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A Brain-Based Approach to ADHD

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 21:47:46 GMT

Supporting the Brain Beyond Behavior

ADHD is more than an attention problem. It is a disconnect in whole-brain conversations involving executive function, movement, sensory processing, the gut, inflammation, lifestyle, and the environment around a developing child.

When we think about ADHD, the conversation often starts with behavior. Why can't they sit still? Why aren't they listening? Why do they interrupt? Why does homework take two hours? Why can they focus intensely on a video game but struggle to stay with a worksheet for five minutes? But ADHD is not simply a child choosing not to pay attention.

It is a neurodevelopmental condition involving differences in the way multiple brain networks communicate, regulate attention, control impulses, process sensory information, and decide what information deserves priority. Brain-imaging research has identified differences across frontal and frontoparietal networks, the basal ganglia, insula, cingulate cortex and other regions involved in executive function and attention.That changes the question. Instead of only asking, "How do we control this behavior?" we can also ask: "How do we create an environment that helps this brain regulate, organize and function more effectively?"

The Prefrontal Cortex: The Brain's Filter

One of the most important regions to understand in ADHD is the prefrontal cortex.The frontal networks help us pause before acting, maintain attention, organize behavior, hold information in working memory, regulate emotions and suppress responses that are not appropriate for the situation. They also help the brain decide what not to pay attention to. Imagine sitting in a classroom while your teacher is talking. The air conditioner is humming. Someone behind you is tapping a pencil. A truck drives past the window. Your shirt tag is irritating your neck. Another student drops a book. A well-regulated executive system helps suppress most of those irrelevant signals so the teacher's voice stays at the center of attention. However, In ADHD, inhibitory control and the interaction among attentional networks can be way less efficient. Research has repeatedly found difficulties with response inhibition, working memory, vigilance and executive control, while studies of irrelevant-stimulus processing suggest that altered interactions between executive, salience and attentional networks may contribute to distractibility. So one goal of a brain-based approach is to create conditions that support better frontal regulation and better filtering of irrelevant information.

ADHD Is More Than a Dopamine Problem

Dopamine and norepinephrine are undeniably important in ADHD. That is one reason stimulant medications can be very effective for many children. But the biology surrounding ADHD is broader than one neurotransmitter. Researchers are also investigating sleep, stress physiology, motor development, sensory processing, immune signaling, nutrition, environmental exposures and the gut microbiome. One developing area of research is revolved around neuroinflammation or inflammation in the brain .

Inflammatory and immune differences have been identified in portions of the ADHD literature, which makes sense as an inflamed brain is not able to produce energy as efficiently. And if the brain does not have adequate energy, these networks cannot function optimally in order to focus properly on a task or inhibit irrelevant distractions. Sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress, environment and inflammation may modify how genetic vulnerabilities are expressed as well. That's why two children with the exact same diagnosis can look completely different. Excess dopaminergic activities are the absolute worst for these kiddos since it can disrupt reward circuitry in the brain and become a vicious cycle. Think high sugar foods and loads of screen time. Lastly, lower levels of norepinephrine can impair arousal and focus but instead of just supplying amphetamines which are a band-aid solution at best, we need to address underlying nutritional deficiencies and ask why there are imbalances in certain neurotransmitters in the first place.

The Gut-Brain Connection Matters

The digestive tract and brain constantly communicate through what is known as the gut-brain axis . Gut microbes produce metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, interact with immune cells, influence intestinal barrier function and communicate indirectly with the nervous system through endocrine, metabolic, immune and neural pathways. Recent reviews have found differences in gut microbial composition in people with ADHD, although researchers are still determining which differences are meaningful and whether they contribute to ADHD, result from lifestyle differences associated with ADHD, or both. This does not mean that "fixing the gut necessarily cures ADHD," but supporting gastrointestinal and metabolic health may be one useful part of supporting the whole child.

Start by Removing Some of the Noise

For many families, one of the simplest places to begin is reducing foods that offer a tremendous amount of stimulation with very little nutritional value. That means decreasing added sugars, sugar-sweetened beverages, synthetic dyes and heavily ultra-processed foods while increasing real, nutrient-dense foods. The relationship between sugar and ADHD is more nuanced than the idea that "sugar causes hyperactivity." Sugar has not been established as a direct cause of ADHD. However, recent systematic reviews have found associations between high intakes of added sugars, refined carbohydrates and sugar-sweetened beverages and greater ADHD symptom burden. Artificial food colors are another interesting area as controlled research suggests that a subset of children may demonstrate behavioral improvements when certain synthetic colors are removed.

For parents, the takeaway is not to fear food, it is to simplify it .

Build meals around quality protein, colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and fiber-rich whole-food carbohydrates. Eggs, meat, fish, berries, avocado, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and other minimally processed foods provide raw materials needed for normal brain development.

Stable meals containing protein + healthy fat + fiber can also produce a very different metabolic environment than beginning the morning with juice, cereal and a pastry.

Nutrition Should Support the Brain, Not Become Another Supplement Drawer

Several nutrients are important for nervous-system function, including iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, choline and omega-3 fatty acids, but more supplements are not automatically better.A recent systematic review of pediatric ADHD treatments found that nutritional interventions showed some overall benefit, but results were highly variable and no individual supplement consistently improved ADHD outcomes across studies. That is why I prefer a food-first, deficiency-second strategy. Improve dietary quality first. Then, when clinically appropriate, assess whether deficiencies, restricted eating, gastrointestinal problems or other health factors warrant more individualized nutritional evaluation.

Train the Brain Through the Body

Attention does not occur in isolation from movement. Your eyes have to hold a target. Your vestibular system has to tell your brain where your head is in space. Your cerebellum has to predict and coordinate movement. Your sensory systems must continuously separate important information from background noise. Interestingly, children with ADHD demonstrate higher rates of motor difficulties than typically developing peers. A recent meta-analysis found differences involving manual dexterity, balance, locomotion and object-control skills.Eye-movement research has also demonstrated more errors during tasks requiring oculomotor inhibition—for example, resisting the reflex to look toward a distracting target.

This is fascinating because an anti-saccade task is essentially a neurological version of what a child with ADHD is asked to do throughout the day:

Something grabbed my attention. Can my frontal networks inhibit the automatic response and redirect me toward the goal?

This is where individualized neurorehabilitation can become interesting. When testing identifies actual deficits, rehabilitation may incorporate gaze stability, fixation, saccades, visual tracking, balance, coordination, dual-task activities, rhythm, reaction-time exercises and cognitively challenging movement. The goal is not simply to "wear the child out."The goal is to progressively challenge the nervous system to become more accurate, adaptable and efficient. Motor-based interventions can improve motor function in children with ADHD, and physical exercise appears capable of supporting executive function and ADHD symptoms as they increase blood flow to the prefrontal cortex and effectively increase neuroimmune functioning.

What About Chiropractic and the Brain?

Chiropractic care is another area that can greatly impact kids with adhd. Spinal manipulation changes sensory input entering the central nervous system, and researchers are investigating how those changes influence cortical processing and larger brain networks. Recent exploratory EEG research has reported changes in connectivity among the default mode, salience and central executive networks following chiropractic care. Essentially, chiropractic helps lessen the noise in the brain by providing high quality proprioceptive information to the central nervous system. Many kids with adhd have an overwhelming amount of information coming in and if there are restrictions in the neuromuscular system this can add insult to injury. Overall, manual therapies and chiropractic care may influence sensorimotor input and cortical processing, and it can be considered one supportive component of care when clinically appropriate—but the research specific to ADHD is still emerging.

The bigger concept is important:

The brain is constantly being shaped by the sensory information coming into it.

Movement, touch, vision, balance, joint position, sound and the environment all provide information that the nervous system has to interpret.

More Movement. More Nature. Less Passive Stimulation.

One of the most powerful interventions for a developing brain is also one of the most accessible:

Movement.

Running, climbing, throwing, catching, swimming, hiking, martial arts, gymnastics, strength training and outdoor play challenge the brain in ways that are extraordinarily difficult to reproduce on a screen.

Exercise requires timing.

Prediction.

Balance.

Reaction speed.

Visual tracking.

Spatial awareness.

Impulse control.

Motor planning.

And constant adaptation.

Recent evidence suggests structured physical activity can improve executive function and ADHD symptoms.

Nature may add another layer. A systematic review found that greater exposure to natural environments was consistently associated with lower ADHD symptom severity. At the same time, we need to look seriously at the amount and type of digital stimulation children receive.Heavy screen exposure and ADHD are associated with one another, and newer meta-analytic evidence reports higher ADHD-related risk or symptom burden among children with excessive screen exposure. Families must focus on protecting sleep, outdoor time, exercise, creative play and face-to-face interaction. A child's developing brain needs opportunities to be bored enough to create, move, explore and sustain attention without receiving a new dopamine-producing stimulus every few seconds.

Building a More Flexible Nervous System

Ultimately, I think the most useful way to view ADHD is not as a child with "too much energy."It is often a brain having difficulty regulating where that energy and attention go. The long-term goal is greater neurological flexibility: being able to activate when something matters, inhibit when something is irrelevant, transition between tasks, regulate emotion and return to a focused state after distraction.

For families wanting somewhere practical to begin, I would focus on six foundations:

Build meals around protein, healthy fats, fiber and minimally processed foods while reducing excessive added sugar, dyes and ultra-processed foods.
Protect consistent sleep and morning sunlight.
Make vigorous movement and outdoor play part of every day.
Replace portions of passive screen time with climbing, throwing, catching, building, drawing, music, imaginative play and face-to-face interaction.
Evaluate vision, motor coordination, balance, sleep, learning difficulties and nutritional concerns when the clinical picture suggests they may be contributing.
Chiropractic and manual therapy

ADHD deserves more than a behavioral label. These children are not simply "not trying hard enough." Their brains may process reward, inhibition, sensory information, movement and attention differently—and understanding those differences gives us more opportunities to support them.

Behavioral therapy and educational accommodations remain important evidence-based tools and can be transformative for many families.

But the conversation does not have to end there. We can also nourish the brain. Move the body.Challenge the brain. Protect its sleep. Support the gut. Reduce unnecessary environmental and digital noise. And give the developing nervous system the experiences it needs to become stronger, more adaptable and more resilient.

The goal isn't to change who a child is. It's to create the conditions that allow their brain to function at its best.

Beyond Rest: A Brain-Based Approach to Concussion Recovery in Kids

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 01:30:41 GMT

Why pediatric concussion recovery should look beyond symptoms—and toward restoring how the brain, eyes, spine, balance system, body, and metabolism work together.

When a child suffers a concussion, the injury may be labeled “mild,” but the effects on the nervous system don't always feel mild. A child can look completely normal while struggling with headaches, dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, light sensitivity, irritability, anxiety, poor concentration, motion sensitivity, sleep changes, or difficulty getting through a normal school day.

This is because a concussion can temporarily disrupt much more than our perception of pain. It can affect the way the brain produces and uses energy, processes sensory information, controls eye movements, maintains balance, regulates the autonomic nervous system, coordinates movement, and responds to physical and cognitive stress. For years, concussion management largely centered around rest. We now understand that prolonged rest is usually not the goal and may actually hinder the healing process. After a short period of relative rest, current concussion guidelines support gradually reintroducing school, everyday activity, and appropriately prescribed physical exercise. When symptoms or neurological deficits persist, rehabilitation can become much more individualized. From a functional neurology perspective, this changes the question from simply, “Does the child still have a headache?” to “Are the neurological systems affected by the injury actually functioning normally again?”

Every Concussion Can Look Different

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that initiates a complex physiological response inside the nervous system. Following the initial mechanical forces, the brain can experience temporary alterations in cellular energy metabolism, ion balance, cerebral physiology, autonomic regulation, inflammatory signaling, and communication between neural networks. This helps explain why two children who experience seemingly similar injuries can have completely different recoveries. One child may primarily experience headaches and neck pain while the other may become dizzy whenever they turn their head. Another child may struggle to read because their eyes no longer move smoothly across a page. Some children develop exercise intolerance, sleep disturbances, anxiety, emotional changes, poor working memory, slower processing speed, or difficulty tolerating busy environments. Effective rehabilitation should therefore begin by identifying the child's individual concussion profile rather than assuming that every concussion requires the same treatment.

Establishing a Baseline Before an Injury Happens

For young athletes and patients, baseline testing can be incredibly valuable because every brain is different. Rather than comparing a recovering athlete only with population averages, preseason testing gives us an individualized reference point for how that child's nervous system performed before an injury. A comprehensive baseline should look at multiple neurological domains. Symptom inventories can be combined with measurements of eye movements, including fixation, pursuits, saccades, convergence, and accommodation. Vestibular testing can examine the vestibulo-ocular reflex and visual-motion sensitivity, while tools such as the Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening assessment, or VOMS, can help identify symptom provocation involving these systems.

Balance should also be examined through tasks such as Romberg, tandem stance, tandem gait, single-leg balance, or instrumented balance testing when available. Reaction time, processing speed, attention, working memory, and delayed recall provide another layer of information about cognitive performance. Eventually, these tasks can be combined with movement to examine dual-task performance , which is particularly important for athletes.

The cervical spine, autonomic nervous system, and exercise response deserve attention as well. Cervical range of motion, pain, muscular control, and proprioception can be assessed alongside resting heart rate, orthostatic heart-rate and blood-pressure responses, and symptom responses to positional changes. Graded aerobic testing can then help determine how the nervous system responds as cardiovascular demand increases. No single test should determine whether a child is ready to play again. The goal is to build a multidimensional picture of how the brain and body are functioning.

