Episode 87: How do I prioritise my health when everyone else needs me first?

Ever feel like your well-being is the last item on an endless to-do list? You're not alone. This candid conversation tackles the reality of being a busy woman trying to prioritize health in a world that expects you to do everything for everyone else first.

Julie and Catherine cut through the noise to address what's really happening when women put themselves last – it's not laziness or lack of willpower, but programming we've received since childhood. That "guilt button" that seems permanently installed when you become a mother? We talk about how to acknowledge it without letting it rule your decisions.

The hosts share their own experiences as busy professionals and parents who've learned to integrate well-being practices without adding stress. Their practical approach focuses on micro-habits that create massive returns – from five-minute movement sessions to simple nutrition swaps that don't require meal prep marathons. You'll discover why sleep might be your most powerful wellness tool and how small adjustments to your evening routine can transform your energy levels.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is the emphasis on breaking the all-or-nothing mentality. Instead of waiting for the perfect time to overhaul your entire lifestyle (which never comes), you'll learn how to identify your "one thing" – that single, small change that creates momentum toward better health without overwhelming your schedule.

Ready to shift from survival mode to sustainable well-being? Join the Far Too Fabulous community in discovering how tiny, consistent actions can create life-changing results. The journey to prioritizing yourself without guilt starts with one small step – which will you choose today?

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 86

Have you ever wondered what your body is really telling you about your health? Beyond the numbers on a scale or your clothing size, there are simple physical indicators that reveal far more about your longevity and quality of life.

This week, Julie and Catherine dive into seven DIY health assessments that provide valuable baseline information about your overall wellbeing. From the surprising importance of your waist-to-hip ratio (ideally under 0.8 for women) to the revealing chair stand test that predicts lower body strength, these simple checks require no special equipment and take just minutes to complete.

The hosts share their own experiences trying each assessment, including the eye-opening moment when Catherine discovered how challenging it is to balance on one leg with her eyes closed - a key predictor of fall risk as we age. They explain why upper body strength matters (can you do 10-20 proper push-ups?), how your breath-holding capacity relates to lung health, and the fascinating phenomenon of "screen apnea" - unconsciously holding your breath while focusing on digital devices.

What makes these assessments particularly valuable is their direct connection to maintaining independence and vitality as we age. As the hosts candidly discuss, the ability to get up from a chair, recover quickly after exertion, or maintain balance directly impacts quality of life in our later years. Yet these functional abilities respond quickly to consistent practice - use them or lose them!

Try these simple tests yourself, then join the conversation in our Facebook group where Julie and Catherine are sharing videos and continuing the discussion. These aren't measurements to judge yourself by, but valuable information to guide your wellness journey. Where will you focus your efforts first?

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 85: August Reruns

A Holistic Approach to Future-Proofing Your Well-being with Helen Lauer

What if your brain's remarkable ability to rewire itself could be harnessed to transform your health? In this captivating episode, we're joined by Helen Lauer, an occupational therapist specialising in neurological rehabilitation and a qualified shiatsu practitioner who bridges Western medicine with Eastern healing traditions.

Helen takes us on a fascinating journey through the inner workings of our brains, explaining how our 86 billion neurons and 150 trillion synapses are constantly remodelling themselves through neuroplasticity. With vivid analogies, such as navigating roadworks to find new routes, she helps us understand how the brain rebuilds pathways after injury and how we can apply these same principles to create beneficial habits in everyday life.

The conversation takes a surprising turn when Helen identifies stress—particularly what she calls the "appease" response—as "the biggest pandemic happening in this world." This overlooked stress reaction occurs when we consistently put others' needs before our own, swallow down our true feelings, or people-please to avoid conflict. Helen explains how this constant appeasing creates harmful physiological responses that damage our immune system and contribute to numerous health problems, from cardiovascular disease to cognitive decline.

Connection emerges as a powerful theme throughout our discussion. Helen outlines three crucial levels of connection for brain health: social connection through community and physical touch (with a recommendation for 20-second hugs!), internal connection through mindful awareness, and cellular connection between our neurons. Her practical tips for strengthening these connections offer actionable steps for anyone looking to build resilience and maintain cognitive function throughout life.

Whether you're interested in preventing cognitive decline, recovering from brain injury, or simply optimising your neurological health, this episode delivers valuable insights that blend cutting-edge neuroscience with ancient wisdom. Listen now to discover how understanding your brain's remarkable adaptability can help you create a healthier, more resilient future.

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 84

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 83

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 82.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 81:

Joy, Community and Breath: Uncovering the Magic Behind Singing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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

Episode 80

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for listening.

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

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

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