What Are Neurobehavioural Conditions?​

Neurobehavioural conditions involve differences in how the brain processes information, regulates emotions, and integrates sensory and motor functions. These conditions often stem from nervous system dysregulation, which may be influenced by genetics, birth trauma, early stress, injury, or environmental stressors.

​Common conditions we support include:

• ADD / ADHD (Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorders)
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• Anxiety Disorders / Panic Disorders
• Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Learning Difficulties (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia)
• Cognitive Fatigue / Mental Overload
• PTSD & Trauma-related Disorders
• Tics & Tourette Syndrome
• Emotional Dysregulation / Mood Instability
• Sleep, Focus, and Behavioural Concerns
• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
• Attachment Disorders (e.g., Reactive Attachment Disorder)
• Executive Functioning Challenges (e.g., planning, organisation, impulse control)
• Emotional Dysregulation 
• Selective Mutism
• Social Communication Difficulties
• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD / Dyspraxia)
• Language Processing Disorders (e.g., auditory/language delay)
• Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)
• Self-Harming Behaviours or Shutdown Responses
• School Refusal / Avoidance Due to Anxiety or Overwhelm
• Perfectionism and High-Functioning Anxiety
• Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)
• Obsessive Thinking or Rigid Routines
• Highly Sensitive Child (HSC) Traits

“I thought my son’s anxiety was just something we had to live with — until we found Nandish Health. Within a few visits, he was sleeping through the night, smiling more, and actually enjoying school again. Dr. Karen and the team saw him as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. It’s not just care — it’s transformation.”

Signs & Symptoms

👶 Children & Teens​

Children and adolescents may show signs such as:

• Difficulty concentrating or sitting still
• Frequent meltdowns or emotional outbursts
• Sensory sensitivity (to sound, light, textures)
• Poor coordination or motor delays
• Struggles with sleep, eating, or toileting
• Speech delays or developmental challenges
• High anxiety, worry, or social withdrawal
• Learning difficulties or "zoning out"

These are not “bad behaviours” — they’re signs of a nervous system under stress. At Nandish Health, we focus on what’s happening inside, not just what’s visible on the outside.

🧍 Adults

In adults, neurobehavioural patterns often present as:

• Chronic anxiety, overwhelm, or nervousness
• Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, or brain fog
• Emotional dysregulation, low mood, or burnout
• Sleep disturbances, fatigue, or migraines
• Sensory overload in busy environments
• Unresolved trauma responses
• Tension, posture issues, or physical pain with no clear cause

​Many adults have never been formally diagnosed — but still carry the effects of a dysregulated nervous system in their daily lives. We’re here to offer answers, support, and tools that truly work.

🙋‍♀️ Neurobehavioural Conditions & Chiropractic Care: FAQs​

🧠 Can chiropractic care really help with Autism, ADHD, or Sensory Processing issues?

Yes — while chiropractic care does not "treat" the diagnosis itself, it supports the nervous system at the root, helping the brain and body communicate better. Many children and adults with neurodiverse traits benefit from improved regulation, reduced overload, better posture, calmer sleep, and fewer stress responses.
Chiropractic care at Nandish Health focuses on:

• Vagus nerve stimulation for calming the fight-or-flight response
• Balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
• Improving posture and proprioception (spatial and body awareness)
• Reducing tension and spinal misalignments affecting behaviour, coordination, and sleep

✨ A 2016 study in Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health observed improved behaviour, communication, and eye contact in children with autism following chiropractic adjustments.
A 2010 study in Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing showed significant improvements in attention, hyperactivity, and impulse control in children with ADHD receiving chiropractic care.

🚼 What symptoms can chiropractic help with in neurodiverse kids?

Children often present with nervous system dysregulation, and chiropractic care can support the following:

• 💢 Head banging or self-stimulatory behaviours (reduced through nervous system calming)
  
• 😭 Meltdowns and sensory overload (improved sensory integration and vagal tone)
  
• 🛌 Poor sleep, bedwetting, or restlessness
  
• 🚫 Difficulty focusing, poor coordination, clumsiness
  
• 🤯 Repetitive behaviours or emotional outbursts
  
• 🤐 Delayed speech, difficulty sitting still, or agitation during schoolwork
  

By helping the brain better interpret and regulate sensory input, chiropractic care gently supports development, resilience, and regulation.

👶 Is it safe for babies and children?

​Absolutely. At Nandish Health, we use gentle, age-specific techniques with no cracking or force. Infant and paediatric chiropractic care focuses on:

• Cranial balancing
  
• Nervous system calming
  
• Spinal alignment to support brain-body communication
  
• Techniques drawn from polyvagal-informed, sensory-aware, trauma-sensitive care
  

We work closely with parents and allied providers (e.g., OTs, speech therapists, paediatricians) to deliver collaborative, complementary care.

🧘 What kind of results do families notice?

Every child is different, but many parents report:

• Improved eye contact and social interaction
  
• More settled behaviour and longer sleep
  
• Fewer meltdowns or shutdowns
  
• Easier transitions and more emotional flexibility
  
• Better focus, reduced fidgeting
  
• Less sensory sensitivity (e.g., clothing, noise, lights)
  

📚 Is there research to back this up?

While more large-scale studies are still emerging, existing research and clinical case studies support:

• Improved autonomic nervous system function after chiropractic adjustments
• Better HRV (Heart Rate Variability) — a measure of parasympathetic activity
• Enhanced sensory-motor integration and postural control in children
  
• A case report in JMPT (2006) of a 9-year-old boy with ADHD noted improvements in attention, school performance, and behaviour following chiropractic care.

We also align our care with frameworks from polyvagal theory, Gabor Maté’s trauma model, and somatic nervous system regulation practices — all integrated under the guidance of Dr. Karen Singh’s holistic health model.