Functional Neurology: Rehabilitating What the Examination Finds

Functional neurological rehabilitation asks a simple but important question: Which neurological systems aren't functioning as efficiently as they should, and what inputs can we use to progressively retrain them? For example, i f a child demonstrates impaired saccadic eye movements, rehabilitation might incorporate carefully progressed eye-movement exercises. If gaze becomes unstable when the head moves, vestibulo-ocular reflex exercises may be appropriate. Poor dynamic balance might lead to progressive combinations of visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive challenges. As recovery progresses, these systems should no longer be trained exclusively in isolation.

Think about what happens during a soccer game. A player must run while maintaining balance, stabilize their vision as their head moves, locate teammates, track a moving ball, ignore irrelevant visual information, make rapid decisions, and react—all within seconds. This is why later stages of rehabilitation may combine balance, eye movements, cognition, reaction time, and sport-specific movement. The goal isn't simply to become good at a rehabilitation exercise. The goal is to prepare the nervous system for the complexity of real life.

The Eyes and Vestibular System After Concussion

The visual and vestibular systems are particularly important after concussion because they are constantly working together.

The inner ear tells the brain how the head is moving and the visual system provides information about the surrounding environment. Proprioceptive receptors throughout the body, especially around the cervical spine, provide additional information about body position. The brain must continuously integrate these signals to determine where the body is in space and stabilize vision while we move.

When this system becomes disrupted, children may experience dizziness, blurred vision, headaches while reading, motion sensitivity, poor balance, nausea, difficulty focusing, or discomfort in visually complex environments such as school hallways, grocery stores, and sporting events.

Depending on examination findings, vestibulo-ocular rehabilitation might incorporate pursuits, saccades, convergence, gaze stabilization, vestibulo-ocular reflex exercises, progressive visual-motion exposure, balance training, and eventually cognitive-motor challenges. The important word is targeted . More stimulation isn't necessarily better. The right neurological stimulus, delivered at the appropriate intensity and progressed according to the child's response, is what matters.

Where Chiropractic Care Fits in

The brain isn't the only structure affected by the forces involved in a concussion. The cervical spine experiences many of the same acceleration and deceleration forces. Cervical dysfunction can contribute to neck pain, headaches, dizziness, altered proprioception, and difficulty determining where the head is positioned relative to the body. This becomes particularly important because cervical proprioceptive information must integrate with visual and vestibular information for normal balance and spatial orientation.

For appropriately screened pediatric patients, chiropractic and manual therapy can therefore be incorporated into a broader cervicovestibular rehabilitation strategy when examination identifies cervical dysfunction. Appropriate manual care can be one part of restoring cervical mobility, reducing musculoskeletal contributors to symptoms, and improving the quality of sensory information entering the nervous system while visual, vestibular, balance, and exercise rehabilitation progress.

Movement Becomes Part of the Medicine

One of the biggest shifts in concussion care has been recognizing that prolonged inactivity can actually work against recovery. Following an initial period of relative rest, light physical activity can usually begin as tolerated. From there, controlled aerobic exercise can gradually challenge the cardiovascular and autonomic systems without substantially exacerbating symptoms. This can also become an objective measurement.

If a child consistently develops symptoms at a particular workload or heart rate, clinicians can establish an exercise threshold. Training can initially remain below that threshold and gradually progress as tolerance improves. For athletes, rehabilitation can eventually progress from walking and stationary cycling into jogging, running, multidirectional movement, agility, sport-specific drills, non-contact practice, and ultimately medically cleared contact activity.

Where EWOT May Fit

Exercise with oxygen therapy, or EWOT, combines cardiovascular exercise with supplemental oxygen. It is an interesting adjunct because appropriately prescribed aerobic exercise already plays an important role in modern concussion rehabilitation, while cerebral blood flow, oxygen utilization, mitochondrial metabolism, and autonomic regulation are all relevant areas of brain-injury research. However, these concepts shouldn't be confused with proof that EWOT itself is an established concussion treatment. Evidence supporting graded aerobic exercise after concussion is considerably stronger than evidence specifically supporting EWOT in children. In an integrative rehabilitation environment, EWOT may therefore be considered an adjunctive strategy for carefully selected patients rather than a replacement for established exercise rehabilitation.

Supporting Cellular Energy With Photobiomodulation

Another emerging area of interest is photobiomodulation, sometimes called red or near-infrared laser therapy. One reason researchers are interested in photobiomodulation after brain injury involves the mitochondria—the structures responsible for producing much of the cell's usable energy. Because concussion creates a significant metabolic challenge for neurons, therapies that may influence mitochondrial signaling, oxidative stress, blood flow, and cellular recovery are understandably being investigated. Early human concussion research has produced interesting but mixed results, meaning photobiomodulation should still be considered an emerging supportive therapy rather than a proven stand-alone treatment . In practice, I view supportive laser therapy through that lens: potentially useful as one component of a much larger rehabilitation program, while the primary work of restoring eye movements, vestibular function, balance, cognition, cervical function, exercise tolerance, sleep, and nutrition continues.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Persistent Symptoms

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT, exposes a patient to oxygen within a pressurized chamber, increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen carried in the blood. Researchers have investigated HBOT for persistent post-concussion symptoms because of the effects on tissue oxygenation, neuroplasticity, vascular function, and cellular metabolism. Some studies have reported encouraging results, including pediatric research. Due to its wide range of potential benefits and limited risks, intensive HBOT therapy is a viable option if tolerated well by the child.

Feeding the Recovering Brain

Rehabilitation shouldn't stop when the child leaves the therapy room. The brain is an extraordinarily metabolically active organ, and concussion temporarily creates an environment in which cellular energy demands and energy availability can become mismatched. Nutrition therefore provides an opportunity to support the basic building blocks required for recovery. Instead of searching for one magical “brain food,” I prefer building the child's diet around nutrient-dense whole foods. Wild salmon and sardines provide EPA and DHA. Eggs provide protein, choline, and phospholipids. Extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds provide healthy fats. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables provide folate, minerals, and phytochemicals. Then bring in color- Blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and purple sweet potatoes are rich in colorful plant compounds such as anthocyanins. Herbs and spices such as turmeric can add additional polyphenols to the diet. The goal is to create a nutrient-dense dietary environment that provides the recovering nervous system with the raw materials it needs.

Nutraceuticals: Omega-3s, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Curcumin—and Creatine

Nutraceuticals are another rapidly developing area of concussion research, but this is an area where we have to separate an exciting biological rationale from established clinical evidence.

Omega-3 fatty acids , particularly DHA and EPA, are important structural components of neuronal cell membranes and have been extensively investigated in brain-health and traumatic-brain-injury research. They are particularly interesting because neuronal membranes and inflammatory signaling are both relevant following brain injury, although optimal therapeutic dosing for pediatric concussion has not yet been established.

Vitamin D also plays roles far beyond bone health. Vitamin D receptors are found throughout the nervous system, and vitamin D participates in immune regulation and numerous cellular processes. Rather than blindly giving every child high doses, testing vitamin D status and correcting an identified deficiency is a more individualized approach.

Magnesium participates in hundreds of biochemical reactions and is intimately involved in neuronal signaling and cellular energy metabolism. It remains another nutrient of interest in brain-injury research, although supplementation should account for the child's diet, medical history, age, and individual needs.

Curcumin , one of the best-known compounds in turmeric, has generated considerable interest because of its effects on oxidative and inflammatory signaling in experimental research. Much of the traumatic-brain-injury evidence remains preclinical, however, so curcumin should be viewed as a potentially supportive nutritional compound rather than a proven concussion therapy.

One of the most interesting additions to this conversation is creatine . Most people associate creatine with muscle and athletic performance, but the brain also relies on the creatine-phosphocreatine system as a rapid energy buffer. Creatine helps cells regenerate ATP, the energy currency used to power cellular processes. That becomes particularly intriguing after concussion because one of the hallmark physiological problems following traumatic brain injury is a temporary disturbance in cerebral energy metabolism. Creatine is therefore being studied for its potential neuroprotective and bioenergetic roles , not simply for building muscle. Experimental research is encouraging, and limited human work in pediatric traumatic brain injury has also generated interest in outcomes such as headaches, fatigue, cognition, sleep, and neurological recovery. Creatine may ultimately become an increasingly useful component of concussion nutrition, particularly for athletes, but pediatric supplementation should still be individualized with consideration for age, body size, diet, kidney health, medications, and the overall clinical picture. This is why I prefer a food-first, deficiency-aware, individualized approach rather than handing every concussed child the same supplement stack.

Return to Play Should Mean More Than “I Feel Fine”

Perhaps the most important concept for parents and young athletes is that symptom resolution and neurological recovery are related—but they aren't necessarily identical. A child saying, “My headache is gone,” is certainly encouraging. But before sending an athlete back into an environment where another collision could occur, we should be asking more questions. Can their eyes rapidly move between targets without symptoms or significant errors? Can they stabilize their vision while their head moves? Has convergence normalized? Can they maintain balance when visual information is reduced? Can they run at high intensity without dizziness or headache? Has their reaction time returned toward baseline? Can they process information while simultaneously moving? Can they tolerate an entire school day? Can they complete sport-specific drills at game speed while maintaining coordination and decision-making?

This is where objective measurements become so valuable. Ideally, return-to-play decisions combine symptom status with neurological examination findings, vestibular and ocular performance, balance, cognition, exercise tolerance, and progressive sport-specific challenges. When preseason baseline data exist, post-injury performance can also be compared with the child's own previous measurements rather than relying exclusively on population averages. Return to sport should then progress gradually through increasingly demanding stages. If concussion-related symptoms return during progression, that is information—not something the athlete should simply push through.

Building the Brain Back Up

Ultimately, concussion rehabilitation shouldn't be about endlessly protecting the brain from stimulation. After the appropriate acute period, the goal becomes progressively rebuilding the brain's capacity to handle the demands of everyday life. Restore sleep and circadian rhythm. Support hydration and nutrition. Gradually reintroduce school. Address cervical dysfunction when present. Retrain the visual and vestibular systems when testing identifies deficits. Restore balance and coordination. Progress aerobic capacity. Introduce cognitive challenges. Combine cognition with movement. Add reaction time and decision-making. Finally, layer in sport-specific demands before unrestricted competition.

Adjunctive therapies such as photobiomodulation, EWOT, HBOT, and targeted nutraceuticals may have a place within this larger picture, but they should support—not replace—the fundamentals of active neurological rehabilitation. The developing brain has an extraordinary capacity for adaptation and neuroplasticity. Our job isn't to rush that process, nor is it to simply wait and hope symptoms disappear. Our job is to identify what isn't working, provide the appropriate environment and neurological inputs for recovery, measure progress objectively, and progressively prepare that child for the demands they want to return to. Because ultimately, the most important question isn't simply:

“Do you feel better?”

It's:

“Is your brain and body ready for what you're asking them to do next?”

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Children with suspected concussion should be evaluated by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Return-to-sport decisions should follow an appropriate graduated protocol and medical clearance.

Yours in Health and Healing,

Dr. Austin

Autism and the Nervous System: Understanding the Brain Beyond the Diagnosis

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 00:58:07 GMT

Understanding the Unique Autistic Brain: How Genetics, Brain Networks, Nervous System Regulation, and the Gut-Brain Connection Shape Development—and How We Can Support Every Child's Potential.

When parents hear the word autism , it can sometimes sound as though we are talking about one single condition with one underlying cause and one predictable pattern of symptoms. However, the reality is far more complex. Autism spectrum disorder is a highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition. Two kids can share the same diagnosis while having dramatically different strengths, challenges, sensory profiles, communication abilities, motor development, medical histories, and nervous system responses. That's why I believe one of the most useful questions we can ask is not simply:

“Does this child have autism?”

But rather:

“How is this individual child’s brain and nervous system functioning?”

Modern neuroscience increasingly supports the idea that autism involves differences across distributed brain networks rather than dysfunction in one isolated brain region. Also, developmental, prenatal, metabolic, immune, and environmental influences may interact with genetic susceptibility in complex ways. Autism should therefore not be reduced to a single toxin, infection, brain region, or nervous system abnormality. Now let's dive in on what's really happening beneath the surface.

Autism Is a Network-Level Condition

Neither the brain nor the body operate as a collection of independent pieces. Emotional regulation, social interaction, movement, sensory processing, language, attention, and behavior emerge from communication between many interconnected regions. Several of these systems have repeatedly been studied in autism.

The Amygdala and Temporolimbic System

The amygdala helps the brain assign emotional importance to experiences. It communicates closely with the hippocampus, temporal lobes, insula, hypothalamus, and prefrontal cortex.

Together, these networks contribute to:

emotional learning
fear and threat detection
social processing
memory
sensory salience
interpretation of facial and emotional cues

Differences within these networks have been described in autism, but there is no single universal “autistic amygdala.”

In practical terms, altered processing within these circuits may contribute in some individuals to intense emotional responses, difficulty interpreting social information, anxiety, heightened reactions to uncertainty, or becoming overwhelmed by environments that another nervous system may tolerate easily. The important point is that these behaviors are often not simply a matter of willpower or compliance but instead they may reflect how the brain is processing information.

