The Ultimate Journey of Self-Care

Alison sits down with a seasoned expert in stress and trauma response, Dr. Robert Bray, to discuss the concept of tapping as an effective self-care tool for managing emotional and physical stress. Dr. Bray brings a wealth of experience to the topic, having dedicated his career to understanding the intricacies of human reactivity and the body's autonomic responses.They begin by exploring the distinction between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, emphasizing how our bodies react to stressors. Dr. Bray explains that while stress is a natural part of life, it can become problematic when we remain in a heightened state of reactivity. By examining our automatic responses to external stimuli, we uncover the underlying reasons for our emotional upheavals. This foundational understanding sets the stage for introducing tapping as a technique to re-regulate our nervous systems and achieve a state of calm.As they transition into a more hands-on discussion, Dr. Bray walks through the mechanics of tapping. They discuss its origins, including the principles of meridian therapy, and how it facilitates a release of energy in a structured manner. Dr. Bray highlights that tapping is backed by substantial research, demonstrating its effectiveness through numerous studies, which validate its utility in addressing traumatic stress and emotional overwhelm.Dr. Bray also shares practical advice for listeners looking to incorporate tapping into their self-care routines. He provides a guided experience for listeners to follow, where he leads through specific tapping points. This interactive segment not only educates but empowers individuals to explore their emotional responses and see tangible benefits to this practice in real-time. Listeners are encouraged to visit Dr. Bray’s website for additional resources, including a video tutorial on tapping.HIGHLIGHTS:1:57 Understanding Stress Responses4:17 The Importance of Safety5:51 Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic9:16 The Impact of Upbringing10:12 Personal Reflections on Trauma11:53 Exploring Tapping Techniques13:38 The Tapping Process16:04 Meridians and Energy Flow19:12 Practical Tips for Beginnersconnect with Dr. Braywebsite: https://rlbray.comenergy psychology: https://www.energypsych.orgSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Alison welcomes, for the second time, Nick Ferraro, co-owner of Cellev8, to explore the critical role of antioxidants in maintaining health.They defined antioxidants and discussed how Cellev8's innovative products, sourced from natural ingredients like tart cherries and pomegranates, help combat inflammation and support cellular health.Nick introduced Cellev8's latest offerings, Slim Cell and Redrive, highlighting their unique formulations aimed at enhancing weight management and energy levels. They highlighted the importance of a natural approach to supplementation while emphasizing the need for consistency in maintaining health.Be sure to grab the discount code below to try Cellev8's new products!HIGHLIGHTS:1:42 Understanding Antioxidants5:11 The Role of Stress8:48 Antioxidants in Daily Life9:31 Endogenous vs Exogenous Antioxidants13:55 New Products Overview14:27 Introducing Slim Cell17:12 The Science Behind Slim Cell20:13 Spotlight on ReDrive26:43 Importance of Simplicity in Routineconnect with Nickwebsite: https://cellev8.com@cellev8nutrition for TikTok - IG - YouTubenick@cellev8.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

In this final episode of The Other 23 Hours series, Alison explores the often-ignored components of fat loss and well-being that extend beyond formal exercise, focusing on Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT). She highlights how the choices we make during the 163 hours outside of structured workouts significantly influence our health outcomes.Alison shares her personal journey as a woman over 50, emphasizing the importance of incorporating more daily movement rather than relying solely on high-intensity workouts. She discusses the benefits of walking as an effective form of NEAT and provides strategies for adding more steps to our routines. Additionally, she highlights the vital role of sleep in recovery and metabolism, stressing that poor sleep quality can undermine fitness efforts. The episode wraps up with key recommendations for prioritizing movement and sleep, advocating for a holistic approach to health that acknowledges the impact of our daily habits.HIGHLIGHTS:1:44 The Unsexy Truth About Fat Loss3:52 Understanding NEAT and Its Importance10:11 The Power of Walking15:26 Walking vs. Intense Training21:48 Managing Your Time for Movement22:30 The Role of Sleep and Recovery28:50 Summary and Key RecommendationsSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Continuing with part 2 of this series, Alison goes deeper into her ongoing journey within the health and fitness realm, specifically reflecting on her training regimen and its evolution over time. In this episode Alison aims to provide a behind-the-scenes look at her practices while remaining transparent about her process.As the fitness landscape shifts, the traditional notions of intense workout regimens are being challenged by a variety of new trends, particularly in boutique fitness. Although traditional workouts undeniably deliver results, the current consumer environment