Your Wise Self with Sara

39 Episodes
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By: Sara

Welcome to "Your Wise Self with Sara," the podcast that invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. Join host Sara as she explores the profound wisdom that resides within each of us, waiting to be uncovered and embraced.In this podcast, Sara unveils the multifaceted aspects of personal development, mindfulness, and self-improvement. She brings you inspiring stories, insightful interviews, and practical tips from experts and everyday individuals who have harnessed the power of their own wisdom to lead more fulfilling lives.Whether you're seeking guidance on navigating life's challenges, cultivating mindfulness, improving your relationships, or...

Your Wise Year Masterclass Preview: Tapping Into the Space That Heals You
#37
03/11/2026

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Join Sara as she welcomes back Sarah Fleming, LMSW, for a profound conversation about how our homes and nervous systems are deeply connected. With 20 years of experience integrating EFT tapping, feng shui, expressive arts, and traditional therapy, Sarah shares practical tools for creating spaces that truly support your wellbeing.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How clutter and your environment directly affect cortisol levels and nervous system regulationThe neuroscience behind why decluttering feels so hard (executive function, dopamine, and decision fatigue)Practical first steps to create a healing haven in your homeA...


The Missing Piece in Women's Health: Herbal Wisdom You Were Never Taught with Kim Rogers
#36
03/01/2026

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Insomnia, teeth grinding, excess weight, brain fog, cravings...Simply not feeling yourself? Sure, hormones are playing a role in the very similar perimenopause symptoms, but what if it was also something else? Something no one ever taught you about?

In this eye-opening conversation, Sara welcomes Kim Rogers, owner of Rogers Hood Apothecary, for an honest discussion about parasites, heavy metals, candida, and mold—and why this critical information is missing from women's health education.

Kim's story is extraordinary: A healthcare professional with two degrees who ran 25 colleges, endured 13 surgeries and a...


Insulin Resistance in Perimenopause with Aaron McDonough, Pharm D
#35
02/19/2026

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If you're in midlife and feeling frustrated with unexplained weight gain, energy crashes, brain fog, or confusing lab results, you're not alone. In this episode, we're diving deep into insulin resistance in perimenopause: what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, what actually helps.

I'm joined by Aaron McDonough, PharmD, a functional health pharmacist and owner of Towncrest Pharmacy. Aaron specializes in personalized care, including lab-informed supplementation and compounded hormones, and he has a gift for explaining complex physiology in a way that feels empowering instead of overwhelming.

In...


We are What We Seek! A Masterclass Preview with Scarlett Lunning
#34
02/13/2026

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What if everything you've been searching for externally is already available to you internally?

In this episode, Sara sits down with coach, mediator, and guide Scarlett Lunning to explore what it means to live from the inside out. With over two decades of experience helping people navigate conflict, transition, and personal growth, Scarlett shares powerful insights about:

✨ Why we are not our thoughts—and how this understanding changes everything
✨ The three principles of mind, thought, and consciousness
✨ How to create space between yourself and your thinking
✨ What it looks l...


Strong for Life: Muscle, Movement & Aging Well with Bree Baker, PhD
#33
02/01/2026

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Bree Baker, assistant professor of kinesiology and director of the Musculoskeletal Adaptations to Aging and eXercise (MAAX) Lab, to explore what the research really says about muscle, movement, and longevity — and how everyday people can apply it without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated.

This conversation is especially for anyone who:

Wants to stay strong, mobile, and independent as they ageFeels unsure where to start with movement or strength trainingIs tired, under-fueled, or struggling with sleepHas been told “this is just part of getting older” and kn...


Your Wise Year Reflections + Masterclass Preview with Melissa Raffone
#32
01/20/2026

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In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I sit down with health coach Melissa Raffone for a grounded and insightful conversation about gut health, intuition, and what it really means to listen to your body.

We reflect on our favorite moments from the "Your Wise Year Retreat," covering topics such as energy flow, the Enneagram, EFT tapping, and more. 

The retreat recording is available for purchase. 

✨ Plus, get a preview of Melissa’s upcoming February 4th masterclass, where she’ll dive dee...


The Hidden Struggle of Midlife Women: A Conversation with Amy Wheeler, PhD
#31
01/16/2026

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If you’re in midlife and feel like you’re doing everything “right” — eating well, moving your body, trying to manage stress — yet still feel stuck, exhausted, or disconnected, this episode is for you.

