In this episode, Sam sits down with occupational therapist Stephanie Ford to explore how understanding our unique processing styles can transform the way we navigate daily life. Stephanie breaks down the intricate connections between sensory processing, emotional awareness, and nervous system responses, and why behavior is never just one thing.

Key Topics Covered:

• How occupational therapy's whole-person approach reveals the "why" behind behaviors
• The critical connection between sensory processing and emotional regulation
• Understanding all four nervous system responses: fight, flight, freeze, AND fawn
• Why the fawn response is particularly common in people who mask (especially women with ADHD/autism)
• How our tolerance levels shift based on sleep, nutrition, stress, and daily experiences
• Practical regulation strategies that actually work in real-world situations
• The power of habit stacking and external prompts for remembering coping tools
• Why asking "why?" with compassion changes everything

Connect with Stephanie Ford:

• Website: Action Forward
• Facebook: @stephanieford.actionforward
• Instagram: @stephanieford_actionforward

Connect with Sam:

• Work with a neuro-affirming dietitian on the Unmasked Nutrition team!
• Website: www.unmasked-nutrition.com
• Instagram: @sammib.nutrition

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for nutrition counseling/medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian or any other medical services provided by any other medical provider.