can be overwhelming, leading many to start and stop various programs—a pattern Alison repeatedly sees as "yo-yo exercising." The essence of this episode emphasizes a return to basics and how maintaining consistency with fundamental movements can yield better long-term results.Alison candidly discusses the internal struggles we all face regarding motivation and the misconception that workouts should always be enjoyable or entertaining. As someone who has dedicated her career to health and fitness, she confesses that even on days when her enthusiasm wanes, she recognizes the importance of her fitness routine as a non-negotiable component of her life.Alison shares her personal commitments, particularly since entering her 50s, and how her mindset toward training has changed. Embracing the reality of aging, she's become increasingly aware of how her routines need to adapt. Factors like recovery, intensity, and structured training are now fundamental aspects of her fitness approach. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing our body's capability to become more efficient through strength training and how intensity can significantly impact our metabolic processes.Alison also touches on the significance of finding a training program conducive to longevity and overall health—as well as the common misconception that comfortable exercise suffices as an adequate fitness strategy. Instead, she challenges listeners to consider the necessity of both intense workouts and moderate activities to achieve a holistic approach to fitness.HIGHLIGHTS:1:44 The Changing Landscape of Fitness6:24 My Personal Fitness Journey16:04 The Importance of Structure16:57 Navigating Age and Fitness28:56 Hormonal Balance and Exercise30:55 The Myth of Busy Schedules34:18 Finding Balance in Training37:23 Key Tips for Effective Trainingmentioned in episodeDr. Jade Teta: https://www.jadeteta.comDr. Stacy Sims: https://www.drstacysims.comSam Miller: https://sammillerscience.comMADabolic fitness: https://madabolic.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

In this first part of the mini-series "The Other 23 Hours," Alison explores the significance of understanding metabolism and its true impact on health. With over 30 years in the fitness industry, she challenges the common belief that metabolism is ‘broken’ with age, instead pointing to lifestyle choices and strategies as key factors.Alison emphasizes that metabolic health is greatly influenced by daily movement, not just exercise, advocating for a blend of structured workouts and intentional activity. She debunks myths surrounding metabolism, highlighting that aging does not solely slow it down—rather, reduced activity and muscle mass play a crucial role. This episode lays the groundwork for future episodes in the series, promoting insights and strategies to optimize metabolic health through everyday habits.HIGHLIGHTS:3:08 The Truth About Metabolism15:52 My Journey to Metabolic Fitness32:03 Looking Ahead to Part TwoSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Alison engages in a transformative discussion with Brandon Neely, a licensed financial advisor and co-founder of Live CounterFlow, along with his wife Amanda. In this early part of a new year, many people reflect on their finances and seek guidance in this crucial aspect of self-care. In this conversation, Alison and Brandon delve into the mindset surrounding money management—a topic often fraught with confusion and anxiety. Brandon challenges the conventional perceptions of finance and offers insights that are not only practical but deeply rooted in personal experience.Brandon shares his journey from owning a coffee shop to becoming a financial advisor, highlighting the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of agency and self-reflection when it comes to personal finances, urging listeners to internalize their goals rather than solely relying on external financial advice. This mindset shift is pivotal; many individuals approach finance with blame, viewing banks, presidents, and financial institutions as adversaries. Instead, Brandon advocates for a focus on individual intentions, encouraging a deep exploration of personal values and aspirations.They also discuss the principles outlined in Brandon's book, "Five Smooth Stones," which serve as a guide to transcending the chaos typically associated with financial matters. He introduces the 10-10-10 savings rule—allocating funds for long-term, medium-term, and short-term goals—which advocates a balanced approach to saving rather than spending impulsively. The conversation touches on the parallels between financial health and personal well-being.Brandon's unique concept of a "financial nervous system" becomes a focal point of their dialogue and this tool helps individuals identify their financial archetypes and learn their own flow in managing money. He explains how understanding personal financial behavior can lead to better decision-making and ultimately to fulfilling one's aspirations efficiently. This personalized approach is essential in a world where many succumb to the noise of outside influences and societal pressures.HIGHLIGHTS:2:31 The Importance of Financial Mindset4:38 Understanding Personal Financial Goals9:06 Financial Principles for Success12:23 Managing Financial Anxiety13:52 Discovering Your Financial Flow16:42 Building a Financial Nervous System20:32 Practical Steps for Financial Health24:42 Prioritizing Life Goals Over Materialismconnect with Brandonwebsite: https://livecounterflow.comFind Your Flow quiz: https://livecounterflow.com/pages/fyfLive Counter Flow Substack: https://livecounterflow.substack.