47. QUICK RESET: No, I can't meditate. I'm too busy disassociating.

⚠️ This episode discusses disassociation and trauma responses. Please listen with care and step away if needed🧘‍♀️ Meditation apps promised calm — but for many ADHD mums, stillness doesn’t soothe. It shuts us down.If you’ve ever sat down to meditate and felt panic instead of peace — you’re not broken. You’re not the only one.In this Quick Reset, Jane explores why meditation, yoga, and “just breathe” advice can trigger dissociation instead of relaxation. When stillness feels unsafe, your nervous system isn’t failing — it’s protecting you.This episode unpacks the difference between resistance and survival, why dissociation is often misunderstood, and how ADHD mums can build regulation in ways that actually feel safe.What We Cover in This EpisodeWhy meditation and stillness can trigger dissociation instead of calmDissociation as a neurological survival response, not a mindset issueHow it shows up in kids (zoning out, robot-like compliance, emotional flatness)Why “letting go” feels impossible without safety and scaffoldingPractical alternatives: movement, sensory tools, music, micro-pausesHow to reframe meditation as presence, curiosity, and building tolerance slowlyThis Episode Is For You IfYou’ve ever felt panic, not peace, when trying meditationYou blame yourself for failing at yoga, mindfulness, or “relaxing”You want to understand dissociation as survival, not weaknessYou’re raising a neurodivergent child who zones out or seems “not present” at schoolYou need validating, practical strategies that meet ADHD brains where they areReferences & Resources MentionedThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk — on trauma, the body, and survival states✨ Listen now: “No, I Can’t Meditate. I’m Too Busy Disassociating” — available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and adhdmums.com.au — because calm shouldn’t feel unsafe, and you deserve tools that actually work for your brain.JOIN THE COMMUNITY:Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!FOLLOW FOR MORE:Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTubeLEAVE A REVIEW:Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.COLLABS:For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected] RESOURCES:Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.