“So it has really changed our evening routine and has been a great commitment together. We're sleeping better, we're feeling better. It’s definitely brought us closer.”

Meet Darla, a chiropractor and empty-nest mother of two, who has found that regularly jumping into a hot sauna followed by a cold-water plunge provides her with benefits far beyond what she initially expected. What began as a search to help reduce the risks of Alzheimer’s disease due to a genetic predisposition ended up providing health and relationship benefits (with her husband) that she never anticipated.

Inspired by a longevity seminar, she was introduced to the concept of infrared sauna and cold plunge therapy. This type of therapy uses the impact of extreme heat and cold to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. She found that regular sessions provided mental clarity, improved sleep, and enhanced her physical vitality.

Surprisingly, this holistic approach not only improved her own health but also deepened her connection with her husband, who now joins her in their nightly sauna and cold plunge routine. Watching Netflix together during sauna time while commiserating over the anticipation of the cold plunge to follow has brought Darla closer to her husband.

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Join us as we uncover more inspiring stories like Darla's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

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“For many empty-nesters, they’ve stored up a lot of business experience and skills and insights that they may not know that they have, so I think it’s really valuable and rewarding to be able to put that to work through coaching others.”

Meet Dane, an experienced business executive and recent empty nester who has found new fulfillment through executive coaching.

In this episode, Dane shares how he has embraced coaching after experiencing it himself during a career transition. Even though Dane continues to pursue his business career, working on the side as an executive coach offers a deeply fulfilling way for him to help others become the best version of themselves.

Dane also reflects on the profound impact coaching has had on his life, and the satisfaction he gains from seeing his clients' progress. Dane approaches executive coaching as a process of envisioning a future self and working towards that ‘North Star’, particularly during major life transitions like becoming an empty nester or navigating career changes.

Dane's story offers inspiration to anyone seeking to add fulfillment and purpose in their own lives, through embracing change and sharing their expertise to make a positive impact on others. As Dane says, embrace this “new season” of your life and discover new ways to find joy and happiness!

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Join us as we uncover more inspiring stories like Dane's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

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“I think the crux of it for me is that I'm not afraid to spend time alone. Like, I used to feel like, wow, I can't go to a movie or go on a trip alone. That's kind of scary. And now I really look forward to it.”

Meet Jessica: an uber-extraverted working mom and recent empty-nester who has embraced the beauty of solitude amidst her bustling life.

Despite her outgoing nature, Jessica surprised herself by finding solo activities that nourish her inner-self, such as morning walks and solo trips. Supported by her understanding husband, Jessica has been exploring her newfound empty-nest freedom pursuing her personal interests, often on her own. This intentional me-time has had a profound and positive impact on her mental well-being and decision-making.

Interestingly, a number of recent studies have found significant positive effects of “intentional solitude” on mental health and overall happiness, mirroring Jessica's experiences. Research has also shown that both introverts and extroverts rated their alone time as similarly enjoyable and beneficial.

From Sarah’s discussion with Jessica, you will gain a newfound appreciation for the restorative power of me-time, and get inspired to integrate moments of quiet contemplation into your own daily life.

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Join us as we uncover more inspiring stories like Jessica's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Midlife-Happiness-Project-Podcast/61557938056346/