I don't know about you, but when the world feels overwhelming and stressful, I know it's time to step back and take a mental health break. We all know how challenging life can get, and sometimes, the best thing we can do for ourselves is take a breather.

In this episode, I dive into how to recognize when you need a break and, just as importantly, how to permit yourself actually to take one. It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but taking a moment to pause and recharge is vital for our mental and emotional well-being.

I also talk about the impact of constantly consuming news and social media. It's no secret that the news can be heavy and often leaves us feeling drained. So, I share some tips on taking breaks from these sources or being intentional about following accounts that bring positivity and uplift our spirits. Our social media feeds can be a source of inspiration and joy if we curate them mindfully.

Another key point is the importance of connecting with others. Whether it's family, friends, or support groups, surrounding ourselves with positive and supportive people can make a world of difference. It's about finding that balance and protecting our mental health.

So, if you're feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, or you just need some tips on how to take better care of your mental health, this episode is for you. Tune in, take a break, and give yourself the love and care you deserve.

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The Better Than Before Breast Cancer™ Life Coaching Membership

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating concept of the "second heart," a nickname for the soleus muscle in the calf.

Known for its importance in maintaining cardiovascular health, the soleus muscle is a powerful pump during activities like walking, running, and standing, aiding venous return and preventing conditions such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Studies highlight the soleus muscle's critical function in enhancing heart function, improving cardiac output and cognitive performance, particularly in older adults, by maintaining adequate blood flow to the brain.

For breast cancer survivors, maintaining good circulation is vital for recovery, as it helps reduce swelling, combat fatigue, and prevent blood clots.

Understanding and supporting the second heart's function can significantly improve your circulatory health and overall well-being.

Check out this Tuesday Terrain Talk episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer™ for all the details and simple ways to strengthen your "second heart".

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Work with Laura

Metabolic Health Coaching

Studies: Reversal of Cognitive Aging through Enhancement of Cardiac Output

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On this day, the 13 anniversary of my first breast cancer diagnosis,  I am reflecting on all the lessons I've learned about caring for myself and prioritizing my healing.

I can't help but think about how often I've witnessed myself and my clients feel compelled to please others at the expense of their well-being. This tendency can lead to mistreatment or overextending yourself, even hindering your recovery and overall quality of life.

The central message of this podcast is clear: true kindness towards oneself isn't solely about accommodating others at all costs, but rather about asserting boundaries with compassion and self-respect. I want to encourage you to recognize that setting boundaries is not selfish—it's a vital component of self-care and healing.

You can cultivate resilience and foster a healthier, more sustainable recovery process by prioritizing your needs and limits.

Listen now to gain insights into the transformative power of boundaries, and learn how these principles can empower you to advocate for yourself effectively.

Let's talk about the journey from being a people-pleaser to becoming a protector of one's well-being. Your healing journey requires nurturing and self-respect.

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Work with Laura

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Today, we're diving into a topic that's been both celebrated and controversial: organ meats and organ meat supplements.

As breast cancer survivors, navigating our nutritional choices is crucial, and understanding the potential benefits and risks of organ meats can help us make informed decisions.

We discuss how these nutrients can be especially beneficial for those recovering from breast cancer, aiding in energy restoration, immune support, and overall vitality.

While the benefits are significant, being aware of the risks is important.

For those who might find the idea of consuming organ meats unappealing, organ meat supplements can be a convenient alternative. We discuss what to look for in a high-quality supplement. These supplements can provide many of the same benefits as whole organ meats, without the preparation and taste challenges.

This episode is packed with valuable information to help you make informed dietary choices. Whether you're considering adding organ meats to your diet or opting for supplements, understanding both the benefits and risks is key to making the best decision for your health.

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Work with Laura on your Metabolic Health

Grass Fed Organ Meat Supplement

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This episode marks a significant milestone—celebrating 13 years since I discovered a lump in my breast that resulted in a cancer diagnosis. The journey has been both challenging and enlightening, marked by two major hurdles that I had to overcome: navigating conflicting thoughts and pushing the boundaries of wellness.

Over the years, I have grappled with the internal struggle of holding onto conflicting thoughts.

On one hand, I firmly believe in my ability to heal and improve my health through dedicated effort and lifestyle changes.

On the other hand, the pervasive thought that cancer is an incurable disease has cast a shadow over my optimism from time to time.

There were times when this duality made it difficult to fully commit to my healing beliefs. In this episode, I delve into the strategies and mindsets that helped me reconcile these opposing thoughts and move forward with a balanced perspective.

The second significant aspect of my journey involved pushing the boundaries of wellness.

I adopted a rigorous regimen of healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management techniques. These efforts yielded promising results, showing improvements in my tumor markers and PET scans.

But sometimes, curiosity and a desire to be "normal" led me to test the limits by temporarily reverting to less healthy habits.

Throughout this episode, I share my experiences, insights, and the lessons learned from this journey.

 By reflecting on the importance of mental resilience and the tangible effects of lifestyle changes, I hope to inspire and guide others in navigating their paths to recovery. Join me as we explore the complexities of healing, the power of positive thinking, and the crucial role of wellness in overcoming breast cancer.

