SPECIAL EDITION: THE INSPIRATION ISSUE
THE 6 most inspirational
n e m o W
of our strong woman spotlight
on page 5
Lopa van der Mersch CEO and Founder of Rasa
A YEAR IN REVIEW OF THE INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN AND THEIR JOURNEYS FROM THE PAGES OF THE INAUGURAL YEAR OF WOMANBEEWELL MAGAZINE
Editor in Chief Belinda McCall, CHN, AADP Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Founder of WomanBeeWell.com Affiliate Disclosure: We will only recommend products and services that we have personally tried and loved. Advertisements may contain affiliate links, noted as a paid partnership with WomanBeeWell.com. If you purchase something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more and we’ll get a small commission. This helps keep WomanBeeWell Magazine on the digital presses. WomanBeeWell Magazine is published bi-monthly by WomanBeeWell, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part or in any form without prior written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher reserves the right to edit all articles for clarity, space, and editorial sensitivities. WomanBeeWell Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content of advertisements in the publication, nor for the content of books that are referred to or excerpted herein. The content of WomanBeeWell Magazine, such as text, graphics, and other content is intended for educational purposes only. The content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions you have regarding your health or medical condition.
For Advertising Inquiries admin@womanbeewell.com I WANT TO ADVERTISE WITH WOMANBEEWELL www.womanbeewell.com
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note from the editor
I
t seems impossible that we are in the year 2022 already! As I reminisce on the most pivotal and amazing moments of 2021 that I've experienced through WomanBeeWell Magazine, the connections I've made with the six women of our Strong Woman Spotlights are the inspiration of this first issue of the new year. You're likely making some kind of resolution at this moment and I hope that it is NOT to lose weight. Yup, I said it. Go to @womanbeewell to find out why. What I DO hope you are resolving to do this new year (and every year after that!) is to nourish your body the best way you can and to follow your soul's ultimate calling. The latter is why I'm shining the spotlight on the six most inspirational women of 2021, according to WomanBeeWell Magazine.
Every single one of the women featured in this magazine experienced a "dark night of the soul" full of challenges, hardships, and flat out pain. They also put on their big girl pants, leveled up, and created solutions for their problems. What truly makes them an inspiration is that they have continued to do whatever it takes to share their solutions with the world because they are driven by gratitude and empathy to help others. These traits are what make each of the women featured in this issue of the magazine truly spectacular human beings. Join me in celebrating the strength, intelligence, and beauty of these wonderful women!
Belinda Belinda McCall of WomanBeeWell FOUNDER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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's Editor al n Perso ite! Favor
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
a p o L
van der Mersch CEO and Founder of Rasa
My "perfect coffee alternative" didn't exist, so I decided to take matters into my own hands and make one. -LOPA VAN DER MERSCH
strong woman spotlight
LOPA VAN DER MERSCH
FOUNDER & CEO OF RASA by Belinda McCall
She's a fierce and feisty momma that experienced what she calls her "own 2020, in 2015". Her stress levels were at an all-time high from "leaving a cult, death in the family, 2 emergency surgeries, a move across country, and a huge falling out with my family"... oh and then she a baby. She needed some serious soothing and caffeine, but without the caffeine! I caught up with Lopa to talk about how she tackles life's not-so-little challenges with grace (and adaptogens!) and why supporting women's wellness is important to her.
For those of you that haven't yet heard of Lopa and her company Rasa, or if you want to know the story behind the woman, you're in for a treat! Here we go! BELINDA: HOW DO YOU AND RASA SUPPORT WOMEN'S WELLNESS? LOPA: Let's get a little deep here, shall we? (she says with a smile) Being a woman in modern society is full-on. You're implicitly expected to have a thriving career and a strong personal brand; to push against the patriarchy (or live under its pressure on you, or both); to have a wide social network, maintain a social media presence, ideally have a passionate relationship or at least be looking for one, exercise, pay your bills, eat vegetables, stay on top of the doomscr--er, news, give to causes you believe in, AND text your friends back?? And if you have kids, raise them to be securely attached, healthy, well-rounded individuals who aren't addicted to screens. [whew!] And that's not even counting the navigation of poverty, racism, ableism, homophobia, and countless other systemic stressors.
"Being a woman in modern society is full-on."
"There is a saying in Traditional Chinese Medicine that "coffee borrows energy from tomorrow to fuel today." It's no wonder we're exhausted, and that for so many of us, our drug of choice is coffee. The thing is, when used to overcome tiredness, coffee is a way of overriding our body's signals—we need nourishment. Replenishment. A break for a breath in our days. There is a saying in Traditional Chinese Medicine that "coffee borrows energy from tomorrow to fuel today." Ultimately, coffee is a way for us to extract more resources from our body than they can sustainably give. Sound familiar...? 🤔🌏 We [at Rasa] formulate every blend to ensure that we are genuinely nourishing and replenishing your body while energizing. Even our new Calm blend—which is intended to chill you out more than energize—is still going to help with long-term energy levels, as it replenishes your energy reserves.
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Popular Packs: Original Rasa and Dirty Rasa
We formulate every blend to ensure that we are genuinely nourishing and replenishing your body while energizing.
None of this is a replacement for a more sustainable lifestyle and a system that doesn't suck us dry...but we've heard time and again that the herbs in Rasa help women deal with the stressors of life with more access to their best selves. Moms say they're more patient with their kids, wives say they are better partners, we've heard women say it's helped them get through school or through the stresses of being an essential or healthcare worker. Our Spicy Rose blend has reinvigorated many a listless libido, and we're told has even helped bring a few new humans into the world. (wink wink) Fundamentally, we're helping women actually nourish themselves in a delicious daily ritual. Fingers wrapped around a warm mug, inhaling the delicious aroma...women—and all genders!—can take a deep breath in and know they are deeply nourishing themselves with every sip. B: Wow, and this is why you are our Strong Woman Spotlight! You are right, there is so much expected of women, and it's exhausting for us to feel "successful" or even just "okay" with such high expectations. And because of your deep understanding and awareness of this, and what we truly need in order to nourish ourselves, Rasa exists. I'm so grateful for you and for Rasa!
B: ASIDE FROM ALL THE STRESSORS YOU JUST MENTIONED, WHAT EVENTS IN YOUR OWN LIFE INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE RASA?
L: In 2015, I had what I “fondly” call “my own personal 2020”—I left an (actual) cult, had two emergency surgeries, moved across country, had a death in the family, and a huge falling out with my family. And then I had a baby.
Fan favorite: Rasa Bold
To say my energy was, ahem, #FUBAR.... was a major understatement.
Many moms drink coffee to get through the early years, but when I tried coffee as “the answer” it seriously messed me up—we're talking panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, anxiety. Turns out, coffee was NOT the answer for my fried nervous system! I tried the available alternatives and…meh. None of them ticked all my boxes: energizing, delicious, gluten & grain free, tons of health benefits. The “perfect” coffee alternative didn’t exist, so I decided to change that.
B: WHAT WERE THE CHALLENGES OR SETBACKS YOU FACED WHEN STARTING OUT? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
L: Oh man. I had, and continue to have, so many! Launching Rasa while postpartum with my second son, while dealing with PPD/PPA, was a challenge all unto its own. On top of that we had all sorts of operational challenges as well. I remember our first co-packer telling me after months of challenges trying to do our first production run, "Most people would have given up by now."
I partnered with an herbalist and together we created Rasa, combining the best herbs from
"There are MANY times where I wanted to throw in the towel (soaked with my tears)."
Ayurveda, Chinese Medicine, & Western Herbalism. I launched Rasa when I was postpartum with my second son. I swear to you these magic herbs are responsible for the sustained energy that has allowed me to heal from my #personal2020 while attachment parenting two young boys and running a high-integrity, fast-growing company.
They say that perseverance is one of the most important qualities of successful entrepreneurs,
And now, what started with me elbow-deep
and that has been proven correct in my experience
blending herbs in my kitchen has become a
as well. There are MANY times where I wanted to
movement that has changed the lives of tens of
throw in the towel (soaked with my tears). When
thousands of people.
inspiration had run thin and I wasn't sure if I could keep going, it was always our customers that
B: You have truly created something beautiful and
would loom in my mind. I'd think, "I CAN'T give up,
beneficial with Rasa. It is true that the best
for Helen who just said Rasa is helping her survive
inventions are created from necessity! Many
the switch to homeschooling, or for Janet who is
entrepreneurs, inventors, and visionaries
reinvigorating her love life with her wife and got a
experience setbacks.
cup of Rasa tattooed on her back, or for Heather who feels that Rasa Bold gets her through her long shifts as a nurse."
continued on page 51...
what started with me elbow-deep blending herbs in my kitchen has become a movement that has changed the lives of tens of thousands of people.
"Work is love made visible."
B: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU TO SUPPORT WOMEN ON THEIR PATHS IN WELLNESS? L: Um, is "death to the patriarchy" an appropriate response here?
- Khalil Gibran
I kid, I kid. Sort of. 😜
The other important thing is mindset. If you get derailed by every thing that goes wrong, you're going to have a short run as an entrepreneur of any kind. If you see obstacles as a necessary part of the process, it's going to help a lot. My husband and I would look at each other, roll our eyes and shrug and say: "Well, there's some more tuition for us!" Think about it like this: how can anything truly great be created without some testing of its creator?? Obstacles build your capacity to handle more. B: Oh yes, I love that. You are absolutely right. Thank you for sharing the story behind your startup story and for those pearls of wisdom! I too am a firm believer that perseverance and a positive mindset are essential for success in just about anything in life. These are words that I think so many women need to hear right now.
In all seriousness, though, I think that we're in the midst of a necessarily-changing paradigm, and I feel that women's wisdom is critical in ensuring we get to a healthy, balanced place as a society. And we can best access our wisdom when we feel well! B: WHAT IS ONE PART OF YOUR OWN WELLNESS ROUTINE THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND FOR OTHER WOMEN TO TRY, AND WHY? L: I'm a longtime student of Ayurveda, and Ayurveda loves oil! I put warm oil in my nose every day and it helps me to breathe better, is a quick, easy way to gently soothe my nervous system, and even help with dark circles and eye dryness as the oil nourishes the tissues within.
It's evident to me that you are a clear supporter of women and women's wellness in particular.
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2021
B: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE OUR WOMANBEEWELL READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? L: That's enough blabbing from me! 😝 I'll leave you with a few of my favorite quotes: "How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." - Anne Frank "Work is love made visible." - Khalil Gibran B: Lopa, I want to thank you so much for sharing your time and energy with me today. I am certain that your words have connected on many levels with any woman reading right now. You have certainly inspired me to continue doing what I do to support women discover their unique versions of wellness. And now, I think I'll have a cup of Rasa! 52
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LITTLE THINGS ABOUT LOPA COFFEE OR TEA? Rasa, obvs! Hahaha. Though I LOVE tea and my husband and I do tea ceremony regularly. EARLY BIRD OR NIGHT OWL? I wake up and shine with the sun! FAVORITE WAYS TO MOVE? Yoga and I love to walk and hike, too! And in autumn I started practicing Kalari, which is an Indian martial art said to be the oldest in the world.
Do not try to save the whole world or do anything grandiose. Instead, create a clearing in the dense forest of your life and wait there patiently, until the song that is yours alone to sing falls into your open cupped hands and you recognize and greet it. Only then will you know how to give yourself to the world so worthy of rescue. - MARTHA POSTLETHWAITE
LOPA LEAVES YOU WITH THIS...
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MARCH/APRIL STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
e n i t s i r h C Bishara, m.d. Founder of From Within Medical
strong woman spotlight
DOCTOR CHRISTINE BISHARA
PIONEER OF THE GUT-COVID CONNECTION interview by Belinda McCall
Dr. Christine Bishara is the founder of From Within Medical, a medical wellness practice that places emphasis on the mind-body and gut-brain axis to prevent and manage disease. She caught my attention when she published her study on which probiotics can help decrease the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. I caught up with Dr. Bishara to find out more about how and why she helps women achieve optimum health. 50
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Dr. Bishara giving one of her patients an IV immune boost with Glutathione- the most powerful antioxidant our body makes.
The anti-oxidant scanner Dr. Bishara uses in her office to check for antioxidant levels which are crucial in fighting off disease-causing free radicals.
We chose to highlight Dr. Bishara in this issue for her pioneering work regarding the gut-COVID connection and also her ongoing work to empower women to achieve their unique wellness goals. Of course, she also has an inspirational story to share! BELINDA: SO LET'S JUMP RIGHT INTO THIS... HOW DO YOU SUPPORT WOMEN'S WELLNESS ?
DR. BISHARA: Women are givers and always put others first, sometimes neglecting their own health. My passion is to help women prioritize their health through prevention and wellness and in particular, gut-brain health, as I believe it is the key to feeling your best AND looking your best. B: CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT HOW YOU WORK WITH WOMEN TO OPTIMIZE THEIR GUT-BRAIN HEALTH?
DR. BISHARA: Sure! My wellness and weight loss evaluations are multidimensional and highly customized for each person.
I focus on overall nutritional status while looking for any deficiencies that might affect gut health and increase the risk of developing chronic conditions. My exams are unique for each person. Many times they take over an hour to complete because I utilize my 20+ years of practicing internal medicine while incorporating my integrative training to understand my patients' health status. I give natural supplements and recommend lifestyle changes that decrease the risk of developing chronic illness while optimizing the gut-brain axis. I also perform a detailed gut-brain assessment to tap into factors that may be affecting our overall health. This includes gut and mental health, as well as cognitive function. WOMANBEEWELL
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DR. CHRISTINE BISHARA, MD
It's a powerful thing when women draw strength from one another.
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B: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO SUPPORT WOMEN ON THEIR WELLNESS PATHS?
DR. BISHARA: It's a powerful thing when women draw strength from one another. How many times have you had a female friend uplift and encourage you? I know I've experienced it many times. While we are all on different paths and at different points in our lives, supporting one another is the most empowering thing we can do for each other.
"... as an overweight teen, I lost 70 pounds. It was then that I knew I wanted to be a doctor..."
B: WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER THAT YOU WANTED TO BE A DOCTOR? WHAT EVENTS IN YOUR OWN LIFE INSPIRED YOU TO CREATE YOUR PRACTICE , FROM WITHIN MEDICAL?
DR. BISHARA: Ever since I was a teenager, health, especially nutritional health was always something I was passionate about. This was solidified when as an overweight teen, I lost 70 pounds.
We are each unique and so are our nutritional needs. Now more than ever, there is evidence pointing to the gut-brain axis playing a much bigger role in overall health than we have ever realized.
It was then that I knew I wanted to be a doctor after seeing the difference it made in me physically, but more importantly, psychologically. Wellness and weight loss are not just about diet but encompass many factors that are often not adequately addressed.
My recently published a research study on the role of the gut and COVID that highlights this important link not only between our gut and immune system, but our gut and mental well-being. WOMANBEEWELL
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B: WE ALL FACE CHALLENGES THROUGHOUT LIFE. WHAT WERE THE CHALLENGES OR SETBACKS YOU FACED WHEN STARTING OUT? HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
When I first started my practice, I was expecting instant success, but that rarely happens. Success never follows a linear path. There are many forks in the road and a lot of moving parts, so be prepared for the ups and downs. Keep this mindset and you will emerge triumphantly.