The “Right Brain” and Social-Sensory Processing

You will sometimes hear autism described as a “right-brain disorder.” That description is far too simplistic.

However, many functions commonly associated with right-hemisphere networks are highly relevant when evaluating autistic children. These include aspects of social-emotional communication, nonverbal cues, facial recognition, spatial awareness, prosody, sensory integration, body awareness, and global processing. Rather than assuming that the entire right hemisphere is “weak,” it is more accurate to evaluate the specific networks involved. For example, a child may have excellent abilities in one domain while struggling significantly with another. This network-based approach is one reason individualized neurological and developmental assessment matters.

The Cerebellum: Far More Than Balance

The cerebellum was historically viewed primarily as a movement center but we now know that its role extends far beyond coordination. The cerebellum communicates extensively with cortical and limbic regions involved in cognition, sensory processing, language, prediction, emotional regulation, and learning. Differences in cerebellar development and connectivity are among the recurring neurological findings being investigated in autism. This helps explain why movement and cognition cannot always be separated.

Timing.

Balance.

Eye movements.

Postural control.

Motor planning.

Sensory prediction.

Attention.

Social behavior.

These systems constantly interact.

For some children, improving motor and sensory foundations may make it easier for the brain to engage with higher-level learning and communication. This idea aligns with the "you need to crawl before you walk" mentality, since the brain most likely will not have enough energy or capacity to power things like talking or socializing if it does not have adequate resources to perform basic movements or properly integrate sensory information.

The Vestibular System: The Brain's Internal GPS

The vestibular system begins in the inner ear, but its influence extends throughout the brain.

It helps regulate:

balance
posture
gaze stabilization
spatial awareness
muscle tone
navigation
sensory integration
autonomic responses to movement

Vestibular information interacts with the cerebellum, brainstem, eye movement pathways, cortex, and autonomic nervous system.

Some autistic children display unusual responses to movement. One child may constantly seek spinning, jumping, or crashing activities, while another may become fearful or dysregulated with very small amounts of motion. Those differences can provide useful clues about sensory processing—but they do not mean that vestibular dysfunction causes autism. Instead, vestibular assessment can be one piece of understanding how that child's nervous system organizes information.

Autism and Nervous System Regulation

One of the most important concepts for parents to understand is regulation .

The autonomic nervous system constantly evaluates the internal and external environment and adjusts heart rate, breathing, digestion, blood pressure, arousal, and energy use accordingly. Research examining autonomic function in autism has found differences in some individuals, including altered patterns of parasympathetic activity, heart-rate regulation, and arousal. Importantly, autistic individuals are heterogeneous: studies have reported both increased and decreased arousal depending on the person and context and that variability matters.

A child who appears hyperactive may actually be attempting to regulate an overwhelmed nervous system.

A child who shuts down may be responding to sensory or emotional overload.

A child who repetitively moves, rocks, hums, or seeks pressure may be using movement and sensation to regulate their internal state.

Behavior often makes more sense when we ask:

“What is the nervous system trying to accomplish?”

rather than simply:

“How do we stop the behavior?”

The Vagus Nerve and Polyvagal Theory

The vagus nerve is one of the primary communication pathways between the brain and the body.

It influences cardiovascular function, digestion, respiration, inflammatory signaling, and parasympathetic regulation.

Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory proposes that the nervous system continuously evaluates safety and threat and shifts between different physiological states. In this framework, regulated states support social engagement and connection, while perceived threat can shift the body toward mobilization or withdrawal. Polyvagal Theory has become influential in trauma and neurodevelopmental care, although aspects of its proposed anatomy and mechanisms remain debated. What is better established is the broader concept that autonomic regulation, vagal activity, arousal, and social behavior are interconnected. For a child who spends much of the day physiologically overwhelmed, simply adding more cognitive demand may not always be the best starting point. Sometimes the brain first needs help reaching a state in which learning is possible.

That is why co-regulation, predictable routines, breathing, rhythmic movement, appropriate sensory input, sleep, physical activity, and supportive relationships can be so powerful.

Neuroinflammation and Microglia

Another rapidly growing area of autism research involves microglia cells .

Microglia are immune cells that live inside the central nervous system.

They are not simply “inflammatory cells.” They perform essential roles throughout development, including:

monitoring the neural environment
responding to injury and infection
supporting tissue repair
interacting with neurons
helping shape neural circuits
participating in synaptic remodeling

During childhood, the brain initially produces enormous numbers of synaptic connections and as development progresses, neural circuits are refined. Frequently used connections are strengthened while other connections are weakened or removed—a process often called synaptic pruning . Microglia are vital players in this pruning process, but when they are preoccupied by infections, toxins, and have dysfunctional mitochondria; there ability to perform these essential tasks may be hindered leading to increased neuroinflammation.

Researchers are investigating whether altered microglial signaling, inflammatory pathways, synaptic remodeling, and pruning may contribute to aspects of autism neurobiology. When inflammatory signals persist, microglia can shift toward phenotypes that release increased levels of cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and other inflammatory mediators. In appropriate circumstances this response protects the brain.

But prolonged or dysregulated neuroimmune signaling could theoretically interfere with synaptic development, neural plasticity, and circuit refinement. That does not mean inflammation alone causes autism. Instead, neuroimmune signaling appears to be one potential contributor within a much larger biological picture.

Genetics Load the System—Environment Can Influence It

Autism has a strong genetic component. Hundreds of genes and genetic variants have been associated with autism and neurodevelopmental pathways. But genes rarely operate independently of the biological environment. Prenatal development, maternal health, prematurity, certain infections, metabolic factors, birth complications, medications and exposures can all potentially influence neurodevelopment depending on timing, dose, genetics, and individual vulnerability. This is where we need to be particularly careful.

Parents often hear claims that autism was caused by:

mold
heavy metals
toxins
infections
traumatic birth
pesticides
nutritional deficiencies

Some environmental exposures are legitimate neurological health concerns, and certain prenatal or developmental exposures have been associated with altered neurodevelopmental risk. However, we cannot just assume that mold, metals, infection, or birth trauma caused an individual child's autism simply because one of those exposures occurred. The more useful clinical question is:

Could there be modifiable biological stressors making this particular child's health or regulation more difficult?

That is a very different question than searching for a single cause. When clinically indicated, physicians may evaluate nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal problems, sleep disorders, seizures, metabolic abnormalities, toxic exposures, immune conditions, or other health concerns that could affect a child's function. Treating those conditions can improve health even when they may not be the cause of autism itself.

The Gut-Brain Connection

One of the clearest examples of how interconnected the nervous system is with the rest of the body is the gut-brain axis .The intestines contain trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microbes produce metabolites that can interact with the immune system, intestinal barrier, vagus nerve, and nervous system. Research consistently demonstrates that gastrointestinal symptoms are common among autistic children, and differences in gut microbial composition have also been reported. The relationship, however, is complicated.

Diet influences the microbiome.

Medications influence the microbiome.

Constipation influences the microbiome.

Food selectivity influences the microbiome.

Stress influences gastrointestinal function.

And gastrointestinal discomfort itself can dramatically influence behavior.

A child experiencing chronic constipation, reflux, abdominal pain, bloating, or food intolerance may be less regulated, sleep poorly, become more irritable, or have difficulty concentrating. There are also biological mechanisms through which intestinal health could influence the nervous system. Alterations in microbial metabolites and intestinal barrier function may influence systemic immune signaling. Those inflammatory signals can communicate with the brain through circulating molecules, immune pathways, and neural routes associated with the gut-brain axis. Researchers are actively investigating whether these mechanisms influence neuroinflammation and behavior in subsets of autistic individuals.

But again, association does not prove that dysbiosis causes autism. The gut should be viewed as one important part of the larger system.

Why I Often Start With Regulation and Foundations

Parents understandably want to know: “What should we do first?” There is rarely one simple answer that applies to every child, But I like to think about development as a hierarchy. Before expecting a child to consistently perform complex tasks, we should ask whether the foundational systems supporting those tasks are functioning well. For example:

Is the child sleeping?

Are they eating enough nutrient-dense foods?

Are gastrointestinal problems being addressed?

Do they feel safe in their environment?

Can they regulate their arousal?

Are they moving every day?

Can they tolerate sensory experiences?

Can they maintain posture and balance?

Can their eyes efficiently track the environment?

Can they participate without constantly entering overwhelm?

Sometimes improving these foundations makes every other therapy more productive.

FOOD Is FUEL

Nutrition deserves special attention because the brain is metabolically expensive consuming nearly 1/4 of the body's total energy.

Children need adequate:

protein
essential fatty acids
iron
zinc
magnesium
B vitamins
vitamin D
choline
iodine
antioxidants
fiber
phytonutrients

Children with severe food selectivity may be at greater risk for nutritional gaps, and gastrointestinal problems can complicate eating even further.

The goal should not be to place every autistic child on an extreme restrictive diet. Instead, the first goal is often surprisingly simple:

Increase nutritional adequacy. Build a broader diet when possible. Support hydration. Address constipation. Identify genuine deficiencies. Reduce excessive reliance on ultra-processed foods where feasible. And work with appropriately trained professionals when food restriction, growth, gastrointestinal disease, allergies, or feeding disorders are present.

Then Build the Brain Through Experience

Once a child is able to engage, development requires experience. The brain changes through repeated, meaningful input.

Depending on the child's needs, a comprehensive care team may include:

Speech therapy for communication, language, articulation, and feeding.

Occupational therapy for sensory processing, fine-motor function, daily living skills, and participation.

Physical therapy or motor rehabilitation for strength, balance, gait, coordination, and postural control.

Behavioral and developmental interventions to build communication, independence, flexibility, and adaptive skills.

Vision or vestibular rehabilitation when clinically appropriate.

Primitive reflex and sensorimotor exercises may sometimes be incorporated into broader motor rehabilitation programs.

The question should always be:

What functional limitation are we trying to improve?

Regulation Before Expectation

One concept I wish every parent heard earlier is this: A dysregulated child often cannot demonstrate everything they know. Imagine trying to learn algebra while a fire alarm is sounding. The information may be available, the teacher may be excellent and the student may be capable. But the nervous system has another priority-safety. For some children, sensory overload can effectively become that fire alarm. So before continually increasing expectations, it can help to ask whether we can improve the conditions under which the brain is being asked to perform.

Reduce unnecessary sensory stress.

Create predictability.

Increase appropriate movement.

Support sleep.

Address pain.

Address gastrointestinal discomfort.

Use co-regulation.

Build communication.

Then gradually challenge the brain.

The Goal Is Not to Make a Child “Less Autistic”

This distinction is important. People with autism can have remarkable strengths alongside significant challenges.

The goal of intervention should not be to erase someone's identity or force every child into a narrow definition of “normal.” The goal is to reduce suffering, improve health, strengthen communication, develop independence, increase participation, and give the child more tools for navigating their world. That may mean helping one child communicate for the first time.

Helping another tolerate school.

Helping another sleep through the night.

Helping another eat enough foods to maintain nutritional health.

Helping another regulate intense emotional responses.

And helping another become more independent.

Those are meaningful outcomes.

There Is Reason for Hope

Early childhood is characterized by enormous neuroplasticity. But neuroplasticity does not disappear after childhood, as the nervous system continually adapts to experience throughout life. That means development should never be viewed as completely fixed. We cannot promise that one therapy, supplement, diet, exercise, or nervous system technique will change autism. But, we CAN improve the environment in which the brain develops.

We can support sleep.

We can improve nutrition.

We can address medical problems.

We can reduce unnecessary physiological stress.

We can build sensory and motor capacity.

We can strengthen communication.

We can support families.

And most importantly, we can stop treating every kid with autism as though they have the exact same brain.Autism is called a spectrum for a reason. Behind the diagnosis is an individual nervous system with its own genetics, developmental history, strengths, vulnerabilities, sensory profile, health needs, and capacity for growth. The future of neurodevelopmental care will likely become increasingly personalized.

Not simply:

“How do we treat autism?”

But:

“What does this particular brain need to function at its best so the child can thrive?”

Yours in Health and Healing,

Dr. Austin

What is Functional Neurology?

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 22:50:38 GMT

A Brain-Based Approach to Health and Rehabilitation

When most people think about traditional neurological care, they think about diagnosing diseases of the brain and aggressive surgical procedures or medications to manage symptoms. When people think about chiropractic care, they usually think about the spine as well as neck and back pain. Functional neurology sits at an interesting intersection between the two. Rather than looking only at where someone hurts or what diagnosis they have been given, a functional neurological approach asks a broader question: How is this person's nervous system functioning, and what can we do to help improve that function?

This may involve looking at eye movements, balance, coordination, vestibular function, sensation, movement, reflexes, gait, autonomic responses, and other aspects of neurological performance. Rehabilitation can then use appropriately selected movement, visual, vestibular, sensory, cognitive, and musculoskeletal inputs to aid the nervous system. At the center of this approach is one of the most fascinating characteristics of the human brain: it can adapt, and t hat ability is known as neuroplasticity.

Your Brain Works as a Network

The brain is often described as if it were a collection of separate compartments. The cerebellum controls balance. The frontal lobe controls attention. The vestibular system controls equilibrium. The autonomic nervous system controls stress. In reality, the nervous system is far more interconnected.

