The Period Recovery Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

If you’ve lost your period, are struggling with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), or feel like you’re doing everything right but still not seeing results, this episode will open your eyes to a missing piece most women overlook.

In this conversation, Cynthia Donovan, Registered Dietitian and period recovery expert, sits down with breathwork and nervous system coach Sally Davidson to explore how chronic stress, anxiety, and an overactive nervous system can directly impact your hormones, fertility, and ability to get your period back.

Inside this episode, we cover:

• What hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) actually is and why your period goes missing
• How stress and nervous system dysregulation shut down ovulation
• Why food alone isn’t enough to get your period back
• The connection between anxiety, overtraining, and hormone imbalance
• How breathwork supports nervous system regulation and healing
• Simple ways to start slowing down—even if you feel stuck in go-go-go mode

If you’re currently dealing with:

• Missing periods
• Hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA)
• Fertility struggles
• Hormone imbalance
• Overtraining and under-fueling

This episode will help you understand what your body has been trying to tell you all along and give you practical tools to start shifting it.

Apply for Recipe for a Period coaching w/Cynthia: https://www.periodnutritionist.com/applyforcoaching

New to HA? Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Trying +3 months to get your period back? Click here to download the Safety Worksheet

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theperiodnutritionist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Sally Davidson is a Conscious & Embodiment Leadership Coach, Registered Nurse with over 30 years of clinical experience, Shamanic Reiki Master, and trauma-informed breathwork and somatic healing practitioner with a focus on the nervous system. She is the founder of Rooted Soul, co-founder of Rooted & Radiant Retreats, and host of The Connection Project podcast.

Sally works with clients virtually and in-person through private 1:1 coaching, group containers, transformational retreats, and immersive corporate experiences , and is based in Remsen, NY.

Connect with Sally Davidson:

Website: sallydavidsoncoach.com

Email: Sally@Sallydavidsoncoach.com

Instagram @sallydavidsoncoach  https://www.instagram.com/sallydavidsoncoach_breathwork/

Facebook: sallydavidson
Linkedin: Sallydavidson 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Today on the podcast, I’m joined by  Lindsey Lusson, a fertility nutritionist who shares her story of HA and period recovery with us. She tells us how to overcome our fears, face discouragement, and recover.

I hope that this episode is helpful for you! 

Cynthia 

Listen in to learn more about my conversations with Lindsey: 

{05:48} The importance of early diagnosis

{12:10} Lindsey’s journey

{16:55} Deciding to make changes

{19:48} Fears you have to overcome

{27:20} Advice for people discouraged by their changing bodies

{32:30} Getting pregnant after recovering your period

{48:00} Tips for people stuck in the messy middle 

About Lindsey Lusson:

Lindsey is a fertility nutritionist and registered dietitian who specializes in hypothalamic amenorrhea. Her passion is helping women trying to conceive find freedom with food and exercise, so they can recover their period, and get pregnant naturally.

Links:

https://www.periodnutritionist.com 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:
https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb

https://www.instagram.com/food.freedom.fertility

https://www.foodfreedomandfertility.com 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

A Recipe for a Period® Info Session on Feb 21, 2025 at 12:30 AM EST https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QdPiG_SfS4eB8klEmqjVBQ#/registration

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In this conversation, Cynthia and Tamara delve into the intricate relationship between constellation work and body image issues. Tamara explains the concept of constellation work, likening it to a theatrical play where participants embody family dynamics. 

Cynthia and Tamara explore how body image concerns often stem from deeper emotional patterns, including trans-generational trauma and societal pressures. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding these underlying issues to foster healing and self-acceptance. 

Tamara shares insights from her practice, emphasizing that many body image struggles are not about the physical body but rather about unresolved emotional conflicts. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal recovery journeys and the role of control in shaping body image perceptions. 

In this conversation, Cynthia and Tamara explore the complex relationship women have with their bodies, emphasizing the journey from body image fixation to self-love and authenticity. They discuss the importance of befriending one's body, and the necessity of addressing underlying emotional pain. 