"Had I listened to my critics, I would not be where I am today." There will always be someone who is critical of you or the work you're doing. Most of the time what they have to say is 99% opinion. Without the experience or expertise to back it up, it’s just talk designed to make you second guess yourself. There is a difference between constructive advice and criticism. It's important to differentiate the two. Had I listened to my critics, I would not be where I am today. B: You are so right! The road to success is never straight and it never looks the way you expect. Thank you for sharing that wisdom with us. B: WHAT IS ONE PART OF YOUR OWN WELLNESS ROUTINE THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND OTHER WOMEN TO TRY?
DR. BISHARA: Definitely without a doubtIntermittent fasting! It is a great way to give your gut time to rest so it can focus on other functions besides digesting food. Learn more from Dr. Bishara on intermittent fasting here 54
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DR. BISHARA LEAVES YOU WITH THIS:
"You are different and unique. There is no one else like you with the same gifts, talents, or perspective. Use that to propel you forward, knowing no one else can do what you can do." WOMANBEEWELL
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TREAT YOUR BODY LIKE IT BELONGS TO SOMEONE YOU LOVE
because it does, doesn't it?
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MAY/JUNE STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
a c i r E ziel
Founder of Core Athletica® Inc.
MOVEMENT IS MEDITATION FOR YOUR SOUL, FOR YOUR MIND, FOR YOUR LIFE. -ERICA ZIEL WOMANBEEWELL
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strong woman spotlight
ERICA ZIEL
Founder of Core Athletica® Inc. (and our very own Movement Specialist!)
Erica Ziel has been a part of my life since 2018 and now I can't imagine where I'd be without her. It all started with her Knocked-Up Fitness Prenatal Program that prepared me for childbirth and made my core the strongest it had ever been. After 30+ hours of labor, I ended up needing a csection that totally ruined my core... but not for long! After 6-weeks of recovery and doctor approval, I started her Core Rehab Program and regained my strength within 1 week of starting the program! Today, with a toddler running around me, Erica's Core Studio Program is the life-saver that is MADE FOR BUSY WOMEN! I am thankful to have met and work with Erica, her programs, and her philosophy on movement. Erica’s ongoing support for moms-to-be and fullon moms is perfect for our Pregnancy and Motherhood Issue. And of course, who better to feature in this issue than our very own Resident Movement Specialist!
Erica is featured in:
My Core Rehab Program is known as the goto postpartum recovery program but also amazing for those who have grandkids, or even no kids at all. Core Rehab is a 6-phase lifestyle program designed to teach a woman how to properly strengthen her deep core (including the pelvic floor), to heal diastasis recti, say good-bye to peeing her pants, aches and pains, improve posture, confidence, and gain invaluable wisdom about her body! Out of requests from my Core Rehab students I created my Core Studio workout membership + app. With over 90+ Pilatesinfused workouts to date, and more added monthly! The majority of workouts are 1015 minutes in length because I’ve found shorter, yet extremely effective workouts, BELINDA: Thank you, Erica, for taking the
help my members create a consistent
time out to share your story with me and the
movement practice that continues with my
WomanBeeWell Community!
methods for safely and properly strengthening their core and body.
For our readers that are unfamiliar, can you tell me about your company, programs, and how you support women's wellness? ERICA: Absolutely! My company, Core Athletica® Inc is all about empowering a woman to heal her body through movement, intuition, and breathwork! I offer a prenatal program, The Knocked-Up Fitness® Membership, to give expecting women safe and effective workouts during pregnancy, group coaching support, birth prep
IT’S A SURE WAY TO BE ABLE TO GET YOUR WORKOUT IN SO YOU CAN MOVE THROUGH YOUR DAY AND FEEL STRONG, ENERGETIC, AND CONFIDENT!
programming, deep core training, and more. WOMANBEEWELL
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After a visit to the Mayo Clinic, I was informed that I needed to strengthen my quads (what a novel idea!) and that was what started my interest in exercise, specifically the power movement has to heal our body. By the time I was 21 I had rehabilitated my knees and have been knee-pain free ever since! I went on to study Pilates and have just continued to deepen my knowledge about the body on both a physical and energetic level ever since. B: Before you became a “supermom”, what
As far as challenges, I’ve not been one
inspired you to become a trainer/coach,
who’s ever trained clients with the focus of
and what challenges did you face when you
weight loss – it’s got to be deeper than that.
first started out? How did you overcome
Once you discover there’s much more, the
them?
weight naturally comes off. I’ve definitely had clients over the years (more so in the
E: I’ve been training/coaching since I was
beginning years) that weren’t the right fit
19! I originally planned to double major in
for me.
Exercise Science and Dietetics, but once I began I realized I wanted to focus solely on Exercise Science. I loved learning about the body and specifically was fascinated with how we can heal our body through movement.
ONE BIG THING I’VE LEARNED OVER THE YEARS (WHICH HAS BEEN REALLY HARD) IS THAT I CAN’T HELP SOMEONE WHO’S JUST NOT READY.
As a child, I grew up with knee pain from the age of 5, was always injured, and never got the chance to be the athlete I knew I could be. Doctors just kept saying that it was
As much as I want to help everyone and
growing pains but by the time I was 17 and
anyone who will listen, I’ve discovered that
still dealing with almost daily knee pain we
I can’t and I’ve (mostly) learned to be okay
knew it was more than that.
with that. I’ll be here when ready.
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B: Wow, what a story! I think that we don’t always realize that other women in the wellness space almost always arrived there because of some kind of personal struggle that they were able to overcome and that it becomes what they teach. And I TOTALLY relate to not making weight loss the ultimate goal. In fact, it’s one of the philosophies of WomanBeeWell that weight
B: You are an amazing coach. What is your
loss or weight gain is just one possible
favorite part of being a trainer/coach?
symptom or indicator of health, and it isn’t even the best one! Of course, this stemmed
E: Seeing the transformation in my students
from my own frustrating experiences with
and clients! I’m not just talking about the
“trying to lose weight”, which is no doubt
physical results, there’s always deeper
why your programs are such a great fit for
learning that my students and clients
me and the WomanBeeWell Community!
discover along their journey.
I LIKE TO PUT A HUGE EMPHASIS ON THE “JOURNEY” AND NOT JUST FOCUSING ON THE “DESTINATION”
because it’s along the journey that my students are able to experience even better results… results they may not have even been looking for! So many times those results don’t just improve her life but they help transform her life! WOMANBEEWELL
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FALL IN LOVE WITH HEALING YOUR BODY.
B: I first met you through Knocked Up
I always encourage an expecting mom to
Fitness and it was the best decision EVER
focus on her deep core foundation training
for me and my baby!
and then do just 1 or 2 moves that feel good for her. The next thing she knows, she feels
Tell our readers a little more about
stronger and more energized for her day.
Knocked-Up Fitness. What makes it such a unique and complete prenatal program?
The program is full of pregnancy health topics and interviews with myself and other
E: Belinda that’s so wonderful to hear! As
experts, birth prep, my push prep method
you know it’s more than just a fitness
(teaching her how to better prepare for the
program. I say that about everything I do.
pushing stage of labor, which can help with
Initially, on the outside, it can look like that
decreasing time pushing and severity of
but the truth is it’s so much more than that!
tearing), plus group coaching calls offered each month! Women are sure to get the
Movement is healing, it’s nurturing and
support they need and questions answered.
amazing at preparing a woman for her pregnancy, for birth, and for an easier
Even for expecting mamas who are planning
recovery postpartum!
a cesarean, or not, the deep core training is extremely important! I hear incredible
In my Knocked-Up Fitness® prenatal
testimonials from our C-section mamas, and
program, I teach deep core foundations that
their physicians, who say how much easier
I carry throughout all the workouts and the
their recovery is because of the deep core
movements I teach.
training she did during her pregnancy. WOMANBEEWELL
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B: Yes! I can attest to the power of your program for C-section recovery. Mine was unplanned and even my doctor was amazed at how quickly I was able to get my core strength back afterward!
