Episode Summary:

In this episode, Matt sits down with Gemma Carroll, a holistic counsellor and Embodied Processing practitioner based in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Gemma shares an intimate and profound exploration of her personal and professional journey — from experiencing early developmental trauma and severe shock trauma, to her awakening into Presence and offering support to others on their healing path.

With deep wisdom and authenticity, Gemma walks us through her transformative journey of reconciling the wounds of her past through a range of embodiment practices including yoga, meditation, somatic work, and ultimately Embodied Processing. She speaks openly about her spiritual awakening, the integration of non-duality, and what it means to live a life guided by consciousness and inner truth.

Main Discussion Points:

1. Gemma’s Background & Upbringing

• Influences of her childhood and the deep connection she held with her maternal grandparents, particularly her grandfather.

• Reflections on growing up in a nature-filled, loving environment before life’s early traumas shifted her path.

2. Trauma and the Path to Healing

• Personal experiences with both developmental and shock trauma.

• The difficulty and emotional complexity of sharing personal trauma with others.

• The embodiment practices and healing modalities that supported her recovery: yoga, meditation, and somatic therapy — eventually leading her to Embodied Processing.

3. Spirituality & Non-Duality

• Gemma’s authentic awakening to her true nature as Presence.

• The integration of spiritual experiences with the human condition.

• The role of consciousness and presence in living a fulfilled and healed life.

4. Life in Flow & Working with Death

• Living without attachment to past identities and paths — embracing fluidity and presence.

• Her experience and training as a death walker and her unique perspective on holding space around death and dying.

5. Cultural Identity & Ancestral Wisdom

• Conversations on intergenerational trauma, cultural disconnection, and curiosity about indigenous knowledge.

• The impact of migration on identity and belonging, and the healing power of reconnection.

Topics Covered:

Embodied Processing · Somatic Therapy · Trauma Healing · Spiritual Awakening · Non-Duality · Yoga · Psychedelics · Death & Dying · Intergenerational Trauma

Connect with Gemma Carroll:

• 🌐 Website: www.gemmacarroll.com

• 📸 Instagram: @gemmacarrollnz

• 👍 Facebook: The MindBody Guru

• 💼 LinkedIn: Gemma Carroll

• 📰 Substack: The MindBody Guru

   

This episode offers a heartfelt and enlightening look at one woman’s courageous path of healing, awakening, and service. Gemma’s story reminds us of the power of presence, the importance of embodied healing, and the beauty of returning home to our truest selves. Whether you’re navigating your own trauma or holding space for others, this conversation is filled with insight and inspiration.