🤝 What happens in a paediatric or neuro-behavioural consult?

Your child’s first appointment includes:

• A full developmental and behavioural history
• Sensory, neurological, and postural assessments
• Gentle spinal and cranial checks
• A clear explanation of how their nervous system may be functioning

From there, we tailor a plan that suits your child’s needs, rhythms, and goals.

🌈 Why choose Nandish Health for Neurobehavioural Support?

• Led by Dr. Karen Singh — a neurodevelopmental, polyvagal-informed chiropractor
  
• Multidisciplinary care with chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage, and wellness coaching
  
• Trauma-aware, sensory-sensitive, and deeply compassionate approach
  
• A safe, child-friendly environment where parents feel empowered
  

🧸 My child is constantly on edge. Can chiropractic care actually help them relax?

Yes! Many children today are in a state of chronic overstimulation — whether from screens, school, sensory overload, or emotional stress. Chiropractic care helps calm the nervous system by activating the vagus nerve, improving spinal alignment, and restoring balance between the “fight-or-flight” and “rest-and-digest” systems.
After just a few sessions, parents often tell us their child is sleeping better, less reactive, and more emotionally regulated.

💆‍♀️ We’re working with an OT or speech therapist — how does chiropractic fit in?

​Chiropractic care is a powerful complement to therapies like OT, speech, and physio. When the spine and nervous system are in better alignment, information flows more efficiently, helping your child process, focus, and regulate with greater ease.
We often see faster progress in motor skills, speech, and sensory integration when chiropractic care is included as part of a child’s therapy team.

📅 How many treatments will my child need?

Every child is different. In general, we recommend starting with a short period of consistent care — often 4 to 6 weeks — so the nervous system has time to reset and integrate changes.
After this, many children move into maintenance or wellness care, which might be once a month or every 4-6 weeks, depending on their needs.
Think of it like brushing their nervous system — small, regular support leads to big changes over time.

🌱 What if my child doesn’t have pain — should we still come?

Absolutely. Many parents bring their child in for proactive wellness or developmental support. Chiropractic care isn’t just for pain — it helps with posture, immunity, sleep, mood, digestion, coordination, and sensory regulation.
The earlier the support, the greater the impact. Especially in the first 7 years, the nervous system is growing rapidly and responds beautifully to gentle adjustments.

How can I make chiropractic part of our self-care routine at home?

We love this question! At Nandish Health, we believe healing happens in small, everyday rhythms.
After an adjustment, we often share simple tools you can use at home:

• Breathwork or vagus nerve activities
  
• Posture or sensory regulation tips
  
• Body awareness games, calming routines, or journaling (for older kids)
  Chiropractic care can be a beautiful foundation for your child’s holistic self-care — one that supports their emotional, physical, and mental growth.
  

How Nandish Health Can Help​

Led by Dr Karen Singh, we take a multidisciplinary and trauma-informed approach to neurobehavioural health. Our care is gentle, evidence-based, and holistic - grounded in neuroscience, poly vagal theory, somatic practices, and nervous system regulation.

Chiropractic Care

• Improves spinal-neural communication for better brain-body integration
• Enhances postural balance and sensory processing
• Supports vagus nerve stimulation and regulation
• Gentle adjustments that calm the stress response

Physiotherapy

• Movement-based therapy to improve coordination and motor function
  
• Vestibular rehab for balance, dizziness, and spatial awareness
  
• Sensory-motor integration techniques to support neurodevelopment
  
• Fatigue management and brain-based exercises
  

Wellness Support With Dr Karen Singh

• Breath work, mindfulness, and journaling for emotional regulation
• Somatic and trauma-informed coaching
• Lifestyle guidance to support rhythm, routine, and rest
• Parent education and neurodiverse-informed strategies

🧬 Our Approach Is Different​

​We don’t mask symptoms. We look underneath the surface to understand what the nervous system needs to feel safe, regulated, and supported.
​
Whether you’re a parent searching for help for your child, or an adult looking to finally understand yourself — you’ll feel seen, heard, and held at Nandish Health.

Sensory Overload

What is it?
Sensory overload happens when the brain can’t filter or process incoming stimuli efficiently. It can be triggered by sounds, lights, touch, movement, or even internal sensations. It’s a key symptom in many neurodivergent conditions like autism, ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD.

Signs and Symptoms:
In Children:

1. Meltdowns in noisy or bright environments
2. Refusal to wear certain clothes or textures
3. Sensitivity to brushing hair, teeth, or trimming nails
4. Overwhelmed by crowded places or sudden transitions
5. Covering ears or eyes in response to sensory input
6. Avoidance of messy play (e.g. sand, paint, slime)
7. Distress during bath time due to water temperature or feel
8. Aggression or withdrawal in stimulating environments
9. Difficulty following instructions in noisy rooms
10. Excessive crying or screaming without a clear cause
11. Trouble sleeping due to background noises or textures
12. Picking at clothing or constantly adjusting them
13. Strong aversions to certain smells or foods
14. Poor tolerance for tags, seams, or tight clothing
15. Distractibility and inability to stay focused in busy environments
16. Dislike of loud toys or vacuum cleaners
17. Preference for quiet, dim, or solitary spaces
18. Physical complaints like headaches or tummy aches after outings
19. Clinginess or refusal to separate from parents in sensory-rich settings
20. Difficulty transitioning between tasks or environments

In Adults:

