Show Notes
It was 1 a.m., and Alma Galván was in tears. Both of her sons had severe autism, ADHD and sensory differences. Doctors told her to institutionalize her oldest son, and daily two-hour meltdowns had become normal. She remembers thinking, *"This isn't life."*
If this is landing for you, start with my free 7 Truths guide — what is actually running the show underneath when you react: https://www.illuminateu.ca/7-truths-free-guide-podcast
With no internet or roadmap, Alma spent seven years searching for answers. What she discovered changed everything: gentle developmental movements that helped build the brain's lower centers, reducing chronic survival responses. Her sons, who were both non-speaking until after age six, are now adults in their 30s who are working and thriving.
But the biggest surprise wasn't just what happened to her children—it was what happened to her. As she practiced the movements alongside them, her own nervous system began to settle for the first time in years.
That experience led Alma to create **Alma Integration**, a program designed not just for children, but for parents.
In this episode, we explore: • Why movement reaches the brain when reasoning and rewards can't • The role of the pons in survival, sensory overwhelm and meltdowns • Why a regulated parent is part of the intervention—not just the support • Why play and connection are essential for lasting change • How to tell whether your child is leaning in or pulling away • Alma's remarkable healing journey after 21 days in the ICU • Why healing happens in spirals, not straight lines • Two simple practices you can begin today—for you and your child
If you're parenting a PDA, autistic, ADHD or highly sensitive child and feel like you've tried everything, this conversation offers hope for both your child—and for you.
🎟️ ALMA'S TWO FREE SUMMITS — I'm speaking at both
🔗 FIND ALMABrainWorx — her work with children, families and educators.
Alma Integration — her coaching practice, thought streams, and the work of returning to your original blueprint.
Alma Integration on YouTube — her songs, which are layered little lessons in disguise. My son's favourite is the one on gratitude and we play it on repeat.
📖 READ THE BLOG VERSION The full write-up, including both practices written out step by step so you can come back to them.
🎁 FREE GUIDE — 7 TRUTHS
About Why You React to Your Child (Even When You Know Better) What It Actually Takes to Regulate Your Nervous System and Feel Okay Inside a Life That Feels Hard
The real reasons you keep getting hijacked — even after all the mindset work — and the 7 shifts that actually change it.
Nervous system regulation for parents of hypersensitive, reactive kids (Autism, ADHD, PDA, OCD, ODD, Highly Sensitive).
Download it free here 👉 https://www.illuminateu.ca/7-truths-free-guide-podcast
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