Imagine walking through a crowded airport. Your visual system is tracking people and objects around you while your vestibular system senses movement of your head. Sensory receptors in your muscles and joints provide information about the position of your body. Your brain predicts where you're going, coordinates your legs, stabilizes your eyes as your head moves, maintains your balance, filters irrelevant sensory information, and changes your movement if someone suddenly steps in front of you. You don't consciously calculate any of this. Networks throughout your nervous system are communicating and adapting in real time. This provides a useful framework for neurological rehabilitation. Instead of simply asking “Where are the symptoms?” , we can also ask, “Which functions are impaired, and which systems contribute to those functions?”

So, What Exactly Is Functional Neurology?

Functional neurology, sometimes called chiropractic neurology, is a clinical approach that applies concepts from neuroscience, neurological examination, and rehabilitation to problems involving nervous-system function. It developed substantially within the chiropractic profession, with some chiropractors pursuing postgraduate education in neurological examination and rehabilitation in addition to their musculoskeletal training.

A functional neurological examination may look at the way a person's eyes track a target, how accurately they move their eyes between two points, how well their vision remains stable while their head moves, how they balance under different sensory conditions, how they walk, how their limbs coordinate, and how they respond as a task becomes increasingly difficult.

Treatment may then incorporate different combinations of movement, vestibular exercises, gaze-stability exercises, balance challenges, coordination tasks, sensory stimulation, physical exercise, and manual therapy depending on the findings of the examination.

The underlying concept is fairly straightforward: the nervous system changes in response to experience.

Many individual rehabilitation strategies that may be incorporated into a brain-based program have independent evidence supporting their use for specific conditions. Vestibular rehabilitation, graded exercise, balance training, strength training, motor learning, and task-specific rehabilitation are examples.

Neuroplasticity: The Foundation of Brain-Based Rehabilitation

Neuroplasticity describes the nervous system's ability to change its function, connections, and sometimes structure in response to experience. Every time you learn a new skill, practice a movement, improve your balance, learn an instrument, or become more coordinated at a sport, your nervous system is adapting. Neurological rehabilitation attempts to use that principle intentionally. Consider someone who has difficulty stabilizing their vision while moving their head because of a vestibular disorder. Rather than simply telling that person that their vestibular system is impaired, rehabilitation may repeatedly expose the nervous system to carefully selected head and eye movements. The challenge can then be progressed as the person improves. Over time, repeated practice may help the nervous system compensate or adapt. Vestibular rehabilitation provides a particularly good example because clinical practice guidelines support its use for appropriately diagnosed peripheral vestibular hypofunction.

But there is another important principle here: more stimulation isn't necessarily better stimulation. The nervous system needs the appropriate challenge, at an appropriate intensity, with enough repetition and enough recovery to promote useful adaptation.

It's similar to exercise. If you want to become stronger, randomly performing exercises for six hours isn't necessarily better than following a well-designed 45-minute strength program. The exercise, intensity, volume, progression, and recovery all matter. Neurological rehabilitation should be approached with the same mindset.

The Brain Depends on Information

Your brain doesn't directly experience the outside world. It receives information about it.

Your eyes provide visual information. Your vestibular system detects movement and orientation of your head. Sensory receptors throughout your muscles, joints, skin, and connective tissues provide information about touch, pressure, movement, and body position. Signals from inside your body provide information about your physiological state. The nervous system continuously integrates these streams of information and uses them to generate an appropriate response. A useful way of thinking about this process is:

Input → Integration → Output.

The nervous system receives information, processes it through interconnected neural networks, and produces an output. That output might be an eye movement, a change in posture, a step, a coordinated hand movement, a behavioral response, or a change in autonomic activity.

If an output isn't working well, one question worth asking is whether we can identify the systems contributing to that function and train them more effectively. This is why functional neurological examinations often spend considerable time evaluating the eyes, balance, vestibular system, coordination, and movement.

Why the Eyes and Balance Tell Us So Much

Patients are sometimes surprised by how much information can be gathered simply by observing eye movements.

A clinician may ask someone to follow a slowly moving target, rapidly look between two points, maintain fixation on a target while moving their head, or move their eyes inward toward a near object. These tasks examine different aspects of oculomotor and vestibular function.

Eye movements require precise coordination across multiple areas of the nervous system. Saccades—the rapid movements that shift your eyes from one target to another—use different neural circuitry from smooth pursuit, which allows you to follow a moving target. The vestibulo-ocular reflex helps stabilize vision while the head is moving, while vergence allows the eyes to coordinate when looking between near and distant objects.

Balance tells us something different but equally interesting. To remain upright, your brain must continuously combine information from vision, the vestibular system, and somatosensory information from the body. When you close your eyes, stand on an unstable surface, narrow your base of support, or move your head, you alter the sensory information available to the nervous system.

Rather than simply asking whether someone has “good” or “bad” balance, a neurological assessment can ask a more useful question: Under which conditions does their balance begin to break down? T hat information may help guide more targeted rehabilitation.

Where Does Chiropractic Fit In?

Chiropractic and functional neurology became connected partly because chiropractic has historically focused on the relationship between the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Chiropractic functional neurology expanded that perspective by incorporating neurological examination and rehabilitation concepts alongside manual therapy. A modern explanation, however, needs to be more nuanced than saying that an adjustment simply “fixes the brain.” Manual therapy provides sensory input through joints, muscles, and surrounding tissues, and researchers have investigated whether spinal manipulation can produce measurable changes in nervous-system activity. Some studies have reported short-term neurophysiological changes following manipulation, but systematic reviews have also emphasized that the clinical significance of purported brain effects remains uncertain. That distinction is important. Producing a measurable neurological response is not automatically the same thing as producing a meaningful clinical improvement.

For that reason, I prefer to think of chiropractic care as one potential tool within a much larger neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation toolbox.

Depending on the person, a treatment plan might combine manual therapy with strength training, movement, balance exercises, vestibular rehabilitation, gaze-stability work, coordination challenges, breathing exercises, or other forms of rehabilitation. The adjustment doesn't necessarily have to be the entire intervention. It can be one input within a larger strategy designed around the person's function and goals.

What Can a Brain-Based Approach Help With?

This is where language matters.

Functional neurology should not be presented as a cure for neurological diseases, developmental disorders, or psychiatric conditions. Instead, brain-based rehabilitation may sometimes help address specific functional impairments associated with those conditions.

Someone experiencing vestibular dysfunction, for example, may need help improving gaze stability, balance, dizziness, or walking. Someone recovering from a concussion may benefit from appropriately prescribed graded physical activity or targeted vestibular, visual, cervical, or balance rehabilitation when clinically indicated as part of broader medical management.

For a child with developmental differences, the goal might be improving measurable functions such as balance, coordination, strength, motor skills, physical activity tolerance, or independence rather than claiming to “treat” the child's developmental diagnosis itself.

Likewise, someone living with a chronic neurological disorder may participate in rehabilitation designed to preserve or improve strength, mobility, coordination, balance, and independence.

This is an important distinction in the way I think about care:

Don't simply treat a diagnostic label. Identify the functions that matter to the person.

If a child's goal is greater independence, what skills are limiting independence? If an athlete wants to return to sport after injury, which systems are preventing that return? If someone becomes dizzy whenever they turn their head, can we identify why that particular task is difficult?

The diagnosis provides important information. But the individual's function determines what rehabilitation needs to accomplish.

Why a Holistic Approach Matters

The nervous system doesn't operate independently from the rest of the body, which is why I believe neurological health is best viewed through a broader whole-person framework.

Sleep affects attention, learning, recovery, and cognitive performance. Exercise influences cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal, and neurological health. Nutrition supplies the energy and nutrients required for normal cellular function. Pain can alter movement. Stress can influence sleep, attention, behavior, and autonomic physiology. Visual and vestibular problems can influence balance and movement. Musculoskeletal limitations can change the way someone interacts with their environment. None of these systems exists in isolation.

This doesn't mean that every symptom originates in the brain, nor does it mean that every health problem can be corrected by “stimulating” the nervous system. Instead, it means that brain function exists within a much larger biological system. A comprehensive approach to neurological health may therefore consider movement, sleep, nutrition, recovery, sensory function, musculoskeletal health, stress, environment, relationships, and appropriate medical care alongside targeted rehabilitation.

The Goal Is Better Function

Ultimately, functional neurological rehabilitation should not be about performing as many neurological exercises as possible. It should be about improving something that matters.

Can the person maintain their balance more effectively?

Can they stabilize their vision while moving their head?

Can they walk with greater confidence?

Can they coordinate a movement more accurately?

Can they tolerate a more challenging environment?

Can a child participate more independently in daily activities?

Can an athlete return to the activities they love?

These outcomes can be measured, reassessed, and used to guide what happens next.

A good rehabilitation program should therefore follow a simple cycle:

Assess. Intervene. Reassess. Progress.

If something isn't improving, the answer shouldn't automatically be more of the same treatment. The clinician should reconsider the hypothesis, modify the intervention, or determine whether referral or additional medical evaluation is appropriate.

That's what makes rehabilitation truly individualized.

The Weekly Reset

This week, try looking at your nervous system differently.

Stand on one leg and notice how much harder the task becomes when you close your eyes. Walk outside and notice how effortlessly your eyes, head, arms, and legs coordinate. Learn a new movement and pay attention to how awkward it initially feels before repetition begins making it smoother. Notice how differently your brain performs after a good night's sleep compared with a poor one. These are simple examples of something extraordinary happening every second of your life. Your nervous system is receiving information, integrating it, generating a response, evaluating what happened, and adapting. The goal isn't to obsess over “optimizing” every neurological pathway. It's to recognize that your brain and body are constantly communicating and that appropriate movement, challenge, sensory experience, recovery, and repetition can influence how that system functions.

The Big Idea

Functional neurology is best understood not as a magical treatment for every neurological condition, but as a brain-based framework for understanding function and designing rehabilitation . Its foundation is the remarkable ability of the nervous system to adapt in response to experience. But neuroplasticity alone doesn't prove that every neurological intervention works. The examination matters. The intervention matters. The evidence matters. The dose matters. And most importantly, the outcome matters.

Chiropractic care can fit within this model as one potential source of musculoskeletal and sensory input, but it does not have to stand alone. Manual therapy can be combined with movement, vestibular rehabilitation, visual exercises, balance training, coordination, strength, sleep, nutrition, recovery, and appropriate medical care depending on the needs of the individual. The goal isn't simply to stimulate the brain.

The goal is to understand the person in front of you, identify the functions limiting their life, and use the most appropriate tools available to help them function better.

That is the promise—and the responsibility—of taking a truly brain-based, whole-person approach to health.

Keep Exploring Your Brain + Nervous System

Your nervous system influences how you move, balance, perceive your environment, learn, adapt, and interact with the world around you.

That's why The Weekly Reset explores the connections between the brain, nervous system, development, nutrition, movement, and human performance.

Research + Further Reading

Hall CD, et al. Vestibular Rehabilitation for Peripheral Vestibular Hypofunction: An Updated Clinical Practice Guideline From the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy of the American Physical Therapy Association. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy. 2022.

Meyer AL, et al. Unravelling functional neurology: a scoping review of theories and clinical applications in a context of chiropractic manual therapy. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. 2017.

Demortier M, et al. Unravelling functional neurology: a critical review of clinical research articles on the effect or benefit of the functional neurology approach. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. 2018.

Meyer AL, et al. Unravelling functional neurology: does spinal manipulation have an effect on the brain? A systematic literature review. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. 2019.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat disease, replace individualized medical care, or suggest that functional neurological rehabilitation can cure neurological or developmental conditions.

Many Blessings,

Dr. Austin Tchikatilov

How Neuroplasticity Shapes Your Brain, Stress & Health

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:50:42 GMT

Your Nervous System Is Always Adapting...

What if one of the most important things to understand about your health is that your brain is not fixed?

Every day, your nervous system is responding to the world around you. The way you move, breathe, sleep, eat, learn, interact with other people, and respond to challenges all provide information that your brain and body must process. Your nervous system is constantly receiving these inputs, interpreting what they mean, coordinating a response, and adapting based on experience.

This ability to change is called neuroplasticity , and understanding it can completely change the way you think about your brain, your nervous system, and your health.

Your Nervous System Is Your Communication Network

Your nervous system is much more than your brain. It includes your brain and spinal cord, peripheral nerves, sensory systems, autonomic nervous system, and the vast networks communicating with your muscles, organs, and tissues. Together, these systems help you sense what is happening both outside and inside your body, integrate that information, and coordinate an appropriate response.

Touch something hot and your nervous system rapidly organizes a protective response. Stand on an unstable surface and information from your eyes, inner ear, muscles, and joints helps your brain keep you upright. Walk into a stressful meeting and your autonomic nervous system may increase alertness, heart rate, and cardiovascular output. Later, when you are resting in a safe environment, physiology can shift toward processes associated with digestion, restoration, and recovery.

In this way, your nervous system is constantly asking three basic questions: What is happening? What does it mean? What should I do about it?

This is one reason the nervous system provides such a useful framework for understanding human health. It is continuously helping the body perceive its environment, coordinate its behavior, and adapt to changing demands.

What the Science Tells Us: Your Brain Can Change

For much of modern medical history, the adult brain was viewed as relatively fixed. We now know that picture was incomplete. The nervous system retains the ability to modify its function and organization in response to experience. This is what we mean by neuroplasticity.

Neurons can alter the strength of their connections, neural networks can reorganize, and repeated experiences can influence how efficiently particular circuits operate. Learning depends on these processes. So does acquiring a new motor skill, improving balance, learning an instrument, and many forms of neurological rehabilitation.