In this heartfelt and extra-special episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I sit down with Amy Wheeler, PhD, Professor and Chair of Yoga Therapy at Notre Dame of Maryland University. Amy’s work, wisdom, and presence have deeply influenced my own journey as a yoga therapist and health coach, making this conversation e...


Roundtable with Your Wise Year Presenters
#30
12/27/2025

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In this special roundtable episode, host Sara is joined by an inspiring panel of presenters—Nichole Studd, Scarlett Lunning, Sarah Fleming, and Melissa Raffone of Your Wise Year (details below)—who each share their unique wisdom and personal growth journeys. Together, we explore the power of energy flow, sacred rest, the freedom found in the Three Principles, the art of creating a healing home, and the inside-out approach to radiant skin.

Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical tips, and empowering insights to help you step into your wisest, most vibrant self this year...


Parasite & Heavy Metal Detox: How to Cleanse Safely with Melissa Raffone, Esthetician & Health Coach
#29
12/12/2025

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Two episodes ago, we began the story of Melissa’s healing journey—and the forged friendship that blossomed so quickly as I followed her guidance and stepped into my own deeper layers of healing. 

In this episode, she takes us even deeper, walking us through her full detox experience… from the very first steps to the absolutely incredible results that will leave you possibly as shocked as she was!

If you’ve ever wondered what really happens during a parasite & heavy metal cleanse, what your body might be silently holding onto, or...


Your Home as Healing: How Your Space Calms Your Nervous System with Sarah Fleming
#28
11/23/2025

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In today’s episode, I sit down with Sarah Fleming, therapist, life coach, and founder of Ettie Ro House, to explore the powerful connection between our spaces and our well-being.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by clutter, stuck in old patterns, or disconnected from your home, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale. Sarah shares her personal journey in social work and mental health, the surprising brain science behind clutter, and why highly sensitive people often feel so impacted by their environment.

Here’s a little of what we exp...


How Inner Healing Creates Outer Radiance with Health Coach Melissa Raffone
#27
11/03/2025

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In today’s episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I’m joined by the radiant Melissa Raffone—a licensed esthetician, certified acne specialist, and integrative health coach. Together, we explore the fascinating link between gut health, hormones, and that lit-from-within glow we all deserve.

Get ready for an insightful conversation that bridges beauty and wellbeing in a way that’s both practical and deeply empowering. From personal healing journeys to skincare and supplement tips, Melissa’s story is one you won’t want to miss. And there’s a part TWO coming in a fe...


Focus, Flow, and What is Next!
10/30/2025

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Welcome to a brief solo episode of "Your Wise Self with Sara," where Sara shares her personal journey with focus, flow, and what’s next on the horizon.

Discover the root-cause solutions that have helped her improve energy, focus, and emotional resilience, including a custom supplement blend discussed with Aaron McDonough, PharmD, at Town Crest Pharmacy. Sara details her positive experience with the Adult ADHD Support Blend, its key ingredients, and how it’s impacted her well-being.

Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming episodes, including a two-part conversation with a he...


Soul Strategy: Finding Clarity Through Intuitive Guidance with Brian James
10/20/2025

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Join Sara for a soulful and thought-provoking conversation with Brian James, intuitive guide, psychic medium, and spiritual strategist, as we explore how to listen to the whispers of your inner wisdom. Brian shares his journey from the corporate world to a calling rooted in service, helping others find clarity, purpose, and alignment through intuitive and spiritual guidance.

In this episode, we talk about:

 Learning to recognize and trust your own intuitive nudges Understanding how spirit guides support and communicate with us The power of pausing, surrendering, and asking for help Real stor...


Supplements, Science and Self Care
#25
10/03/2025

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Supplements 101: Science and Self-Care with Aaron McDonough, PharmD

I cannot keep this to myself any longer - I have been holding onto this episode, sharing only with my clients, while also trial-running a personalized supplement regimen from Aaron. It is working! I will do a follow-up episode soon to share my findings.  

In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I sit down with pharmacist Aaron McDonough to explore the science and self-care behind supplements. Aaron shares his unique journey from working in his father’s traditional com...


The Healing Power of Acupuncture: Restoring Balance from the Inside Out
#24
06/24/2025

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In this soul-soothing episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I’m joined by Lindsey Goldammer, a licensed acupuncturist and founder of Acupuncture + Aesthetics, to explore how acupuncture supports whole-person healing, from nourishing the nervous system to achieving radiant skin.

