Welcome to the FIFTH EPISODE of The Raw & Rooted Life Podcast. In Episode 5, I’m taking you on my full, unfiltered physical health journey—a transformation from a place of deep neglect and shame to one of intuitive movement and body trust. If you've ever felt trapped by diet culture, frustrated by the scale, or carried the weight of past trauma, this episode is your anchor.
I open up about the roots of my negative body image, starting with the painful experience of being bullied in middle school and being called the devastating nickname, "obeisha." That early trauma cemented a toxic relationship with food and my body that persisted for decades. I share how this manifested during my years of drug use, where I neglected my physical self entirely—eating like crap, never moving, and treating my body like a disposable vessel.
In late 2021, I started making serious changes: stopping birth control cold turkey, beginning cycle syncing, and integrating mindful eating. Yet, my progress stalled. Why? Because my primary goal was still the toxic, external one: losing weight. I dive into why focusing purely on the number on the scale is often a recipe for frustration and failure. We discuss how this hyper-focus on weight loss triggers stress and chronic resistance in the body.
The pivotal shift came in late 2023 when I finally let go of the punishing mentality. I stopped asking, "How can I shrink myself?" and started asking, "How can I make my body feel safe, strong, and nourished today?" This change to intuitive movement and prioritizing sensation over restriction was the key that unlocked natural weight loss and lasting peace.
I discuss how my current, sustainable routine now looks: yoga and Pilates at home, strategically integrating strength exercises during the follicular, ovulation, and early luteal phases. This hormone-smart approach helps me honor my body’s fluctuating energy and cycles instead of fighting against them.
This isn't just my story—it's backed by science. We touch upon the research linking childhood weight stigma to long-term health issues and why intuitive movement is scientifically associated with improved body image, reduced anxiety, and better emotional functioning—outperforming rigid diets every time.
The most crucial takeaway of this episode: You cannot punish your way into a healthy, happy body. Your body responds to respect, not restriction.
If you are struggling with body image trauma, cycle syncing, finding sustainable fitness, or transitioning away from diet culture, this episode is for you.
FREE GUIDES TO DOWNLOAD NOW: Apply the strategies from this episode immediately! Download your free guides at www.therawandrootedlife.com:
A Guide to the 4-7-8 Breathing Method: Essential for soothing the mind and easing stress.
Small Steps to Transform Health Guide: Packed with actionable tips like the Sweet Vegetable Boost and the Leafy Greens Rule for healthy holiday eating.
Ready for Your Transformation? If you are ready to formally commit to your own healing and discover your true health, voice, and power, join me at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN)!
1 hr and 15 mins