Wendy Lessard, LMT

09/12/2025

Isn’t this something.

In the prefrontal cortex and linked to the amygdala, we have a circuit that essentially manages our emotional resilience. Each time we face a challenge and push through it, the circuit grows stronger. In other words, the brain learns to bounce back more efficiently with practice, much like how a muscle develops the more you use it. The challenge is, this circuit can get easily overused and burned out when we are in chronic stress environments or don't heal from prior traumas.

Neuroplasticity helps to shape this circuit by reinforcing the idea that when there is healthy stress on the system, there is recovery, resolve, and strengthening. We want this circuit to be challenged. This is the importance of trying new or challenging things, and not trying to raise our children in a way where they have no adversity at all. These challenges are helpful with the right support and right resolve.

Interestingly, practices like problem-solving, mindfulness, or gradually taking on small challenges can actually rewire the brain to recover faster if you find yourself in a position where you have a tough time recovering from certain setbacks.

It's also important to note there is another layer here of prior traumas. Some setbacks may be a lot harder than others if they are touching on deeper wounds from our past.

09/10/2025

Your Body Remembers What Your Childhood Nervous System Felt

Researchers revealed a fascinating connection between our childhood experiences and our adult bodies. A new study shows that the patterns and signals formed by the nervous system in early life leave lasting imprints that continue to influence the way our bodies function decades later. These neural “memories” are not just in the brain—they are embedded in muscles, organs, and even immune responses, silently carrying the story of our earliest experiences.

The implications are profound. Childhood stress, trauma, or even nurturing environments can shape how we respond to stress, regulate emotions, and maintain physical health as adults. For instance, early exposure to chronic stress may affect heart rate, digestion, and immune resilience long after the triggering events have passed. Conversely, positive childhood experiences can strengthen neural pathways that support emotional stability, learning, and overall wellbeing.

This research challenges the long-held assumption that our adult bodies are entirely separate from our early experiences. Instead, it highlights a deeply interconnected system where mind and body continuously communicate, reminding us that healing and personal growth may involve more than just addressing the present, it may require understanding and nurturing the echoes of our past.

By recognising that our bodies carry the story of our childhood nervous system, we gain new tools for health, self-awareness, and emotional resilience. Every ache, tension, or reaction may hold a clue about the life we lived and the ways we can shape a healthier future.

09/06/2025

Always good to have some extra tools in our toolbox.

In a slump and want to turn your day around? Try these science-backed techniques to help improve your mood in a matter of minutes.

They can help you feel energized when you feel sluggish, calm when you feel stressed or connected if you feel lonely. No special tools or materials required (unless you want to jump in the ice bath!): https://n.pr/4ggqV6E

08/12/2025

08/09/2025

What a wonderful reminder.

Every time you choose your health over social pressure, you’re literally rewiring your brain for success.

Love this quote by ! “Let’s stop shaming people for prioritizing their health, peace, or personal goals.”

Quality sleep is when your brain consolidates memories and clears cellular waste through the glymphatic system. Regular exercise increases production of BDNF, a growth factor that supports brain cell health and neuroplasticity. Limiting alcohol improves sleep architecture and REM cycles.

These aren’t boring choices. They’re evidence-based decisions that support cognitive function, emotional regulation, and metabolic health.

Sometimes the most radical thing you can do is simply take care of yourself.

08/07/2025

Lovely reminder. Tip:be super gentle with shoulder pressure/stretch so you can hang out safely for your joints.

07/23/2025

The City of Ellsworth Public Works Department announced today that a section of Christian Ridge Road will experience a lane closure from Monday, July 28, through Wednesday, July 30, 2025. This closure is necessary to facilitate essential ditching and culvert replacement work. The affected area ....R...

06/13/2025

Find a new path:

06/08/2025

So powerful.

Remember this 👆🏼

When you say no to alcohol, processed food, or staying out late, you’re not being restrictive, you’re being strategic. You’re choosing energy over exhaustion, clarity over brain fog, and emotional balance over daily chaos.

Your body is hardwired for vitality.

When you support your mitochondria with the right nutrients, stabilize your blood sugar with real food, and reset your circadian rhythm by prioritizing sleep, everything changes. Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine begin to normalize, inflammation cools, cortisol steadies, and your brain starts working the way it was meant to.

You don’t need another crash diet or a quick fix. You need to stop chasing stimulation and start building resilience. And that begins with the choices you make today.

Saying no to what drains you is saying yes to the version of you that’s sharp, energized, emotionally grounded, and deeply well.

That’s not boring. That’s biology done right.

06/07/2025

Curious why I’m an advocate for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night?

Here’s what your brain does during deep sleep:

💤 Clears out waste and metabolic toxins

💤 Consolidates memories and supports learning

💤 Balances key neurotransmitters and hormones

💤 Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress

05/21/2025

Great little hack! I’ve been using it and it really helps. ✨

05/18/2025

For my IT Band peeps. Do not force this to your end range.