Why Women of Color Carry Stress Differently, According to Therapists

🤍 Hey girlies! This episode explains how body-based healing (like polyvagal theory) can be used in therapy that respects culture and identity. Guests Gina Kiem and Dr. Neela Fur talk about feeling safe in different spaces, code switching, and simple practices that help women of color feel more grounded, connected, and supported.Resources from Dr. Niloufer Merchant -Here are the links to both articles by Elana Curtis and colleagues:2025 article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12063315/2019 article https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12939-019-1082-3Follow Dr. Niloufer: https://www.nmmerchant.com/Follow Gina Kiem: https://ginakiem-goldcounsel.com/Follow Helen on All Socials/Website - https://bio.site/helenbassChapters00:00 Introduction to Polyvagal Theory and Cultural Competence04:34 Personal Experiences with Polyvagal Theory09:51 Cultural Contexts and Personal Backgrounds15:15 Navigating Cultural Practices and Co-Regulation20:39 The Impact of Code Switching and Allostatic Load34:26 Navigating Subtle Cues and Allostatic Load37:45 Cultural Specificity in Therapeutic Practices43:46 Cultural Safety and Power Dynamics50:36 Embodied Practices and Nervous System Awareness59:24 The Intersection of Polyvagal Theory and Cultural Context This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sincerepractice.substack.com