So I’m dying to know… How do you juggle being a mom, running your coaching business, podcast, and everything else that you do?! E: Patience, grace, and flexibility! It’s a juggle for sure. I’m not going to sugarcoat it for anyone because it’s a constant juggle. With three kids it means I need to ask for help some days, whether I want to or not, sometimes I just physically can’t get 2 kids to different places at the same time. My kids also are learning that mom has to say ‘no’ more because I need to prioritize what I’m doing, but I also want them to recognize there are many other times that I’m more than happy to do whatever they want to do. Some days go much smoother than others. Some days I feel amazing and other days more tired than I’d like. Sometimes I don’t get my podcast recorded until the day before it’s supposed to go live! I don’t love it, but that’s my reality right now. Somedays I crush it and get a ton done, other days I just need a break. Thankfully I’ve got an amazing team – I’m so grateful for them! 72
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JUST TO SUM IT UP, DON’T BE HARD ON YOURSELF WHEN YOU DON’T ACCOMPLISH EVERYTHING ON YOUR TO-DO LIST. When we can learn to live in the moment and be present as much as possible, give ourselves grace, and be more flexible with our days – stress decreases and life is more enjoyable! Remember we aren’t here to live a “perfect” life... so stop and reflect on things that you may be spending time doing that just aren’t in alignment with your priorities B: Yes, that’s so true. Words spoken from a realistic mom for sure! What is one part of your own wellness routine that you would recommend our
E: Just one? I have so many, but intuitively I
readers to try, and why?
feel I need to share that sleep is what I would recommend. I finally prioritized my sleep almost 3 years ago and it changed my life! Not just getting more sleep, but creating a routine around sleep is key. We can be doing everything else right (exercise, nutrition, supplements, etc.) but if you aren’t getting good quality sleep your body is not recovering the way it needs to. It’s also extremely important for our brain to function at its highest! WOMANBEEWELL
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B: I totally agree with you! Sleep is my absolute JAM. We don’t realize how important it is until we start losing some of it, or the quality is diminished. For me, it’s one of the main facets of whole-body wellness. I want to thank you again for taking the time out to speak with me today and let the WomanBeeWell Community get to know you better! Is there any departing wisdom that you would like to share with our readers? E: Never accept a diagnosis as a final – I like to say that a diagnosis is a symptom of what’s going on in your body. If you believe that your body can heal, it will with the right guidance, tools, and techniques.
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"IF YOU FEEL INTUITIVE GUIDANCE TOWARDS SOMETHING, EXPLORE IT.
WANNA KNOW HOW ERICA EXPLORES LIFE?
START LOOKING AT LIFE AS MORE LIKE AN EXPLORATION, AND BE OPEN-MINDED TO TRYING AND LEARNING NEW THINGS."
WITH COFFEE OR TEA?
WOMANBEEWELL
• MAY/JUNE
2021
But first… COFFEE!
EARLY BIRD OR NIGHT OWL? Whoo whoo… night owl all the way!
FAVORITE WAYS TO MOVE: Pilates (obvi!), Walking/Hiking
IT'S NOT ABOUT PERFECTION, IT'S ABOUT PROGRESS.
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JULY/AUGUST STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
a r a K
Goldin CEO and Founder of Hint Author and Podcast Host
...launching a company that helps people truly achieve health and stay healthy – it’s a great feeling.
-kara goldin 50
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2021
photo courtesy of Hint
Strong Woman Spotlight
KARA GOLDIN Founder & CEO of Hint
Have you ever wondered who is behind the creation of Hint water? I’ve been drinking Hint for years and heavily relied on it to get proper hydration during pregnancy because plain water is just soooo boring! Kara Goldin, CEO of Hint, thought the very same thing and created her own solution. After reading her book, “Undaunted: Overcoming Doubts and Doubters” it became clear to me that she had to be featured in our Strong Woman Spotlight. Kara has an inspirational story that resonates with so many women across the world. We all have dreams but are afraid that we don't have the knowledge, confidence, money, or time to make them happen. We have fears. We make excuses. Many women crush their own dreams before they even take a single step. Her story has the power to change that for women, regardless of what dreams they may have. I had an insightful and inspirational chat with Kara about how she navigates life as a successful entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and mother of 4… aka- a superwoman! WOMANBEEWELL
photo courtesy of Hint
• JULY/AUG
2021
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Belinda: Thank you so much for chatting with me today, Kara! For our readers that may be unfamiliar with all of your products, can you tell me about Hint Water and skin products, your company’s mission, and how you support women’s wellness? Kara: I didn’t launch Hint because I had some burning desire to start a beverage company. I started Hint to help people get healthy – because I saw by switching from diet soda to water with fruit in it, my health changed significantly. Investing in
photo courtesy of Hint
and launching a company that helps people truly achieve health and stay healthy – it’s a great
B: As the saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of
feeling.
invention”. As the creator of Hint, what was the necessity that led to the invention of such a
Several months ago, we launched Hint hand
delicious and industry-disrupting beverage?
sanitizer. It's not unlike our previous brand extensions with Hint deodorant and sunscreen. In
K: I developed the idea for Hint after I realized that
all three cases, I found that the leading products in
my diet soda addiction was having all sorts of
each category had ingredients that I didn't want to
adverse effects on my health -- weight gain, adult
put on my body. So I went out and dug through the
acne, lack of energy. After substituting water in
research, did some testing, and came up with a
place of my diet soda consumption, I quickly lost
healthy alternative.
20 pounds in less than three weeks, my acne went away and my energy levels increased. One
ALL OF HINT’S PRODUCTS SERVE OUR BRAND AND OUR MISSION TO MAKE
|
started adding fruit to my water to make it taste better. I became obsessed with the idea of helping others enjoy water too, and I thought if something like my home concoction was available in
HEALTHY CHOICES EASIER
supermarkets, it could help people as it had helped
FOR ALL CONSUMERS –
me. From day one of getting Hint on the shelf at
WOMEN, MEN, KIDS,
52
problem still existed -- water was boring. So I
Whole Foods in San Francisco, we heard that it was doing just that -- helping people enjoy water
ADULTS. THAT'S WHY WE
and get healthy. Who wouldn’t want to create and
DO EVERYTHING WE DO.
run a company that helps people? And I get to do
WOMANBEEWELL
• JULY/AUG
2021
that every day.
photo courtesy of Hint
B: Yes! That is amazing that it started with your
competition (to name just a few). What kept me
own transformation. Most people would keep
going was my relationship with our early
their “secrets” to themselves, but you really took it
customers. They absolutely loved the brand. And
to a new level by creating a transformative
their devotion to the product reminded me to trust
company around it. Love that!
myself and my instincts. I knew that we had a fantastic product and that there was a space we
B: What were the challenges or setbacks that you
could carve out for Hint.
faced when starting to build Hint from the ground up? How did you overcome them? K: Any start-up's path is riddled with obstacles and setbacks. I always say, starting a company is like climbing a mountain. But starting a new category within an industry as I did with Hint? That's like climbing Everest. Every aspect of starting Hint was grueling. And in the beginning, everywhere I looked there were obstacles – whether it was
THOSE ORIGINAL FANS OF HINT NOT ONLY PROVED IT, BUT THEY ALSO PROPELLED THE BRAND TO SUCCESS.
raising money, extending Hint's shelf life, negotiating with retailers, or fending off WOMANBEEWELL
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... and most importantly, when you love what you do, amazing things happen. -kara goldin
photo courtesy of Hint
B: I’ve been reading your book (we’ll talk more on
B: I want to take a moment to talk about
that in a bit), but for our fellow supermoms out
your podcast “The Kara Goldin Show”. Can
there, tell us how the heck you managed to start
you tell me about it? What do you hope
a company from scratch and maintain your
listeners gain from tuning in?
sanity with three kids, plus one on the way? (Or did you actually?!) And how do you now manage
K: I love asking questions. I love learning. And
to do all the amazing things that have stemmed
I love hearing the stories of other
from the creation of Hint Water, like hosting
entrepreneurs and how they guided their
your podcast and writing a new book?
careers through various ups and downs. So launching a podcast was a no-brainer. I come
K: A lot of credit must go to my husband Theo,
away from every episode with some new
who very early on recognized the passion I had for
piece of knowledge or some new perspective
this idea and this product. He soon “caught the
that I didn’t have thirty minutes prior. What a
bug,” understanding the potential of the brand,
gift! I learn something new with each
and he joined the company as our COO. And both
interview, and I love that. And that’s what I
at work and at home, we complement each other
want listeners to gain from the show. I always
really well. We never drew a hard line between
say there is no road map or rule book for
work and home. When you launch a start-up --
achieving success. Each one of my guests
while having four kids under the age of 6 -- both
proves that in their own unique way.
your business and personal life are intertwined. It's totally unrealistic to compartmentalize one or the other. You just take each problem and challenge as they come.