A simple way to think about it is this: what you repeatedly ask your nervous system to do can influence what it becomes better at doing.

However, neuroplasticity is not automatically positive. The brain adapts to repeated inputs whether those patterns are helpful or unhelpful. Repeated practice can strengthen a useful skill, but repeated behaviors and experiences can also reinforce patterns we may not necessarily want. Plasticity simply means the nervous system is capable of adapting. The more important question is: What are you asking it to adapt to?

Stress Isn't the Enemy

Stress is often discussed as though it is inherently harmful, but the ability to mount a stress response is essential for survival and performance. During situations that require action, the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system helps mobilize resources. Heart rate and cardiovascular output increase, energy becomes more readily available, and attention may sharpen. These responses are useful when you are exercising, competing, giving a presentation, or responding to an actual threat.

Parasympathetic pathways, on the other hand, participate in functions associated with digestion, energy conservation, cardiovascular regulation, and recovery. We need both systems to be balanced and function in harmony.

The goal, therefore, isn't to remain “parasympathetic” all day. A healthier target is adaptability : the ability to appropriately increase activation when the situation requires it and transition toward recovery when that demand has passed.

Instead of thinking sympathetic = bad and parasympathetic = good , think of nervous-system health as the ability to move appropriately between states based on what life requires.

Where the Vagus Nerve Fits In

The vagus nerve has become one of the most talked-about structures in the wellness world, sometimes with claims that go well beyond the available evidence. But its actual biology is fascinating enough without exaggeration.

The vagus nerve, or cranial nerve X, is a major component of parasympathetic communication. It connects the brain with structures throughout the neck, chest, and abdomen and participates in the regulation of cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal functions.

Importantly, vagal communication isn't simply the brain sending commands down to the body. A large proportion of vagal fibers are afferent , meaning they carry information from the body toward the brain. This highlights a much larger principle: communication between your brain and body is constantly occurring in both directions.

Your breathing influences physiology. Movement produces enormous amounts of sensory information. The gastrointestinal system communicates with the brain through neural, immune, endocrine, and metabolic pathways. The cardiovascular system continually generates information that the nervous system monitors and responds to.

The brain is not an isolated command center floating above the body. It is part of an extraordinarily dynamic brain-body communication network .

Movement Is Fuel for the Brain

Exercise is not just for your muscles. Every time you move, enormous amounts of sensory information travel through your nervous system. Your brain must determine where your body is in space, where your head is moving, what your eyes are looking at, how much force your muscles need to produce, and how your posture and balance need to change from moment to moment.

Physical activity also appears to influence biological processes associated with neuroplasticity. One of the most studied is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) , a protein involved in neuronal function, synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Human research has found that exercise can influence circulating BDNF, although the magnitude and duration of this response depend on factors such as exercise intensity, duration, population, and measurement timing.

This does not mean that every workout instantly “grows your brain.” It means something more nuanced and useful: movement provides rich neurological input while also influencing biological pathways associated with brain health and adaptation.

Your workout is a brain experience too.

Your Sensory Systems Help Build Your Experience of the World

Movement also highlights how dependent the brain is on sensory information. Your visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems continually work together to help you understand where you are and how to move through your environment.

Vision provides information about the world around you and helps guide movement through space. The vestibular system, located within the inner ear and its central connections, detects head movement and orientation relative to gravity and contributes to balance, posture, spatial orientation, and gaze stabilization. Proprioceptive information from muscles, tendons, joints, and related sensory receptors helps the nervous system estimate body position and movement.

Your brain continuously integrates these streams of information rather than relying on any one system in isolation. Try standing on one leg and then closing your eyes. The task usually becomes more difficult because you have removed one of the major sensory inputs your brain was using to maintain balance.

That simple experiment gives you a glimpse of something your nervous system does every second of every day: combine multiple streams of information to create an appropriate response.

Sleep Is Part of the Neuroplasticity Process

If movement and experience provide information to the nervous system, sleep helps the brain process experience.

Sleep is not a period in which your brain simply shuts down. Research has linked sleep with learning, memory consolidation, synaptic plasticity, metabolic regulation, and many other aspects of brain function. Across different stages of sleep, neural networks demonstrate complex patterns of activity associated with processing and reorganizing information acquired during wakefulness.

A useful way to think about this is that your waking life provides experiences for the brain to work with, while sleep participates in how some of those experiences are processed and consolidated.

This is one reason sacrificing sleep in the name of productivity can eventually become counterproductive. If you care about learning, performance, recovery, or long-term brain health, sleep isn't wasted time. It is an essential part of the adaptation process.

Your Environment Is Training Your Nervous System

This is where neuroscience becomes practical. You aren't only “training your brain” when you perform a brain exercise. You're training it through the repeated experiences of everyday life.

Consider the information your nervous system receives during a typical day: natural daylight or artificial light, movement or prolonged sitting, face-to-face interaction or constant notifications, time outdoors or hours of screen exposure, novel challenges or repetitive routines, periods of stress followed by recovery—or stress followed immediately by more stress.

None of these inputs need to be viewed as inherently good or bad in isolation. Human beings are remarkably adaptable, and one stressful day or poor night of sleep does not define your health. What matters more are the patterns that accumulate over time .

One night of poor sleep is very different from chronically sleeping too little. One sedentary afternoon is different from years without regular physical activity. A difficult week is different from prolonged stress without adequate opportunities for recovery.

Health is rarely determined by a single input. Your repeated patterns matter.

Five Ways to Support Your Brain + Nervous System

Supporting your nervous system doesn't require turning your life into an elaborate biohacking experiment. Some of the most powerful starting points are also the most fundamental: movement, sleep, breathing, learning, and recovery.

First, move your body regularly . Walk, lift weights, run, hike, dance, play sports, and incorporate activities that challenge coordination and balance. Physical activity supports cardiovascular and metabolic health while also providing the nervous system with rich sensory and motor input.

Second, protect your sleep . Maintain a reasonably consistent sleep-wake schedule, seek natural light during the day, reduce unnecessary stimulation late at night, and give yourself adequate opportunity to sleep. Your brain needs periods of both experience and recovery.

Third, experiment with slow, comfortable breathing . Breathing is unusual because it operates automatically but can also be voluntarily controlled. Changing respiratory rate and pattern can influence cardiovascular and autonomic physiology. One simple practice is to inhale gently through the nose for approximately four seconds and exhale slowly for approximately six seconds for two to five minutes. This isn't about “hacking” the vagus nerve. It's simply one accessible way of intentionally influencing your physiological state.

Fourth, challenge your brain . Learn a skill, practice a new movement, play an instrument, learn a language, work on your balance, try a new sport, or expose yourself to appropriately difficult problems. Neuroplasticity depends on experience, and the nervous system needs meaningful challenge in order to adapt.

Finally, build genuine periods of recovery into your life . Spend time outside. Walk without your phone. Read. Meditate. Pray. Stretch. Spend time with people you care about. Recovery does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it simply means giving your nervous system fewer demands to respond to.

The Weekly Reset

Knowing neuroscience is interesting. Using it is what matters.

This week, don't try to completely optimize your life. Instead, give your nervous system a few consistent inputs. Spend ten minutes learning or practicing something new. Move your body intentionally every day. Get outside and expose yourself to natural daylight, particularly earlier in the day when possible. Spend two to five minutes practicing comfortable slow breathing. Finally, choose a realistic bedtime and protect it.

These behaviors aren't magic, and no single practice determines your health. Their value comes from repetition. Small inputs, repeated consistently, become part of the environment to which your nervous system adapts.

So rather than asking, “What health hack am I missing?” , consider asking:

“What information am I repeatedly giving my brain and body?”

The Big Idea

Your brain isn't simply something you were born with and carry unchanged throughout life. It is a dynamic organ that continues responding to experience. Your nervous system is constantly sensing, integrating, responding, learning, and adapting.

Movement matters. Sleep matters. Challenge matters. Recovery matters. Your sensory environment matters. The people and experiences surrounding you matter.

You cannot control every input life throws at you, nor should you try. But you can become more intentional about many of the inputs you repeatedly provide.

Your brain is always adapting. The question is: What are you training it to adapt to?

Ready for Your Next Reset?

If you want a simple place to start, download my free Nervous System Reset for practical strategies you can incorporate into your day through movement, breathing, and recovery—without turning your health into another full-time job.

Join The Weekly Reset for evidence-informed ideas about the brain, nervous system, development, nutrition, and human performance delivered straight to your inbox.

Research + Further Reading

Knaepen K, et al. Neuroplasticity—exercise-induced response of peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor: a systematic review of experimental studies in human subjects. Sports Medicine. 2010.

El-Sayes J, et al. Effects of Physical Exercise on Neuroplasticity and Brain Function: A Systematic Review in Human and Animal Studies.

Yang G, et al. Experience and sleep-dependent synaptic plasticity: from structure to activity. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B. 2020.

Abel T, et al. Sleep, plasticity and memory from molecules to whole-brain networks. Current Biology.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease or replace individualized medical care.

Yours in Health,

Dr. Austin Tchikatilov

The Preconception Nutrition Blueprint

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 02:06:00 GMT

The Nutrients That Build a Baby's Brain Before Pregnancy Even Begins.

Healthy pregnancies don't begin with a positive pregnancy test—they begin months before conception.

From the moment sperm meets egg, your baby's cells divide at an astonishing pace. Within weeks, the neural tube forms. Shortly afterward, the brain, spinal cord, heart, and organs begin developing. Every one of these processes depends on nutrients that have been stored in the mother's and father's bodies long before conception. Research consistently shows that optimizing nutrition before pregnancy can improve fertility, reduce pregnancy complications, support fetal brain development, and create a healthier lifelong foundation for your child.

At Origin Health, we encourage families to think beyond simply "taking a prenatal." Instead, we focus on building nutrient reserves through whole foods that humans have relied on for generations.

Why Preconception Nutrition Matters

Your baby is built entirely from nutrients supplied by mom and dad.

Those nutrients determine:

Brain development
Nervous system formation
Immune system programming
Placental health
Hormone production
Cellular energy (mitochondrial function)
DNA synthesis and repair
Epigenetic programming (which genes are turned on or off)

Think of nutrition as the blueprint your baby's body uses to build itself.

The higher the quality of the blueprint, the stronger the foundation.

Food First: Nature's Multivitamin

Supplements can fill gaps, but they should never replace a nutrient-dense diet.

The most bioavailable vitamins and minerals are still found in real foods.

Instead of counting calories...

Count nutrients.

The Most Important Nutrients for Neurodevelopment

Nutrient Why It's Important Best Food Sources

--------------- ---------------------------------- --------------------------------

Choline Brain development, memory, neural tube formation Egg yolks, beef liver, salmon

DHA Brain growth, retina development Wild salmon, sardines, anchovies

Folate DNA synthesis, neural tube development Liver, spinach, asparagus

B12 Myelination, red blood cells Beef, liver, shellfish

Iron Oxygen delivery to developing brain Red meat, liver, oysters

Zinc Brain growth, fertility, immune function Oysters, beef, lamb

Iodine Thyroid hormones, IQ development Seafood, seaweed, dairy, eggs

Selenium Antioxidant defense, thyroid support Brazil nuts, seafood

Magnesium Nervous system regulation, metabolism Pumpkin seeds, leafy greens

Vitamin D Brain, immune and skeletal development Sunlight, fatty fish, egg yolks

Vitamin A Eye, brain and immune development Liver, egg yolks, butter

Vitamin K2 Bone formation and calcium regulation Grass-fed dairy, egg yolks

Copper Brain enzymes, connective tissue Liver, shellfish

Glycine Collagen formation, fetal tissue growth Bone broth, collagen-rich meats

The Forgotten Superfood: Organ Meats

For thousands of years, traditional cultures prized organ meats during pregnancy. Modern nutrition science is finally catching up.

Gram for gram, liver is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on Earth.

Beef Liver Provides

Vitamin A (retinol)
Choline
B12
Folate
Copper
Iron
Zinc
CoQ10
High-quality protein

Just 1–2 ounces once or twice per week can provide substantial amounts of several essential micronutrients. Because liver is also very high in preformed vitamin A (retinol), intake during pregnancy should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional to avoid excessive amounts.

Other excellent organ meats include:

Heart (rich in CoQ10)
Kidney
Spleen (excellent iron source)
Tongue

If organ meats aren't appealing, consider incorporating them through blended ground meat products from reputable producers.

Wild-Caught Fish: Brain Food from Nature

Nearly 60% of the brain is composed of fat.

One of the most important fats is DHA.

DHA is critical for:

Synapse formation
Learning
Memory
Vision
Emotional regulation
Cognitive development

Aim for 2–3 servings per week of low-mercury, wild-caught seafood.

Excellent Choices

Wild Alaskan salmon
Sardines
Anchovies
Herring
Arctic char
Trout

These fish provide:

DHA
EPA
Selenium
Vitamin D
Iodine
High-quality protein

Fish to Limit Due to Higher Mercury

Shark
Swordfish
King mackerel
Tilefish
Bigeye tuna

Choosing lower-mercury seafood helps maximize nutritional benefits while minimizing exposure to contaminants.

Why Organic Foods Matter

Nutrition isn't just about what you eat. It's also about what you avoid. Some conventionally grown foods may contain higher levels of pesticide residues. While washing produce is beneficial and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables remains important regardless of how they're grown, choosing organic options when practical can reduce exposure to certain agricultural chemicals. Many families prioritize organic choices for foods that are more likely to carry higher pesticide residues.

