Summary

This holiday season, your feed will be flooded with "must-have" wellness products — detox kits, powders, trackers, supplements, and miracle solutions promising to fix your stress, your hormones, and your sleep. But do we really need all of this stuff?

In this episode, I'm breaking down how wellness has drifted away from its roots and turned into another form of consumerism — selling us insecurity in the name of self-care. I'll share how to spot wellness grifters, what real well-being actually looks like, and the few time-tested practices that still matter: acupuncture, baths, walks, nourishing meals, sleep, friends, hobbies, and joy.

If your wellness routine involves 17 products, 5 subscriptions, 2 wearable tech devices, and credit card debt… it's not wellness — it's capitalism. Let's get back to what actually heals.

Takeaways

We live in a different society than thousands of years ago. The basics of well-being still apply today. Being outside in nature is crucial for health. Community and belonging are essential for well-being. Nourishing meals contribute significantly to health. Restful sleep is a fundamental aspect of well-being. Time spent with friends enhances quality of life. Engaging in hobbies brings joy and fulfillment. Strength training and movement are vital for physical health. Breath work is an important practice for overall wellness.

Sound bites

"The basics still work walks" "Breath work, these are the things that work" "Joy and hobbies, strength training, movement"

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Consumerism in Wellness 00:29 Finding Authenticity in Wellness

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

You balanced your hormones, but something still feels off. In this episode, I discuss the deeper factors that make or break your HRT results—like chronic stress, cortisol, emotional tension, and burnout.

Discover how to support your body and mind so your hormones can actually do their job and you can feel like yourself again.

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

In this conversation, I discuss the critical need for rest and the societal pressures that make it difficult for women to slow down. I explore the connection between productivity and self-worth, and how the nervous system reacts when one attempts to take a break. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing bodily signals of fatigue and the emotional resistance that often accompanies the need for rest.

Takeaways

If you slow down, you may feel unsafe. Rest is often equated with falling behind. Your body communicates through fatigue and anxiety. Women often struggle to relax due to societal pressures. Anhedonia can signal a need for change. Recognizing the need for rest is crucial. Pushing through fatigue can lead to burnout. Understanding your nervous system is key to relaxation. Self-worth should not be tied to productivity. Taking breaks can enhance overall well-being.

Sound bites

"Your body struggles to relax" "Why rest feels unsafe" "This episode is for you"

Chapters

00:00 Embracing the Fall Season and Overwhelm 00:55 The Guilt of Doing Less

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Even if you love the holidays, this season can push your nervous system into overdrive — from family dynamics and endless to-do lists to sugar crashes and overstimulation.

In this episode, I share practical tools to stay grounded, set gentle boundaries, and actually enjoy the season without burning out. Learn how to recognize when your body's entering survival mode and what to do to come back to safety, balance, and calm.

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

We're not broken—we're just overwhelmed.

Kylie Larson and I explore how to quiet the noise, feel safe in your body, and start leading with acceptance instead of control.

In this episode, Kylie Larson and I unpack the difference between what you think you need and what you actually need when it comes to health, wellness, and feeling like yourself again.

We talk about the endless noise out there—how easy it is to chase the next fix—and why the real work often looks less like control and more like compassion.

We also dig into what it means to feel safe in your body, how lifestyle choices play a bigger role than most people realize, and why acceptance isn't giving up—it's where real change begins.

Our conversation was inspired by what we are seeing in ourselves, with clients and the collective as a whole.

Kylie's Resources:

https://www.instagram.com/thekylielarson/

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

In this episode, Ali Damron explores the intricate relationship between stress, repressed emotions, and the nervous system.

She discusses how stress manifests in our bodies and minds, the impact of childhood experiences on emotional development, and the importance of radical acceptance in managing anxiety.

The conversation emphasizes the need to recognize and process emotions rather than suppress them, highlighting the role of coping mechanisms and the significance of teaching our brains to feel safe.

Ali encourages listeners to engage with their emotions and live their lives despite the presence of anxiety and stress.

Takeaways

Life is inherently stressful, affecting various aspects of our lives. Stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and various health issues. Managing stress is often oversimplified; we need deeper strategies. Repressed emotions can keep us stuck in anxiety. The nervous system interprets suppressed emotions as danger. Childhood experiences shape our emotional responses and coping mechanisms. Coping strategies often involve avoidance behaviors. Radical acceptance helps in acknowledging and processing emotions. Teaching the brain that it is safe to feel is crucial for healing. Engaging with life despite anxiety can promote emotional safety.

Sound bites

"How do we actually manage stress?" "Your brain and body are one thing." "Radical acceptance is not giving up."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Stress and Repressed Emotions 02:45 The Physiology of Stress and the Nervous System 06:07 Emotional Repression and Its Impact 08:56 The Role of Childhood in Emotional Development 12:13 Coping Mechanisms and Avoidance Strategies 15:02 Radical Acceptance: A Path to Healing 17:48 Teaching the Brain Safety 21:08 Engaging with Emotions and Anxiety 23:54 Rewiring the Brain for Safety 26:36 Summary and Next Steps

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

Are your symptoms really coming from a "broken body"—or are they actually a brain habit? In this episode, Ali breaks down the science of neuroplastic symptoms (sometimes called TMS or mind-body symptoms) and explains why real, physical sensations like pain, fatigue, gut issues, and dizziness can persist even without structural damage.