Learn more about Kara's Podcast Here! photo courtesy of Hint
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There is no special path or hidden secret to being undaunted. I don't live fearlessly. I have plenty of doubts, still to this day, and I confront them. In fact, I love operating outside of my comfort zone and challenging myself. If there are any “dots” to connect, it’s those challenges I set up for myself. Because here's the thing: when you confront a fear you have, two things happen. First, you put that particular fear in its place. Second, and more importantly, you gain confidence to overcome other fears or other obstacles that might be standing in your way. That’s the key: The more success you have at taking on your fears, the more confidence you gain taking on other ones. It’s a virtuous circle. B: As I mentioned earlier, I absolutely love your book and relate to you and your story on so many photo courtesy of Hint
levels. What were the goals you had in mind as you were writing it? What messages do you want
B: In your podcast episode with Julie Smolyanski
readers to take away from it?
of Lifeway (which I highly recommend for every reader to checkout) you talk about “connecting
K: I firmly believe that anyone can be undaunted.
the dots”, those life experiences that seem to set you up for things you are meant to do. What were the “dots” that eventually connected you to
IT'S A MINDSET. YOU DEDICATE YOURSELF TO
writing your book “Undaunted: Overcoming
FACING WHATEVER FEAR IS HOLDING YOU
Doubts and Doubters”?
BACK FROM ACHIEVING SUCCESS. YOU TAKE BABY STEPS. YOU TRY. YOU LEARN. YOU STAY
K: Over the years, doing speaking engagements
CURIOUS.
and interviews, I’ve realized that people believe that entrepreneurs are fearless or that they have some special trait or cache of knowledge that
And you constantly repeat that process over and
drives their success. At almost every event, I got
over again. I write this early on in my book -- "If my
some version of that “special trait” question. So I
story proves anything, it's that if I can do it, you
wrote my book to prove that that is patently
can, too."
untrue. WOMANBEEWELL
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2021
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B: You are such an inspiration to women, including myself! Who inspires you, and why? K: Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I met her a few years ago, and we had a brief conversation. The charm, strength, and resilience that emanated from her was nothing short of inspirational. Her power, despite that tiny frame, was palpable -- and a bit intimidating. (She sternly called me to task for having a copy of her book before it was released publicly; she was joking, but for a second she had me quaking in my boots.) Her incredible legacy of breaking barriers throughout her life is a testament to a life lived with purpose. The beauty of RBG’s story is that she never balked at a challenge. She faced skeptics all her life, and she knocked them down one by one -with competence, with humor, and with grace. B: Absolutely! She was certainly fierce and is an amazing role model for women and girls everywhere. Knowing that you are inspired by her
photo courtesy of Hint
makes everything that you do, and the undaunted way in which you do it, make perfect sense!
B: You must have some exciting things coming up for you and/or Hint. So what's next? K: Continuing to help consumers stay healthy. There are still so many people who have yet to discover Hint. There are new audiences to reach, more consumers who are trying to effect a change in their health. Our mission is not complete! B: Amazing! Thank you so much again for chatting with me, Kara. You are truly an inspiration to me and I can’t wait to see what Hint is going to come out with next!
photo courtesy of Hint
JUST FOR FUN What is your favorite Hint flavor? Don't make me choose! I love them all! (But currently, I'm drinking Blueberry Lemon.) Early Bird or Night Owl? I wake up and shine with the sun! Favorite Ways to Get Movement Hiking! Favorite Inspirational Quote(s) It’s something my dad always used to say to me when I was facing a tough decision: “What’s the worst thing that could happen?”
photo courtesy of Hint
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-Abigail, one happy cyster
I LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
a h s i t e L BATES That PCOS Coach
Strong Woman Spotlight
LETISHA BATES “That PCOS Coach” We are so fortunate to have Letisha Bates, aka “That PCOS Coach”, for our Strong Woman Spotlight in this issue. She is unapologetically badass and she’s the kind of woman that you want on your team when you’re wading through the confusing and frustrating symptoms that come with PCOS diagnosis. Letisha has a strong background in healthcare and pursued her own career to help women with PCOS as a result of her own experiences as a PCOS warrior. She shares her personal story and words of wisdom with us. Belinda: For our readers that are unfamiliar, can you tell me about your company, programs, and how you support women with PCOS? Letisha: After 11 years in healthcare as a licensed nurse, I left to open my own company as a Registered Health Coach. I began specializing in PCOS as I am a PCOS fighter myself and advocate. I decided to change careers because in my own healing journey I kept learning things that no one was talking about. 60
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2021
I felt that the medical community, the fitness industry, and the diet industry all
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY JOB
failed me and so many others. I wanted to
IS THAT I CAN OFFER PEOPLE
become that beacon of light and hope and
LIVING WITH PCOS MORE
share the knowledge I had acquired in hopes to prevent others from becoming as ill as I
DETAILED HEALTHCARE
was or help them regain their health.
THAN THEY ARE USED TO
Belinda: Oh my goodness, I love that! I also
GETTING. MANY, LIKE MYSELF,
felt the exact same way: completely failed
HAVE BEEN DISMISSED BY
by doctors and the diet/exercise industry.
MANY PROVIDERS, DENIED
We’re clearly not the only ones!
THE CARE THEY REQUEST,
Letisha: Yes! After 2 years of successfully
NOT GIVEN ANSWERS OR
running my new company, I decided to
EDUCATION, AND LEFT
change gears yet again and become a Functional Medicine Practitioner at the
HOPELESS.
company Nutrition Dynamic where I have more resources to offer my clients while I'm pursuing my degrees in dietetics on the path to becoming a Registered Dietitian.
Once a client and I begin working together the first thing I do is have them complete numerous assessments. This helps me see exactly where their health is, current health concerns, stress concerns, and all of their medical history up to what their lifestyle looks like currently. I want to see the entire picture. Then we schedule a virtual meeting that lasts roughly one hour so that I can go over my findings in their assessment, get more details on their health history, current regimen, and discuss their goals and our plan to get there. I provide each client with a tailored nutrition plan that is overseen by an RD, supplement regimen, labs is needed, lifestyle changes, and so much more. WOMANBEEWELL
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L: I was diagnosed at the age of 23 because I was concerned about future fertility. I didn't start my first period until I was almost 16, then after that, it would be 13 months, 8months, 6months, or who knows when I would get another one. When I married my husband I worried about conceiving in the future because he is a merchant mariner that is required to work offshore on a supply vessel. This meant he was gone more than he is home. So how was I going to get pregnant with a husband who is never home and a period that rarely comes? The doctor went over my health history and Once my client receives their individualized
said "Letisha you have something called
plan we then meet each other on a biweekly
PCOS" I ignored the diagnosis for a great
basis for a minimum of 30 minutes to go
part following that other than using it as my
over their concerns, update changes, and
crutch to explain this is why I am always
address all needs. This kind of healthcare is
struggling with my weight and rarely have a
more than I ever received and what I wished
period.
