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Calming Your Nervous System
In episode 3 of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talked to Eric Cuni, a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified integrative mental health professional, keynote speaker, and trauma survivor. Known as “The Burnout Professor,” she is on a mission to empower people worldwide with the skills to take control of their nervous system and thrive consciously.
The conversation begins with Erica recounting a traumatic event that shifted the course of her life. In 2014, she was involved in a serious accident with a Mack truck that left her with life-threatening injuries and in a long recovery process. The aftermath of the accident leads to a series of challenges, including job loss, the end of a long-term relationship, financial struggles, and searching for a sense of direction. Erica’s resilience and determination in navigating through these difficult times are a testament to her strength and unwavering spirit.
Following her journey of recovery, Erica delves into the importance of mental and emotional wellness, particularly in dealing with burnout and overwhelm. She emphasizes the significance of calming the mind and regulating the nervous system when making decisions, shedding light on the impact of stress on rational thinking and the value of incorporating holistic practices such as exercise, healthy eating, and paying attention to your gut health in order to achieve mental clarity.
Erica addresses the concept of “hustle” and provides a nuanced perspective on her interpretation. While acknowledging the positive aspect of hard work and perseverance, she cautions against the detrimental effects of ignoring personal well-being in the pursuit of success. Her insights on the need for balance and sustainable practices resonate with individuals navigating the complexities of professional advancement and personal fulfillment.
A pivotal part of our discussion centers around Erica’s entrepreneurial journey and her definition of success. She redefines success as finding fulfillment and making a positive impact, steering away from conventional metrics such as financial gain or fame. Her authentic approach to success embodies a profound commitment to creating meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression on others.
The conversation also touches on the significance of community and the role it plays in fostering personal and professional growth. Erica emphasizes the value of networking, building relationships, and seeking support from like-minded individuals. Her perspective highlights the power of community in providing inspiration, encouragement, and opportunities for collaboration.
To further complement her holistic approach to mental health and wellness, Erica shares her personal growth through spirituality. Reflecting on her transformation, she expresses the profound impact of meditation and connection with nature in enhancing her well-being and nurturing a deeper sense of self-awareness. Her journey exemplifies the empowering potential of spiritual exploration in shaping one’s path towards purpose and fulfillment.
The episode with Erica Cuni serves as an embodiment of resilience, growth, and finding purpose amidst adversity. Her remarkable journey and valuable insights offer inspiration and guidance to those seeking to navigate their own paths towards purpose, resilience, and fulfillment.
To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform.
Topics in this episode:
- Erica’s serious accident involving a Mack dump truck
- The importance of calming the mind and regulating the nervous system when making decisions
- Pursuing Passion and Entrepreneurship
- The significance of aligning oneself with their true purpose and not compromising for external factors
- The importance of community and networking
- Understanding spirituality as an art of connection with oneself, nature, and others
- Erica’s personal journey into spirituality, meditation, and yoga
Bio: Erica Cuni
Erica Cuni is a survivor who has faced numerous challenges in her life. After undergoing emergency surgery and a long recovery process, she faced further difficulties as her life fell apart. Losing her job and experiencing the end of a toxic relationship, Erica was forced to reevaluate her priorities and goals. As a former therapist, she also struggled with financial stability. Despite these hardships, Erica remains grateful for her second chance at life and continues to find strength in the face of adversity. Now she is known as “The Burnout Professor,” is a Leading Integrative Mental Health & Trauma Specialist, Keynote Speaker, and trauma survivor.