Explore every episode of the podcast Wholesome Fertility Podcast

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Ali Damron, acupuncturist, nervous system practitioner, and host of The Ali Damron Show, to explore the powerful connection between the nervous system, chronic symptoms, stress, and fertility.

Ali shares her own experience with chronic back pain and how discovering the role of neuroplasticity and the brain-body connection completely changed the way she understood healing. We discuss how the nervous system can become sensitized over time, causing the brain to perceive more and more experiences as threatening—even after the original stressor or physical injury has passed.

We also explore how these patterns can show up during the fertility journey, especially when fear, uncertainty, pressure, and constant monitoring become part of everyday life. Ali explains why trying to constantly "fix" ourselves can sometimes reinforce the brain's perception that something is wrong, and why creating safety doesn't mean eliminating stress or difficult emotions.

In this episode, you'll learn practical ways to work with your nervous system, recognize fearful thought patterns, name and process emotions, and begin shifting from resistance and hypervigilance toward greater trust in your body.

Key Takeaways: 

• Nervous system regulation doesn't mean feeling calm all the time—it means being able to move through stress and return to a sense of safety.

• Chronic symptoms can sometimes become reinforced when the brain continues to associate certain sensations or experiences with danger.

• Fear, monitoring, frustration, and constantly trying to "fix" a symptom may unintentionally keep the brain focused on the perceived threat.

• Fertility struggles can create significant fear, pressure, and catastrophic thinking, making nervous system support an important part of emotional well-being.

• Naming and acknowledging emotions rather than suppressing or fighting them can help reduce the nervous system's perception of danger.

• Healing can involve changing your relationship with symptoms and emotions rather than waiting for everything to feel perfect before living your life.

Guest Bio: 

Ali Damron is a neuroplastic symptom practitioner, hormone expert, licensed acupuncturist, and certified personal trainer with a deep passion for helping women reclaim their health and vitality. As a wife and mother to two boys, she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work. Through her virtual practice, Ali supports women around the world in balancing their hormones and improving their moods, sleep, energy, and periods. She works 1:1 with patients, offers digital courses, and shares valuable insights through her podcast, The Ali Damron Show, and her YouTube channel. Ali's approach integrates the powerful connection between stress, the nervous system, and physical health, helping women feel empowered and well from the inside out.

Connect with Ali Damron:

Website: www.alidamron.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/alidamron
Instagram: www.instagram.com/alidamron
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AliDamronWomensHormoneExpert
Podcast: www.alidamron.com/itunes

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Could something in your home be quietly affecting your fertility? In this episode, Michelle sits down with Ariana Thacker, chemical engineer, venture capitalist, and founder and CEO of MoldCo, to explore one of the most overlooked pieces of the fertility conversation, mold toxicity. Ariana shares her own path from patient to founder, and breaks down what mold actually is, why it so often goes undetected, and how it can trigger widespread inflammation in the body. Together they unpack why some people are far more sensitive to mold than others, the genetic piece behind that sensitivity, and how this hidden inflammatory load can surface as brain fog, fatigue, irregular or painful periods, and even recurrent miscarriage. Ariana also walks through what testing and recovery can look like, and offers a grounding reminder that once you know what you are working with, there is a clear and increasingly accessible path forward. If you have been doing everything right and still feel stuck, this conversation may open a door you didn't know was there.

Key Takeaways:

• Mold is often invisible. You cannot rely on what you can see or smell, and it frequently hides in HVAC systems, crawl spaces, under flooring, and even in brand new construction.

• For many people the real issue is not the mold itself but the inflammatory response it sets off, which can ripple into hormones, cycles, energy, and mood.

• Genetics matter. Roughly one in four people carry a genetic susceptibility that makes it harder for the body to recognize and clear these toxins, which helps explain why one person in a home gets sick while another feels fine.

• Mold-related inflammation can show up in surprising ways for fertility, including irregular, heavy, or missed periods, new food sensitivities, and markers associated with pregnancy loss.

• Testing and treatment are far more affordable and accessible than they used to be, and most people improve significantly once the exposure is identified and addressed.

Guest Bio:

Ariana Thacker is a chemical engineer, venture capitalist, and the founder and CEO of MoldCo, a health-tech platform addressing mold toxicity. After co-founding Conscience VC to invest in science-driven startups, Ariana launched MoldCo, inspired by her own health journey. Today, she leverages her technical expertise and investing background to pioneer data-driven, empathetic solutions for overlooked healthcare and environmental challenges.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: https://www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

 https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Dr. Daoshing Ni, known to many as Dr. Dao, a second-generation doctor of Chinese medicine with more than forty years of experience in women's health. Together they explore one of the most overlooked sources of insight a woman has: her own cycle. Dr. Dao explains how the color, flow, timing, clots, and spotting of a period each point to something specific about hormones and circulation, and why so much of what women are told to accept as normal is actually the body asking for support.

