In the Thick of Life

In this episode, Katja and Asmae dive into the cultural obsession with performance — how it shapes our bodies, our relationships, our healing practices, even our sense of belonging. They explore what happens when “improvement” becomes a reflex, a hunger without root in Deep Self — and what it takes to return to a deeper existential knowing: I am able and want be Here. They touch on existential rep...

In this conversation, Katja and Asmae continue last episode’s exploration of the nervous system. What does “survival mode” and “safety” really mean? Some threads of this conversation include: Why the nervous system’s survival orientation is neutral, not negative. How “safe spaces” often become spaces of control, and what genuine respect and care look like instead. The importance of triggers, judgm...

This conversation is an attempt to begin to understand the complexity of the human Nervous System: The nervous system is complex and includes various branches. Understanding the nervous system requires context and nuance. Movement is essential for mental and physical health. Survival and thriving are interconnected. The body and mind must be considered together in health discussions. Regulation is...

Welcome into the Thick of Life! In this conversation, Katja Markelova and Asmae Belalia explore the complexities of personal identity, healing, and authenticity. They share their individual journeys of self-discovery, the challenges of navigating mental health diagnoses, and the societal pressures surrounding authenticity. Keywords: self-discovery, healing, authenticity, mental health, belonging,...