Podcast Summary: Dr. Laura Call of the Day – "Can I Retrain My Brain?"

Episode Release Date: May 18, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of "Dr. Laura Call of the Day", Dr. Laura Schlessinger addresses a pressing issue brought forth by one of her listeners: the persistent loss of smell and taste following COVID-19 infection. The discussion delves into the challenges of sensory loss, the limitations of medical interventions, and explores alternative methods like hypnotherapy to retrain the brain.

Listener's Struggle with Sensory Loss

The episode opens with a heartfelt call from a listener who has been grappling with the loss of smell and a significant reduction in taste for four years, following multiple COVID-19 infections. Despite undergoing surgery to address an infection in her facial region, her senses have not returned.

• Listener Commentary [01:29]:

  "I have no smell whatsoever and I really miss it. And I even had surgery at the end of 2023."

• Further Explanation [01:52]: The listener explains that pre-COVID, an MRI revealed significant abnormalities ("it was all white") in her face, prompting surgical intervention to "clean all that out." Unfortunately, despite these efforts, her sense of smell remains absent.

Exploring Hypnotherapy as a Solution

Dr. Laura responds empathetically, suggesting hypnotherapy as a viable method to potentially retrain her brain to regain the sense of smell.

• Dr. Laura's Recommendation [03:20]:

  "I like that. You have to get somebody very talented in this. I like it."

• Advice on Finding a Hypnotherapist [03:47]: Dr. Laura advises the listener to seek a qualified professional with credentials in both counseling or psychotherapy and hypnotherapy, acknowledging that insurance typically does not cover such treatments.

• Encouragement and Positive Outlook [04:00]:

  "The brain can do whatever it damn well pleases. I like this. This is a very good idea."

Techniques and Potential Outcomes

The conversation shifts to practical techniques that could aid in sensory retraining. Dr. Laura suggests methods such as using scented paper strips to evoke memories of specific smells, thereby helping the brain to relearn these sensory associations.

• Practical Application [06:41]:

  "You can do this in the office. You can bring in sort of things. Also they have little sheets of paper with quote smells on them."

• Emphasis on Positive Association [08:33]:

  "It doesn't have to be specific, it only has to be positive."

Dr. Laura underscores the importance of emotional connections in this retraining process, asserting that the brain's emotional responses can significantly influence sensory perception.

• Emotional Connection [08:54]:

  "Think of walking into cinnamon raisin bread coming out of the oven. It's an emotional thing, not just a physiological experience."

Addressing Taste Loss and Dietary Adjustments

The listener also expresses concerns about limited taste, particularly in relation to texture and the inability to taste certain foods, which affects her eating habits and choices.

• Listener's Dietary Challenges [09:14]:

  "Texture. I like really crunchy. I like really cold. Yeah, I just. I eat for texture, and I kind of try to remember."

Dr. Laura acknowledges the interconnectedness of smell and taste, suggesting that improving the sense of smell might also enhance the sensation of taste, as olfactory cues significantly contribute to flavor perception.

• Dr. Laura on Taste and Smell Connection [09:29]:

  "I think some of our taste comes from being able to smell it. Because you salivate."

Dr. Laura’s Anecdotal Insights on Hypnosis

Dr. Laura shares a personal anecdote to illustrate the power of hypnosis, reinforcing her belief in the brain's capacity to heal and adapt.

• Personal Story [11:10]:

  "I remember at one time I was finishing up when I was in private practice a million and a half years ago... It's a very powerful tool."

Conclusion and Encouragement

Concluding the episode, Dr. Laura encourages the listener to proceed with hypnotherapy and to keep her updated on her progress, highlighting the potential benefits not only for herself but also for others facing similar challenges.

• Final Encouragement [11:02]:

  "So I bet you will make progress. Will it be perfect? No, I guarantee you it will not be perfect. But I really believe you can make progress and start enjoying some things more."

• Call to Action [12:00]: Dr. Laura invites listeners to reach out for more personalized advice and to engage with her through social media for ongoing support and information.

Key Takeaways

• Persistence in Overcoming Sensory Loss: The episode underscores the resilience required to cope with long-term sensory deficits and the importance of exploring alternative therapies when conventional methods fall short.

• The Power of the Brain: Dr. Laura emphasizes the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and heal through positive reinforcement and mental conditioning.

• Holistic Approach to Health: The discussion advocates for a comprehensive approach to health, integrating both medical interventions and psychological techniques to enhance overall well-being.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Laura [03:20]:

  "The brain can do whatever it damn well pleases."

• Listener [01:29]:

  "I have no smell whatsoever and I really miss it."

• Dr. Laura [08:54]:

  "Think of walking into cinnamon raisin bread coming out of the oven. It's an emotional thing, not just a physiological experience."

Further Engagement

Listeners interested in exploring similar issues or seeking personalized advice are encouraged to contact Dr. Laura directly at 1-800-375-2872 or connect via her Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the insightful discussion between Dr. Laura and her caller about retraining the brain to recover lost senses.