Chakras, brain plasticity, and neurodivergence - Vantana Atara

Vandana Atara Aura, a certified medical Reiki master, shares how energy healing can regulate the nervous system, why neurodivergent individuals often have heightened intuitive abilities, and how gentle touch can help those who struggle with sensory overwhelm.

These are areas close to Vandana’s heart, as she has seen firsthand how energy healing has helped her neurodivergent son find calm and balance.

Claudie Pomares, co-founder of Mendability, brings in the neuroscience perspective, explaining how soft touch releases serotonin and fosters brain plasticity.

She shares practical sensory enrichment strategies, including how to use scent in a way that helps de-escalate meltdowns and promote relaxation.

Episode Highlights

08:03 – What does it mean for a chakra to be “open” or “blocked”? Vandana explains how energy imbalances show up in neurodivergent individuals.

15:40 – Are neurodivergent people naturally more intuitive? Vandana shares her perspective on why people on the spectrum often have heightened telepathic abilities.

19:33 – Reiki for self-regulation: Why it works so well for people who struggle to calm themselves down.

27:35 – A powerful story: How Reiki helped bullied neurodivergent teens regain confidence and reclaim their personal power.

29:43 – The surprising way smell can trigger dopamine and how parents can use olfactory enrichment at home.

30:55 – Essential oils vs. food flavoring for scent therapy—what works best and why Mendability takes a different approach.

35:26 – A simple way to introduce scents without overwhelming sensory-sensitive kids.

39:40 – How brain plasticity plays a role in sensory healing, and why personalized therapy plans matter.

42:40 – Claudie explains how soft touch directly impacts the brain, triggering serotonin release and fostering relaxation.

51:43 – The most rewarding part of Vandana’s work: Teaching neurodivergent kids Reiki and watching them thrive.