Meet Jessica Whitmill

We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Whitmill recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

For years, I struggled with a range of health issues—eczema, painful periods, weight fluctuations, anxiety, bladder problems, chronic sinus infections, headaches, and digestive concerns. I thought these were just part of life until 2018, when my symptoms escalated. I experienced constant anxiety, severe joint pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness in my arms, shoulders, and hands. I could barely grip a toothbrush or type on a keyboard for my job. Despite physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage, and supplements, I wasn’t getting better and I was swimming in medical debt.
After an ER visit to Vanderbilt University Hospital, I was referred to an autoimmune specialist and diagnosed with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD), with a high likelihood of developing Lupus. I was told I’d need lifelong immune suppression medication and was also referred to a pain clinic. At 28 years old, I was dissatisfied with this diagnosis and treatment plan so I turned to the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet in February 2019.
AIP is an elimination diet focused on eliminating anti-inflammatory foods rooted in nutrient-dense, whole food principles, and my life was radically changed because of it. I gain a new perspective and passion for food as medicine. Although I wouldn’t recommend an elimination diet for everyone, it was the catalyst for me to completely change my diet to a whole food lifestyle that placed me on a path to dig deeper into why the body gets “out-of-order”.
On this journey, I discovered whole foods and the importance of nourishing your body. I, also, uncovered the importance of emotions and stress as well as nervous system dysfunction which is at the root cause of most illnesses.
A crucial part of my healing journey was when I realized that my actions, reactions, and behaviors resulted from my nervous system keeping me safe. It’s the unconscious decisions, responses, and functions that influence us every moment of every day. Yet, at the same time, its adaptive behaviors did not serve me well.
A significant revelation came when I understood how my nervous system, shaped by my traumatic early birth as a preemie (weighing only 2 lbs, 10 oz and two months early) and the fear of death I grew up with, had been driving my anxiety and survival instincts. These unconscious patterns were affecting my health. Once I addressed these deep-rooted fears, my nervous system was able to shift from a state of constant stress to one of rest and restoration, which allowed my body to heal.
This journey inspired me to help others experience the same transformation. I became a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and Mind Body Spirit Release™ Practitioner, dedicated to helping others experience healing, as I did. I believe that healing is always possible.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am a Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner and the founder of Elevated Functional Health, where I help individuals heal from chronic health issues by addressing root causes—not just symptoms. My approach is built on the understanding that health challenges stem from a combination of toxins, traumas, and thoughts—and true healing happens when we address all three.

Toxins – From parasites and mold to heavy metals and endocrine disruptors, I use functional lab testing to identify the hidden stressors in the body that contribute to chronic symptoms.
Traumas – Emotional experiences, stored in the nervous system, can create energetic and physiological imbalances that impact healing. I integrate Mind Body Spirit Release (MBSR) to help clients clear emotional blocks and past traumas.
Thoughts – Limiting beliefs and subconscious programming can keep people stuck in cycles of poor health. Through mindset work and nervous system support, I help clients shift from a place of survival to a state of thriving.

What excites me most about my work is witnessing the transformation that happens when people heal on all levels—physically, emotionally, and energetically. My goal is to guide clients beyond symptom management to true, lasting wellness and a deeper understanding of themselves so they can fully live out their God-given purpose.

What excites me most right now is the launch of The Body Ethos Podcast this spring! This podcast is a passion project born out of my deep desire to educate, empower, and shift the culture from sickness to health.

Too many people are stuck in cycles of chronic symptoms, searching for answers in a system that often overlooks the root causes of illness. Through this podcast, I want to bring awareness to root cause healing—addressing toxins, traumas, and thoughts—so people can truly understand their health on a deeper level.

Each episode will break down complex health topics in a way that’s approachable giving listeners the tools they need to take charge of their well-being. Whether it’s discussing parasites, mold, hormone imbalances, gut health, or the emotional connection to symptoms, my goal is to provide education and inspiration that healing is possible!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

1. Understanding Root Causes

True healing comes from addressing toxins, traumas, and thoughts rather than just symptoms. Functional lab testing and detox strategies have been game-changers to understand your toxic load and hidden infections. Advice: Invest strategic testing with a skilled practitioner to deepen your understanding what is at the root cause of your heal issues.

2. The Power of Emotional Healing

Physical symptoms often stem from trapped emotions and subconscious beliefs. Mind Body Spirit Release (MBSR) has shown me how emotional and energetic blocks impact health.
Advice: Explore nervous system regulation and emotional imprint healing like MBSR to support whole-person wellness.

3. Resilience and Self-Awareness

Healing is a continuous process and not linear. Just like cars need regular maintenance, so do we. By implementing foundational practices—such as a nutrient-dense diet, movement, and fun into your routine—you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs. This will help you stay well-maintained, making it easier to perform “tune-ups” as you age!

Advice: Give yourself grace along the way. Take time to step back and reflect on how far you’ve come. Celebrate every milestone, big or small. Progress is progress!

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

My ideal client is someone ready to address the root causes of their health challenges, beyond just symptom management. They are open to exploring holistic approaches like functional lab testing, *emotional release work, and nervous system regulation. They are committed to long-term healing and understand that it’s a journey, not a quick fix.

They are also open to addressing emotional wounds and subconscious blocks*, using techniques like Mind Body Spirit Release (MBSR). My ideal client values self-care, is willing to invest in their health, and recognizes the importance of a supportive guide in their healing process. Ultimately, they are ready to step into their full potential and live out their purpose!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Kaytlyn Perez Photography

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