Episode 84

Have you ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, even though you don't consider yourself to have "a problem"? This eye-opening conversation with Sarah Williamson, life and sober coach, challenges everything we've normalised about drinking culture.

Sarah's story begins not with hitting rock bottom, but with simple curiosity. After 15 years coaching young people about substance misuse while never examining her own drinking habits, a particularly brutal hangover in 2017 sparked her journey. What makes this conversation so powerful is that Sarah was drinking well within societal norms – no binges, no neglected responsibilities – yet she still questioned whether alcohol was truly serving her.

The discussion reveals how deeply alcohol is woven into our emotional lives. We drink to celebrate achievements, soothe sorrows, and manage everyday stress. We use it to take the edge off brilliant moments and numb ourselves from difficult ones. This universal "solution" rarely gets questioned, and as Sarah puts it, "choosing not to drink is a massive act of rebellion."

Perhaps most profound is Sarah's revelation about self-worth. Initially justifying her sobriety through external benefits – better health, modelling for her children – she eventually recognised a deeper truth: "I love myself enough for this." This shift from external motivation to self-love represents the heart of transformative wellness.

For anyone curious about reducing alcohol or living alcohol-free, this episode offers practical strategies without judgment. From exploring sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives to adopting an experimental mindset, Sarah's approach focuses on gains rather than deprivation. Whether you're questioning your own relationship with alcohol or simply interested in conscious wellbeing choices, this conversation will transform how you think about what's in your glass.

What might your life look like if you loved yourself enough to question even the most socially accepted habits? Listen now and join the conversation in our Facebook group.

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 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.

Episode 80

Ever returned from holiday feeling like you need another holiday just to recover? You're not alone. That "sod it" holiday mindset can leave us feeling sluggish, bloated, and exhausted – the complete opposite of the rejuvenation we crave.

In this practical episode, we explore how to genuinely enjoy your holiday indulgences without sacrificing your wellbeing. From rich restaurant meals and tempting desserts to disrupted sleep patterns and travel stress, holidays present unique wellness challenges that can derail even our best intentions.

We dive into real strategies that work, starting with digestive support – the foundation of feeling good while traveling. Learn why probiotics before and during travel, digestive enzymes for those indulgent meals, and simply slowing down to properly chew can transform your holiday experience. Discover the essential elements of a travel-friendly homeopathic first aid kit that addresses everything from sunburn to food poisoning naturally.

Beyond digestion, we explore how maintaining some grounding habits from home creates stability amidst the holiday excitement. Whether it's bringing your favorite tea bags, keeping up a gentle morning movement practice, or capturing holiday inspiration in a fresh notebook, these simple routines provide anchoring without restriction.

During our conversation, we challenge the harmful mindset that you must "earn" holiday food or punish yourself after enjoying it. Instead, we offer a balanced approach where you can savor the gelato, enjoy the cocktails, and still maintain energy and wellness throughout your trip.

With thoughtful preparation and these practical tips, your next holiday can be truly restorative – a break that leaves you feeling fabulous rather than depleted. Share your own holiday wellness tips in our Facebook group – we'd love to hear what works for you!

How do you balance indulgence and wellness while traveling? Have you discovered strategies that help you feel great during and after your holidays?

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.

Ever felt paralysed by contradicting wellness advice? One expert swears by intermittent fasting while another warns against it. A fitness guru promotes one approach while doctors recommend something entirely different. Welcome to what Catherine aptly calls "wellness noise"—that overwhelming cacophony of health information that leaves many midlife women feeling more confused than empowered.

This candid conversation cuts through the clutter to reveal why so much wellness advice feels contradictory yet simultaneously correct. The missing piece? Context. Those experts aren't necessarily wrong—they're simply speaking to different audiences without making that distinction clear. Dr. Mindy Peltz's fasting protocols might work wonders for someone with obesity or pre-diabetes, while Dr. Stacey Sims' contrary advice better serves active midlife women. Understanding these nuances transforms overwhelming information into applicable wisdom.

