In this insightful episode, Béa joins the show to discuss her journey from primary care and functional medicine to focusing on the psychology and nervous system aspects of health. The conversation explores the deep connections between mind, body, trauma, and the development of codependency, perfectionism, and people-pleasing habits.

Beatriz (Béa) Victoria Albina, NP, MPH, SEP (she/her) is a UCSF-trained Family Nurse Practitioner, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Master Certified Somatic Life Coach, author of the forthcoming "End Emotional Outsourcing: a Guide to Overcoming Codependent, Perfectionist and People Pleasing Habits" (expected Sept 30, Hachette Balance) and Breathwork Meditation Guide with a passion for helping humans socialized as women to reconnect with their bodies, regulate their nervous systems and rewire their minds, so they can break free from codependency, perfectionism and people pleasing and reclaim their joy.

She is the host of the Feminist Wellness Podcast, holds a Masters degree in Public Health from Boston University School of Public Health and a BA in Latin American Studies from Oberlin College. Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, Béa grew up in the great state of Rhode Island. She has been working in health & wellness for over 20 years and lives with her wife, Billey Albina.

Key Topics Discussed

Béa’s Career Journey
  • Transition from primary care provider and functional medicine to focusing on psychosomatic symptoms and trauma.
  • The importance of evidence-based functional medicine and the limitations of lab-based approaches.
Understanding Somatics and the Nervous System
  • Definition of “somatic” and the significance of somatic practices in reconnecting with the body.
  • The current popularity (and pitfalls) of somatic concepts on social media.
The Mind-Body Connection
  • How psychological factors manifest as physical symptoms (e.g., IBS, fatigue, mood imbalances).
  • The importance of listening to the body’s subtle signals before they become overwhelming symptoms.
Emotional Outsourcing: Codependency, Perfectionism, and People-Pleasing
  • Introduction of the term “emotional outsourcing” as an umbrella for codependent, perfectionist, and people-pleasing habits.
  • Signs and examples of emotional outsourcing in relationships and the workplace.
  • The roots of these patterns in childhood attachment and survival strategies.
Attachment Theory Explained
  • Overview of secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles.
  • How early attachment experiences shape adult relationships and emotional patterns.
The Role of Society and Culture  
  • Impact of patriarchy, capitalism, and societal messaging on self-worth and emotional habits.
  • The influence of diet culture and social media on body image and self-perception.

Strategies for Supporting Body Image

Cultivate Embodied Awareness

  • Practice tuning into physical sensations and experiences through mindful breathing, body scans, and progressive muscle relaxation.
  • Embodied awareness helps individuals reconnect with their bodies, understand emotional patterns, and reduce self-criticism.
Movement as Expression
  • Engage in intentional movement practices such as yoga, dance, tai chi, or simple stretching.
  • Movement therapies provide a safe space to process emotions, build confidence, and foster a positive relationship with the body.
Grounding Techniques
  • Use grounding exercises to anchor yourself in the present moment and interrupt negative self-talk.
  • Focus on senses and surroundings to create stability and reduce harmful thought patterns about your body.
Embodied Self-Compassion
  • Practice self-compassion by accepting and valuing your body, being kind to yourself, and setting boundaries with negative influences.
  • Use gentle touch, self-massage, or self-care activities to nurture a compassionate relationship with your body.
Body Positivity Affirmations
  • Integrate body-positive affirmations into your daily routine to challenge and reframe negative self-perceptions.
  • Speaking kindly to yourself and challenging destructive beliefs can gradually shift your internal narrative.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
  • 00:20 Journey into Functional Medicine
  • 02:17 Understanding Somatic Symptoms
  • 04:25 The Role of Emotions in Physical Health
  • 08:15 Transition to Coaching and Private Practice
  • 10:00 Exploring Codependency and Emotional Outsourcing
  • 17:04 Attachment Theory and Relationships
  • 21:14 Understanding Secure vs. Insecure Attachment
  • 21:31 Anxious Attachment and Its Effects
  • 22:33 Avoidant Attachment Explained
  • 24:00 Disorganized Attachment: A Complex Dynamic
  • 24:28 The Impact of Attachment Styles on Self-Perception
  • 25:49 The Role of the Nervous System in Emotional Health
  • 26:25 The Importance of Self-Referencing and Somatic Practices
  • 29:18 Combating Toxic Diet Culture and Body Image Issues
  • 31:34 The Power of Self-Awareness and Compassion
  • 35:21 Promoting Authenticity and Presence in Life
  • 37:36 Conclusion and Upcoming Book Release

CONNECT WITH Béa:

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Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

This podcast is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is given with the understanding that neither the host, the publisher, nor the guests are rendering legal, clinical, or other professional information. If you want or need a professional, you should find one to work with who can address your individual needs and situation.