Episode 9: Scars, Somatic Time & the Language of the Body with Dr. Ellen Heed

In this episode, Anna Gouin and Ellen Heed dive into the hidden stories held within scars — physical, emotional, and relational — and what they reveal about our capacity to heal. Together they explore the role of somatic awareness, the nervous system, and why women's health requires a more holistic lens than the medical system often provides. Ellen shares her path into pelvic care, shining light on the blind spots in how we treat women's bodies. This conversation highlights the power of being witnessed, the necessity of naming fear, and the transformative potential of honoring "somatic time" in the healing process. Connect with Dr. Ellen Heed: Facebbook Instagram: @ellenheed Website: https://www.scartissueremediation.com/ Explore Ellen's Prolapse Course & other resources on her website: https://ellenheed.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 02:05 Understanding Scar Tissue: Layers and Implications 06:03 The Power of Witnessing in Healing 09:59 The Emotional and Existential Aspects of Scars 13:46 Ellen's Journey into Pelvic Care 17:43 Scope of Practice in Sexological Bodywork 21:37 Women's Health and Medical System Gaps 25:43 The Impact of Surgery on Women's Bodies 29:39 Nervous System States and Somatic Time 33:39 The Role of the Vagus Nerve in Healing 37:36 The Importance of Acknowledging Fear 41:31 Somatic Time and Group Dynamics 45:29 Birth Trauma and Trust in the Body 49:39 The Cartesian Divide and Healing 53:29 Conclusion and ProLabs Masterclass Introduction