Ep. 56 | The Mind-Body Approach to Healing MCAS with Amanda Panacea, LMHC and Holistic Practitioner

March 12, 2025•5 min read

Ep. 56 | The Mind-Body Approach to Healing MCAS with Amanda Panacea, LMHC and Holistic Practitioner

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In a world where chronic illness can feel like a towering obstacle, Amanda Panacea's story offers a beacon of hope. A holistic practitioner and licensed mental health counselor, Amanda has faced and conquered a myriad of health challenges, from mold illness and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) to emotional trauma. Through her personal journey of healing and professional insights, Amanda helps others address the root causes of their health concerns by harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit.

A Journey Through Chronic Illness

Amanda's health challenges began in childhood with allergies, asthma, and eczema. While these conditions were manageable for years, things took a dramatic turn in her early thirties. After experiencing burnout from her work in psychiatric hospitals and making efforts to leave behind her party lifestyle, Amanda contracted hepatitis A, which compromised her liver function for months.

During this vulnerable period, she was exposed to mold, which triggered a cascade of severe symptoms including full-body rashes, worsening asthma, and concerning mental health symptoms. Despite her education in functional medicine and nutrition, Amanda found herself struggling to heal while trying every recommended protocol and supplement.

"I'm in the worst health condition ever. Isn't it crazy how stuff like that happens?" Amanda reflected on the irony of becoming severely ill just as she completed her functional medicine education.

Her condition deteriorated further after a brief course of prednisone led to topical steroid withdrawal syndrome, which left her disabled for nearly a year with symptoms including skin peeling, temperature dysregulation, and extreme physical discomfort.

The Power of Acceptance

Amanda underscores the importance of attitude in healing: embracing medications without resistance and being open to various modalities of healing, be they mainstream or alternative, can significantly influence outcomes. Her experiential wisdom speaks to the need for informed decisions and the power of mindset in navigating chronic conditions.

The Turning Point

The breakthrough in Amanda's healing came when she reached what she describes as her "rock bottom" moment - when the pain of staying the same became worse than the pain of changing her approach. She began to focus less on finding external solutions and more on nervous system regulation and addressing deeper trauma.

"I thought I was okay. But really I was in this functionally frozen state where I never really processed anything," Amanda shared.

Rewiring the Approach to Healing

Amanda’s broad expertise rooted in mental health counseling and functional medicine led her to explore the mind-body connection. She shifted her focus from external solutions to the internal world of feelings and self-regulation. In letting go of the relentless pursuit of a cure, Amanda discovered the importance of nervous system regulation and trauma work. She immersed herself in nervous system healing, encompassing practices like somatic experiencing and EMDR, ultimately finding a path to peace and healing that focused on emotional well-being.

Through her professional practice, Amanda has come to understand the intricate layers underpinning chronic conditions like MCAS and mold illness. She emphasizes that pervasive systemic stress and stored trauma often exacerbate such conditions. Her six-layer model of MCAS reflects a multi-dimensional view that incorporates toxicity, chronic infections, and the vital role of self-awareness and emotional health.

Amanda advocates starting with simple yet profound practices such as somatic exercises, which ground individuals in the present and enhance the safety felt within their bodies. By tuning into physical sensations without judgment, people can cultivate a sense of security and presence that forms the bedrock for deeper healing work.

Equipping for a New Chapter

Amanda’s teachings provide invaluable insights for those feeling overwhelmed by their health challenges. She demonstrates the potential for significant change through consistent, mindful practices that align with deeper values and desires for wellness. Her story is one of resilience, encouraging readers to believe in their capacity to transform.

For anyone interested in diving deeper into Amanda’s transformative techniques and learning more about how to harmonize their emotional and physical health, visit her website (http://www.thehealerrevolution.com) and explore her offerings. Amanda's trajectory from illness to wellness is a vivid testament to the power of integrating scientific inquiry, emotional intelligence, and holistic practices for true healing.

Don't miss future insights and stories like this on the "What the Gut" podcast. For further details on holistic wellness and personalized advice, visit Allison's website at allisonandwellness.com, and join her community on Instagram (@allisongetswell). Let's continue to support one another on our journeys towards holistic health and vibrant living.

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WELCOME TO WHAT THE GUT

Are you a busy mom seeking balance and wellness? Join me on this journey towards vitality and holistic health. I understand the challenges of juggling endless tasks while striving for a healthier life.

In this podcast, we dive into the nitty-gritty of everyday struggles. From battling fatigue to navigating gut health, I'm here to offer holistic solutions. Say farewell to feeling overwhelmed and let's bring in that vibrant life you've been craving.

I'm Allison, a Holistic Health and Wellness Coach. I've been right where you are, facing the same hurdles. Through faith and functional medicine, I reclaimed my gut health, energy, and well-being. Now, I'm on a mission to help other moms break free from exhaustion and prioritize their health.

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Allison Smith

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