I had. It’s personalized, packed with tons of educations, the client is involved in their care, and truly a personal experience. B: I love your website and your whole vibe of empowering women with the knowledge and tools they need for health (kind of like WomanBeeWell too!). Your story resonates with me so much, it's almost like reading something I'd write about myself! For our readers, can you tell me more about your story and what inspired you to become THAT PCOS Coach? 62
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• SEPT/OCT
2021
No one was giving me answers so I dove into the research and finally began to learn what PCOS truly is.
-Letisha Bates, That PCOS Coach
This was until I went back years later seeking help to get pregnant and luckily conceived rather quickly. We welcomed our son into the world and due to complications from my previous pregnancy (who was a total surprise from a previous relationship) I chose to have an unmedicated birth. That was quite possibly the hardest thing I did but it was my "ah-hah!" moment.
ONCE I REALIZED HOW TRULY STRONG I WAS, HOW CAPABLE I AM, I DECIDED THAT I WAS STRONG ENOUGH TO CHANGE MY HEALTH AROUND. At my heaviest weight postpartum, I changed my nutrition, my lifestyle, lost 100 pounds, and discovered I fell in love with weight lifting. By the time I entered my 30s I decided to do the craziest thing, enter a bodybuilding competition. This is something that would have always been impossible for me as the girl who has always been obese for most of her life. So I trained for 5 months and stepped on stage as a figure competitor taking home second place. 64
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2021
I WAS ON TOP OF THE WORLD. IN MY MIND, I HAD "MADE IT!" FINALLY, I WAS THE GIRL I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE. UNTIL IT WAS ALL BEING RIPPED AWAY FROM ME. Months after competing I became very ill. I was gaining weight rapidly despite all of my efforts, my period was absent, my hair began falling out, my digestion shut down, my body ached and was ate up with inflammation, I suffered from intense fatigue, brain fog, sleep disturbances, and even lost my strength. This led to a deep depression where I struggled to get out of bed and didn't want to leave the house. I finally gathered the energy to seek help from my doctor because I knew I was really sick. My doctor looked at my records and said to me "Letisha, you have a history of PCOS and probably still have it. Just keep dieting and exercising." I left that appointment so hurt and enraged! I have dieted and exercised to the ultimate degree. I was JUST on stage as a bodybuilder. Now I was sick! No one was giving me answers so I dove into the research and finally began to learn what PCOS truly is. I learned that everything I was doing was making me sicker. The chronic dieting, the overtraining, the lack of sleep, the excess stress, the untreated trauma, and so much of the lifestyle I led thinking I was doing all the right things, was making me sick. WOMANBEEWELL
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I found healing in functional and holistic
B: What you are doing is so important for
medicine but that is when I decided to
the PCOS community, thank you! What
change careers and start sharing the
challenges did you face when you first
information that I found was non-existent in
started your company and to work with
my journey. I also got involved in PCOS
women that have PCOS? How did you
advocacy after learning how it impacts the
overcome them?
body entirely yet there are few resources for those who live with PCOS.
L: Everything was a learning curve. I had to learn that what works for someone doesn't
It takes 5-7 doctors on average to get
work for everyone so being flexible in my
diagnosed and even then 50% with PCOS
methods of coaching was important. I bet I
are undiagnosed. So I decided to become
changed my base program 100 times!
someone who would do something about it
Which is okay. That is how I learned, grew,
and now spend each year fighting for the
and was able to offer better care to my
PCOS community on a lawmaker level in
clients. I am still learning, growing,
hopes to improve our resources for a better
transforming, and changing things in my
future.
business to better accommodate the people I serve. I think the biggest challenge is accepting that you will always be a learner. You will never have it all figured out. You will not be able to help everyone. Once you can accept that you're going to have those struggles and shortcomings it makes the journey much easier and more fulfilling. B: Ah yes, I have learned that myself as well. It is a difficult lesson but really does make a huge difference. I know that there are many symptoms that PCOS can present in some women and not in others. Can you shed some light on why that is? And through your experiences working with women, have you seen any that are more common than others?
L: One thing to understand about PCOS is
a stress assessment shows prolonged stress
beyond popular belief it is not a
that can show up in the body with many
reproductive disorder, it is an endocrine
symptoms. People with PCOS tend to
disorder. It literally impacts almost every
produce higher levels of cortisol (our stress
process in your body.
hormone) and have higher oxidative stress. Already out of the gate, we're more stressed
Also, it is a syndrome. This presents
than our non-PCOS peers. Then you add on
differently in different bodies. There are
stressors of life, poor diets, poor lifestyle,
different phenotypes currently stated for
over or under-exercising, trauma, toxins in
PCOS because there are different ways
our environment, and so many other
PCOS presents itself.
stressors it just adds fuel to the fire.
Some people have cystic ovaries, so do not.
B: Oh yes, I think that we don’t truly realize
Some people have excess androgens, some
the effect that chronic stress has on the
do not. Some people have irregular or
mind and body until everything gets so
absent ovulation, some do not. One of the
jacked up that we have no choice but to
most common things I have found in my
finally address it. And we don’t think of all of
clients with PCOS is addressing blood sugar
the stressors that you mentioned as actual
management and their stress.
“stress”. So it’s important to recognize these as well. Thank you for sharing those.
Almost every client I receive who completes WOMANBEEWELL
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L: Absolutely! Then upwards to 80%, according to some experts, of people with PCOS have some form of insulin resistance. This is a big root issue as that can cause excess insulin production which can not only cause the body to have increased stress,
BUT AT THE END OF THE DAY, THE WEIGHT IS NOT THE ISSUE. IT'S A SYMPTOM OF
inflammation, gain weight, but can also stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgen hormones such as testosterone.
SOMETHING BIGGER UNDERNEATH.
For example, many of my PCOS clients may come in with a symptom of weight gain and wanting to lose weight. They've been told their entire life that is the problem, their
I like to look at the client’s functional health
doctors even tell them to lose weight to
issues such as insulin resistance, prolonged
improve their PCOS.
stress, chronic inflammation, and so on. Once you address those root issues the symptoms such as weight gain tend to improve and when I don't make the entire process all about their weight it also tends to improve their mental health and mindset about the whole experience. B: Oh yes, I often say “Weight loss doesn’t equal wellness” for this very same reason. It’s amazing what a change in focus can do! You've got a great online "Crash Course" designed to help women with PCOS gain a greater understanding of what PCOS is and how to manage their symptoms in order to get their life back in balance. From that, what would you say are 3 key components to start to pay attention to when a woman is just starting to learn more about PCOS and how to manage it? (under my breath: please say gut health, please say gut health!)
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I never want someone to have to experience what I went through. That is what got me started. -Letisha Bates, That PCOS Coach
L: Just three?! Haha! The Crash Course is a great option for those who want to tackle their journey on their own, aren't ready for a coachto-client commitment, or need a handy resource beyond that covers all things PCOS. If I were to choose three key components to pay attention to, I would go with the 3 basic things I work on when I get the chance to work
So while I am helping them reduce stress I am also helping them clean up their gut health which results in reversing many symptoms right away.
with someone who has PCOS one on one: Then blood sugar management is another huge
STRESS MANAGEMENT, IMPROVING GUT HEALTH (YAY!) AND MANAGING BLOOD SUGAR.
area for those with PCOS. Many of the issues in PCOS can come back to insulin. If we are not living a lifestyle that supports a good balance in this area our PCOS can get out of hand easily. Once these three areas are addressed you may find your symptoms improving substantially or
I'm sure most people think I would jump
at least easier to tackle the other health
straight to hormones but I can't do that work
concerns you have surrounding PCOS.
until these areas are in a good place. Stress management is an area that I sound like a broken record on. Every area of the body from a health perspective is improved with stress management. It's so important! Then the gut is one of the first things I address because it is the foundation of our health. This is where your immune system lies, where you can harvest a lot of excess inflammation that exacerbates PCOS, and even your mental health is impacted by the state of your gut. Every client I work with goes through a gut support protocol according to their needs. If I were to dive straight into hormones it could disrupt the gut and we'd have to backtrack. 70
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B: Excellent! Yes, all good places to start. Of
I never felt like I was able to slow down, rest, or
course, I’m partial to gut health as a main one,
recover. I was always chasing the next intense
so I’m truly happy that you mentioned that.
workout to feel validated in the fitness
Whether you have PCOS or not, gut health is
community. Especially as someone with PCOS.
truly linked to everything in the body, so it’s
When I didn't see the progress, the messages I
important to make sure that’s in order for
received were to go harder, do more, and so
sure.
on. I was told that I must work harder because I have PCOS.