The conversation moves through endometriosis and why Chinese medicine sees it as far more than a single pattern, the deep link between gut health and the menstrual cycle, and the meaning of Jing, or essence, the foundation we inherit and the reserve we build through nourishment and rest. Dr. Dao also shares why blood is considered a woman's foundation, and why food, not herbs, comes first when rebuilding it.

This is a rich, grounding conversation for any woman who has ever wondered what her body was trying to say. The through-line is simple and freeing. Your symptoms are not random. They are a language, and once you learn to read them, you can begin to work with your body instead of against it.

Key Takeaways:

• Your period is a monthly report card. Color, flow, clots, timing, and spotting each reveal something specific about your hormones and circulation.

• Endometriosis is rarely one pattern. In Chinese medicine it is often blood stagnation layered with dampness, cold, heat, and deficiency, which is why it calls for a whole-body approach rather than a single fix.

• The gut and the cycle are deeply connected. Digestive symptoms in childhood can foreshadow period pain later, and calming the gut early can soften how conditions like endometriosis show up.

• Jing, or essence, is your foundation. Part is inherited and part is built through digestion, nourishment, and rest, and it underlies both fertility and the quality of your cycle.

• Blood is a woman's foundation. Because we bleed each month, blood can quietly run low, so food comes first. As Dr. Dao puts it, use herbs to treat and food to nourish.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Dao is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the State of California and a Diplomate of Chinese Herbology NCCAOM. He has been active in the TCM profession as well as professional organizations, serving as an examiner for the California Acupuncture Committee and participating in the Chinese Herbology Exam development for NCCA. Well known and respected for his special interest in reproductive and gynecological conditions, Dr. Dao is an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, The Menopause Society, and the American Society for Nutrition. He is a co-founder of Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and currently a faculty member, trustee, and co-department chair for the reproductive medicine doctoral degrees program.Dr. Dao is co-founder of Tao of Wellness (pronounced Dow of Wellness, the same sound as Dr. Dao's name), a multi-generational integrative medicine clinic founded by his father in 1976 and celebrating 50 years of practice this year. He is the author of The Tao of Fertility and co-author of Sitting Moon: A Guide to Rejuvenation after Pregnancy. He is also the recipient of the American Fertility Association's Visionary Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Integrative Fertility Symposium.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

In this episode, Michelle sits down with licensed acupuncturist and certified herbalist Ariele Myers for a conversation that moves from clinical fertility care into something deeper. Ariele shares how two decades of practice slowly reshaped her own approach, from reading labs and chasing balance toward honoring the feminine, the nervous system, and the quiet intelligence the body already holds. The heart of it is a single shift: what happens when we stop treating the body as broken and start meeting fertility as an experience to enter rather than a problem to fix.

Together they explore the difference between surrender and defeat, why staying present can soften even the most reactive moments, and how many women on the fertility path quietly carry the belief that if they could just fix the one right thing, everything would fall into place. Ariele and Michelle talk about pleasure as a form of activism, the way our attention has become our most valuable currency, and what it means to keep loving yourself through a journey that does not always move on your timeline.

This is a slower, soul-level conversation for any woman who has been doing everything right and still feels like something is missing. It offers a gentle reframe. Your body is not the problem to be solved. It may be the doorway.

Key Takeaways:

• Fertility can be met as an experience to enter rather than a problem to fix. That shift, from something is wrong to something is unfolding, changes how the whole journey feels in the body.

• Surrender is not the same as giving up. It is the capacity to stay grounded and trust the process while still rising to advocate for yourself when the moment calls for it.

• Presence is a nervous system practice. Staying with what you feel, instead of running from it, lets hard emotions move through rather than getting held in place.

• Your attention and energy are a real currency. Protecting your presence from what drains it is a quiet but powerful form of self-care on the fertility path.

• Loving yourself through the journey, including the tender question of whether you can feel whole even if it looks different than you hoped, is part of the medicine, not a detour from it.