Catherine compassionately acknowledges the unique challenges midlife women face: bodies that respond differently than they did decades ago, marketing that preys on insecurities, and the exhaustion of constantly second-guessing ourselves. Rather than adding to the noise, she offers a refreshing perspective—your body already knows much of what it needs. The fundamentals remain straightforward: nourishing food, regular movement, quality sleep, adequate hydration, and stress management form the foundation. Everything else should complement these basics, not replace them.

The path forward involves getting specific about your unique circumstances and goals, finding experts who truly speak to your demographic, and connecting with communities of women navigating similar journeys. Most importantly, wellness should never become another source of stress. It should fit realistically into your life, empowering rather than overwhelming you. If you're tired of wellness whiplash and ready for clarity, this episode offers the guidance and permission you've been seeking to trust yourself again.

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 78

Have you ever wondered why you seem more prone to injuries as you navigate perimenopause or menopause? That twinge in your knee, the persistent ache in your shoulder, or the way your body feels stiffer during certain weeks might all be connected to your changing hormones.

As a 54-year-old competitive gymnast, I've had to rethink my entire approach to training after experiencing injuries that seemed to come out of nowhere. The truth is, they weren't random at all – they were perfectly predictable based on my hormonal fluctuations. When estrogen rises during the first half of your menstrual cycle, it boosts collagen production, giving your tendons and ligaments more elasticity and resilience. Think of them like fresh, stretchy elastic bands that can extend and snap back easily. But after ovulation, when hormones begin to drop, those same tissues become more vulnerable – like old elastic bands sitting in a drawer that snap when stretched too far.

This episode unpacks exactly how to work with these changes rather than against them. You'll learn how to time high-intensity workouts for when your body has natural hormonal protection, how to recognize your personal warning signs of increased injury risk, and specific nutrition and supplement strategies that can support your joints when your hormones no longer do. I'll share practical tips for adapting your warm-up routine, why strength training becomes even more crucial during this life stage, and recovery practices that help keep your body resilient.

Whether you're still experiencing regular cycles, navigating the unpredictable patterns of perimenopause, or adjusting to the consistently lower hormone levels of menopause, you can create a training approach that honors your body's current needs. This isn't about slowing down or giving up the activities you love – it's about getting wiser about how you pursue them. Join me to discover how tracking your symptoms, listening to your body's signals, and making strategic adjustments can help you stay active and injury-free for decades to come. Have you noticed changes in how your body responds to exercise? Share your experience in our Far Too Fabulous Facebook group!

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 77

Could Listening to Your Body Be the Ultimate Midlife Hack?

Have you ever felt like your body is trying to tell you something important, but you can't quite understand the message? You're not alone.

After 40, our bodies begin communicating in new and sometimes confusing ways. What's fascinating is that we've been culturally conditioned to ignore these signals – dismissing our intuition as "woo" or "too alternative" when it's actually millions of pieces of information being processed by our subconscious every second.

In this eye-opening episode, we explore the fascinating disconnect between our growing confidence as we age and the physical changes that often leave us feeling betrayed by our bodies. That unexpected weight gain? Those strange energy fluctuations? The occasional brain fog? These aren't random malfunctions – they're sophisticated communications from a body that's navigating significant hormonal shifts.

We dive deep into why strength training becomes non-negotiable after 40 (and why it makes you feel like a "badass"), how stress undermines even your best health efforts, and why supporting your gut and liver function becomes increasingly crucial during perimenopause. Plus, we share practical strategies for reconnecting with your body's wisdom without feeling overwhelmed.

Perhaps most importantly, we challenge the cultural narrative that aging means decline. The truth? Your body isn't broken – it's adapting. And when you learn to listen to what it's telling you, you unlock a level of wellbeing that no Google search or quick-fix solution can provide.

Whether you're approaching 40, firmly in your middle years, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on working with your body rather than fighting against it. Ready to trust yourself again? This episode is your invitation to reconnect with your most reliable health advisor – your own intuition.

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.