Takeaways:

• Constellation work is an experiential process that reveals family dynamics. Trans-generational trauma can influence current body image concerns.
• Body image issues often stem from deeper emotional patterns and so healing involves understanding and addressing underlying emotional conflicts.
• Control issues are common in body image struggles.
• Many women feel societal pressure regarding their appearance. Self-worth is often tied to external validation and appearance.
• Constellation work can help untie systemic knots related to body image.
• Recovery journeys are unique and require self-compassion. Body image is often a symptom of deeper emotional issues.
• Self-love begins with befriending your body, but it’s normal to have days when you don't like your body.
• The journey to self-acceptance is ongoing and requires patience.
• Societal standards of beauty can distort our self-perception.
• Education about body diversity can empower women.
• Authenticity is more fulfilling than the pursuit of happiness.
• Navigating uncomfortable emotions is part of the healing process.
• We are the first generation with the resources to address these issues.

Connect with Tamara https://pushparanihealing.com/

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Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall

Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

In today’s episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, I am talking directly to the woman who is trying to recover her period but is afraid to stop exercising. I’ve been where you are, and I understand it completely. Today, I share two important things to consider: evaluate what is healthy and what productivity truly means for getting your period back. In this episode, I give you coping strategies to help you find peace with your new lifestyle. 

I hope you have found this episode helpful. 

- Cynthia 

Highlights 

{02:10} Why do we struggle with the need to exercise 

{04:00} What does your body needs when it is under a lot of stress

{07:35} What does health mean to you?

{12:51} Coping strategies

{19:30} Things you can fill your exercise time with that makes you happy

Links:

https://www.periodnutritionist.com

To Apply for coaching:: https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Natalie Rose shares her journey of struggling with body image, dieting, and disordered eating, as well as her path to recovery and becoming a therapist specializing in disordered eating. She emphasizes that disordered eating and body image issues can impact quality of life, even if a person hasn't lost their period.

Natalie discusses the normalization of calorie counting and dieting, and how these behaviors can become obsessive and harmful. She also highlights the importance of community support and finding meaning in the recovery process. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the unknown timeline of recovery and the importance of self-compassion and self-awareness.

Takeaways

• Disordered eating and body image issues can impact quality of life, even if a person hasn't lost their period.
• Calorie counting and dieting can become obsessive and harmful, and it's important to assess the impact on mental well-being.
• Community support is crucial in the recovery process, providing validation, understanding, and connection.
• Finding meaning in the recovery process can help navigate the unknown timeline and challenges.
• Self-compassion and self-awareness are key in cultivating a healthy relationship with food and body.

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

Need guidance in eating? Check out this FREE Meal Plan from Cynthia

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist


Natalie Rose, a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters in Psychology, is much more than just a therapist and virtual coach. She stands as a beacon of hope and expertise in the realm of disordered eating — a multifaceted issue deeply intertwined with emotions and self-perception.

What distinguishes Natalie is her personal journey of triumph over chronic dieting, binge eating, orthorexia, and a decades-long tumultuous relationship with food and body image. This first-hand experience fuels the passion and authenticity behind her brand, Wake Up and Smell The Rosay.

What began as a modest Instagram account where Natalie shared inspiring breakfast bowls (a vital yet often neglected meal for those struggling with disordered eating) has blossomed into a vibrant sanctuary uniting over 100,000 women. Together, they embark on a journey towards achieving
a balanced relationship with food and nurturing a positive relationship with themselves.

Connect with Natalie Rose:

Website

Instagram

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

For today’s episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, I am joined by one of my past clients, Cornelia. She shares her story of how she lost and then got her period back.  You are going to be inspired by her journey of loss, facing her fears, and recovery. 

I hope that you find this episode helpful. 

Cynthia 

Highlights:

{03:10} How Cornelia lost her period

{14:20} The driving factor that led to over-exercising

{20:10} Being afraid you will never recover

{26:05} Facing your fears

{32:15} Recovering from a negative body image

Links:

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:
https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

https://www.periodnutritionist.com 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Welcome to this exciting episode of the Period Recovery Podcast! Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with a fellow dietitian and friend, Lindsey, who specializes in sports nutrition. Naturally, our conversation today will be centered around everything athletic!

Listen in to hear more about: 

• The body's inability to distinguish between exercise and genuine danger leads it to prioritize energy for movement above all else. 
• The power of a natural, regular, and predictable menstrual cycle, allows athletes to tailor their training around it.
• The importance many athletes place on monitoring heart rate variability, which can be a more accurate indicator of recovery than standard heart rate figures.

