Why Do We Eat Our Feelings? A Trauma-Informed OT Explains

In this powerful episode of the Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Cristina P. Simmons — bestselling author, TEDx speaker, trauma-informed occupational therapist, and founder of Soul Story Collective — to explore the deep connection between emotional trauma and our relationship with food.

Cristina opens up about losing three biological children, raising a son with autism, surviving two major surgeries, and how all of it led her to discover occupational therapy — and ultimately, herself. She breaks down why so many of us eat our feelings, the neuroscience behind emotional eating, and the practical tools she used to heal her nervous system and redefine her relationship with food.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why emotional eating is rooted in nervous system dysregulation — not a lack of willpower
• How occupational therapy principles can help anyone manage stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers
• What "mirror work" is and how it helped Cristina rebuild her sense of self
• The surprising connection between childhood food rules and adult emotional patterns
• How vulnerability and storytelling can be powerful tools for healing
• What the Soul Story Collective is and how it helps women share their stories
• Whether you're on a wellness journey, working through grief, or simply curious about the mind-body connection, this episode will leave you feeling seen — and inspired to give yourself grace.

Bio and Contact Information

Cristina P. Simmons is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, trauma-informed occupational therapist, and publisher. Inspired by her personal journey, she now helps women turn pain into purpose through storytelling. As the founder of Soul Story Collective, she blends clinical expertise and lived experience to guide women in healing, regulating their nervous systems, and sharing their stories with clarity, strength, and impact. She believes every woman’s story holds the power to heal not only herself, but others.

Connect with Cristina:

🌐 cristinapsimmons.com

📧 info@cristinapsimmons.com

Social Media

https://www.facebook.com/cristina.b.simmons

https://www.instagram.com/cristinapsimmons/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-simmons/

https://www.youtube.com/@CristinaSimmons-d3j

📚 Eat Your Feelings — available on Amazon

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