Lindsey brings gentleness and empathy to her work, helping women heal from the root cause rather than just managing their symptoms. Together, we cover: 

How acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system (aka your body's “deep exhale”)The connection between rest, hormone balance, digestion, and emotional resilienceSurprising health issues acupuncture can support—from anxi...


Sacred Union – The Unbecoming & The Healing of Us
#23
05/16/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Kara Dobelis and Mikaal Bates to explore the sacred union of feminine and masculine energies, the healing that happens when we drop old identities, and the magic of co-creating spaces where transformation can unfold. From Kara’s journey of releasing unhealthy behaviors and reclaiming divine femininity, to Mikaal’s invitation to lead alongside women and embody sacred masculinity, this episode is about remembering our wholeness, together.

We also talk about Sacred Awakening—a retreat-turned-movement that will return to Des Moines, Iowa, on June 14, 2025, for everyo...


From Fear to Freedom: Unlock Your Real Wealth with Julie Murphy
#22
04/20/2025

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What if the biggest block to your financial freedom isn’t your paycheck, but your subconscious beliefs about money? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Julie Murphy—financial expert, author, and coach—to explore the emotional and energetic roots of wealth.
Julie shares her personal journey from financial struggle to true abundance, and introduces her powerful framework rooted in three key pillars:
 Confronting fear
 Understanding emotions as fuel
 Remembering your power
We explore how fear clouds clarity, how emotions hold the keys to transformation, and why your future do...


My Mission - A Journey Through Healing and Purpose
#21
04/03/2025

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After a year of podcasting, I’m reintroducing myself and sharing my personal journey—the struggles, the healing, and the deep “why” behind my mission to help women break free from anxiety, release emotional and physical weight, and truly thrive in mind, body, and spirit. This is a vulnerable episode where I open up about living with anxiety, discovering a diagnosis at 42, and the decades-long path that led me here, as a health coach, yoga therapist, and podcast host.

✨ PLUS: Don’t miss the details about my FREE 5-Day Challenge, Thrive for 5—starting soon...


Trusting Your Body’s Wisdom: Balanced Living & Intuitive Eating
#20
03/09/2025

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What if the key to better health isn’t found in the latest diet trend but in tuning in to your body’s natural wisdom? In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I talk with healer and author Angela Marie of Bundy Lane to explore the power of intuitive eating, the importance of balanced living, and reconnecting with your body’s innate wisdom. We’ll discuss how to break free from restrictive mindsets, build trust in our intuition, and nourish ourselves in a way that feels aligned and sustainable.

If you’re r...


Healing Through Therapeutic Yoga for Grief with Jenna Schissel
#19
02/23/2025

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In today’s episode, “Healing Through Therapeutic Yoga for Grief," we explore the intersection of modern psychotherapy and ancient yoga wisdom. Joining us is Jenna Schissel, a respected psychotherapist and level one yoga therapist from Des Moines, Iowa, specializing in integrative mental health—including ketamine-assisted therapy and holistic healing. Jenna is a dedicated LGBTQ+ advocate and an anti-racism proponent, championing a compassionate and affirming approach to healing. 

Jenna shares their insights on how yoga, breathwork, and mindful reflection can support individuals navigating grief and emotional distress. They also introduce their Therapeutic Yoga for Gri...


Unlocking Confidence and Feminine Presence
#18
02/06/2025

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In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, we explore confidence, feminine presence, and mindset with Elsewine Rietveld. A confidence trainer, speaker, and author of Get Comfortable on Camera, Elsewine once struggled with public speaking herself—so much so that she walked out of the room before recording her first video. Through her journey, she developed the Confidence Creation Framework, a powerful method that has helped thousands of professionals, from CEOs to entrepreneurs, show up authentically and with ease.

In this conversation, Elsewine shares strategies for building confidence on camera, embracing fe...


The Journey Within: Travel as a Lesson in Surrender
#17
01/26/2025

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In this episode, Sara reflects on travel's transformative lessons and the art of surrendering. Through stories of unexpected detours and moments of letting go, she explores how travel can teach us to release control, embrace uncertainty, and find growth in every step of the journey. Sara also shares how this experience shaped her intentions for 2025, including how surrendering to life’s flow shapes her vision for personal and professional growth. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or navigating life's twists and turns, this episode offers insights to inspire trust, openness, and intentional living in the ne...