1. Panic or irritability in shopping centres or social settings
   
2. Feeling “on edge” in loud workspaces
   
3. Needing silence or isolation to recharge
   
4. Physical fatigue after overstimulation
   
5. Avoiding parties, concerts, or large gatherings
   
6. Anxiety triggered by multiple competing stimuli (e.g. talking, lights, movement)
   
7. Difficulty concentrating in open-plan offices
   
8. Irritability when touched unexpectedly
   
9. Easily startled by sudden noises or bright lights
   
10. Wearing noise-canceling headphones or sunglasses indoors
    
11. Avoidance of certain fabrics, smells, or textures
    
12. Becoming emotionally overwhelmed during travel
    
13. Closing eyes or needing to retreat during intense conversations
    
14. Struggling with multitasking in overstimulating environments
    
15. Craving routines and predictability to manage input
    
16. Migraines or sensory-related headaches
    
17. Trouble falling asleep due to background noise or sensory irritation
    
18. Overwhelm in cluttered or visually busy spaces
    
19. Zoning out or shutting down mentally when overstimulated
    
20. Heightened sensitivity during hormonal shifts or illness
    

​
How Nandish Health Can Help:
We regulate the sensory system through safe, layered input. Chiropractic techniques like craniosacral and dural decompression reduce input intensity at the brainstem. Our sensory integration therapy helps retrain the body to feel safe in its environment.
Self-care tools include:

• Tactile brushing routines
• Nervous system-soothing diets (low histamine, high omega-3)
• Vagus-activating humming and chanting (which many children love!)
• Customised sensory detox routines

🌈 Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)​

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and sensory processing. While classically viewed through behavioural symptoms, recent neuroscience reveals that ASD reflects profound dysregulation of the nervous system, particularly in the autonomic and sensory systems.
In the last 30 years, autism prevalence has increased from 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 34 children — a surge driven not only by better diagnostics but environmental, nervous system, and birth-related stressors that modern science is just beginning to unpack.

​Signs and Symptoms
In Children:

1. Delayed speech or loss of previously acquired language
2. Difficulty with eye contact or limited facial expressions
3. Repetitive behaviours like flapping, spinning, or rocking
4. Lining up toys, objects, or categorizing repetitively
5. Sensory aversions (e.g., resisting touch, covering ears)
6. Sensory-seeking behaviours (e.g., head banging, sniffing objects)
7. Emotional meltdowns in noisy, busy, or unfamiliar settings
8. Difficulty transitioning between activities or environments
9. Intense focus or obsession with specific topics (e.g., dinosaurs, trains)
10. Playing alone or engaging in parallel play rather than group play
11. Limited use of gestures (pointing, waving) or difficulty mimicking actions
12. Echolalia (repeating words or phrases out of context)
13. Prefers routine and becomes distressed with change
14. Difficulty understanding personal space and social boundaries
15. Literal thinking; struggles with jokes, sarcasm, or metaphors
16. Irregular sleep patterns or difficulty calming before bed
17. Avoids or fixates on certain textures, lights, or sounds
18. Flat or unusual tone of voice (monotone, singsong, robotic)
19. Trouble with toilet training or recognizing internal body signals
20. Expresses love or connection in unique, nonverbal ways
    

Adults:

• Difficulty interpreting social cues, sarcasm, or facial expressions
  
• Sensory overwhelm in noisy, crowded, or bright environments
  
• Preference for solitude or controlled, one-on-one social settings
  
• Strong need for routines, predictability, and detailed planning
  
• Intense focus or “deep dive” into special interests or hobbies
  
• Exhaustion or burnout after prolonged social interaction
  
• Difficulty regulating emotions or responding under pressure
  
• Anxiety or shutdown in unfamiliar or overstimulating environments
  
• Trouble navigating small talk or casual social norms
  
• Struggles with executive function (e.g., organizing, prioritizing tasks)
  
• May appear blunt or overly direct in communication
  
• Experiences internal chaos despite outward calm appearance
  
• Feelings of being “different” or misunderstood throughout life
  
• Masking or camouflaging behaviours to “fit in” socially
  
• Difficulty identifying or expressing own emotions
  
• Resistance to change or unexpected disruptions in routine
  
• Hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to pain, temperature, or sound
  
• May stim subtly (e.g., tapping, leg bouncing, chewing) to self-regulate
  
• Difficulty with job interviews or unstructured work environments
  
• Feels more connected to animals, nature, or objects than to people
  

How Nandish Health Can Help
Dr. Karen Singh’s neurobiological framework approaches autism not as a behavioural issue — but as a nervous system regulation challenge. With early life stress, vagal tone imbalances, and sensory dysregulation at the core, our goal is to create safety, capacity, and connection from the inside out.

Our approach includes:

• 🧠 Chiropractic Nervous System Balancing: Gentle cranial and spinal adjustments to support vagal tone, decrease startle responses, and regulate overstimulated nervous systems.
• 🤲 Paediatric Massage Therapy: To support interoception, proprioception, and reduce sensory-based overwhelm.
• 🧘 Somatic Movement + Breathwork: Calm overactive stress responses, create predictability and build co-regulation skills.
• 🌿 Parent & Child Nervous System Coaching: Teach co-regulation, polyvagal-based strategies, and create home environments that foster neurological safety.
• 🧬 Education & Nutrition Referrals: Address gut-brain health, methylation imbalances, and immune stressors in neurodiverse children.

One of our families shared, “Our daughter no longer bangs her head against the floor. She now plays with her sister, makes more eye contact, and sings to herself calmly — it’s like her whole body feels safe now.”

Auditory or Processing Disorders

What is a Processing Disorder?
Processing disorders refer to difficulties in how the brain receives, interprets, and responds to sensory information. They can affect auditory, visual, or sensory input, even when basic sensory functions (like hearing or sight) are normal. These disorders can significantly impact learning, attention, communication, and behavior.