So, join us as we explore the intersections of athletic performance, nutrition, and menstrual health!

I hope that you find this episode helpful. 

Cynthia 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:
https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist

Get in touch with Lindsey!

www.RiseUpNutritionRUN.com

Instagram: @female.athlete.nutrition

Podcast: Female Athlete Nutrition podcast on Apple, Spotify & More (also on the website)

Sign up for the email list here: https://riseupnutrition.activehosted.com/f/6

TAKE OUR FREE RED-S QUIZ HERE TO SEE IF YOU ARE AT RISK: www.riseupnutritionrun.com/reds

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

Silba is a behavioral scientist, somatic coach, and sensuality educator passionate about helping ambitious women with a big heart reconnect to their bodies, rekindle their pleasure, and reclaim their full feminine expression so they can safely be themselves.

With eleven years of experience in human fulfillment—first as a consultant for organisations in London and for the past six years working 1:1 with clients and leading talks and workshops worldwide, Silba brings a unique blend of science, storytelling, and accessible strategies. Her approach is warm, creative, and playful, making personal growth feel deeply enjoyable.

In this conversation, Cynthia and Silba explore the profound connection between women's emotional health and their physical well-being, particularly focusing on the experience of period loss. Silba shares her personal journey of losing her period, the impact of family dynamics, and the struggle with body disconnection. They discuss the societal pressures that lead women to suppress their emotions and the importance of reconnecting with one's femininity. 

The conversation also touches on the role of medical diagnoses like PCOS and the journey towards self-discovery and healing through practices like the Love Protocol. 

In this conversation, Silba and Cynthia explore the importance of nourishment, self-awareness, and pleasure in women's health and healing. They discuss the need for honesty in assessing one's relationship with their body, the significance of rest and energy management, and the transformative power of pleasure as a guiding force in life. The dialogue emphasizes the journey of self-discovery and the importance of being curious and playful in one's healing process.

Takeaways

• Period loss can be linked to emotional repression.
• Disconnection from the body often starts in adolescence.
• Family dynamics can significantly impact emotional health.
• Reconnecting with femininity is crucial for healing.
• Medical diagnoses can sometimes mislabel women's experiences.
• Inner wisdom is key to understanding one's body.
• Practices like the Love Protocol can aid in self-discovery.
• Building a friendly relationship with the body is essential. There's got to be a better way to nourish ourselves.
• We must look inward to connect with our bodies.
• Getting honest about our relationship with our body is crucial.
• Desires are sacred and guide us towards our true selves.
• Rest is essential for energy and pleasure.
• Pleasure emerges when we align with our inner and outer worlds.
• Life is happening for you, not to you.
• Be a scientist of your own experience.
• Nourishment is a key pillar in healing.
• Curiosity and playfulness enhance the healing journey.

Silba's instagram: instagram.com/silbastaffler

Silba's substack: silbastaffler.substack.com

Silba's website: silbastaffler.com

Bites of Pleasure Podcast - find it on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/caitie-corradino0

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com 

It can be so confusing navigating period recovery, especially when it comes to figuring out if you are getting closer. This episode is not in place of any medical advice; it's to become aware of signs and symptoms.  I am giving some of my tips on things to be aware of the signs and symptoms and learn our bodies of the steps for recovery. Signs and symptoms come and go and could look different for everyone. 

I hope you find this episode helpful!

Cynthia

Listen in to learn more:

• [08:01] Let’s talk CM. All bodies are different; you might see periods of cervical mucus, periods of dryness, consistency changes, or the like. These are all things you can’t control - the color, the consistency, etc. - but you can control the things that affect those things in particular.
• [16:11] Resolving Digestive Issues. Constipation is just your body’s way of conserving the energy within your body for the more essential thing such as your heartbeat, your brain’s functioning, your lungs breathing, etc.
• [27:52] All loss is gain; you may not see it right now, but with the right context and capacity, things will eventually improve and turn more pleasant.

Resources:

https://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Vital-Sign-Optimize-Fertility-ebook/dp/B07MVGB2DH

Links:

https://www.periodnutritionist.com 

Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:
https://p.bttr.to/3ybjfOb 

For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com