT I'M READING

WHAT'S COOKIN'

This past year has been the busiest of my life. I'm currently working on two huge projects, which I will be sharing more about soon. I realize that busyness can often result in cortisol imbalance and depletion. I'm no different from you; I'm human too. That's why lately, I'm focusing on all the adrenal-supportive things from how I exercise, breathe, and nourish my body. The adrenal glands love nutrient-dense foods as chronic stress depletes nutrients, and few things are more dense with nutrients than sardines. Some of you might cringe, and that's okay; I used to be the same until I realized that sardines are one of the healthiest things you can put in your body. 

Here are the benefits: Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation in the body. They're also packed with protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall energy levels. Additionally, sardines are a great source of vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D, and B12, which support bone health and energy production.

Incorporating sardines into your diet can provide a significant boost to your overall health and well-being, especially during times of high stress and busyness. So, don't be afraid to give them a try and reap the numerous benefits they offer!

*Note: I opt out of the yogurt and often add finely chopped celery and pickles! You can't go wrong!  HERE is the link to the sardines I buy.

WHAT I'M DRINKING

Chronic stress depletes the body's levels of sodium, potassium, and vitamin C, further exacerbating feelings of fatigue. Sodium and potassium are crucial components of the sodium-potassium pump, which regulates the movement of toxins out of cells and nutrients into cells. When chronic stress depletes these minerals, the pump's function is compromised, leading to increased toxicity and depletion. Therefore, restoring sodium and potassium levels is critical. Additionally, replenishing vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, is essential as it helps the body cope with chronic stress and supports healing. An adrenal cocktail typically comprises ingredients rich in these essential nutrients to support adrenal health and overall well-being.

1. Vitamin C Source:

    •Fresh Orange Juice: Rich in vitamin C, fresh orange juice provides essential nutrients that support adrenal function. Alternatively, you can choose other sources of vitamin C such as lemon juice, grapefruit juice, or a vitamin C supplement.

2. Potassium Source:

   •Cream of Tartar: Cream of tartar is a natural source of potassium, which is crucial for adrenal health and electrolyte balance. Alternatively, you can opt for potassium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, spinach, or a potassium supplement.

3. Sodium Source:

   •Sea Salt: Sea salt is rich in sodium and trace minerals like magnesium and potassium, essential for adrenal function and electrolyte balance. Alternatively, you can use other sources of sodium such as Himalayan pink salt or table salt.

Combining these nutrient-rich ingredients into an adrenal cocktail provides a potent mix of vitamins and minerals that support adrenal health, combat fatigue, and promote overall well-being. Experiment with different combinations to find the one that works best for you and suits your taste preferences.

* I aim to have at least one of these daily when adrenals need extra support!

CLEAN HOME & BEAUTY FAVS

I wanted to share with you some of my favorite stress-reducing tools that I have in my home, which I use daily to support the health of my nervous system:

1. Rebounder: A rebounder is a mini trampoline that offers numerous benefits for lowering stress. It helps to increase circulation, oxygenate the body, move stagnant energy, and stimulate the lymphatic system, which in turn supports detoxification and promotes relaxation. Here’s the one I use:

2. Red light: Red light therapy is known for its ability to set circadian rhythms and improve deep sleep, which is a cornerstone of adrenal healing. It also improves mitochondria function in cells, leading to increased energy production for healing and cellular repair. Here’s the one I use:

3. Red juice: Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, red juice provides excellent support for adrenal health. Vitamin C is crucial for adrenal function and helps to combat the effects of stress on the body.

Code: ORGANIFIKATE for 20% off

4. Electrolytes: Chronic stress can deplete electrolytes in the body, particularly sodium and potassium, which are essential for cellular function. Paleo valley electrolytes has the perfect ratio of sodium and potassium ensuring proper cellular hydration and function. Sodium and potassium play a vital role in nutrient absorption and waste removal within cells, making electrolyte balance crucial for overall health. Both minerals are critical when recovering from adrenal fatigue. You will feel the boost!

5. Essential oils: Aromatherapy can be incredibly effective in calming stress and promoting relaxation. I personally enjoy using doTERRA's "Serenity" blend, which contains calming essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and cedarwood.

6. Himalayan salt lamp: Himalayan salt lamps emit negative ions, countering stress-inducing positive ions from electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure. Their soft glow fosters relaxation, aiding in better sleep quality and supporting adrenal health.

These tools not only help to reduce stress but also support overall well-being, making them valuable additions to any self-care routine.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

As our community continues to grow, I want to ensure clarity regarding the Inner Circle community guidelines and rules. I've invested considerable time, resources, and passion into fostering this community, providing abundant value at a generous rate. Here are a few expectations I ask everyone to uphold:

1. Respectful Communication: We do not tolerate disrespectful communication. This will result in being refunded and removed from the group immediately.

2. Personal Responsibility: I expect everyone who interacts with others in the Facebook group to take full responsibility for their energy and the way they interact with others. For example, complaining and making untrue statements about the offerings won't be tolerated. Myself and Allie do our very best to make sure you have everything you need. We answer questions and concerns quickly and professionally, and we expect the same respect in return. Those who cannot communicate respectfully are not welcome.

3. Problem Resolution: If you have a problem with logging in or any other aspect of the IC, please email allie@likewithkate.com, and she will get back to you promptly. We answer all emails within 24 hours unless it happens to be a weekend.

4. Individual Accountability: Every member is accountable for staying informed by regularly reading emails, instructions, and keeping up with the content provided to prevent the need for what I call "lazy questions." Workshops often expand on newsletter content, so it's crucial to actively follow along to maximize your understanding.

5. Understand the Offer: While the membership offers a wealth of resources, unlimited direct access to myself via email or the Facebook group is not included. The Facebook group serves as a platform for community interaction. However, I will occasionally participate in discussions!  We offer periodic Q&A sessions to address any questions you may have.

Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation. Let's continue to build a supportive and respectful community together. :)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Our next workshop is scheduled for Thursday, June 27 @ 11AM PST. Remember, the workshops are always on the last Thursday of each month! This month's workshop will focus on adrenal fatigue. *All live workshops are recorded and uploaded into the members' area for you to view at your convenience.

Lastly, don't miss out on taking advantage of ANTHRO'S generous offer! They've provided me with a special code that will save you $400 on an ergonomic office chair. These chairs are truly in a league of their own when it comes to improving posture over time! Poor posture can significantly impact your nervous system, mental health, and more, with sitting poorly being one of the biggest contributors to posture issues. This generous offer ends on June 30th!

This chair is personally my go-to, and I wouldn't sit in anything else! Not only is it the most comfortable seat I've ever experienced, but my body also feels amazing when I get up from a long day of sitting as the chair helps maintain proper spine alignment.  CLICK HERE to learn more. Use code LWK400 for your Inner Circle exclusive discount.

MEMBER'S CORNER

Big thanks to all who've been lending a helping hand, listening ear, and kind words to those struggling in the Facebook group. Your support is what makes our community special. I started the Inner Circle to create a supportive space, and you all make it happen. When I see members supporting each other through tough times, it's truly heartening. 

Remember, this space isn't just about receiving support; it's about giving it too. Your contributions matter. Thanks for being part of this journey. Together, we're stronger and capable of healing.  Thank you for being part of the collective energy that uplifts this group.

REMINDERS

To many of you, chronic pain or health issues brought you here. I want to emphasize that none of what I offer—tools, knowledge—will heal you unless you put them into practice. It's not enough to just listen to a workshop or read a new book; true healing requires active participation. Some of you may have attended workshops or sought guidance without seeing immediate results. Here's the truth: healing won't happen until YOU embody the knowledge. You must live it and be it for your body to reflect healing. Don't overlook this! 

It's essential to understand that no amount of knowledge, protocol, or guru guidance will suffice until you become the concept. You have to be the change and become your own healer. I provide you with the tools, but it's up to you to pick them up and use them. Healing is contingent on your willingness to act. This realization is crucial; it's the only path to true healing. YOU CAN HEAL, my friends! ;)

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Life with Kate
123 Clean Road
Bozeman, MT 59715
United States

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