Episode 173. Dancing Through the Dark, Depression and Psychosis, with Taylah King

PODCAST

4 May

Ep 173. Dancing Through the Dark, Depression and Psychosis, with Taylah King

This week, Ash sits down with embodied dance artist and coach Taylah King, whose journey from darkness to rediscovery is both heart-wrenching and deeply inspiring. Taylah opens up about her twelve-year relationship and marriage that began in childhood, the growing inner whisper that something wasn't right, and the vulnerability of walking away from the only safety she'd ever known. From alcohol abuse that started at fourteen to a drug-induced psychosis triggered by ayahuasca, Taylah shares candidly about spending two years dissociated from reality, convinced she was dead, and trapped in a mental health crisis that felt inescapable.

She reflects on the terrifying experience of psychosis, the inadequacy of traditional mental health support, and the overwhelming loneliness of not knowing if she'd ever come back. Taylah describes the turning point that changed everything: surrendering to faith, working with a mentor, and falling in love for the first time while sober, which allowed her to finally feel again after years of numbness. Throughout their conversation, Ash and Taylah explore the danger of spiritual bypassing, the power of embodiment practices, and the importance of learning to listen to your nervous system instead of seeking answers outside yourself.

Today, Taylah uses dance and movement as medicine, helping others reconnect to their bodies and move freely in the world without substances. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the deepest darkness, there is always a way back home to yourself.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Taylah's Journey

02:56 Rediscovery Through Dance

06:05 The Struggles Behind the Smile

09:02 Substance Abuse and Its Impact

12:01 The Role of Ayahuasca in Healing

14:58 Experiencing Psychosis

17:55 The Aftermath of Psychosis

21:02 Finding Freedom in Movement

30:11 The Journey Through Psychosis

34:01 Spiritual Awakening and Healing

39:12 The Role of Love and Relationships in Recovery