Guest Bio:
Ariele Myers, L.Ac., is a licensed acupuncturist and certified herbalist with 20 years of clinical experience in women's reproductive health. She is the founder of Wisdom of the Womb, a wellness brand specializing in herbal support for fertility, cycle health, and hormonal balance, and the creator of the Fertile Mama Method, her signature initiation into fertility. She integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern fertility care and speaks regularly on whole-person approaches to conception.

www.WisdomoftheWombonline.com 

https://www.instagram.com/wisdomofthewomb     

https://www.facebook.com/allwomenarefertile/ 

https://arielemyers.substack.com/ 

https://www.youtube.com/@ArieleMyersWisdomoftheWomb

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if the missing piece in your healing is not another protocol, but energy itself? In this episode, Michelle sits down with Harry Massey, founder and CEO of Energy4Life and a pioneer in the field of bioenergetics. After a series of climbing accidents left Harry bedridden for nearly a decade, he discovered that Western, holistic, and functional medicine all fell short. His recovery began only when he started studying energy in living systems, the same life force Chinese medicine has called qi for thousands of years.

Together they explore how the body works like a battery that needs more energy in reserve than it spends, why that matters so deeply for fertility, and how light, breath, structured water, and the fascia all carry information that shapes our health. This is a grounding and expansive look at healing from the level most medicine never reaches, and a reminder that the body is intelligent, not broken.

Key Takeaways

• The body runs like a battery. When more energy is going out than coming in, it shifts into survival, and conception becomes a low priority for a body that does not feel safe or resourced.

• Bioenergetics is the study of energy and information in living systems, and much of what it describes overlaps beautifully with the Chinese medicine understanding of qi.

• A healing response is not the same as getting sick. It is short lived, usually passing in a couple of days, and it reflects the body recognizing and clearing what was already there.

• Information and fields, not chemistry alone, coordinate the trillions of cellular operations that keep us alive every second.

• Structured water and the fascia form a communication network in the body, which helps explain why acupuncture and energy work can create such rapid shifts.

Guest Bio

After a catastrophic mountaineering accident left him bedridden for nearly a decade, Harry Massey discovered firsthand what happens when every health system fails you, Western, holistic, and functional alike. Determined to survive, Harry turned to physics. He co-founded one of the world's first R&D companies in bioenergetics and spent two decades building technology that could measure, manage, and master the human energy field. Today, Harry is the Founder and CEO of Energy4Life, creator of the GIST Process (Gratitude, Intention, Surrender, Trust), and the visionary behind the miHealth Device, Bioenergetic Voice Scan, and GEM Wearable, an AI powered device that detects and corrects emotional energy imbalances in real time. As a bestselling author, filmmaker, and speaker, Harry now leads a movement to redefine health at its source by unlocking the power of energy.

Disclaimer

The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: https://www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

 https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

What if so much of what stands between you and your goals, including your fertility, is not physical at all, but the state your nervous system is living in? In this fascinating conversation, Michelle sits down with Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD, founder of BrainTap and author of Brain Fitness Blueprint, to explore the profound connection between the mind, the brain, and the body.

Patrick has spent more than thirty years studying brainwave entrainment and how frequency, light, and thought physically shape our biology. Together they talk about how chronic stress locks the body into survival mode, why the subconscious runs far more of our lives than we realize, and how deep, restorative sleep may be one of the most overlooked pillars of health and fertility. They also explore the science that is catching up to ancient wisdom, from the body's energy field to the generational patterns we carry without knowing it, and gentle, practical ways to shift out of fight or flight and into the calm, receptive state where the body can do its own healing work. This is a rich, expansive conversation for anyone who senses that the mind holds far more power over the body than we have been taught.

Key Takeaways:

•  Your physiology drives your psychology. When the body is stuck in stress, it cannot reach the calm, receptive states where healing and creativity happen.

•  The subconscious runs the vast majority of our patterns, so lasting change begins with awareness, not willpower.

•  Deep sleep is a cornerstone of health and fertility. Quality matters more than hours, and the brain does much of its repair work during those deep cycles.

•  Chronic stress and the freeze response disrupt the nervous system, while intentional recovery, breath, and relaxation help the body rebalance.

•  Modern science is validating what ancient traditions have long taught about energy, frequency, and the mind-body connection, giving us real tools to work with the nervous system.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD, is an award-winning author, educator, speaker, and the founder of BrainTap, a leading neuroscience-based platform used globally to optimize brain health and human performance. For over three decades, Dr. Porter has been a pioneer in brainwave entrainment technology, championing non-invasive, natural approaches to enhance mental clarity, emotional resilience, and cognitive longevity. His acclaimed book, Brain Fitness Blueprint: Integrating Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak Performance (co-authored with former Google wellbeing executive Ruchika Sikri), synthesizes cutting-edge neuroscience with practical lifestyle tools, introducing the Circle of Vitality, a holistic model of how chronic stress alters brain architecture and how neuroplasticity can reverse that damage. His work is backed by over 30 clinical studies and trusted by more than 120,000 users, including elite athletes, corporate executives, and over 3,000 health and wellness clinics worldwide. His contributions have been featured in major media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, CNN, and The Joe Rogan Experience.