Igniting Change: Empowering Women’s Health & Hormones
#16
12/29/2024

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Episode 10: Igniting Change: Empowering Women’s Health & Hormones with Train with Fire - Traci Herridge

In this episode, we dive into a dynamic conversation with Traci Herridge, founder of Train with Fire, a fitness and wellness community empowering women to embrace their strength and prioritize their health. Traci shares her expertise in strength training, running, and creating accountability through supportive community programs tailored for women, especially those navigating the transformative stages of perimenopause.

From actionable tips on building resilience through strength training to insights on balancing hormones and achieving health ha...


Exploring the Intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
#15
10/25/2024

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In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I am joined by Amber Kerby, an innovative therapist in Central Iowa who is combining Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in her practice. 

Over the past several months, I’ve been personally integrating IFS into my own therapy sessions and also researching how health coaches can play a pivotal role in KAP. Amber's expertise in these fields could not have arrived at a more perfect time.

Together, we explore the synergy between IFS and KAP, uncover how these app...


Burn Brightly, Not Out with Nichole Studd
#14
09/20/2024

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In this episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, I'm joined by Nichole Studd, a yoga therapist and educator passionate about healing through play, science, and magick! Nichole shares her journey from science education to yoga therapy, specializing in trauma and nervous system regulation. We explore her new course, Burn Brightly, Not Out, designed to help educators, yoga teachers, parents, and all healing professionals prevent burnout and create balanced, stress-free environments.

Nichole also offers a special discount to the first ten listeners from Your Wise Self who sign up for her training...


Restful Nights: Mastering Sleep Hygiene for Better Health
#13
08/25/2024

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In this episode, we explore the essential role of sleep hygiene in achieving optimal health and well-being. We’ll dive into the science behind sleep, common sleep disruptors, and practical tips to improve your sleep quality. Drawing from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) recommendations can help establish and maintain healthy sleep patterns, contributing to overall physical and mental well-being. Implementing these strategies (minor adjustments) can be especially beneficial for individuals dealing with sleep disturbances or chronic conditions that affect sleep.

ACLM Sleep Hygiene Guidelines

Huberman La...


Harnessing Healing Energy: Insights from Reiki Master and Direct Energy Transference Therapy Facilitator, Joe Carswell
#12
08/13/2024

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Hi Friends, I am back after a summer break to enjoy my son's baseball games and live in the sunshine!

In this enlightening episode of Your Wise Self with Sara, we explore the transformative power of energy healing with Joe Carswell, a seasoned Reiki Master and Direct Energy Transference Therapy Facilitator. Joe shares his profound insights on how harnessing healing energy can significantly enhance our well-being, help us overcome life's challenges, and deepen our connection with ourselves and the world around us. Whether you're new to energy healing or looking to expand...


Transformative Wellbeing: The Benefits of Working with a Board-Certified Coach
#11
06/04/2024

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Transformative Wellbeing: The Benefits of Working with a Board-Certified Coach

In this episode of "Your Wise Self with Sara," we're diving into the world of board-certified health coaches and their pivotal role in healthcare and mental health. I am thrilled to have Dr. Cherie O’Neill, a distinguished expert and my professor at the University of Minnesota, as our featured guest. Join us as we uncover the qualifications, responsibilities, and immense benefits of working with a health coach.  She will also help you choose the right health coach and look to the fut...


Self-Compassion
#10
06/04/2024

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In this bonus episode of "Your Wise Self with Sara," we explore the importance of self-compassion and how understanding tools like the Enneagram can help foster a kinder relationship with ourselves. Join us as Sara discusses the key components of self-compassion, recognizes common self-criticism patterns, and shares practical strategies and resources to cultivate self-kindness. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice to enhance your personal growth and well-being.

Resources: 

Books

"Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself" by Kristin Neff: Self-Compassion on Amazon"T...


Unmasking Strength: Men's Mental Health Narratives
#9
05/10/2024

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Join Sara this Mental Health Awareness Month for a transformative journey into men’s mental health with Jeff Buske, DDS. In this special episode, Jeff opens up about his personal struggles and triumphs, sharing actionable insights that have helped him in life and work and, most crucially, in nurturing his relationships with his wife and children. Tune in for an intimate exploration of growth and recovery, and discover your next best step towards mental wellness. Grab a pen and paper—you won't want to miss the tips he shares.