I want to mention that you have a Podcast too, which I love by the way! In Episode 19
When I struggled to keep up with my intense
with Vince Pitstick, you talk about over-
workouts my trainers made me feel like I was
exercising and metabolic resistance, which
weak which made me push through all the red
isn't talked about nearly enough! Everyone
flags my body gave me. At the time when I was
says, "just diet, exercise, and lose weight!"
overtraining you didn't have fitness
which drives me absolutely f*cking crazy as a
influencers or highly respected individuals in
recovering serial-dieter and over-exerciser
that industry sharing the risks of overtraining
myself (which you clearly know all too well
or the importance of rest and recovery.
about!) Can you talk more about these common traps and how they can affect
Everyone spoke like more is more and now I
women with PCOS in particular?
know differently. It's easy for me to notice those toxic messages in hindsight but I never
L: This topic is near and dear to my heart
thought about it while I was in the thick of it.
because I fell into that trap oh-so easily. I blame a lot of it on the industries that failed me and social media. The medical community always told me "diet and exercise" or "just lose weight." The fitness industry, especially on social media, gave me messages like "go harder" "beast mode" "no days off" "grind" "hustle" "no excuses." We've all seen it. The influencers doing two-aday workouts, or people making you feel the need to always increase your weight or reps, the constant drive and push that you must
I THOUGHT I WAS DOING GREAT BECAUSE THE SAYING IN THE FITNESS SPACE IS "THE PERSON WHO SUFFERS THE MOST LOOKS THE BEST." GOSH, HOW TOXIC IS THAT?!
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I think you're able to catch on with the answers to those questions if the people you're being influenced by, or not, are a healthy fit for you. B: From your Podcast to your Crash Course, you are doing amazing things to inspire women with, or without, PCOS! Who inspires you, and why? L: This may sound self-absorbed, but myself. I never want someone to have to experience what I went through. That is what got me started. But over this amazing journey meeting so many others, hearing their stories, learning about the trials they face, I can also say the entire community of people struggling with their health inspires me. No one cared if you were screwing up your
So many people are left to feel like they have no
hormones, making yourself sick, it was all
hope in living the life they want, living in a body
about how well you performed and looked.
that feels good. I want to be someone who shows
I would suggest those who may be starting
them there is hope. It drives me to be better and do
their journey or are in the thick of it like I
more every single day.
was to start paying attention to who your influencers are.
The people you idolize, who mentor you, and you look up to... do they have your health in their best interest? Are they sharing about the impact of stress and overtraining on your hormones, PCOS, your health? Do they encourage rest and recovery times? Do they encourage meeting your body where it is at? Do they encourage lower intensity movements? Do they have an all-or-nothing attitude around fitness?
B: I like that! “Be your own inspiration.” I smell an IG post coming up on that! I like to ask every woman that we spotlight: What is one part of your own wellness routine that you would recommend our readers to try, and why? L: One thing that is now a non-negotiable part of my wellness routine is sleep. I prioritize sleep over almost anything. My goal is to get 79hrs a night of good quality sleep. If I do not get this good quality sleep then I know on those days not to push my body so hard. Something I had to do in order to make sleep a priority is to create a sleep ritual. Pick approximately three things you do every night to prepare your body for sleep. For me that meant setting a bedtime, I love to drink chamomile lavender tea and relax with a heating pad on my shoulders. I also love a good bedtime meditation. B: Is there anything else that you would like to share with the WomanBeeWell audience?
L: You are wildly capable of doing hard things! B: You’ve shared some amazing insight into your own PCOS story that will certainly help other women that may be dealing with the same things. The foundational knowledge you’ve shared around mind/body connectivity is particularly empowering for our fellow cysters. Thank you so much, Letisha!
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER STRONG WOMAN SPOTLIGHT
a s s i l A
BOYER Founder of LifeByAlissa.com
Strong Woman Spotlight
ALISSA BOYER Do you get stressed when you have too many things happening at once? Do you feel like you have a sixth sense and can pick up what people are thinking and feeling? Does it drive you crazy when the lights are too bright, the TV is too loud, or the room is messy? You might be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), just like me and our Strong Woman Spotlight for this issue, Alissa Boyer. Alissa supports HSPs in such a beautiful and empowering way that I just had to share with you. It wasn’t until recently that I discovered my own HSP superpowers. Alissa’s story and teaching style resonate with me personally and are a perfect fit for all women (not just HSPs) in our community. She graciously shares her story and more in our interview. Read on for revelations! BELINDA: For our readers that are unfamiliar, can you tell me what it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person? And tell me how your company/website support women that are HSPs? ALISSA: Being highly sensitive is a trait that impacts about 15-20% of the population. The term HSP was coined in the early 1990's by Researcher and Psychotherapist, Dr. Elaine Aron. The scientific term for being an HSP is "Sensory Processing Sensitivity".
IT'S IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT BEING HIGHLY SENSITIVE ISN'T A DISORDER; IT DOESN'T NEED TO BE DIAGNOSED. IT'S SIMPLY A TRAIT, SIMILAR TO BEING AN INTROVERT OR EXTROVERT. (Readers can take an HSP Self-Test on Dr. Aron's website: HSPerson.com) An HSP is someone who has a finely tuned nervous system and is more sensitive to the world around them. HSPs will be more impacted by sensory input like bright lights, loud noises, itchy fabric, strange smells, etc. Highly Sensitive People also process information more deeply and tend to notice little details that others often miss. As a result of their deep-processing and sensory sensitivity, they often get overstimulated more easily which results in overwhelm and stress. HSPs also have an abundance of empathy as they actually have more active mirror neurons in the brain, which are responsible for empathy. They tend to be the caretakers, intuitives, and deepfeelers of the world.
My work supports women who are HSPs by providing specific tools, resources, and practices to help them learn how to thrive in the world. Many HSPs struggle with things like boundaries, people-pleasing, and knowing how to advocate for their needs. As we all know, the world can be loud, chaotic, and sometimes a bit cruel which can be really hard on a Highly Sensitive Person! In my work, I'm passionate about helping other sensitive humans learn how to feel good in their skin and thrive in a world that can feel very overwhelming at times.
B: I absolutely love how you empower us unique souls and reframe many of the negative connotations associated with being sensitive. For our readers, can you tell me more about your story, how, and when you discovered you're a HSP? Or when you discovered that there was an actual scientific personality trait that brought clarity to why you experience the world the way you do (like I do too)?
brand new state; I was really finding my way in the world. However, it was also quite stressful because I was hardly making any money so I was often broke. I was away from all of my family and friends, so I was often feeling quite lonely. In addition to that, my “cool job” started turning into a toxic environment when sales at the company began to plummet.
A: Thank you! Yeah, so I discovered I was an HSP about 7 years ago. The discovery came at one of the darkest times in my life, which I now hear is common for a lot of other HSPs!