Great organic choices include:

Leafy greens
Berries
Apples
Grapes
Peppers
Tomatoes

Organic animal products may also reduce exposure to certain medications used in livestock production, depending on farming practices.

Grass-Fed and Pasture-Raised Foods

Animals raised on their natural diets often produce meat and dairy with different nutrient profiles than conventionally raised animals.

Benefits may include:

Higher omega-3 fats
More conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
Higher vitamin E
More vitamin K2
Better omega-6 to omega-3 ratio

Excellent options include:

Grass-fed beef
Pasture-raised eggs
Grass-fed butter
Grass-fed yogurt
Pasture-raised chicken

Don't Forget Game Meat

Wild game is one of the most nutrient-dense protein sources available.

Examples include:

Venison
Elk
Bison
Moose
Wild turkey

Benefits:

Lean, high-quality protein
Excellent iron
Zinc
B vitamins
Lower total fat than many commercially raised meats

As with any wild game, proper sourcing and safe processing are important.

Build Your Plate Around These Nutrient-Dense Food Groups:

High-Quality Proteins

Grass-fed beef
Wild fish
Pasture-raised eggs
Lamb
Organ meats
Wild game

Healthy Fats

Avocados
Extra virgin olive oil
Coconut
Grass-fed butter
Ghee
Nuts
Seeds

Colorful Vegetables

Eat the rainbow.

Focus on:

Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Spinach
Kale
Beets
Carrots
Bell peppers
Sweet potatoes

These foods provide antioxidants, folate, carotenoids, vitamin C, and fiber.

Fruit

Choose whole fruit over juice.

Excellent options include:

Blueberries
Strawberries
Cherries
Kiwi
Citrus
Pomegranate

These provide polyphenols and antioxidants that support both maternal and fetal health.

Fermented Foods

A healthy microbiome supports:

Nutrient absorption
Immune function
Digestive health

Include foods like:

Plain yogurt with live cultures
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Kimchi (choose lower-sodium varieties if needed)
Fermented vegetables

Bone Broth

Rich in:

Glycine
Collagen
Proline
Minerals

Bone broth may support connective tissue health and is an easy way to increase protein intake.

Minerals: The Spark Plugs of Metabolism

Vitamins often receive the spotlight, but minerals are equally essential.

Minerals help activate enzymes that power nearly every metabolic process.

Without adequate minerals:

Mitochondria produce energy less efficiently.
Hormones may not function optimally.
Detoxification pathways can be impaired.
Nervous system signaling may be disrupted.
Muscle and nerve function can suffer.

Key minerals include:

Magnesium
Zinc
Iron
Copper
Selenium
Iodine
Calcium
Potassium

Rather than relying on fortified foods, prioritize a varied diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods to help meet these needs.

Minimize Ultra-Processed Foods

Highly processed foods are often:

Lower in fiber
Less nutrient-dense
Higher in added sugars
Higher in refined oils
More calorie-dense

Building meals around whole foods helps improve overall nutrient intake and supports metabolic health before and during pregnancy.

Small Choices, Lifelong Impact

Every meal is an opportunity to provide the building blocks for the next generation.

You don't need a perfect diet. You need consistent, nutrient-dense choices that nourish your body and create the healthiest possible environment for conception and pregnancy.

Focus on foods that humans have thrived on for generations:

Wild-caught seafood
Grass-fed and pasture-raised meats
Organ meats in moderation
Colorful vegetables
Whole fruits
Healthy fats
Fermented foods
Bone broth
Nuts and seeds

When paired with quality sleep, movement, stress management, and a healthy lifestyle, these foundational foods help support fertility, maternal health, and your baby's developing brain.

Primitive Reflexes and Neurodevelopment: Why Early Movement Patterns Matter for Lifelong Brain Health

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:38:51 GMT

Every Child Is Born With Reflexes Designed for Survival

Long before a baby learns to crawl, stand, or speak, their nervous system is already hard at work.

Primitive reflexes are automatic, involuntary movement patterns that emerge during fetal development and infancy. These reflexes are controlled primarily by the brainstem —the oldest and most primitive part of the brain responsible for survival.

They serve essential purposes such as:

Protecting the infant after birth
Assisting with feeding and breastfeeding
Helping babies move against gravity
Preparing the body for voluntary movement
Stimulating normal brain development through sensory experiences

These reflexes are not meant to last forever.

As the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and frontal lobes mature, higher brain centers gradually inhibit these primitive patterns. This process is known as primitive reflex integration.

When reflexes remain active beyond the expected age, it suggests that the nervous system has not fully transitioned from reflexive movement to voluntary, coordinated movement.

Rather than indicating laziness or poor behavior, retained primitive reflexes often reflect immature neurological development.

Brain Development Is Built Layer by Layer

One of the most important concepts in developmental neuroscience is that the brain develops from the bottom up and back-to-front.

Development typically follows this sequence:

Brainstem
Cerebellum
Midbrain
Basal ganglia
Limbic system
Cortex
Frontal cortex (executive function)

Primitive reflexes originate in the brainstem.

As these higher centers mature, they suppress primitive reflex activity while allowing more sophisticated movement, balance, emotional regulation, and learning.

If primitive reflexes remain active, they continuously send immature motor signals that interfere with the development of higher brain functions.

It is similar to trying to build the second floor of a house before the foundation is finished.

Why Are Primitive Reflexes So Important?

Primitive reflexes are much more than simple movements.

They help organize nearly every major neurological system.

Proper integration supports:

Balance
Coordination
Vision
Eye tracking
Posture
Muscle tone
Emotional regulation
Speech development
Sensory processing
Attention
Fine motor skills
Gross motor skills
Learning readiness

When these reflexes persist, children may compensate in countless ways without anyone recognizing the underlying neurological cause.

Research Has Found Higher Rates of Retained Reflexes in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

A growing body of research has reported associations between retained primitive reflexes and conditions such as:

Autism spectrum disorder
ADHD
Developmental coordination disorder
Dyslexia
Learning disabilities
Speech delay
Sensory processing challenges
Cerebral palsy
Developmental delays

Importantly, retained primitive reflexes do not cause autism or ADHD.

Instead, they may serve as clinical indicators of delayed or atypical neurological maturation and may contribute to motor, sensory, and behavioral challenges experienced by some children.

Common Primitive Reflexes

Primitive Reflex Normally Integrated Common Signs if Retained

---------------------------- ---------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Moro Reflex 3–6 months Anxiety, poor emotional regulation, hypersensitivity to sound/light, poor balance

ATNR 4–6 months Poor handwriting, crossing midline difficulty, poor crawling, visual tracking problems

STNR 9–11 months W-sitting, poor posture, difficulty sitting still, delayed crawling, clumsy movements

TLR 2–4 months Poor balance, toe walking, weak core, motion sickness, poor spatial awareness

Spinal Galant Reflex 3–9 months Fidgeting, bedwetting, poor attention, scoliosis tendencies, clothing sensitivity

Palmar Grasp Reflex 4–6 months Poor pencil grip, weak fine motor skills, delayed handwriting

Plantar Grasp Reflex 9–12 months Poor balance, toe walking, awkward gait

Rooting Reflex 3–4 months Speech delays, oral sensitivities, picky eating

Babkin Reflex 3–4 months Oral motor delays, speech difficulties, feeding challenges

Babinski Reflex 12–24 months Delayed walking, abnormal gait if persistent

Why Might Primitive Reflexes Be Retained?

No single explanation accounts for every child, but several factors are thought to contribute:

Prenatal Factors

Maternal stress
Poor maternal nutrition
Inflammation
Environmental toxins
Certain infections
Limited fetal movement

Birth Factors

Prolonged labor
Emergency C-section
Vacuum or forceps delivery
Prematurity
Birth trauma
Low oxygen during delivery

Early Childhood Factors

Limited tummy time
Insufficient crawling
Recurrent ear infections
Chronic inflammation
Nutritional deficiencies
Excessive screen time replacing movement
Sedentary lifestyles
Chronic stress
Sleep disturbances

Neurobiological Factors

Researchers also propose that retained reflexes may reflect:

Delayed maturation of cortical inhibitory pathways
Cerebellar dysfunction affecting motor learning
Altered sensory integration
Vestibular system dysfunction
Reduced neuroplasticity
Persistent neuroinflammation
Impaired brain network connectivity

These mechanisms remain active areas of research, and no single model explains all cases.

How Retained Reflexes May Affect Autism and ADHD

Many children with autism and ADHD demonstrate difficulties with:

Balance
Coordination
Motor planning
Eye movements
Emotional regulation
Executive functioning
Sensory processing

Retained primitive reflexes may amplify these challenges by continually activating immature movement patterns and increasing the brain's workload during everyday activities.

For example:

Retained Moro Reflex

May contribute to:

Easily startled responses
Emotional overwhelm
Poor stress tolerance
Sensory overload
Hypervigilance

Retained ATNR

May contribute to:

Reading difficulties
Crossing midline problems
Poor handwriting
Difficulty using both hands together

Retained STNR

May contribute to:

Constant movement
Poor sitting posture
Difficulty focusing at a desk
Delayed crawling history

Retained Spinal Galant

May contribute to:

Constant fidgeting
Clothing sensitivity
Bedwetting
Difficulty sitting still in school

Again, these reflexes are not diagnostic , but they may represent modifiable contributors to functional challenges.

Can Primitive Reflexes Be Integrated Later?

The encouraging answer is yes.

The nervous system remains plastic throughout life.

Many clinicians use targeted movement-based interventions to encourage more mature neurological organization.

While research is still evolving, clinical studies suggest that structured sensorimotor programs may improve:

Balance
Coordination
Attention
Motor planning
Reading readiness
Emotional regulation
Postural control

These interventions should ideally be individualized following a comprehensive developmental assessment.

Home Exercises That May Support Reflex Integration

The following activities are commonly incorporated into developmental movement programs. They are generally low risk and can encourage the sensory and motor experiences that support healthy brain development, but evidence for specific reflex-integration exercises is still emerging.

For Moro Reflex

Starfish exercise
Controlled diaphragmatic breathing
Child's Pose
Slow rocking
Gentle vestibular activities

For ATNR

Cross crawls
Bear crawls
Crawling obstacle courses
Windmill reaches
Midline crossing games

For STNR

Cat-Cow exercise
Quadruped rocking
Crawling through tunnels
Crab walks
Wheelbarrow walks

For TLR

Superman holds
Log rolls
Balance beam walking
Rolling games
Prone extension activities

For Spinal Galant

Snow angels
Trunk rotation exercises
Bird-Dog
Gentle foam rolling along the paraspinal muscles
Core strengthening

Universal Developmental Activities

Children benefit from abundant opportunities for natural movement, including:

Crawling
Climbing
Swinging
Jumping
Hanging
Balance beam activities
Playing barefoot on uneven surfaces
Dance
Martial arts
Swimming
Obstacle courses

These experiences stimulate the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, and visual systems that help organize the developing brain.

A Whole-Child Approach

Primitive reflex integration should never be viewed in isolation.

Optimal neurodevelopment also depends on:

High-quality sleep
Adequate protein intake
Omega-3 fatty acids
Iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and B vitamins when appropriate
Healthy gut microbiome
Daily outdoor play
Reduced chronic stress
Supportive relationships
Physical activity
Sensory-rich experiences
Age-appropriate challenges that promote neuroplasticity

When needed, children may also benefit from coordinated care involving pediatricians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, developmental specialists, chiropractors with pediatric and neurological training, or other qualified clinicians.

The Bottom Line

Primitive reflexes are among the earliest building blocks of human development. They are essential for survival in infancy, but they are intended to fade as the brain matures and voluntary movement takes over.

When these reflexes persist, they may signal delayed neurological maturation and can be associated with challenges in movement, learning, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. While retained reflexes are not the cause of autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions , they may contribute to functional difficulties and provide valuable clues during a comprehensive developmental assessment.

Supporting reflex integration through purposeful movement, active play, and individualized rehabilitation may help some children improve motor control, coordination, and overall function. Combined with good nutrition, restorative sleep, a healthy gut, and a nurturing environment, these strategies can support the remarkable capacity of the developing brain to adapt and grow.

Gut-Brain Connection in Kids

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:22:20 GMT

The Gut-Brain Connection in Kids: How Nutrition, the Microbiome, and the Nervous System Shape Brain Development

The Gut and Brain Are Constantly Talking

When most parents think about supporting their child's brain development, they picture learning activities, speech therapy, exercise, or quality sleep.

Few realize that one of the biggest influences on brain development is happening inside the digestive tract.

The gut and brain communicate continuously through what scientists call the gut-brain axis —a sophisticated network connecting the nervous system, immune system, endocrine system, and trillions of microorganisms living in the intestines.

When this communication system is functioning well, children are more likely to experience:

Better attention
Improved emotional regulation
Healthy digestion
Stronger immune function
More balanced behavior
Better sleep
Improved motor development
Greater resilience to stress

When this communication network becomes disrupted, however, the effects can be felt throughout the entire body—not just the gut.

The Gut Is More Than a Digestive Organ

Many researchers now refer to the gut as the body's "second brain."

The digestive tract contains over 500 million neurons that communicate directly with the brain through the vagus nerve and autonomic nervous system.