Reso...


Beginning a Meditation Practice
#8
04/23/2024

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Welcome to the bonus episode on how and why to get started with meditation and mindfulness. Sara shares personal experiences and educational insights, offering guidance on cultivating inner peace, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Join her as she shares the various types of meditation, their benefits, and practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into daily life. Whether you're new to meditation or seeking to deepen your practice, "Your Wise Self with Sara" provides a supportive space to embark on this transformative journey together. Tune in and uncover the wisdom that resides within you.
<...


Embracing Grief: A Path to Healing
#7
04/18/2024

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Episode 7: Embracing Grief: A Path to Healing

In this episode, Health Coach Larey Swanson, M.D., NBC-HWC, joins us to explore the profound journey of grief and the supportive role of grief circles. Drawing from her personal experience and professional expertise, Larey sheds light on the universality of grief, its various forms, and the importance of processing it. She shares how grief circles provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories and find healing within a supportive community. Offering valuable insights into the unique dynamics of grief circles, Larey highlights...


How to Manage the New Moon + Lunar Eclipse Season
#6
04/07/2024

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In today's bonus episode, Sara dives into the transformative power of the eclipse and new moon season. This cosmic period holds profound energy and spiritual significance, offering us a unique opportunity for growth and renewal,  aligned with our deepest intentions. Sara explores the symbolism behind these celestial events, discusses how they influence our personal and collective consciousness and provides practical tools such as journal prompts and breathwork exercises to help you harness the energy of this potent time. Join Sara on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment as we navigate the mysteries of the e...


Exploring the Three Principles: A Journey to Inner Transformation
#5
04/01/2024

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Episode 5: Exploring the Three Principles: A Journey to Inner Transformation with Scarlett Lunning, LMSW, Coach, Counselor, Mediator, & Trainer

Take a listen to this enlightening episode, in which we explore the keys to growing your innate wisdom and understanding the depths of the Three Principles: Mind, Thought, and Consciousness. Coach Scarlett Lunning shares invaluable insights and strategies to cultivate your inner wisdom, empowering you to navigate life's challenges with clarity and resilience. Gain additional wisdom to add to your resource toolbox, equipping you with practical personal growth and transformation tools. Don't miss out...


Discover Balance with Alternate Nostril Breathing
#4
03/06/2024

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In the last two episodes, our guests discussed somatic practices, emphasizing the numerous benefits of intentional breathwork, especially its significance in mastering self-regulation within the autonomic nervous system.

Building upon these insights, today I invite you to explore the art of balance through the practice of alternate nostril breathing. 

Join me for a powerful way to start your day in just five minutes. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5660749/ 

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Integrative Medicine: Innovations and the Spiritual Journey
#3
03/03/2024

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In this episode, Kara Dobelis, the CEO and co-founder of Integrative Family Medicine of Iowa, joins "Your Wise Self" to share her inspiring journey navigating becoming a mother and how her story has shaped her practice as a passionate advocate for holistic health.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the transformative power of Human Design, the Enneagram, and somatic practices, which have played pivotal roles in Kara's personal and professional growth. Discover how these modalities have guided her journey and informed the compassionate care provided at Integrative Family Medicine of Iowa...


Compassion Meditation
#2
02/25/2024

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In the episode with Dr. Marlysa Sullivan, she mentions working with clients on compassion meditation.  Sara narrates a compassion meditation that you may like to practice for a few minutes in the morning upon rising or in the evening before going to sleep. Please remember that you should not operate a vehicle while practicing this meditation. 

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Unlocking the Vagus Nerve: Your Path to Inner Harmony
#1
02/25/2024

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In this episode, Sara interviews Dr. Marlysa Sullivan about the transformative power of the vagus nerve. Join us as we uncover how this remarkable neural pathway influences our well-being. Discover how activating the vagus nerve can reduce stress, enhance emotional balance, and foster self-healing for inner harmony. Tune in to learn how to tap into the vagus nerve and practical tips that help create a more balanced life.

Episode 1: Interview with Dr. Marlysa Sullivan
Unlocking the Vagus Nerve: Your Path to Inner Harmony
Released February 2024
Runtime: 26:47

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Introduction to "Your Wise Self"
02/25/2024

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Welcome to Your Wise Self with Sara! Thank you for choosing to be here. I introduce myself as the host of this podcast and what you can anticipate from listening to Your Wise Self.  

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