Referred to in this episode:

The Four Pillars of Breast Cancer Recovery

Work with Laura

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This episode is all about making a significant shift in how we approach our health after breast cancer. We're diving deep into the difference between simply treating physical symptoms and truly supporting our bodies for optimal health and function.

So often, we get caught up in the cycle of addressing one symptom after another, like playing an endless game of whack-a-mole. But what if we changed our perspective?

What if, instead of focusing solely on symptoms, we started looking at our overall health and how we can support our bodies to function at their best?

In this episode, we'll explore the importance of a holistic approach. We'll discuss how our bodies are wonderfully interconnected systems, and by nurturing overall health, we can often see a reduction in symptoms as a natural result. It's like tending to a garden – when the soil is rich and the environment is right, the plants flourish.

I'll share practical tips on how to shift your focus from just symptom management to enhancing your body's natural functions.

Remember, this journey is about progress, not perfection. It's about making small, sustainable changes that add up over time. I'm here with you every step of the way, and I'm so grateful to be part of your healing journey.

Referred to in this episode:

The Four Pillars of Breast Cancer Recovery Coaching Experience

Books: Dirty Genes

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In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of healing after breast cancer by allowing ourselves the space to think differently, connect deeply with our bodies, and understand our unique needs.

Healing is about physical recovery and aligning our lives with our inner selves, rather than forcing our bodies to meet predetermined expectations.

Breast cancer survivors often find themselves overwhelmed by societal pressures and rigid recovery timelines. These external expectations can lead to frustration and failure when our bodies do not conform to these standards. In this podcast, we delve into the importance of breaking free from these constraints and embracing a more intuitive and personalized approach to healing.

We discuss how listening to our bodies and recognizing their signals can lead to a more profound and sustainable recovery. Our bodies are incredibly intelligent and capable of guiding us towards what they need to heal. We can make choices that support our well-being by paying attention to our physical sensations, emotions, and energy levels.

Join me as we redefine what it means to heal after breast cancer, moving beyond rigid expectations to a place of self-compassion, awareness, and true alignment with our bodies.

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Work with Laura

The Four Pillars of Breast Cancer Recovery Coaching Experience

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After a breast cancer diagnosis, it's not uncommon to go through genetic assessments and testing searching for an inherited genetic reason for your diagnosis.

But genetic testing can do so much more than give clues to why you might have a disease.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of genetic testing.

We'll talk about the distinct differences between genetic cancer testing and what a powerful tool in understanding your genes' influence on your response to nutrition can be. Imagine having a personalized nutrition guide at your fingertips, tailored just for you based on your unique genetic makeup!

It's not just about eating right for your genes; it's about making informed choices that align with your body's needs, enhancing your overall health and well-being.

By understanding the differences between these tests and their benefits, we empower ourselves with knowledge to make proactive health decisions. Whether it's choosing the right foods based on our genetic profile or understanding our risk for certain diseases, genetic testing provides a roadmap to better health.

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Metabolic Health Coaching Plans

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In this episode, we're diving into a topic that I know many of you have encountered but might not have a name for zero-sum thinking. 

This is the belief that if you take something for yourself, you're taking it away from someone else. And let me tell you, it's a sneaky little mindset that can really hold us back, especially when we're navigating the rocky waters of breast cancer recovery.

In this episode, I break down what zero-sum thinking is and why it's such a common roadblock for breast cancer survivors.

Many of us feel that asking for help or seeking support means depriving someone else of those same resources. It's a noble thought, but it's not true. Support, love, and care are not finite resources. There's more than enough to go around for everyone.

I share stories and insights on how zero-sum thinking has affected some of you and offer practical tips on shifting this mindset.

Imagine how liberating it would feel to know that reaching out for help is not only okay but beneficial for you and those around you. When you thrive, you inspire others to do the same. It's a ripple effect of positivity and healing.

Let's break free from zero-sum thinking and embrace the abundant support that's out there for every one of us. Remember, you deserve all the help and love you need to thrive on this journey. Tune in and let's start this transformative conversation together!

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Work with Laura

Rebuild a Bitch

#292 From Breast Cancer Diagnosis to Non-Profit CEO with Ashley Rath-Melton

Breast Wishes Foundation

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After breast cancer treatment, maintaining strong bones becomes critically important. Treatments can take a toll on your skeletal system, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Understanding why bone health is vital and how to protect it is key to your overall well-being.

In this episode, we'll highlight the crucial role that muscle strength plays in maintaining bone health. Our bones and muscles are intricately connected; when we build muscle, we also promote stronger bones. Resistance training isn't just about getting fit – it's about building a foundation that supports your entire body, including your bones.

I'll guide you through the science behind how muscle strength contributes to bone density. We'll discuss practical, achievable ways to incorporate resistance exercises into your daily routine, regardless of your fitness level. Whether lifting weights, doing bodyweight exercises, or engaging in resistance band workouts, every bit helps maintain and improve bone health.

Join me as we uncover actionable strategies to enhance your bone health through muscle building, empowering you to take charge of your recovery and well-being.

Whether you're currently undergoing treatment or in remission, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you build a strong, resilient future.

Referred to in this episode: Metabolic Health Coaching with Laura

Cancer Exercise Institute

The Stretch Lab

TRX

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