You'll learn how the brain's danger pathways work, why symptoms become a habit, and how fear and avoidance keep the cycle alive. Drawing on Alan Gordon's "false alarm" framework, Ali shares simple, practical ways to rewire your brain's response—so symptoms lose their power and your nervous system learns safety again.

If you've been stuck in the endless cycle of symptoms, worry, and searching for answers, this episode will give you clarity, hope, and a roadmap for healing.

Takeaways

• Neuroplastic symptoms are real—but they're created by the brain's danger pathways, not by structural damage.

• Fear and attention fuel the cycle: every time you monitor or worry, the brain reinforces the symptom as "important."

• Symptoms become a habit loop—just like a song stuck in your head, the brain gets good at producing them through repetition.

• Alan Gordon's false alarm analogy helps explain why symptoms are real but not dangerous—the alarm is sounding, but there's no fire.

• Healing is possible: by reducing fear, processing emotions, and re-engaging in life, you can rewire your brain and teach it safety.

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

In this episode of the Ali Damron Show, Ali discusses the pervasive issue of anxiety, sharing her personal experiences and insights gained from working with patients over the years.

She emphasizes that anxiety is not a character flaw but a learned brain pattern that can be unlearned through understanding and practical strategies.

The conversation covers the science behind anxiety, the importance of emotional expression, and actionable steps to engage with life despite anxiety.

Ali encourages listeners to practice self-compassion and to view anxiety as a protective mechanism rather than a debilitating condition.

Takeaways

Anxiety manifests differently for everyone, both physically and mentally.

Understanding anxiety as a learned behavior can empower individuals to change their responses.

Neuroplasticity allows us to unlearn anxiety and create new brain pathways.

Labeling anxiety as a false alarm can help diffuse its power.

Allowing feelings of anxiety without resistance is crucial for healing.

Engaging in life despite anxiety is essential for personal growth.

Emotional expression is key to processing underlying feelings that contribute to anxiety.

Self-compassion is vital in the journey of overcoming anxiety.

Avoidant behaviors reinforce anxiety; facing fears is necessary for progress.

Practicing small steps towards facing anxiety can lead to significant changes.

Sound bites

"Anxiety is not a character flaw." "Label it as a false alarm." "Self-compassion is key."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Anxiety: A Personal Journey 05:21 The Science Behind Anxiety: Neuroplasticity and Learning 12:06 Practical Strategies to Manage Anxiety 19:58 Emotional Expression: The Key to Healing 30:05 Engaging with Life: Living Alongside Anxiety 40:00 Final Thoughts: Rewiring Your Brain for Safety

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

In this episode, Ali Damron discusses the pervasive impact of trauma and overstimulation on our nervous systems, particularly in the context of constant exposure to fear-inducing content through social media and news. She explores how our brains are wired to respond to threats and the resulting physical and mental health issues that can arise. Ali offers practical solutions for regulating our nervous systems, emphasizes the importance of living a values-based life, and encourages listeners to find balance amidst chaos.

Takeaways

Trauma affects us all, often without our awareness. Our nervous systems are not designed for constant fear. Social media and news can create a jaded view of the world. Fear can lead to chronic health issues and mental health struggles. Setting boundaries around content consumption is crucial. Curating your social media feed can protect your peace. Living a values-based life enhances overall well-being. Small changes can lead to significant improvements in life balance. Self-awareness is key to managing anxiety and fear. It's important to seek help when feeling overwhelmed.

Titles

Navigating Trauma in a Digital Age Understanding Our Nervous System's Response to Fear

Sound bites

"Fear activates the nervous system." "The threats don't end today." "Anxiety is like a dictator."

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of Trauma on Our Lives 03:02 Understanding the Nervous System's Response 06:05 The Effects of Constant Fear and Overstimulation 09:08 Breaking the Cycle of Fear Consumption 11:58 Tactical Solutions for Regulating Your Nervous System 17:58 Living a Values-Based Life 23:54 Finding Balance in a Chaotic World

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron

Summary

In this episode, Ali Damron explores the significant changes in women's health, particularly during menopause, over the past few decades. She discusses the impact of lifestyle, food environment, movement, technology, and stress management on women's health outcomes.

Ali emphasizes the need to return to basic health practices that were prevalent in the past, highlighting the importance of whole foods, regular movement, and effective stress management. The conversation serves as a call to action for listeners to reassess their health habits and make meaningful changes.

Takeaways

Women today experience different health realities than in the past. The food environment has drastically changed, impacting health. Processed foods are more prevalent and chemically laden now. Daily movement has decreased significantly over the years. Stress management is crucial for overall health. Technology has disrupted sleep patterns and quality. Returning to basics can improve health outcomes. Hormones have not changed, but our lifestyle has. Social connections and community support are vital for well-being. Small changes in daily habits can lead to significant health improvements.

Titles

The Evolution of Women's Health Navigating Menopause in Modern Times

Sound bites

"You have permission to stop." "We need to return to the basics." "It's hard to change all of that."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 03:08 The Changing Landscape of Women's Health 05:54 Food Environment: Then and Now 08:45 Movement and Daily Life: A Comparison 11:56 Lifestyle Changes and Stress Management 14:58 The Impact of Technology on Sleep 18:07 Returning to Basics for Better Health 20:57 The Role of Hormones and Environment 23:49 Conclusion and Call to Action

Inspiration IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DOQzXCOjPEc/?img_index=1

Ali's Resources:

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 10% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist.

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron