Functional Freeze 101: Somatic Plunge with Isabel Taylor

Listen to this episode from Thought To Thing on Spotify. So many of us live in functional freeze without even realizing it — stuck between “go, go, go” and total shutdown. Outwardly, we look like we’re functioning fine. Inside, we feel numb, resistant, disconnected, and unable to truly rest or create.In this deeply grounding conversation, I am joined once again by my beloved sister and somatic therapist, Isabel Taylor, to unpack what functional freeze actually is, why society depends on it, and how you can begin to notice its signs in your own life.Together, we explore:🧊 What “functional freeze” looks and feels like day-to-day🧊  The nervous system mechanics behind it (sympathetic + parasympathetic blending)🧊  Why rest often feels unsafe — and how to prepare your body for it🧊 The difference between capacity vs. “regulation” (and why capacity is the key)🧊 How capitalism keeps us outsourcing dopamine instead of resourcing oxytocin🧊 Practical ways to support yourself when you notice freeze tendencies: gentle movement, orienting, breath, social connection, and more🧊 Why expanding capacity (not eliminating stress) is what allows you to hold more of the life you desireThis episode will give you the language and tools to recognize functional freeze in yourself, understand it with compassion, and take small, powerful steps toward building safety and capacity.Join us for A State To Create!Our 7-week program blending somatic practice and business mentorship is back for round 5! Learn to expand your capacity, dissolve shame, and create from a grounded, regulated state. Join the next round here!