Finding Peace with Food: Trauma, Attachment, & Emotional Eating

— Welcome to A quest Of Well-Being podcast where we explore the intricate connections between our minds, bodies, and the food we eat. In today's episode, we're diving into the transformative insights from Galina Denzel's powerful book, Peace with Self, Peace with Food: A Trauma Healing Approach for Emotional Eating. If you've ever found yourself reaching for food during moments of stress or emotional turmoil, you're not alone. Emotional eating is a common struggle for many, often stemming from unresolved traumas. That's why we're here to discuss how identifying these patterns is the first step toward healing. Galina Denzel emphasizes the importance of self-compassion on our journey to overcoming emotional eating. She guides us through mindfulness practices to help recognize our triggers and cultivate a more conscious relationship with food. We'll also explore practical trauma healing techniques that Denzel presents, aimed at fostering a supportive environment for personal growth. With the right tools and awareness, we can create lasting change and find peace within ourselves—both mentally and physically. So grab your favorite cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we unpack the wisdom of Peace with Self, Peace with Food and discover how to nourish our bodies and souls. Valeria interviews Galina Denzel — She is the author of  "Peace with Self, Peace with Food: A Trauma Healing Approach for Emotional Eating." Galina is also the creator of the Peace with Food Transformation Group method, an intensive small group program that helps people resolve emotional eating by working directly with the body and the nervous system imprints from the past.  For 25 years, Galina battled her own complex relationship with food, trying every diet, nutrition plan, and therapeutic approach available - nothing worked. It wasn't until her training as a somatic practitioner working with trauma that she experienced an unexpected shift. Through learning to care for her nervous system, her decades-long food struggles dissolved. This led her to create a method that addresses the neurobiological roots of emotional eating rather than just the behaviors on the surface.  As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), NeuroAffective Relational Model Practitioner (NARM-P), and Somatic Practice Practitioner, Galina combines somatic exploration, movement, breath, art, and the power of human connection to help people come home to themselves.  Based in Colorado, Galina teaches workshops, leads small transformation groups and retreats, and has worked with thousands of students worldwide. Her approach is grounded in compassion, neuroscience, and the deep belief that our bodies already know how to heal - they just need the right support. To learn more about Galina Denzel and her work, please visit: https://purebelonging.com/

— The richest aspects of the journey aren't the big spiritual experiences. They're where the mystery meets each moment of our daily lives. Experiencing deep healing and insight there doesn't require practicing harder or longer. It just requires that we prioritize presence. Our practice comes alive when we prioritize presence above the deeply ingrained urges to self-protect. As each fear challenges us, we reassure ourselves that even if (or when) it came to pass, it could never take our connection to life itself. We will always have a home in awareness. No one and nothing can take that truth. In this way, we can grieve our worst-case scenarios now. We can soothe our gravest insecurities. And then live the day we already had planned to live—or the one we dream of—but from this fearless and connected place. Valeria interviews Justin Michelson — He is the author of  "Path to Peace: Healing from Stress, Pain, and Trauma." Justin Michelson is a meditation teacher, author, and wilderness guide. Through his root teacher Rodney Smith, and Rodney's teacher Ajahn Buddhadasa, Justin carries on the lineage of the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism. His unique style blends nature-based practice, emotional healing, and traditional Dharma teachings. He currently lives with his partner outside of Eugene, Oregon in a rural intentional community where, in addition to teaching and writing, he owns and operates Native Foods Nursery, a native edible plant nursery.  To learn more about Justin Michelson and his work, please visit: https://www.justinmichelsondharma.com/

