Episode 83

Why do so many of us feel perpetually on edge, even when there's no immediate danger? The answer might lie in your vagus nerve - the master switch of your nervous system.

When craniosacral therapist Sarah Johnson joined us to discuss this remarkable nerve, we uncovered profound insights about how our bodies process stress and trauma. With over a decade of experience helping everyone from newborns to the elderly, Sarah explains how many of us are unwittingly stuck in "fight, flight, or freeze" mode, with our bodies braced for threats that aren't actually present.

The conversation takes us deep into the science of nervous system regulation, exploring how techniques like the "Voo Breath" can stimulate the vagus nerve and help shift us into a calmer, more regulated state. What's particularly fascinating is how our modern lifestyle - with its constant connectivity and pressure to perform - directly contradicts what our bodies need for optimal wellbeing.

One of the most powerful moments comes when Sarah shares a simple yet profound exercise: writing a list of ten soul-nourishing resources. "The harder it is to get to ten, the more important it is to do," she explains. This practice helps expand our "window of tolerance" - our capacity to navigate life's challenges without becoming overwhelmed.

We also explore how the pandemic has intensified our collective stress levels, disrupting our connection with others and making many of us more anxious than before. Sarah offers wisdom about the importance of human connection and the courage to ask for help - something that benefits not only ourselves but also sets a powerful example for future generations.

Try Sarah's techniques yourself and discover what happens when you give your nervous system the care it deserves. Your body might just thank you with the calm, clarity and resilience you've been seeking.

Got a question or comment? Send us a text message here!

Thank you for listening.

You can continue the conversation with us in the Far 2 Fabulous Facebook group. Come and connect with other women on a journey to empowered health.

For more information about Julie Clark Nutrition, click HERE
For more information about Catherine Chapman, click HERE

We look forward to you joining us on the next episode.

Episode 82.

The journey through menopause doesn't have to be a struggle of hot flushes and mood swings. This comprehensive episode uncovers the foundational approach to navigating hormonal changes with grace and vitality.

Before reaching for supplements or hormone therapy, Julie and Catherine emphasize establishing what they call "the four legs of a chair" – balanced nutrition, regular movement, quality sleep, and proper hydration. These fundamentals create an environment where your body can better manage hormonal fluctuations naturally. Particularly crucial is stress management, which they vividly compare to "throwing petrol onto a fire" when hormones are changing – amplifying every symptom you experience.

The episode delves into the three key hormones affected during menopause: estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. For estrogen decline (associated with hot flushes, dryness, and bone health concerns), they recommend impact exercises, phytoestrogens from foods like flaxseeds and legumes, and nutrients supporting bone health. When progesterone drops, causing anxiety and blood sugar issues, balancing glucose levels becomes paramount, with magnesium and vitamin B6 emerging as star players for support. Testosterone, often overlooked in menopause discussions, affects energy, motivation, and libido – making weight training particularly valuable during this transition.

What makes this approach powerful is understanding hormones as an "orchestra" rather than isolated players. Creating an environment where your body can better navigate this transition naturally leads to better outcomes, even if you eventually choose hormone support therapy.

The hosts conclude with a powerful reminder about mindset: "You are worthy of looking after yourself." This transition doesn't diminish your value or importance – with the right approach, menopause can become a time of wisdom, strength, and continued growth.

Ready to transform your menopause experience? Join our Facebook community to share your journey and discover how these foundational principles can help you thrive through hormonal change.

Got a question or comment? Send us a text message here!

Thank you for listening.

You can continue the conversation with us in the Far 2 Fabulous Facebook group. Come and connect with other women on a journey to empowered health.

For more information about Julie Clark Nutrition, click HERE
For more information about Catherine Chapman, click HERE

We look forward to you joining us on the next episode.

Episode 81:

Joy, Community and Breath: Uncovering the Magic Behind Singing

What brings genuine joy to your life, and when did you last allow yourself to fully experience it?

In this soul-stirring episode, we're joined by Abi Gilchrist, founder of UK Soul Choirs, who reveals how the seemingly simple act of singing together creates profound transformation. Far beyond hitting the right notes, community singing builds connection, resets your nervous system, and opens pathways to joy that many of us have forgotten how to access.

"The singing is what brings people in, but the community is what keeps them there," Abi shares, explaining how choir membership creates unexpected friendships and belonging that ripple into every area of life. You'll discover why joining a choir means never walking through town without recognising a friendly face, and how these casual connections ground us to our communities in ways we desperately need.

Dive deep into the physiological magic of singing as Abi unpacks the "accent breath method" and why proper breathing technique creates a full-body reset. Learn why the out-breath, not the in-breath, is key to vocal power and nervous system regulation. If you've ever thought "I can't sing" (as most of us have!), Abi explains why this is rarely true – and how developing your ear, not your voice, is the real secret to finding your musical confidence.

Whether you're curious about choir, struggling with stress, or simply searching for more joy and connection, this conversation illuminates how singing with others might be the wellness practice you never knew you needed. As Abi says, "If you find singing, you're going to be fine." Ready to discover why?

You can find out more about UK Soul Choirs HERE and follow them on Insta and FB and you can follow the fabulous and talented Abi Gilchrist HERE.

Got a question or comment? Send us a text message here!

Thank you for listening.

You can continue the conversation with us in the Far 2 Fabulous Facebook group. Come and connect with other women on a journey to empowered health.

For more information about Julie Clark Nutrition, click HERE
For more information about Catherine Chapman, click HERE

We look forward to you joining us on the next episode.