Defining the inner child and its signals

If you’ve ever said, “I know my patterns — so why can’t I change them?” the answer may not be in your mind, but in your body. On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I sit down with Dr. Nicole LePera, The Holistic Psychologist, to explore how early experiences become your body’s default state—shaping your stress response, your relationships, and your risk for chronic disease. Watch the full conversation on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. In this conversation, you’ll learn: • How to recognize when your body is stuck in stress — even if your mind says you’re “fine” • Why people-pleasing, overworking, or shutting down can become your default response • What simple daily practices can calm your nervous system and support long-term health • How creating safety in your body improves sleep, energy, and stress recovery When you create safety in your body, you don’t just change your mood. You change your biology, your relationships, and your capacity to heal. Resources mentioned in this episode: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire

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(0:00) Introduction and personal experiences with anxiety

(0:23) Nicole LePera's background and the holistic psychology approach

(1:10) Tools for nervous system regulation

(3:19) Hyman's profound experience with Ibogaine and reparenting the inner child

(6:33) LePera's journey and mind-body connection insights

(9:32) Impact of childhood environments and ACES

(13:20) Attachment disruption, generational trauma, and epigenetics

(18:42) Understanding the inner child and adult behavior

(22:13) Emotional regulation, parental modeling, and the role of shame

(25:36) Reparenting, nervous system practices, and societal influences

(29:21) Reframing mental health and attachment frameworks

(37:38) The five developmental spheres

(40:21) Creating safety and security in the body

(43:48) Somatic therapy and stress management

(50:00) Progress in habit formation and reconnecting with the authentic self

(54:31) Purpose, fulfillment, and relational neuroplasticity

(59:09) Dr. Nicole LePera's resources