Today we are speaking with Anja Robinson, Clinical Herbalist, Functional Nutritionist, Women’s Integrative Health Educator and founder of Poppy Herbals—an Herbal Elixir Bar and Apothecary in Ashland, OR. She’s also my co-facilitator for our upcoming Herbal Anatomy Series at Hawthorn Institute! In this episode, we’re talking about functional somatic syndrome (FSS) and the power of community health & herbalism in addressing complex health issues. FSS has been around for thousands of years and various terminology has been used to describe it, including hysteria, somatoform disorders, and medically unexplained symptoms. FSS highlights the inefficacy of the conventional medical system in addressing root causes, the undeniable mind-body connection, the startling rates of trauma (esp in women) impacting health, and the lack of community wellness and support. Together, Anja and I explore top ways to support those who have experienced FSS (many of us) and how to begin addressing the underlying issues related to so many unexplained or complex symptoms and health challenges.   Topics we cover: The most common underlying factors of complex chronic health challenges What is functional somatic syndrome and how it relates to the prevalence of chronic health challenges, especially for women What common disorders and health challenges fall under the umbrella of somatic syndrome The 3 pillars of health and Anja’s go-to herbs + foods for supporting somatic syndrome   Click here for full show notes: http://www.wildlyrooted.com/fywpodcast/anjarobinson    Wildly Rooted Offerings >> HERBAL ANATOMY SERIES :: Digestive System Intensive is March 21st/22nd!  Imagine having more knowledge, confidence, & competence when it comes to herbal medicine... Join us in Southern Oregon for this in-person immersive workshop series where students will learn clinical herbalism skills, the foundations of nutrition, and in-depth anatomy & physiology of the body through a holistic approach that weaves together the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern science & herbal medicine.  *Come learn all about the digestive system and how you can utilize herbs, nutrition, & remedies to support yourself + your community! WORKSHOPS: http://www.wildlyrooted.com/workshops    >> SUBSCRIBE :: Sign up for newsletter to receive updates on upcoming programs and events   >> GET WILDLY UNSTUCK :: Sign up for Wildly Unstuck audio program (it’s free) + learn the top 5 things sabotaging your health goals & what to do about them.   ****   WORK WITH VENESSA Akashic Soul Record Readings: http://www.wildlyrooted.com/akashicrecords  Soul Nutrition Sessions: http://www.wildlyrooted.com/offerings  1:1 Mentorship: http://www.wildlyrooted.com/apply-for-90-transformational-program    ***** SUPPORT THE PODCAST Your support means the world... If the show has helped, inspired or spoken to you, it would mean the world to me if you show your support through a small financial contribution. Each FYW episode is a labor of love that takes me about three days to produce... From as little as $1 a month, your support will help to cover the costs associated with producing and hosting the show. I love you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! To make a monthly contribution, head to the Patreon page here. If you would like to make a one-time contribution, you may use our personal Venmo Link here and offer any dollar amount you'd like - send to @WildlyRooted: https://venmo.com/WildlyRooted   Thank you as every penny counts toward supporting this work! xo   ***** For more from Wildly Rooted Get Wildly UNSTUCK audio program (it's free) Support Wildly Rooted on Patreon (I thank you!) Work with Venessa 1-on-1 Say hi on Instagram @WildlyRooted