Signs and Symptoms:
In Children:

1. Difficulty following multi-step verbal instructions
   
2. Sensitivity to background noise, especially in classrooms
   
3. Delayed response time when asked a question
   
4. Frequently saying “what?” or asking for repetition
   
5. Trouble distinguishing similar-sounding words
   
6. Difficulty focusing in noisy or visually busy environments
   
7. Poor reading or writing performance despite average or high intelligence
   
8. Inconsistent response to verbal communication (appears like "not listening")
   
9. Difficulty understanding fast or complex speech
   
10. Challenges with phonics or learning to read
    
11. Easily overwhelmed or anxious in group settings
    
12. Struggles with sequencing events or following routines
    
13. Mishearing words or interpreting them incorrectly
    
14. Distracted by minor environmental sounds (e.g., clock ticking, footsteps)
    
15. Appears to “tune out” during conversations
    
16. Challenges in auditory memory (e.g., recalling instructions or stories)
    
17. Frequent speech or language delays
    
18. Often misunderstands jokes or figurative language
    
19. Difficulty remembering song lyrics or rhymes
    
20. Becomes frustrated or acts out in noisy situations
    

In Adults:

1. Difficulty following verbal instructions, especially in noisy settings
   
2. Misinterpreting verbal or visual cues (e.g., missing tone or context)
   
3. Struggles with multitasking that requires listening and action
   
4. Poor retention of spoken information (e.g., meeting notes, verbal directions)
   
5. Easily fatigued in environments with competing sounds
   
6. Trouble filtering out background noise (e.g., at restaurants or meetings)
   
7. Difficulty processing information in real-time conversations
   
8. Frequently needs written follow-up after verbal explanations
   
9. Struggles with phone conversations or video calls
   
10. Overwhelm or mental fatigue after auditory-heavy tasks
    
11. May appear inattentive or disengaged during group discussions
    
12. Confusion or delay when asked unexpected questions
    
13. Misses key information in presentations, lectures, or training sessions
    
14. Trouble with auditory sequencing (e.g., remembering steps or directions)
    
15. Often avoids group discussions or noisy environments
    
16. Preference for reading over listening for comprehension
    
17. Uses strategies like note-taking or subtitles to compensate
    
18. Finds it difficult to track conversations in a group or with multiple speakers
    
19. May become anxious when auditory information is unclear or fast-paced
    
20. Feels mentally drained after long conversations or meetings
    

​How Nandish Health Can Help:

• Chiropractic: Supports nervous system clarity and processing by reducing spinal stress and improving neurological communication.
• Physiotherapy: Helps improve balance, coordination, and vestibular input to enhance sensory-motor integration.
• Massage Therapy: Promotes parasympathetic activation, reduces sensory tension, and supports body awareness.
• Wellness Support: Includes sensory regulation activities, breathwork, and parent coaching to create a calm, structured environment.

🌪️ Emotional Dysregulation

What is Emotional Dysregulation?
Emotional dysregulation is the inability to manage and respond to emotions in a controlled and appropriate way. It is common in neurodiverse individuals and those with trauma histories. This condition often affects social relationships, attention span, and self-esteem.

Signs and Symptoms:
In Children:

1. Frequent meltdowns or tantrums that escalate quickly
   
2. Trouble calming down after becoming upset or excited
   
3. Emotional outbursts over small or routine frustrations
   
4. Difficulty expressing feelings verbally—uses behaviour instead
   
5. Hyperactivity or impulsiveness when distressed or overstimulated
   
6. Easily triggered by changes in routine or unexpected events
   
7. Clinginess or separation anxiety during stressful periods
   
8. Difficulty sleeping after emotional upsets
   
9. Switching between emotions rapidly (happy to angry, etc.)
   
10. Aggressive or oppositional behaviour when overwhelmed
    
11. Emotional shutdown or withdrawal after outbursts
    
12. Struggles to tolerate frustration or delayed gratification
    
13. Overreacts to perceived rejection or disappointment
    
14. Blames others or externalizes responsibility for feelings
    
15. Difficulty identifying or naming emotions (“I don’t know why I’m sad”)
    
16. Uses physical behaviours (hitting, stomping, biting) to express frustration
    
17. Becomes anxious or fearful when routines or transitions are disrupted
    
18. Shows regression in developmental behaviour under stress (e.g., bedwetting, baby talk)
    
19. Has low frustration tolerance in learning or social environments
    
20. Seeks excessive reassurance or validation from caregivers
    

In Adults:

1. Mood swings or intense emotional reactions to seemingly minor events
   
2. Difficulty forming or maintaining stable relationships
   
3. Overreactions to stress, criticism, or perceived rejection
   
4. Avoidance of emotions through distraction, overworking, or substance use
   
5. Emotional numbness or difficulty feeling anything at all
   
6. Anxiety or exhaustion following emotional or social interactions
   
7. Difficulty setting boundaries without guilt or conflict
   
8. Self-blame or internal shame spirals after emotional outbursts
   
9. Difficulty identifying core emotions (alexithymia)
   
10. Emotional responses that don’t match the situation (e.g., rage over a delay)
    
11. Trouble letting go of past events or ruminating for long periods
    
12. Frequent conflict in relationships due to emotional misattunement
    
13. Tendency to bottle up feelings until they erupt
    
14. Over-apologizing or people-pleasing as a coping mechanism
    
15. Flashbacks or body memory responses in emotionally triggering situations
    
16. Inability to self-soothe without external regulation (e.g., needing someone else to calm them down)
    
17. Chronic stress-related physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomach issues)
    
18. Struggles with emotional intimacy and vulnerability
    
19. Engages in impulsive or self-sabotaging behaviours during distress
    
20. Feels “too much” or “too sensitive” and isolates to avoid overwhelm
    

​How Nandish Health Can Help:

• Chiropractic: Regulates the nervous system, improving stress responses and reducing over-activation in the brain-body loop.
• Physiotherapy: Movement-based therapies can help integrate retained reflexes and balance emotional reactivity.
• Massage Therapy: Calms the vagus nerve and reduces physiological symptoms of stress and emotional overload.
• Wellness Support: Breathwork, journaling, and trauma-aware care to build emotional resilience and nervous system safety.

🔥 PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

What is it?
PTSD is not just a mental condition—it’s a full-body nervous system injury following a traumatic event. Whether from birth trauma, accidents, emotional neglect, or loss, PTSD causes the body to remain stuck in fight-flight-freeze mode, distorting everyday experiences through the lens of danger.

Signs and Symptoms:
In Children:

1. Repeated play that reenacts traumatic events (even if symbolic)
   
2. Nightmares or night terrors (may not recall content)
   
3. Regression (e.g., bedwetting, thumb-sucking, baby talk)
   
4. Intense separation anxiety or clinginess
   
5. Hypervigilance—always appearing “on guard”
   
6. Startles easily to sounds, movements, or touch
   
7. Frequent meltdowns or aggression without clear cause
   
8. Avoidance of people, places, or topics that remind them of trauma
   
9. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
   
10. Flat or restricted emotional expression (appears “numb”)
    
11. Physical complaints (stomach aches, headaches) with no medical cause
    
12. Difficulty concentrating or paying attention in school
    
13. Exaggerated fears or phobias that didn’t exist before the trauma
    
14. Overreacting to perceived threats or criticism
    
15. Trouble sleeping or falling asleep alone
    
16. Feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame (even when not logical)
    
17. Expresses feelings of being “bad,” “broken,” or unlovable
    
18. Difficulty trusting others or forming attachments
    
19. Changes in eating habits (overeating or loss of appetite)
    
20. Emotional outbursts followed by withdrawal or shutdown
    

In Adults:

1. Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or distressing thoughts
   
2. Nightmares related to trauma or intense sleep disturbances
   
3. Avoidance of trauma reminders (people, places, conversations)
   
4. Emotional numbness or feeling “detached” from self or others
   
5. Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
   
6. Hypervigilance—always scanning for danger or threats
   
7. Exaggerated startle response to noise or touch
   
8. Difficulty concentrating, staying focused, or making decisions
   
9. Irritability, anger outbursts, or emotional reactivity
   
10. Anxiety or panic attacks without clear triggers
    
11. Loss of interest in activities, hobbies, or relationships
    
12. Dissociation (e.g., spacing out, losing time, feeling “unreal”)
    
13. Difficulty with intimacy, vulnerability, or trust
    
14. Self-destructive behaviours (e.g., addiction, reckless driving)
    
15. Overwhelm in crowded or loud environments
    
16. Flashbacks triggered by sensory input (e.g., sound, smell, light)
    
17. Chronic insomnia or disrupted sleep cycles
    
18. Avoidance of emotions through overworking, numbing, or distraction
    
19. Physical symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues
    
20. Feeling unsafe even when objectively secure
    

​
How Nandish Health Can Help:
PTSD requires bottom-up healing—starting with the body. Dr. Karen Singh’s work is deeply polyvagal-informed and grounded in somatic safety. Chiropractic adjustments gently down regulate hyperaroused states, while breath work, cold exposure therapy, and trauma-informed massage create windows of calm.
Case highlight: One client came to us unable to be touched after years of PTSD. After 6 sessions combining breath, vagus stimulation, and cranial work, she was able to receive her first hug in years—from her daughter.

😰 Anxiety

What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is more than just worry — it’s a state of heightened nervous system arousal that can impact physical health, emotional regulation, concentration, and daily functioning. It often stems from chronic stress, trauma, sensory overload, or an underlying nervous system imbalance. In children, anxiety may not always present as fear — it can look like anger, avoidance, tummy aches, or even perfectionism.
Anxiety now affects 1 in 4 children and 1 in 3 adults, making it one of the most common, yet misunderstood, conditions in our communities. Research now links chronic anxiety to vagal nerve dysfunction, early attachment patterns, immune system suppression, and gut-brain imbalances.

In Children:

1. Clinginess or intense separation anxiety from caregivers
   
2. Difficulty sleeping, frequent nightmares, or fear of sleeping alone
   
3. Tummy aches, nausea, or headaches without medical cause
   
4. Sensory sensitivities—discomfort with loud noises, bright lights, or crowded places
   
5. Avoidance of school, social events, or performance-based tasks (e.g., speaking, tests)
   
6. Emotional meltdowns when routines change or expectations shift
   
7. Excessive shyness or social withdrawal
   
8. Perfectionism—fear of making mistakes, erasing repeatedly, or avoiding tasks altogether
   
9. People-pleasing behaviours or seeking constant reassurance
   
10. Bedwetting beyond the usual age or regression under stress
    
11. Nail-biting, skin picking, or hair twirling as coping mechanisms
    
12. Constant worry about family, friends, or the future
    
13. Difficulty concentrating, especially in noisy or high-pressure environments
    
14. Fearful or catastrophic thinking ("What if something bad happens?")
    
15. Somatic complaints during transitions (e.g., before school or events)
    
16. Avoidance of new experiences or unfamiliar environments
    
17. Becoming easily frustrated or tearful over minor setbacks
    
18. Obsessive or repetitive questions about safety or routine
    
19. Resistance to being watched or evaluated (even by teachers or parents)
    
20. Difficulty expressing worries verbally—may come out as anger or withdrawal
    

In Adults:

1. Overthinking, constant worry, or racing thoughts
   
2. Fear of losing control or irrational fear of worst-case scenarios
   
3. Chest tightness, shortness of breath, or palpitations
   
4. Digestive issues—bloating, nausea, irritable bowel symptoms
   
5. Restlessness, fidgeting, or feeling “on edge”
   
6. Chronic fatigue or muscle tension (especially in shoulders, jaw, neck)
   
7. Difficulty focusing, remembering, or making decisions
   
8. Insomnia, trouble falling asleep, or early morning waking
   
9. Avoidance of people, places, or responsibilities due to fear or overwhelm
   
10. Panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or physical symptoms
    
11. Phobias that interfere with daily functioning
    
12. Social withdrawal or fear of being judged in social settings
    
13. Compulsive checking or reassurance-seeking behaviours
    
14. Irritability or emotional reactivity in stressful moments
    
15. Need for excessive planning or control to feel safe
    
16. Feeling disconnected or detached during high stress
    
17. Worry about health despite reassurance (health anxiety)
    
18. Procrastination driven by fear of failure or criticism
    
19. Difficulty saying “no” or setting boundaries due to fear of conflict
    
20. Using alcohol, food, or distractions to self-soothe anxious feelings
    

How Nandish Health Can Help
Dr. Karen Singh’s approach to anxiety integrates the latest neuroscience on brain-body healing with ancient, somatic practices for true, lasting calm. We don’t just manage anxiety — we listen to the body’s story, identify hidden stress patterns, and help your nervous system relearn safety.
🔹 Chiropractic Care
Gentle adjustments help reset the autonomic nervous system, increase vagal tone, and release stored tension. Patients often report deeper sleep, fewer meltdowns, and increased emotional resilience. One teen girl who had nightly panic attacks saw improvements after just 3 visits.
🔹 Physiotherapy & Somatic Movement
Our trauma-informed physios work with movement, posture, and breath to regulate the physical imprint of anxiety. This includes core stability for confidence, PNF patterns for grounding, and sensory-motor integration to improve body awareness.
🔹 Massage Therapy
Our nervous-system-focused massage therapists use gentle touch to down-regulate the stress response, reduce cortisol, and release emotional tension held in the tissues. Sessions include breathwork, craniosacral techniques, and guided calm.
🔹 Wellness Support & Self-Regulation

We teach anxiety-specific self-care strategies including:

• Nervous system journaling & daily nervous system check-ins
• Polyvagal-informed breathwork (humming, sighing, 4-7-8)
• Heart-brain coherence exercises
• Emotional regulation tools using the 'felt sense'
• Guided Simran & spiritual anchoring practices
• Custom plans to reduce overwhelm in kids (e.g., calm corners, fidget tools, sensory diets)

💡 “After 6 weeks of sessions, my son stopped hiding at school drop-off. He started drawing again and sleeping through the night. It’s like his spark is back.” – Mum of 8-year-old with anxiety. Let us help you or your child feel calm, safe, and confident again.

📍 Book your first consultation today and begin your nervous system healing journey at Nandish Health — where mind, body, and soul are supported as one.

🧠 Learning Difficulties / Cognitive Processing Delays

What is it?
Learning difficulties refer to a range of neurological challenges that impact how a child or adult receives, processes, and expresses information. These are not related to intelligence, but to the brain’s ability to interpret and organise data. They can affect reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), maths (dyscalculia), or multiple areas at once.

​Signs & Symptoms
In Children:

1. Difficulty learning to read, spell, write, or do math
2. Trouble following multi-step instructions or remembering sequences
3. Slow to recognize letters, numbers, or patterns
4. Reversing letters or numbers (e.g., “b” and “d,” “6” and “9”) beyond expected age
5. Poor handwriting, spacing, or fine motor skills
6. Difficulty with rhyming, phonics, or sound-letter connections
7. Avoidance of schoolwork or complaints of boredom
8. Emotional outbursts, frustration, or crying during homework
9. Easily distracted or unable to stay focused in class
10. Taking much longer to complete tasks than peers
11. Strong verbal expression but weak written skills (or vice versa)
12. Trouble organizing school supplies, bag, or schedule
13. Seems to "zone out" during lessons or instructions
14. Repeatedly forgets what was just learned or needs constant reminders
15. May be incorrectly labeled as lazy, defiant, or not trying
16. Strong effort with little progress in academic areas
17. Difficulty telling time or understanding concepts like yesterday/tomorrow
18. Low self-esteem or reluctance to participate in class
19. Struggles more in test situations than with oral discussion
20. Relies on memorization without true comprehension

In Adults:

1. Poor time management or trouble meeting deadlines
2. Difficulty organizing tasks, paperwork, or workspaces
3. Struggles with reading comprehension, especially under pressure
4. Frequently forgets instructions, appointments, or names
5. Anxiety in situations involving written communication or forms
6. Avoids tasks that require extended concentration (e.g., reports, planning)
7. Misses key details or instructions, even when paying attention
8. Difficulty interpreting graphs, charts, or technical documents
9. Frustration or shutdown when faced with unfamiliar tasks
10. May rely heavily on tools like calendars, alarms, or checklists
11. Trouble taking notes while listening or following along in meetings
12. Needs more time to process and respond to questions
13. May feel “stupid” or “not good enough” despite average or high intelligence
14. Difficulty articulating thoughts in writing
15. Trouble with spelling, grammar, or punctuation in professional settings
16. Avoids professional development that requires academic-style learning
17. May overcompensate with perfectionism or overworking
18. Inconsistent performance—strong in some areas, struggling in others
19. Often misunderstood in workplaces that value speed over comprehension
20. Experiences burnout or fatigue from constant self-correction and masking

​How Nandish Health Can Help:
Dr. Karen Singh’s neuro-regulation approach incorporates cranial-sacral chiropractic adjustments, primitive reflex integration, and neuroplasticity-based exercises that improve the sensory-motor foundations required for learning. We’ve seen children who couldn’t sit still to read now able to focus and enjoy learning after just a few sessions.
Our integrated team also offers:

• Nervous system-focused physiotherapy for vestibular and proprioceptive integration
• Breathwork and somatic tools for anxiety around learning
• Parent coaching for home-based strategies
• Wellness plans including gut-brain optimisation, magnesium balancing, and brain-boosting habits

⚡ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)​

What is ADHD?
ADHD is not a disorder of attention — it's a condition of attention regulation. ADHD reflects a dysregulated nervous system that is in a chronic state of under- or over-stimulation. While often labelled as a "behavioural" diagnosis, cutting-edge neuroscience reframes ADHD as a condition where sensory gating, vagal tone, and dopamine regulation are impaired — leading to impulsivity, inattention, and emotional dysregulation.