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Alison had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Panella, a fellow health and fitness coach whose journey from the tech industry to wellness coaching is both inspiring and enlightening. They discuss his company, The Longevity Lifestyle, which focuses on empowering individuals through sustainable health practices.Andrew begins by sharing his personal health struggles that shaped his pivot towards self-care advocacy. After battling chronic inflammation, he underwent multiple surgeries and faced significant weight challenges in his early twenties, which drastically impacted his career trajectory. What began as a frustrating period of relying on specialists and surgeries transformed into a newfound passion for holistic health.Alison and Andrew explore the importance of tailored health strategies. Andrew emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. In fact, Andrew identifies four pillars that serve as the foundation of his philosophy and elaborates on these pillars, underscoring the necessity of understanding one’s body and its unique responses to various stimuli. By questioning ingrained assumptions about health and wellness, individuals can liberate themselves from misinformation and find a path that truly resonates with their unique needs.Andrew highlights the critical role of nutrient density in our diets, advocating for the consumption of real foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals. He provides insights on the importance of a diverse diet and its significant impact on our microbiome, which in turn supports overall health and resilience. Moving on to exercise, he discusses the four main types of physical activity, specifically touching upon how neglecting flexibility can hinder overall performance and injury prevention.The discussion transitions into stress management, where Andrew elaborates on the complexities of both beneficial and harmful stressors. He emphasizes the need to cultivate emotional health, explaining how our emotions can significantly dictate our behavior. This introspection informs our responses to everyday stresses, allowing us to build resilience and develop better coping mechanisms. They also discuss the often-overlooked importance of recovery, including sleep hygiene and the value of taking breaks throughout the day to recharge both mentally and physically.HIGHLIGHTS:1:31 Andrew's Inspiring Health Journey3:21 Turning Points in Health and Wellness6:08 Overcoming Information Overload6:43 The Four Pillars of Longevity8:16 The Power of Mindset10:37 Adapting Exercise for Lifelong Wellness17:44 Understanding Stress Management20:32 The Importance of Recovery24:15 Nurturing Social Connections28:13 Practical Strategies for Changeconnect with Andrewwebsite: https://www.longevitylifestyle.meYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@longevity_eduLongevity Lifestyle book: https://a.co/d/00DeEKkNSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Are you happy on YOUR terms or someone else's? Find out as Alison dives into a compelling conversation with Tero Moliis, an author and speaker. Tero shares insights from his inspiring book, "Life is a Sandcastle," which delves into themes of mental health, personal happiness, and the importance of self-knowledge as we enter the new year of 2026.Alison and Tero explore the notion that many people confuse happiness with external goals, often falling into the trap of believing they'll be content once they achieve certain milestones. Tero challenges this mindset, advocating for a shift toward recognizing daily dreams and experiences, no matter how simple they may seem. By valuing small accomplishments, we can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and progress in our lives.Tero also addresses the complexities of social perception and the paradox of seeking approval from others while striving for self-acceptance. His perspective encourages listeners to focus on their internal impressions instead of external validations. Throughout their chat, he stresses the importance of questioning our beliefs and opinions, urging us to liberate ourselves from inherited notions that may not serve our true selves.As they discuss decision-making, Tero shares a powerful visualization technique where he imagines standing alone on a deserted island to clarify his choices, free from external pressures. He emphasizes that questioning and answering our thoughts is vital in moving forward, suggesting we should lean into emotions and experiences regardless of how they might be perceived by society.They touch on the topic of legacy and what it means to leave a lasting mark. Tero advocates for living purposefully and authentically in the present, rather than becoming fixated on how one will be remembered after death. He believes that true impact is reflected in how we live our lives daily and how we influence the people around us, whether they be family, friends, or even students.HIGHLIGHTS:2:53 Defining Happiness4:17 The Pursuit of Dreams7:09 Knowing Yourself9:10 Embracing Change13:04 The Power of Opinion14:39 Questions for Self-Discovery16:13 Overcoming Stagnation18:18 Life is a Sandcastle20:49 Legacy and Influence22:53 The Time to Act is Now25:00 Finding Your Word27:07 Practical Decision-Making28:01 Regrets and Life Choicesconnect with Tero:Linkedin: https://mx.linkedin.com/in/teromoliisLife is a Sandcastle: https://a.co/d/0fWHtrs3SPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Alison is joined by Dr. Sage Breslin, a licensed psychologist and certified coach from New Jersey. With a unique breadth of certification across 44 states, Dr. Breslin offers a profound perspective on navigating toxic relationships, particularly for high-achieving women. As they embark on this important conversation, they delve into the complexities of managing relationships marked by narcissistic behavior and how these dynamics can significantly impact personal well-being.They kick off the discussion exploring a pervasive issue that resonates with many: the struggle to disentangle ourselves from toxic relationships often characterized by narcissism. Dr. Breslin shares her personal story, illustrating the weight of such relationships, notably her own experiences leading up to a diagnosis of multiple myeloma amidst overwhelming stress from her past marriage.In defining what constitutes the "narcissist tag," Dr. Breslin emphasizes that it extends beyond just narcissists to include individuals with sociopathic traits and those with low-functioning borderline personality disorder—individuals who lack a functional sense of self. These relationships often leave the victims feeling drained and devoid of their own identity, as the emotional manipulation becomes a core aspect of their daily lives.Dr. Breslin provides valuable insights into how these toxic relationships manifest and the psychological mechanisms at play, including manipulative behaviors and techniques that make breaking free even more challenging. Throughout their conversation, Dr. Breslin touches upon critical strategies for those feeling stuck or confused within these interpersonal dynamics. Her three-pronged approach includes first encouraging individuals to create physical and emotional space away from their narcissistic counterparts. Secondly, she highlights the importance of self-connection, urging listeners to surround themselves with reminders of their true selves—objects or people that embody who they were prior to entanglement with their toxic partner. Finally, she insists on the necessity of embracing community, either through support groups or online forums, as healing from such deeply rooted issues often cannot be done in isolation.HIGHLIGHTS:4:10 Personal Journey Through Toxicity7:42 Defining the Narcissist Tag14:19 The Profile of a Target20:11 Strategies for Leaving23:52 Reclaiming Your Identity29:07 Steps for Forward Movementconnect with Dr. BreslinSage Breslin: https://sagebreslin.comThe Rose System: https://www.therosesystem.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

Alison has an enlightening conversation with Serena Sabala, a dedicated health and wellness coach based in the United Kingdom. Serena, along with her husband, runs a holistic health business that emphasizes a comprehensive approach to wellness, combining their diverse expertise in nutrition, fitness, and mindfulness.Serena shares her background as a certified nutrition consultant and yoga teacher, while her husband contributes as a physiotherapist and fitness trainer. Their collaboration led to the creation of Whole Shift Wellness, a platform designed to provide clients with integrated strategies for achieving lasting results in their health journeys.The core of their discussion centers on the three fundamental pillars of Serena's approach: focus, food, and fitness. They examine how these pillars interact and the critical role each plays in a person's overall health. They cover the pivotal aspect of nutrition, where Serena advocates for a shift towards increased hydration, more plant-based foods, and a natural diet. She provides practical tips for incorporating these dietary changes into daily life, stressing the importance of meal preparation and mindful eating.As Alison and Serena transition into fitness, Serena outlines the three pillars of optimal physical activity: cardio, strength, and flexibility. Serena emphasizes that a balanced approach is crucial for achieving health goals, particularly for women whose bodies undergo hormonal changes over time. They touch on the pitfalls of focusing solely on one aspect of fitness and the need for a diversified routine that fosters overall wellness.To wrap up their conversation, Serena offers actionable advice for listeners eager to embark on their own health journeys. She encourages them to engage with her book and take advantage of a free assessment quiz designed to identify personal strengths and areas for improvement within the three pillars of focus, food, and fitness.HIGHLIGHTS:3:13 Holistic Wellness Journey5:12 The Importance of a Proven Method9:14 Common Challenges in Health11:57 Exploring the Three Pillars15:13 Focus: The First Pillar17:03 The Food Pillar21:57 Fitness: The Final Pillar26:22 Getting Started with Your Journeyconnect with Serena:website: https://wholeshiftmethod.comMake the Shift book (Amazon): https://a.co/d/622tSfwSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024 ALISON'S LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution