Dr. Melissa Wittman: Autism Is A Superpower

In this episode of The Longevity Formula, Dr. Brandon Crawford interviews Dr. Melissa Wittman, a seasoned expert in Functional Neurology with a specialization in Developmental Functional Neurology. Dr. Wittman has years of experience running her own clinic and working in diverse practices across the U.S. Currently, she is a central figure at a top Functional Neurology practice in Austin, Texas. During the interview, Dr. Wittman discusses the complexities of the brain, the unique features of the female neurodivergent brain, and the transformative power of understanding one's neurodiversity. Her insights are invaluable for anyone interested in understanding the brain and how it functions.

What You’ll Learn

• Understanding Neurodivergence: Insights into how neurodivergent brains function differently and the strengths they possess, with a focus on high-functioning autism and the debunking of common misconceptions around Asperger's Syndrome and autism spectrum disorder.
• Personal Experience with Autism: Dr. Brandon Crawford shares her personal journey of discovering she is on the autism spectrum, challenging stereotypes, and utilizing her unique strengths for high performance in her field.
• Optimizing Brain Health: Strategies for improving brain function and vagal tone, including specific tools and techniques like the StemPod for auricular branch of the vagus nerve stimulation and the importance of maintaining even blood sugar levels.
• The Importance of Circadian Rhythms: Exploring the pivotal role of adhering to a circadian lifestyle for overall well-being, including the benefits of sunrise and sunset exposure and the timing of food intake.
• Empowering Neurodivergent Individuals: How understanding and optimizing one’s brain functionality can lead to a more fulfilling life, emphasizing the shift from a mindset of disability to one of empowerment and high performance.
• Changing Healthcare's Approach to Autism: Encouragement for healthcare providers and the public to adopt a more functional and individualized approach to neurological conditions, advocating for a paradigm shift in treating and understanding neurodivergent populations.

Ideas Worth Sharing

“We're not just trying to activate the brain, but trying to activate the brain in the right way, at the right time, with the right frequency, with the right amplitude.” — Dr. Brandon Crawford

“A huge part of what we do differently is not only pinpointing what specific parts of the brain need work but also looking at it from the developmental perspective of the brainstem.” — Dr. Melissa Wittman

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