Even more remarkable is that approximately:

90–95% of serotonin
Around 50% of dopamine precursors
Significant amounts of GABA and other neuroactive compounds are produced or heavily influenced by gut bacteria.

This doesn't mean your intestines "make emotions," but it does mean that a healthy microbiome plays an important role in producing the building blocks needed for healthy brain chemistry.

Your Child's Gut Microbiome Helps Build the Brain

The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that live primarily in the large intestine.

These microbes help:

Train the immune system
Produce vitamins
Create short-chain fatty acids
Reduce inflammation
Protect the intestinal lining
Influence neurotransmitter production
Support healthy brain development

Early childhood is one of the most important periods for microbiome development.

Factors that may influence the microbiome include:

Birth method
Breastfeeding
Antibiotic exposure
Diet
Stress
Environmental toxins
Sleep
Physical activity

Research has consistently found differences in gut microbial composition in some children with neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism. However, scientists are still determining whether these differences are a cause, a consequence, or both. The microbiome is an exciting area of research, but it is not yet possible to attribute neurodevelopmental disorders to microbiome changes alone.

The Gut Barrier: Your Child's First Line of Defense

The intestinal lining acts as a highly selective filter.

Healthy intestinal cells allow nutrients to enter the bloodstream while preventing harmful substances from crossing into circulation.

When this barrier becomes damaged, intestinal permeability ("leaky gut") may increase.

Potential triggers include:

Chronic inflammation
Highly processed diets
Frequent antibiotics
Persistent stress
Certain infections
Some medications
Individual food sensitivities

Increased intestinal permeability has been associated with several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Researchers are also investigating its role in subsets of individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, though this relationship remains an area of active study rather than established causation.

The Blood-Brain Barrier: Protecting the Developing Brain

Just as the gut has a protective barrier, the brain has one too.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the brain from toxins, inflammatory molecules, and pathogens circulating in the bloodstream.

When systemic inflammation increases, signaling molecules released by the immune system may influence blood-brain barrier function in susceptible individuals.

Scientists are studying whether altered BBB integrity contributes to certain neurological conditions, but this is a complex process with many contributing factors. When inflammation affects the developing brain, areas involved in movement, behavior, and cognition may be influenced.

Why Inflammation Matters

One of the biggest ways the gut influences the brain is through the immune system.

Approximately 70% of immune cells reside in gut-associated lymphoid tissue.

When the immune system becomes chronically activated, inflammatory signaling molecules called cytokines increase.

Excessive or prolonged inflammation has been linked to changes in:

Synaptic development
Neuroplasticity
Mitochondrial function
Brain energy production
Myelination
Neurotransmitter balance

Healthy immune regulation—not complete elimination of inflammation—is essential because inflammation also plays an important role in normal healing and defense.

Key Brain Regions Influenced by Gut-Brain Communication:

Frontal Cortex

The frontal cortex is responsible for:

Executive function
Decision-making
Emotional regulation
Attention
Impulse control
Planning
Social behavior

Inflammation, sleep disruption, poor nutrition, and chronic stress can all influence how efficiently these networks function.

Children struggling with attention, emotional regulation, or executive function may benefit from a comprehensive evaluation that considers multiple factors—including sleep, nutrition, movement, sensory processing, and nervous system regulation.

Cerebellum

The cerebellum does much more than coordinate movement.

It also helps regulate:

Balance
Coordination
Eye movements
Timing
Motor learning
Language
Emotional regulation
Cognitive processing

Neuroimaging studies have found cerebellar differences in some individuals with autism, although these findings vary and do not apply to every child. Because the cerebellum is highly responsive to movement-based learning, therapies that incorporate balance, coordination, eye movement training, and physical activity may support cerebellar function.

Basal Ganglia

The basal ganglia help regulate:

Movement initiation
Motor control
Habit formation
Motivation
Reward processing
Behavioral flexibility

Altered basal ganglia function has been implicated in conditions such as ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, movement disorders, and some forms of autism. Supporting overall brain health through sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and appropriate therapies may help optimize these networks.

What About Gluten and Dairy?

This is one of the most common questions parents ask.

The answer is nuanced.

Gluten

Current evidence does not support gluten as a universal cause of autism or neurodevelopmental disorders .

However, some children may have:

Celiac disease
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity
Wheat allergy
Individual immune reactions

For these children, gluten exposure may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms, inflammation, or behavioral changes.

Some studies have reported improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms—and in a subset of children, behavior—after a carefully supervised gluten-free diet, while other studies have found little or no benefit. Overall, the evidence is mixed, and gluten-free diets should not be recommended universally for all autistic children.

Dairy

Similarly, dairy is not harmful for every child.

However, some children may have:

Cow's milk protein allergy
Dairy intolerance
Lactose intolerance
Individual sensitivity to dairy proteins

In susceptible children, dairy may contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort or inflammation. Some families also report behavioral improvements after dairy elimination, but research findings remain inconsistent.

Because dairy is a major source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein for many children, elimination diets should ideally be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional to ensure nutritional adequacy.

Food Is Information

Food does much more than provide calories.

Every meal sends biochemical signals that influence:

Immune function
Hormone production
Brain energy
Mitochondrial health
Microbiome diversity
Inflammation
Neurotransmitter synthesis

Nutrient-dense whole foods support these systems, while diets high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and low fiber may negatively influence gut microbial diversity and metabolic health.

Nutrients That Support Gut and Brain Health

A research-supported nutrition plan often emphasizes:

✅ Colorful fruits and vegetables

✅ Healthy fats (especially omega-3 fatty acids)

✅ High-quality protein

✅ Fermented foods (when tolerated)

✅ Fiber-rich foods

✅ Zinc

✅ Magnesium

✅ Iron (when deficient)

✅ Vitamin D (if needed)

✅ Choline

✅ B vitamins

Any supplementation should be individualized based on a child's diet, medical history, and healthcare provider recommendations.

Movement Builds the Brain

Healthy brain development isn't only about food.

Movement stimulates:

Cerebellar development
Vestibular pathways
Vision
Proprioception
Motor planning
Neuroplasticity

Children benefit from activities such as:

Climbing
Crawling
Balance play
Jumping
Running
Outdoor exploration
Cross-body coordination
Eye tracking games

These experiences help strengthen the neural networks that support both motor and cognitive development.

A Nervous System-Centered Approach

At High Vibe Living Chiropractic, we believe lasting healing begins by addressing the whole child—not just isolated symptoms.

Our comprehensive approach may include:

Neurological assessment
Nervous system regulation
Pediatric chiropractic care
Functional nutrition guidance
Lifestyle counseling
Movement-based neurorehabilitation
Sleep optimization
Stress reduction strategies
Collaboration with your child's medical team when appropriate

Every child is unique, and there is no single food, supplement, or therapy that works for everyone. The goal is to identify and address the individual factors that may be affecting your child's health and development.

The Bottom Line

The gut and brain are deeply interconnected through the nervous system, immune system, hormones, and microbiome.

While gut health is not the sole determinant of neurodevelopmental outcomes, optimizing digestive health can be an important part of supporting a child's overall well-being. Research continues to explore how the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier, immune signaling, and nutrition influence brain development, behavior, and motor function.

By nourishing the gut with whole foods, encouraging healthy movement, prioritizing sleep, and supporting nervous system regulation, families can create an environment that promotes resilience and healthy development.

References

Sharon G, et al. The Central Nervous System and the Gut Microbiome. Cell. 2016.
Cryan JF, et al. The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Physiological Reviews. 2019.
Needham BD, et al. The Gut Microbiota and Neurodevelopment. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 2022.
Fasano A. Zonulin, Regulation of Tight Junctions, and Autoimmune Disease. Physiological Reviews. 2011.
Hsiao EY. Immune Dysregulation in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Current Opinion in Neurobiology. 2013.
Moayyedi P, et al. The Role of Diet in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Current Opinion in Gastroenterology. 2020.
National Institute of Mental Health. Autism Spectrum Disorder Research Updates.
American Academy of Pediatrics. Clinical reports on nutrition and autism spectrum disorder.

Why Your Nervous System Is the Missing Link to Healing

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 23:50:34 GMT

When most people think about their health, they focus on symptoms. Fatigue, hormone imbalances, digestive issues, brain fog, anxiety, or recurring illness often seem like separate problems. But what if many of these challenges were connected by one common denominator?

Your nervous system.

The nervous system is the master control system of the body. It coordinates communication between your brain, immune system, hormones, organs, muscles, and every cell in your body. When it is balanced and adaptable, your body can heal, recover, and thrive. When it becomes overwhelmed by chronic stress, injuries, inflammation, poor sleep, or emotional strain, the body shifts into survival mode.

The Stress Response and Its Impact on Health

Your body was designed to handle short bursts of stress. However, modern life often keeps us in a constant state of fight-or-flight.

When your nervous system is stuck in survival mode:

Stress hormones like cortisol remain elevated.
Immune function becomes dysregulated.
Blood sugar becomes less stable.
Sleep quality declines.
Digestion slows down.
Energy production becomes less efficient.
Hormone balance suffers.

Over time, this can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, burnout, brain fog, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and difficulty recovering from illness or injury.

How Nervous System Regulation Supports Healing

A regulated nervous system shifts the body into a state known as "rest, digest, and repair."

In this state:

The immune system can respond appropriately rather than overreacting.
Hormones can communicate more effectively.
Digestion and nutrient absorption improve.
Inflammation decreases.
Sleep becomes deeper and more restorative.
Cellular energy production increases.

In other words, healing becomes possible.

5 Simple Ways to Reset Your Nervous System

The good news is that you can begin supporting your nervous system today.

1. Prioritize Breathwork

Slow, controlled breathing signals safety to the brain.

Try this:

Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
Exhale slowly for 6-8 seconds.
Repeat for 5 minutes.

2. Get Morning Sunlight

Exposure to natural sunlight within the first hour of waking helps regulate your circadian rhythm, cortisol patterns, and energy levels throughout the day.

Aim for 5-15 minutes outdoors each morning.

3. Stabilize Blood Sugar

Blood sugar fluctuations create stress on the nervous system.

Focus on:

Protein-rich breakfasts.
Healthy fats.
Fiber-rich vegetables.
Limiting excess sugar and processed foods.

4. Move Your Body Daily

Movement is one of the fastest ways to regulate the nervous system.

Walking, strength training, yoga, balance exercises, and short bursts of high-intensity exercise can all improve nervous system resilience.

5. Improve Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is when the brain and nervous system repair and reset.

Start with:

Consistent sleep and wake times.
Reducing blue light exposure before bed.
Keeping your bedroom cool and dark.
Avoiding caffeine late in the day.

The Bottom Line

Your body is designed to heal, but healing happens most effectively when the nervous system feels safe and supported.

If you've been struggling with fatigue, hormone imbalances, chronic stress, immune challenges, or simply feeling stuck in survival mode, it may be time to look beyond symptoms and focus on the system that controls them all.

When you regulate the nervous system, you create the foundation for better energy, balanced hormones, a stronger immune system, and a healthier, more resilient life.

At High Vibe Living Chiropractic, our mission is simple:

Regulate. Heal. Thrive.

Because true healing starts with the nervous system.

Finding Purpose in Everyday Life

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 18:07:16 GMT

Many times, people are led to believe that they must find some extravagant meaning or greater purpose in their life. Sometimes, it is beneficial to take a step back. Take a breath, and realize that a much simpler, less daunting approach is not only easier on the mind but can lead to that desired destination. It’s great to have big visions, dreams, and aspirations; but what are the smaller steps along your journey that will help shape you into your ideal self and connect you to your higher purpose. Focus on the little things. There is beauty in simplicity.

It’s not going to look or feel the same for everyone and that’s perfectly fine. It can be as easy as setting an intention first thing in the morning to have as an anchor throughout your day. This intention could be a certain feeling you want to evoke within yourself, or a task you want to direct your energy towards that day. This task can relate to doing things for yourself and others. For example, maybe you want to give someone an unsolicited compliment or show your appreciation for a loved one, or be more present with your own thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

By shifting your daily focus to this certain micro-goal, you may experience more joy and passion which can guide you towards your ultimate purpose in life. Take small steps and celebrate the little wins and notice how your bodymind reacts and how you feel more aligned with your spirit. By taking a step back and focusing on simplicity (while not completely forgetting the big picture), you will feel more fulfilled and empowered to share your unique gifts and experiences with others!

Life School

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 02:36:02 GMT

What if I told you that there was a school that we all go to every single day that has the potential to enhance our intelligence, level up our consciousness, and bring us the utmost peace, joy, and love? Sounds like a pretty enticing school right? Even for the people who don’t consider themselves “school people,” naturally we are all attending life school whether we choose to embrace it or not. Every single day we have a unique opportunity to learn more about ourselves, other people, and the world around us.

The essential question is, are you bored and dozing off during class or are you curious and engaged with this wonderful teacher who is here to help us grow and evolve? Take a moment to reflect on your life recently. Have you just been going through the motions? Do you find yourself wrapped up in responsibilities and to-do’s? Are you waking up in the morning with a zest for life and excitement for what the adventure of the day may bring?

I encourage you to do some digging and see what you find! Maybe you’d like to make some changes to your normal routines or work on building a new skill to help you achieve your goals. The beautiful thing about life school is that there are no grades or pressure to perform (unless you place that burden on yourself..). Life school is dynamic and ever-changing while providing us with many opportunities to learn important lessons through relationships, finances, work, and various challenges that will arise at times. If you are an open-minded student who is not chasing a final result but instead is focused on cherishing each step in the journey then you can begin to embrace the gift of life school and live a life inspired by gratitude and high vibes!