— This episode explores the transformative journey of embodiment and nondual realization. These practices, when integrated into daily life, foster a deeper sense of wholeness and oneness. The journey is continuous, with senses becoming more refined, love and compassion more accessible, and the body finding greater balance and relaxation. Challenges like pain and emotional turbulence are natural, but resilience grows, enabling a return to comfort and safety. Embodiment is a gradual process, requiring consistent, mindful practice. This personal journey involves exploring inner depths and attuning to the surrounding world. It emphasizes that each individual is their own teacher, encouraged to approach the process with gentleness, patience, and love. Valeria interviews Judith Blackstone, PhD  — She is the is the founder of the Realization Process, a method of embodied psychological and relational healing and nondual spiritual awakening.  Judith teaches workshops and teacher certification trainings world-wide and online.  She was a psychotherapist in private practice for thirty-five years and before that, a professional dancer.  The Realization Process includes practices for stabilizing in nondual realization, as well as a method of recovering from trauma called Healing Ground, and a method of embodied movement called Stillness Moving.  She is the author of several books, including Trauma and the Unbound Body: the Healing Power of Fundamental Consciousness, The Fullness of the Ground: A Guide to Embodied Spiritual Awakening; The Enlightenment Process, and Belonging Here: a Guide for the Spiritually Sensitive Person.  Her latest book is The Embodiment Workbook for Women: Feel Centered, Grounded and More Fully Alive. To learn more about and her work, please visit: https://realizationprocess.org/

— The deep emotional pain you carry seeps into every part of life - waves of intense sadness, anxiety, or sudden anger that leave you drained. Thoughts spin endlessly, relationships grow tense, and exhaustion becomes constant. At times, you no longer recognize yourself, as though something unseen is shaping your feelings. It feels like you're losing control of your own life, and no one truly understands the depth of your suffering. For others, the pain is in watching a loved one change before their eyes. A partner, child, or parent becomes withdrawn, irritable, or almost unrecognizable, and nothing explains the sudden shift. When distress lingers without reason and nothing seems to help, the true cause may be something rarely discussed: spirit attachment—also known as spirit possession. This subtle influence can affect anyone, quietly disrupting emotional balance, physical well-being, and inner peace. Since 1968, the Dr. Wanda Pratnicka Center has quietly helped over 10,000 people worldwide find freedom from these unexplained symptoms. With formal education and five decades of experience, we understand what you're going through—and we know how to help. Our findings are documented in five books, including Possessed by Ghosts, translated into nine languages.  But what matters most is this: this suffering is real, and healing is possible. Valeria interviews Mike Pratnicka— He is the co-founder of The Dr. Wanda Pratnicka Center.  Mike gained a tremendous amount of spiritual insight about spirit attachment removal under Wanda's mentorship. Today, he performs the removals using Wanda's method. Thanks to Michael's ability to speak English and German, he handles all media inquiries, lectures and events in English & German languages. Wanda Pratnicka, PhD. - internationally recognized leader in esoteric science and a leading voice in spirit attachment phenomenon. She dealt with tens of thousands of people around the world who have suffered from emotional/mental disturbances and physical illnesses that were considered to be incurable. Wanda's unique ability is that she is able to diagnose and remove spirit entities, aka ghosts, from people remotely; no matter where a person is located. Wanda is also the author of the book series In the Wheel of Life Volumes 1-3. Her most recent book is Know the Truth and Be Free. To learn more about Wanda Pratnicka and her work, please visit: https://www.wandapratnicka.com/ 

— In the hustle and bustle of modern life, woman often find themselves disconnected from our true selves, entangled in the web of endless responsibilities and relentless stimuli. Yet, deep within, there is a yearning to return to Self, to a state of being where we are grounded and whole. This is an invitation to step back from the chaos and create a moment of stillness—a sanctuary where you can breathe deeply and feel your body's gentle rhythms. It's a call to journey inward, to the sacred center where your innate wisdom resides, and your soul's deepest memories and truths are kept. This space is always within reach, waiting patiently for you to remember and embrace it. Morrighan beautifully guides us to the golden gate of true being where you nurture yourself, honor your inner voice, and reconnect with the essence of who you truly are. Valeria interviews Morrighan Lynne  — She is a trauma-informed coach, intuitive guide, author, speaker, and spiritual mentor with nearly two decades of experience helping people navigate life's challenges with clarity and confidence. She is the author of The Spirited Human – Proactive Tools for a Reactive World and creator of her debut oracle deck, The Sovereign Path. Over the past 19 years, Morrighan has worked with clients around the world, appeared on dozens of radio and podcast interviews, and collaborated on multiple television projects. Known for her down-to-earth approach, she blends practical insight with compassionate storytelling, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for audiences of all backgrounds. Whether she's talking about personal growth, resilience, or reclaiming one's voice, Morrighan brings humor, heart, and a refreshing perspective to every conversation—leaving listeners feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to take their next step. To learn more about Morrighan Lynne and her work, please visit: https://www.morrighanlynne.com/

— Creative thinking enhances problem-finding, problem-solving, flexibility of thought, and the ability to see challenges from different perspectives. It also enhances emotional intelligence, and engaging in creative activities correlates with increased happiness. An all-around win-win! The power of this tool, for both coach and client, lies in its use of both deductive and intuitive thinking. By integrating creative techniques into your practice and thinking, you can offer clients not only improved outcomes but also a deeply engaging coaching experience conducive to powerful and efficient transformation. In other words, a different way to view your and their world. Dr. André invites you to explore with him the incredible benefits and the true origins of creative thinking, a core human drive! Valeria interviews Dr. André Walton  — He is a social psychologist, international best-selling author, and keynote speaker known for his groundbreaking work on creativity, burnout, and innovation.  Creator of the Banish Burnout™ framework and Spherical Thinking™, he helps individuals and organizations rewire stress into resilience and creative flow. A Visiting Professor at Newport Business School, Dr. Walton has delivered programs for The Smithsonian, Virgin Group, and NASA. With two decades of research and entrepreneurial experience, he inspires audiences to embrace intuitive creativity, strengthen emotional intelligence, and unlock human potential. To learn more about Dr. André Walton and his work, please visit: https://www.hiredrandre.com/

— Wellness is an embodied, ongoing practice that integrates body, mind, and habits. Recovery and growth arise from personalized, compassionate support, evidence-informed tools, and sustainable daily practices rather than one-size-fits-all solutions. Meaningful change is co-created: clients bring lived experience and goals; practitioners offer guidance, skill-building, and accountability. Reducing harm (including alcohol use), restoring balance, and cultivating resilience are interconnected aims best served by holistic interventions that honor individual values, foster agency, and prioritize long-term wellbeing over quick fixes. Learning, reflection, and incremental action transform survival into thriving. Valeria interviews Emma Gardner  — She is a UK-based solopreneur and recovery catalyst, helping individuals reclaim well-being through evidence-based coaching, practical nervous-system tools, and transformative programs. As founder of Evolve Recovery, Emma builds accessible resources—cards, journals, books, and courses—that support sustainable, compassionate change. With a background in addiction recovery, forensic science, and criminal justice, Emma blends science, lived experience, and practical strategies to guide listeners toward resilience. The work spans podcasting, course creation, and coaching, with a focus on trauma-informed, human-centered approaches that empower individuals and communities. Notable achievements include the development of the Recovery Box and a silver award for Best Product at the Mental Health Awards, reflecting a commitment to quality, impact, and accessibility. Emma hosts The Healing Odyssey podcast, featuring expert guests and real-world insights on recovery, mindfulness, and personal growth.  Emma has released her first book 'Life Re-imagined: A practical guide to recovery & growth'  and soon to release her new book, showing the different therapies and personal stories out in the world for people to discover, as 'AA is not the only way'. To learn more about Emma Gardner and her work, please visit: http://www.evolve-recovery.co.uk

