Wilderness within and ADHD with Kaya Lyons

What if “wild” wasn’t something to tame… but something to understand?

In this grounded and expansive conversation, Laetitia is joined by Kaya, trauma-sensitive Occupational Therapist, author, speaker and founder of Active OT For Kids and Camp Reset.

Together, they explore the concept of The Wilderness Within - a powerful metaphor for understanding our nervous system, our protective responses, and the untamed, free parts of ourselves often labelled as “too much”.

Kaya shares how ADHD, big emotions and so-called “behaviours” are not problems to fix but signals to understand. Through the lens of polyvagal theory, play, movement and connection to nature, this episode invites you to meet yourself (and your child) with curiosity instead of judgement.

This is a conversation about safety, embodiment and reclaiming the wild in a world that often asks us to shrink.

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Key takeaways

• Why “wild” can be a strength - not a flaw
• The difference between protection and behaviour
• How the nervous system shifts between safety and survival
• Why curiosity dissolves judgement
• Practical ways to notice early cues in your body before overwhelm escalates
• How 30 seconds of presence can reset your nervous system

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About the guest

Kaya Lyons has long recognised that resilience is rooted in a child's ability to connect inwardly. As a specialist in childhood trauma, she has witnessed how adversity can unsettle regulation and erode a sense of security. Through guiding thousands of children and families, Kaya has observed the healing potential of cultivating inner awareness as both a stabilising and empowering skill.

Her insights are informed by both her professional experience and her role as a loving mother of three, walking alongside her own children through life’s challenges. This dual perspective inspires her to create playful, practical resources that foster connection, offering children and caregivers alike the opportunity to feel acknowledged, supported, and strengthened.

💻 Website: https://activeot4kids.com/

📸 Instagram: @kayaflyons

📘 The Wilderness Within: https://activeot4kids.com/the-wilderness-within/

📚 Order via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/wilderness-within-childrens-regulation-resilience/dp/1764430409

About the host

Laetitia Andrac (Autistic & ADHDer) is an award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and podcast host. 

She is the bestselling author of Light It: How to Trust Your Intuition and Build a Thriving Business. With over 15 years of experience in consulting, strategy, and innovation, Laetitia has worked with industry leaders like Deloitte and Telstra. 

Inspired by my journey as a neurodivergent parent, she co-founded Understanding Zoe, an AI-driven solution dedicated to supporting caregivers of neurodivergent children. 

Her passion is creating a more neuroinclusive world, where everyone can thrive—whether in their homes, communities, or workplaces.

Frequently asked questions

What does polyvagal theory explain about the nervous system?

Polyvagal theory describes states of the nervous system. In a safe and secure state, you feel curious and open to the world. When your nervous system senses danger, you react instead. You might fight or run away. Or you might mask your feelings, or freeze and try to be unseen. These are protective responses, not choices.

Why does Kaya Lyons describe ADHD as wild?

Kaya says the word wild means untamed and free. She sees this wildness in many children and adults with ADHD. Using a term like ADHD or wild helps people understand themselves and each other. When you look deeper at these traits, you learn more. You can meet other people with understanding.

Why do children grab or snatch things when upset?

A child may snatch an object because it helps them feel grounded. Holding it may help them know where their body is in space. Telling them to let go can feel unsafe. It can feel like being told to keep a hand on a hot stove. The nervous system will often override that instruction to keep the child safe.

What can I say instead of judging a child's behaviour?

Try asking a genuine question instead of assuming why. You could ask, tell me about this, or what's that like for you? Kaya says young children are naturally curious, without judging what they find. Dropping your assumptions can help you understand the other person better.

How can I reset my nervous system quickly?

Kaya suggests meeting yourself with kindness for just thirty seconds. This could happen during a shower or with a book. Let everything else wait for that short moment. Being fully present, without judging yourself, can bring a sense of peace and calm.

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction to the show and meeting Kaya
• 2:38 ADHD, wildness and feeling safe
• 5:53 Polyvagal theory and the nervous system
• 9:32 Why behaviour is not the whole story
• 12:23 Noticing cues before overwhelm escalates
• 15:05 Curious questions instead of judgement
• 19:36 Meeting yourself in kindness
• 21:06 Kaya's favourite book
• 22:36 Where to find Kaya and the book