Signs and Symptoms
In Children:

1. Constant movement or restlessness, especially in quiet settings
   
2. Difficulty focusing on tasks—especially ones that are boring or repetitive
   
3. Blurting out answers, interrupting others, or talking excessively
   
4. Impulsive behaviours (e.g., grabbing, hitting, running off)
   
5. Emotional outbursts or trouble calming down after excitement
   
6. Frequent daydreaming, zoning out, or appearing distracted
   
7. Trouble following instructions or completing tasks in sequence
   
8. Hyperfocus on topics of strong interest (e.g., video games, dinosaurs)
   
9. Difficulty sitting still during meals, lessons, or group activities
   
10. Poor time awareness—often runs late or rushes tasks
    
11. Forgetfulness—misplacing homework, books, or personal items
    
12. Low frustration tolerance and big reactions to small problems
    
13. Avoidance of tasks that require sustained mental effort
    
14. Difficulty with turn-taking or waiting in line
    
15. Messy handwriting or inconsistent academic performance
    
16. Interrupts games or changes rules impulsively
    
17. May be labeled as “disruptive,” “lazy,” or “disrespectful”
    
18. Talks constantly or changes topics rapidly
    
19. Struggles with transitions or changes in routine
    
20. Sensitive to criticism or perceived failure
    

In Adults:

1. Difficulty initiating or finishing tasks, even important ones
   
2. Chronic procrastination or poor follow-through
   
3. Disorganisation in personal spaces, schedules, or digital files
   
4. Poor short-term memory—frequently misplaces items or forgets appointments
   
5. Emotional dysregulation—quick frustration, mood swings, or anxiety
   
6. Mentally “noisy” or overstimulated—thoughts racing or scattered
   
7. Difficulty with sustained attention during conversations or meetings
   
8. Hyperfocus on hobbies, projects, or work—losing track of time
   
9. Trouble with time management—often underestimates how long things take
   
10. Interrupts others or finishes their sentences impulsively
    
11. Restlessness or a constant need to fidget, even while sitting
    
12. Difficulty relaxing or “turning off” the brain at night
    
13. Forgetfulness with names, instructions, or deadlines
    
14. Sensitivity to noise, clutter, or chaotic environments
    
15. Difficulty prioritising—everything feels urgent or overwhelming
    
16. May bounce between jobs, relationships, or interests frequently
    
17. Feeling internally chaotic despite appearing high-functioning
    
18. Trouble maintaining routines, self-care, or consistent habits
    
19. Over-reliance on alarms, lists, or reminders
    
20. Feelings of guilt or shame for not meeting expectations despite effort
    

How Nandish Health Can HelpADHD is where Dr. Karen Singh’s work shines — bridging the gap between neurophysiology and function. Her unique framework draws on somatic neuroscience, movement integration, and nervous system repair to help children and adults rewire their regulation capacity.

​We support ADHD with:

• 💆 Spinal & Cranial Adjustments: Restore tone to the vagus nerve, balance upper cervical tension, and support dopamine and serotonin modulation via the nervous system.
• 🎯 Sensory Motor Integration Exercises: Improve coordination, balance, and body awareness (often underdeveloped in ADHD kids).
• 🫁 Breathwork & Movement Play: Reduce hyperarousal, teach paced movement, and foster calm focus without suppression.
• ✍️ Journaling + Self-Regulation Rituals (Teens & Adults): Track overstimulation patterns, implement sensory pacing, and support executive function.
• 📘 Parent Education & Lifestyle Strategies: Practical tools for screen balance, focus-building rituals, and daily rhythm design.

A parent recently said, “My son went from bouncing off the walls to sitting and drawing for 30 minutes — something I thought he’d never be able to do. It’s not about controlling him. It’s about understanding how to help his body feel calm.”

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

What is ADD?
ADD is an outdated term now included under the ADHD umbrella, specifically referring to inattentive-type ADHD. While it lacks hyperactivity, it primarily affects sustained attention, working memory, and executive function. It often goes undetected, especially in girls and adults.

Signs and Symptoms:
In Children:

1. Easily distracted by sounds, movement, or internal thoughts
   
2. Frequent daydreaming during class or conversations
   
3. Struggles to finish homework or complete tasks without reminders
   
4. Appears disinterested or disconnected, especially in group settings
   
5. Frequently misplaces items like school supplies, clothes, or toys
   
6. May seem “in their own world” or slow to respond when spoken to
   
7. Often forgets instructions or skips steps in tasks
   
8. Trouble organising schoolwork, bags, or daily routines
   
9. Avoids tasks that require sustained mental effort
   
10. Trouble with planning, prioritizing, or estimating time
    
11. Appears quiet or well-behaved but misses key information
    
12. Poor listening skills, especially in busy or noisy environments
    
13. Emotional withdrawal or shutdown during academic challenges
    
14. Internal anxiety despite a calm outward appearance
    
15. Difficulty shifting focus from one task to another
    
16. Frequently leaves assignments unfinished or rushed
    
17. Struggles with following multiple-step directions
    
18. Reluctance to ask for help or participate in group work
    
19. Seems tired, unmotivated, or bored—especially in non-preferred tasks
    
20. Frustration with academic demands despite strong potential
    

In Adults:

1. Difficulty maintaining focus during meetings, conversations, or reading
   
2. Chronic procrastination—even on tasks they want to complete
   
3. Disorganisation in home, work, or digital environments
   
4. Frequently forgets appointments, deadlines, or important dates
   
5. Miscommunication or missing key details in spoken or written exchanges
   
6. Often feels mentally fatigued after trying to concentrate
   
7. Trouble prioritising tasks—may jump between projects inefficiently
   
8. Easily distracted by internal thoughts or external stimuli
   
9. Underperformance despite effort and intelligence
   
10. Emotional withdrawal in high-demand or high-noise environments
    
11. Trouble initiating tasks, especially when unclear where to start
    
12. May rely on last-minute pressure to get things done
    
13. Experiences “brain fog” or blanking out mid-task
    
14. Struggles to follow conversations in group settings
    
15. Internal restlessness even when outwardly still
    
16. Sensitive to criticism about productivity or focus
    
17. Overlooks fine details or skips steps unintentionally
    
18. Uses coping mechanisms like excessive note-taking or to-do lists
    
19. Often feels overwhelmed by decision-making
    
20. Self-doubt and shame for not meeting self-imposed expectations
    

​How Nandish Health Can Help:
🌀 Chiropractic:
Supports neurological clarity and balance through adjustments that improve vagal tone and nervous system function, helping reduce fatigue and distraction.
💪 Physiotherapy:
Promotes physical engagement and activation, helping improve circulation, posture, and sensory integration for better brain-body function.
💆 Massage Therapy:
Gentle therapeutic massage calms the nervous system, supports relaxation, and enhances focus and sleep quality.
🧠 Wellness Support:
Somatic strategies, breathing techniques, mindfulness practices, and neuro-behavioural education for individuals and parents to support long-term regulation and resilience.

Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear or terror that can feel like a heart attack, often without a clear trigger. These episodes stem from a dysregulated autonomic nervous system, with over activation of the sympathetic “fight or flight” response.

Signs and Symptoms
In Children:

1. Sudden crying spells or panic outbursts without clear trigger
   
2. Refusal to attend school or participate in previously enjoyed activities
   
3. Fast breathing, sweating, or clutching the chest when anxious
   
4. Complaints of chest pain, nausea, or dizziness without medical cause
   
5. Fear of being alone or separated from a parent/caregiver
   
6. Shaking or trembling during moments of distress
   
7. Sudden fear something terrible is going to happen
   
8. Trouble sleeping due to fear of nighttime or being alone
   
9. Frequent need for reassurance about safety or routine
   
10. Avoidance of specific places (e.g., playgrounds, school, car rides)
    
11. Overreacting to small events with intense fear or distress
    
12. Crying or physical distress before transitions or changes
    
13. Clinginess or freezing in public or crowded spaces
    
14. Intense focus on bodily sensations (e.g., heartbeat, breathing)
    
15. Repetitive questions about what’s going to happen
    
16. Difficulty explaining what’s wrong—just says “I feel weird”
    
17. Sudden fatigue or collapse after a panic episode
    
18. Worrying about getting sick, being hurt, or someone dying
    
19. Feeling “out of control” or needing to escape the environment
    
20. Physical complaints often escalate before events they fear
    

In Adults:

1. Sudden, unexpected panic attacks with no identifiable trigger
   
2. Chest tightness, rapid heart rate, or palpitations
   
3. Difficulty breathing or feeling like you’re suffocating
   
4. Dizziness, light-headedness, or feeling faint
   
5. Sweating, chills, or hot flashes during an episode
   
6. Shaking or trembling during or after an attack
   
7. Intense fear of losing control, dying, or “going crazy”
   
8. Numbness or tingling in hands, face, or limbs
   
9. Feelings of derealization (world feels unreal) or depersonalization (disconnected from self)
   
10. Avoidance of locations where past attacks occurred (e.g., malls, public transport)
    
11. Fear of having a panic attack in public or while driving
    
12. Anticipatory anxiety—fear of future attacks
    
13. Difficulty concentrating or functioning due to worry about attacks
    
14. Sleep disturbances due to anxiety or nocturnal panic episodes
    
15. Repeated visits to doctors or emergency rooms with no findings
    
16. Withdrawal from social, work, or travel-related responsibilities
    
17. Feeling mentally foggy or exhausted after panic episodes
    
18. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine for fear of triggering an attack
    
19. Self-medicating with alcohol, food, or drugs to numb anxiety
    
20. Persistent worry about physical health despite reassurance
    

​How Nandish Health Can Help
We address panic at its root: the nervous system. Chiropractic care rebalances the spine-brain connection to reduce hyperarousal. Vagal tone is improved through humming, cold exposure, and diaphragmatic breathwork. Our trauma-informed massage therapy eases stored tension, and polyvagal-informed physiotherapy helps reset physical responses to stress. One adult patient experienced a 70% reduction in panic episodes after using our breath-movement integration plan alongside adjustments and guided self-regulation tools.

At Nandish Health, we recognise that every nervous system tells a story — and every individual deserves care that listens deeply. Whether you or your child are navigating anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related dissociation, neuroinflammation, executive dysfunction, speech delay, tics, OCD, or emotional overwhelm — we’re here to help. Our multidisciplinary team blends chiropractic, physiotherapy, craniosacral therapy, somatic practices, and nervous system regulation techniques that go far beyond conventional care.

✨ If your child is struggling to sleep, regulate emotions, connect socially, or focus in class— or if you’re an adult feeling burnt out, overstimulated, and misaligned in your own body — our holistic approach can offer a new path forward.
​
💬 Your journey starts with one conversation. Book your initial consultation today and discover how Dr. Karen Singh and the Nandish Health team can support your healing, your whānau, and your nervous system’s return to balance.

Call Us To Book Now