— Music is a remedy of the soul, a bridge between cultures, languages, and a range of emotions. Music Therapy is a clinical and evidenced-based healthcare profession that combines the power of music with skilled therapeutic interventions to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. The expressive nature of music can bring self-awareness and insight to individuals who desire increased wellness in their lives, and can be a powerful mode of therapy for anyone interested in exploring their inner world through music. Valeria interviews Alon Yizhak  — He is a PLPC clinical counselor and a Board Certified Music Therapist MT-BC based in New Orleans, LA grounded in mindfulness, present based approaches & wisdom traditions. Alon holds a bachelor degree in Psychology from the Open University in Tel-Aviv (2008), associates degree in Music and Movement Therapy from Levinsky College of Music & Education (2012), and MA in Mindfulness Transpersonal Based Clinical Counseling from Naropa university in Boulder, CO (2025). Alon has served as student supervisor and adjunct professor teaching music therapy at Loyola University in New Orleans (2022-2024). His professional and personal focus is to enable space for growth, healing and expansion of awareness through present based approaches, creativity and genuine self-expression. Alon has worked with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, substance use and life transitions.In his sessions Alon holds an integrative approach that supports people through present-based and mindfulness practices, music therapy, trauma-informed lens as well as enabling space to re-connect with inner wisdom & resourcing. To learn more about Alon Yizhak and his work, please visit: https://www.alonmusictherapy.com/

— What if reality isn't material at all—but a shared dream, woven by infinite, eternal minds? In James book, The Dream of Matter, he explores the radical idea that our brains are not just organs of survival, but reflections of the soul's deeper activity. If that's true, then the existence of the soul is not only real, but measurable—visible in the patterns of thought, the rhythms of brainwaves, and the coherence or incoherence of our lives. This is more than spiritual speculation. By decoding the mathematics behind mind and matter, the book offers a structured, rational approach to consciousness—showing how personal growth, mental health, and even the future of civilization depends on the same principle: the evolution of mind toward coherence. Mental health, in this light, is not a private luxury but social infrastructure. When minds fracture, families, institutions, and nations fracture with them.  Drawing on neuroscience, ontological mathematics, and systems theory, The Dream of Matter reveals how the soul can be approached as rigorously as any science—and why recovering it is essential for both individual well-being and collective survival. From the intimate journey of self-actualization to the emergence of a new social logic, this is a vision of coherence as both healing practice and civilizational compass.  Valeria interviews James Croall — He is the author of  "The Dream Of Matter: Neuroscience And Decoding The Mathematics Of The Soul." James is a former Silicon Valley cybersecurity leader turned neurotherapy practitioner and the author of the upcoming book The Dream of Matter: Neuroscience and Decoding the Mathematics of the Soul. After years of grappling with attention issues, burnout, and daytime fatigue, James discovered neurotherapy—an experience that profoundly reshaped his brain, his performance, and ultimately, his path. He now specializes in quantitative EEG (QEEG brain mapping), neurostimulation, and applied neurofeedback training. James holds certification as a QEEG technician and is trained in neurofeedback approaches that help clients build healthier brain patterns over time. Drawing from both systems engineering and cutting-edge neuroscience, he helps people manage and overcome symptoms related to focus, stress, mood, and trauma—without relying on medication or traditional talk therapy. His mission is to raise awareness of these science-backed tools, which remain surprisingly unknown to the general public despite their potential to change lives. The Dream of Matter grew out of a convergence between James's technical background, his transformation through neurotherapy, and a lifelong spiritual search for meaning and coherence. The book explores the deep structure of consciousness—arguing that the soul is real, governed by the same elegant mathematics that underlies the physical world, and may even be measurable. To learn more about James Croall and his work, please visit: https://thedreamofmatter.com/ and https://peakmind.health/

— What if the greatest challenges in life were actually opportunities for profound spiritual growth? Many of us are navigating a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, searching for our true purpose and a sense of inner peace. In this episode, Bernice Cruz, a spiritual mentor and teacher who has walked that path herself, shares her incredible journey of healing and transformation, offering guidance and inspiration for remembering who you are and living in alignment with your soul's calling. Valeria interviews Bernice Cruz  — She is a multi-dimensional holistic mentor and practitioner dedicated to guiding individuals on transformative journeys of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening. With a deep commitment to helping others reconnect with their higher consciousness and the wisdom of the heart, Bernice empowers clients to access greater clarity, purpose, and inner alignment. Her integrative approach blends intuitive insight with grounded mentorship, creating a safe and expansive space for personal evolution. To learn more about Bernice Cruz and her work, please visit: https://www.spiritualjourneyhealing.com/