Building Your Tribe

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 02:14:24 GMT

The need to belong is one of the essential needs for all human beings. You know that feeling when you’re with a group of friends or family members and everyone is vibing and you feel safe, secure, and happy? This is a simple example of the visceral feelings you get when you are with your people and are genuinely enjoying the company, camaraderie, and deep, fulfilling conversations that often ensue. Obviously, your family and bloodline form the foundation of your tribe. When we are born, much of what we learn about the world and how things work is garnered by what our parents teach us, but also what we observe about human interactions through our innocent child-like lenses. Inevitably, we will take on some of our parents’ and peers’ own views, beliefs, and biases as we grow up which will, in part, influence the kind of people we choose to surround ourselves with. Now, once we start to do some deep identity digging (for most of us this occurs during adolescence) we can begin to understand who we truly are at our core by pondering the mysterious questions of life like, who am I? Why am I here? What do I want to manifest? After doing some soul searching and becoming clear with who YOU are, beyond any labels you may have been given by others or projections and pressures put on you by your parents; then you can mindfully choose who you want to be surrounded by, thus expanding your tribe.

You see, once you feel strong and solid in your authentic self, it becomes easier to attract people that are vibrating at the same frequency. For instance, if you are operating from ego frequency the majority of the time which is characterized by things like fear, judgement, and scarcity; at a subconscious level you will attract people that have that same mindset since they are vibrating at a similar level. Remember, everything is energy and energy is everything. The law of attraction teaches us that “like” attracts “like.” Therefore, if we want to attract positive, loving, generous, and joyful people into our lives and expand our tribe, we must first expand these attributes within ourselves. Our outer reality is a reflection of our inner state of being. So, in essence, if you want to build your tribe up with honest, peaceful, strong, loving people; you need to start working on building these qualities up within yourself through various practices such as mirror work, affirmations journaling, meditation, yoga, prayer, etc. Then you will become more open and receptive to meeting people that can quite literally help change your life in amazing ways by offering new perspectives, ideas, and insights; and most importantly bask in the love that serves as the fuel for your growing high vibe tribe!

Becoming Attuned to the Wisdom Within

austintchikatilov@live.com (Austin Tchikatilov) — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 23:29:35 GMT

As human beings, we are all born with innate intelligence. We don’t have to tell our cells to divide, our tissues to grow, or our organ systems to develop and help keep us alive. These processes occur naturally because we are equipped with a divine intelligence that acts as a facilitator for our growth and development as well as a healer when we sustain injuries. This innate intelligence that our bodies carry enables us to be radically resilient to stressors that we endure throughout our lifetimes. Think of the last time you got a cut and it healed.. innate intelligence intervened. Think of the last time you were sick and your body spiked a fever to clear out unwanted pathogens… innate intelligence intervened… think of the last time you broke a bone or strained a muscle and it got better… again innate intelligence to the rescue. Clearly we possess an incredible amount of wisdom within, now the question is how do we consciously connect to our innate intelligence so that we can unlock our utmost potential to heal, love, and serve ourselves and others.

Take a couple minutes before bed and lie down somewhere comfortable. Close your eyes and begin to scan your body from head to toe. Notice any sensations as you guide your awareness to different regions of your body. If you sense tightness or restrictions anywhere see if you can invite your breath and awareness into that space while imagining the release of any stuck/stagnant energy. You can also visualize a colorful light, maybe white, green, or blue, that courses through your body removing anything that no longer serves you. This is a powerful exercise that you can use to connect to your innate intelligence and intuition as certain thoughts, ideas or insights may come to you during this practice. The most important thing is that you are open to listening to the messages your body is trying to convey to you. The body is so intelligent that it gives us signs and symptoms when things are not working well. If we do not heed its warnings, this may turn into dis-ease as the message gets louder. However, if you check in with yourself on a regular basis through body scans, meditation, journaling, etc.; then you will truly become attuned to the wisdom within and effectively raise your vibrations!

New Year.. New Possibilities

austintchikatilov@live.com (Austin Tchikatilov) — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 02:57:18 GMT

With every new year comes feelings of hopes and aspirations. Often times, people set goals and resolutions in an attempt to improve their lives in some form or fashion. As 2022 comes to a close, you may feel called to take time by yourself to self-reflect on all that has happened to you as well as FOR you. As you mentally review the past year you probably can recall the momentous triumphs, saddening defeats, as well as new bonds formed with other people and previous bonds strengthened. I encourage you to perform this introspection with an open heart and mind. There is no need to judge yourself. No matter how crazy, difficult, or wonderful 2022 was for you, realize that it is ALL part of this beautiful thing we call life. Everything that has happened in your past has helped shape who you are today. Once you’ve done some digging; new thoughts and feelings may arise in your awareness... COOL, that is the first step! Once we become more in tune with ourselves through deep introspection, we can begin to identify parts of ourselves that we want to work on improving. Maybe you feel that this past year you’ve been very emotionally reactive and you’d like to become more zen amidst challenging circumstances. Or perhaps you find yourself looking for external validation from others and you’d like to start providing yourself words of affirmation. The most essential part of this process is that you ARE NOT overly critical of yourself and instead show yourself unconditional love and compassion.

Instead of setting specific outcome goals for 2023, what if you set some specific intentions for what you want to cultivate and how you want to FEEL! The flow of life is dynamic and never static so what would you like to manifest and attract in 2023? 2023 will bring us many new opportunities, the key question is what direction do YOU want to go and what are the feelings/emotions that are paving that path? A road charged with fear, scarcity, and lack of passion will lead to a very different place than one of love, abundance, and gratitude. When we embody high vibration emotions, we tend to attract people, things, and opportunities of the same frequency which can lead to greater harmony in life. Be intentional about how you would like to show up in the world in 2023. You may not be able to control some of the obstacles thrown in your path, but you can ABSOLUTELY control how you choose to respond! By getting clear with your intentions now, you will not only be better equipped to handle difficulties as they arise this upcoming year, but you also will be more open and receptive to opportunities (gifts) that are aligned with your divine purpose!

Athletes and Mental Health

austintchikatilov@live.com (Austin Tchikatilov) — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 17:56:00 GMT

You ARE LIMITLESS

At the most fundamental level, you are made up of energy. Where your attention goes, your energy flows. The beauty of free-will is that we can mindfully choose where to place our attention and focus our energy so that we can attract abundant success in whatever field we wish. So, with that in mind, think about what do you really desire in life and where does this desire come? This exercise emphasizes the importance of being intentional. Without intention you have no direction, so I encourage you to take time to meditate and set an intention each and every day which can act as an anchor and keep you grounded. Once you’ve answered those questions for yourself you may feel a new sense of empowerment with the essential understanding that you have everything you need within you to thrive!

As a lifelong elite athlete, I’ve realized the importance of mindset for performance, health, and career longevity. First and foremost, you need to realize that you are FAR more than an athlete. You are a beautiful human being with tremendous superpowers that extend far beyond the soccer field, basketball court, or swimming pool. You are truly limitless and are only limited by the confines of your own shadows and other people’s projections that you accept as reality. A lot of mental health issues in sports arise when athletes think they are not good enough. When they equate their performance with their self-worth. When they are overly critical instead of being compassionate to themselves. So, if you find yourself stuck in this vicious cycle of performance anxiety, judgment, and fear; the first step is becoming aware of this negative pattern so that you can rewrite your own story from a place of gratitude, love and compassion.

What if instead of worrying about a future game or perseverating over a bad loss, you focused on being in the present moment? Remember where your attention goes your energy will flow. So if you can find peace in the present moment, even during tough competitions and stressful life events then you will better equipped to handle whatever comes your way. One of the best ways to get out of your head and into your body is by focusing your attention on the breath. As athletes, how on earth can we enter the flow state where we are totally immersed in the activity if we are up in our heads; thinking, worrying, and constantly analyzing? The breath is the gateway to the present moment so something as simple as taking a moment to deeply inhale and exhale through the nose can serve as a reset. It sends a signal to your nervous system that everything is OKAY. Even though we may be in sympathetic fight or flight mode during competition, it allows us to connect to our limitless potential, both as athletes and as human beings.

If you are an athlete struggling with mental health issues please know that you are not alone! People are here to support you on your path, but you need to be your biggest advocate and best friend. It’s up to each and every one of us to do our own personal work so that we may work through past traumas and tribulations that may be contributing to current maladaptive thought patterns. Although it is extremely difficult, we all need to take the time to shine a light on our own shadows and work on improving them so that we can show up in the world as our highest selves. In fact, mental health issues may be a blessing in disguise because it helps us recognize that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed which can further contribute to our growth and evolution. Ultimately, I believe that mental health issues arise because the spirit is crying out for more self-love and compassion. Lastly, if athletes can love themselves unconditionally, connect to the present moment, and focus their energy; then they will set themselves up for success in sport and in life!

Welcome

austintchikatilov@live.com (Austin Tchikatilov) — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:15:04 GMT

aWAKEN YOUR MIND, STRENGTHEN YOUR BODY, CONNECT TO YOUR SPIRIT.

Welcome to my playground! This site was created to help empower you to live vibrantly and I am here to share my love, wisdom, and experiences to help guide you on this journey we call life. No matter who you are or where you come from, you deserve to THRIVE during your existence on Mother Earth. The information and content that will be presented on this page is for your own educational purposes. Take what resonates with you and leave the rest. If you have specific questions about fitness, nutrition, performance, and biohacking then I i invite you to consult me personally via a discovery call. For those of you who are seeking a more intimate personal development platform, the High Vibe Tribe membership is available if you feel called to join. Lastly, remember to BE YOU, BE LOVE, and BE PRESENT!

austin-t-v1

A Brain-Based Approach to ADHD

Supporting the Brain Beyond Behavior

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ADHD is more than an attention problem. It is a disconnect in whole-brain conversations involving executive function, movement, sensory processing, the gut, inflammation, lifestyle, and the environment around a developing child.

The Prefrontal Cortex: The Brain's Filter

ADHD Is More Than a Dopamine Problem

The Gut-Brain Connection Matters

Start by Removing Some of the Noise

Nutrition Should Support the Brain, Not Become Another Supplement Drawer

Train the Brain Through the Body

What About Chiropractic and the Brain?

More Movement. More Nature. Less Passive Stimulation.

Building a More Flexible Nervous System

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Why pediatric concussion recovery should look beyond symptoms—and toward restoring how the brain, eyes, spine, balance system, body, and metabolism work together.

Every Concussion Can Look Different

Establishing a Baseline Before an Injury Happens

Functional Neurology: Rehabilitating What the Examination Finds

The Eyes and Vestibular System After Concussion

Where Chiropractic Care Fits in

Movement Becomes Part of the Medicine

Where EWOT May Fit

Supporting Cellular Energy With Photobiomodulation

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Persistent Symptoms

Feeding the Recovering Brain

Nutraceuticals: Omega-3s, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Curcumin—and Creatine

Return to Play Should Mean More Than “I Feel Fine”

Building the Brain Back Up

Autism and the Nervous System: Understanding the Brain Beyond the Diagnosis

Understanding the Unique Autistic Brain: How Genetics, Brain Networks, Nervous System Regulation, and the Gut-Brain Connection Shape Development—and How We Can Support Every Child's Potential.

Autism Is a Network-Level Condition

The Amygdala and Temporolimbic System

The “Right Brain” and Social-Sensory Processing

The Cerebellum: Far More Than Balance

The Vestibular System: The Brain's Internal GPS

Autism and Nervous System Regulation

The Vagus Nerve and Polyvagal Theory

Neuroinflammation and Microglia

Genetics Load the System—Environment Can Influence It

The Gut-Brain Connection

Why I Often Start With Regulation and Foundations

FOOD Is FUEL

Then Build the Brain Through Experience

Regulation Before Expectation

The Goal Is Not to Make a Child “Less Autistic”

There Is Reason for Hope

What is Functional Neurology?

A Brain-Based Approach to Health and Rehabilitation

Your Brain Works as a Network

So, What Exactly Is Functional Neurology?

Neuroplasticity: The Foundation of Brain-Based Rehabilitation

The Brain Depends on Information

Why the Eyes and Balance Tell Us So Much

Where Does Chiropractic Fit In?

What Can a Brain-Based Approach Help With?

Why a Holistic Approach Matters

The Goal Is Better Function

The Weekly Reset

The Big Idea

Keep Exploring Your Brain + Nervous System

Research + Further Reading

How Neuroplasticity Shapes Your Brain, Stress & Health

Your Nervous System Is Always Adapting...

Your Nervous System Is Your Communication Network

What the Science Tells Us: Your Brain Can Change

Stress Isn't the Enemy

Where the Vagus Nerve Fits In

Movement Is Fuel for the Brain

Your Sensory Systems Help Build Your Experience of the World

Sleep Is Part of the Neuroplasticity Process

Your Environment Is Training Your Nervous System

Five Ways to Support Your Brain + Nervous System

The Weekly Reset

The Big Idea

Ready for Your Next Reset?

Research + Further Reading

The Preconception Nutrition Blueprint

The Nutrients That Build a Baby's Brain Before Pregnancy Even Begins.

Why Preconception Nutrition Matters