As my work environment became more intense and stressful, I started developing severe digestive issues. It started out with
I was 22-years-old and had just moved from Minnesota to Southern California for an exciting internship opportunity at a corporate retail company. It was an exhilarating time in my life --
stomach aches after eating dairy and gluten, but eventually, I was getting sick after almost everything I ate. I started seeing different gastroenterologists but no one could figure out what was wrong with me. It was incredibly
I was working for a cool company; I was in a
frustrating and lonely to be on this journey.
After seeing a third gastroenterologist who couldn’t help me, I decided to switch gears and try a holistic route. Thank goodness for that! In working with a holistic doctor, I began understanding that a lot of my digestive issues were caused by stress because I was such a sensitive person. This is where the HSP discovery came in! I’d started getting into reading self-help books and my mom told me she’d heard about this book called “The Highly Sensitive Person” by Dr. Elaine Aron. She thought it sounded like me! So, I basically devoured the book and for the first time in my life, I felt so seen. I finally felt like there was something that described me.
I’D ALWAYS KIND OF FELT LIKE THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG WITH ME, SO WHEN I’D LEARNED
B: OK, ok, so I HAVE TO dive a tiny bit deeper into your gut health issues because I'm a selfproclaimed "gut health geek". What were the gut issues that you experienced and what got you to make the connection between gut health and mental health? (and really "everything" health!)
THERE WAS A TERM THAT
A: The gut issues I experienced were SIBO
DESCRIBED THE WAY I
(small intestine bacterial overgrowth) and Leaky Gut. I truly began to make the connection between gut health and mental
WAS… I FINALLY FELT ACCEPTED FOR BEING EXACTLY WHO I WAS. IT WAS LIFE-CHANGING, TO SAY THE LEAST!
health upon working with my holistic doctor. It was pretty amazing! In addition to a specific diet and supplement regimen, he also had me come in once a week to work through subconscious emotional stressors. Each time I left his office, I felt lighter and more connected to myself.
In working with him, I was able to begin making the direct connection that when I was anxious or stressed, my digestion was completely thrown off. But, when I was relaxed and feeling good, I was able to eat basically whatever I wanted without getting sick from it. I could clearly see the connection and it allowed me to get really in tune with my body. I was able to fully heal from my digestive issues in a matter of months, and years later, I don’t have any digestive issues. This experience taught me the importance of having stress-reducing practices, so I’m incredibly diligent with my self-care which always includes meditation, movement, and journaling. I know this is the reason I’ve been able to keep my digestive issues at bay for all of these years after. B: I love that! So many of us discount the affect that stress can have on the body, until we discover that learning how to manage our stress levels is the key to relieve so many ailments. Especially with the gut because it’s directly connected to our brains and mental health. I’ve learned from experience, as have you, that such amazing things happen as a result of facing challenges. After going through your challenges and changes, what led and inspired you to eventually create "Life By Alissa"?
A: My whole journey is exactly what brought me to the work I’m doing today! When I learned about being an HSP and making the connection between my mental health and physical health, I felt so inspired. It was totally changing my life and I was bursting to share my learnings with others. So, I decided I’d start a blog! I’ve always loved to write -- as a kid I would write books, but as I got older, the creative side of me fell to the wayside. My blog truly started out as a creative outlet and a way to share inspiration. My original tagline was: “Finding the beauty in the everyday.” I had no intentions of creating a business from it or anything like that.
Over the span of almost two years, my blog has evolved! I began to notice that any time I shared about sensitivity, I had a lot of people responding and resonating with what I’d said. I also loved writing about sensitivity the most - it was so natural for me. So, I began making the connection that this was the specific message I was meant to share and began solely talking to HSPs beginning the summer of 2020. From there, it’s now grown into an HSP membership community, 1:1 mentorship, a podcast, and a sizeable Instagram following. I also am a regular contributor to an HSP website called Highly Sensitive Refuge. It came together so organically and beautifully!
B: It’s amazing how everything unfolded the way that it did! But no doubt, the fact that you are an HSP is one of the reasons why you are so successful and are able to see what is resonating with your audience. It is a superpower for sure! I love your website and blog! You've got a quiz on your site called "What's Your Empath Archetype?" Can you tell me more about that? A: Thanks so much! So, I created the Empath Archetype quiz as a way to help sensitive, empathic people get in touch with the gifts of their sensitivity. I’ve found that so many HSPs and Empaths feel shameful of their sensitive nature and feel like it’s something they need to change.
I’m passionate about helping them see that it’s actually a superpower when we learn how to OWN and embrace it. So, I felt like this quiz would be a fun way for sensitive souls to get more in touch with their unique “archetype” so to speak! I’ve found that there tend to be four main strengths of Highly Sensitive People. Creativity, Intuition, Emotional Intelligence, and Caretaking. So, these are the four different archetypes you can fall into when taking the quiz! Of course, I believe that each of us embodies all of these strengths, I just find that we tend to lead with one the most. Also, it’s totally just for fun! I personally love taking little personality tests, so I wanted to create one myself.
B: It is a fun quiz! You have got such a great understanding of yourself and others. Can you tell me, what are the 3 tidbits of wisdom that you wished you had realized earlier in your journey? A: First, you can do things your OWN way. I used to get caught up in thinking I needed to follow other people’s formula or blueprint. I’ve now learned that we do best when we can create our own path and do things in our own way. We’re unique and that is beautiful!
SECOND, BOUNDARIES ARE THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT YOUR PEACE.
I used to have zero boundaries and be a chronic people-pleaser. I would’ve saved myself a lot of stress if I’d had firm boundaries in place from the get-go. Third, being supported by others actually makes you stronger. I used to feel like I needed to do everything on my own and that asking for help made me weak. I’ve now realized that in order to be successful in all aspects of life, support is a necessity!
B: These are such wonderful tips and are absolutely true. I also think that they are great for anyone, highly sensitive or not. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story and expertise with us today! Last open-ended question that I like to ask every woman that we spotlight: What is one part of your own wellness routine that you would recommend our readers to try, and why?
A: It’s my pleasure! This may sound simple, but make it a regular practice to check in with yourself throughout the day. So often we’re just moving so quickly from task to task, that we don’t even pay attention to how we’re feeling physically, emotionally, mentally. If they don’t already, I’d recommend readers create a habit of assessing how they’re feeling every hour or so. Notice if your shoulders are tense, jaw is clenched, or stomach is upset. Pay attention to the thoughts you’re thinking and if you’re feeling energized or tired. From there, you can then assess what you need to give yourself. Maybe it’s a 5-minute break, a stretch, a quick dance party, or a snack. But I’ve found it super important to be intentional about checking in and giving myself what I need!
B: Yes, I love this! As with your other tips, this one really is great for anyone… but I do know that it is imperative to do as a Highly Sensitive Person. Is there anything else that you would like to share with the WomanBeeWell audience? A: If you've read this and discovered that you, too, are a Highly Sensitive Person... I want to let you know that you're in good company! Being highly sensitive is a beautiful gift. You don't need to change who you are. Instead, you just need to embrace your true, sensitive nature. You're in good company!
JUST FOR FUN Q&A WITH ALISSA Q: Coffee or Tea? A: But first… COFFEE! Q: Early Bird or Night Owl? A: I wake up and shine with the sun! Q: Favorite Ways to Get Movement: A: Yoga, Pilates, Walking/Hiking
Learn From World-Class Instructors In Well-Being, Anytime, Anywhere
Find Your Purpose, Ignite Your Passion & Love Yourself In an age that increasingly commercializes the ancient practice of yoga, Budig’s wholesome, down-to-earth outlook is welcome, sure to aid readers of all shapes and sizes in establishing healthy food and exercise patterns while practicing self-love and acceptance. — Publishers Weekly
MEET THE INSTRUCTOR Kathryn Budig is an internationally celebrated yoga teacher who has spent the last decade teaching students to aim true on and off the mat through workshops all over the world. Now, she's excited to take this journey with you!
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