Connect with Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD:

Website: https://braintap.com/  

Book: Brain Fitness Blueprint (co-authored with Ruchika Sikri) - https://a.co/d/0gC1Lun0 

Get free trial here: https://braintap.com/partner-free-trial-healing/?afmc=bz0&utm_campaign=3p2&utm_source=leaddyno&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_content=bz0

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

When you are trying to conceive, few topics feel more overwhelming, or more contradictory, than nutrition. In this episode, Michelle sits down with registered dietitian Lisa Moskovitz, founder of The NY Nutrition Group and author of The Core 3 Healthy Eating Plan, for a grounded and refreshingly realistic conversation about how food actually supports fertility.

Lisa shares her own path to motherhood, which included irregular cycles, PCOS-like symptoms, pregnancy loss, and eventually three children through a mix of IUI, IVF, and natural conception. Drawing on that lived experience and years of clinical work, she offers a nuanced look at what truly moves the needle. Together they talk about why being too restrictive can work against fertility, the research behind Mediterranean-style eating and full-fat dairy, the nutrients that support egg quality, how digestion determines whether your body can even use the food you eat, and why meal timing and your circadian rhythm matter more than most people realize. This is a conversation about doing less of the wrong things, meeting your body where it is, and finding a middle ground you can actually live with.

Key Takeaways:

•  Nutrition genuinely supports fertility, but the aim is nourishment and balance, not perfection or control.

•  Extremes on either end backfire. Being too restrictive, too underweight, or over-exercising can disrupt hormones as much as the opposite.

•  Mediterranean-style eating with full-fat dairy has the strongest research behind it for fertility and hormone health.

•  Digestion matters as much as the food. A food is only as healthy as your body can absorb it, so bloating and GI issues are worth addressing.

•  Simple foundations move the needle most: a few fertility-friendly foods (avocado, whole eggs, lentils, wild salmon, leafy greens), a twelve-hour overnight window instead of aggressive fasting, and a prenatal started a few months before conceiving.

Guest Bio:

Lisa Moskovitz, RD, is the founder of The NY Nutrition Group, a large group nutrition practice in NYC, and the author of The Core 3 Healthy Eating Plan, a guide to finding your healthiest, happiest weight. As an experienced dietitian based in Manhattan, Lisa has first-hand insight into what people struggle with the most and what moves the needle. She has a no-nonsense, evidence-based, and realistic approach to nutrition that sets her apart from the average influencer. Lisa also speaks from personal experience, having navigated her own fertility journey through irregular cycles, pregnancy loss, and ultimately three children.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I sit down with Ken Swartz, also known as Ken the Scientist, to explore a molecule that has quietly become one of the most fascinating topics in cellular health: Carbon 60, or C60.

Ken shares his origin story, from directing a fusion research project to discovering C60 as a radiation protectant, and the unexpected shift in his own health that redirected the course of his work. We talk about what C60 actually is, a naturally occurring carbon molecule found in meteorite impacts and formed in the atmospheres of stars, and how it works at the level of the mitochondria, the tiny engines that power every cell in the body.

From a fertility perspective, this conversation feels especially relevant. Ken explains how mitochondrial function connects to egg and sperm health, hormone production, inflammation, and metabolic balance, all areas that matter deeply when you are trying to conceive. We also explore the beautiful overlap with Chinese medicine and the way it understands Qi, the vital energy that moves through the body.

Whether you are on your own path to conception or simply love understanding how the body works, this episode offers a grounded, science-based look at cellular health and why it matters. As always, this is a conversation meant to inform and support you, never to replace the guidance of your own care team.

Key Takeaways:

• C60 is a naturally occurring molecule made of 60 carbon atoms. It forms in nature through meteorite impacts, lightning strikes, and the atmospheres of red stars, and is often described as one of the earliest antioxidants of life.
  It works at the cellular level as an SOD and catalase mimic, supporting the mitochondria, the energy centers inside your cells.
• Healthy mitochondria influence nearly everything: energy, hormone production, inflammation, and the quality of eggs and sperm.
• Because hormone precursors are made in the mitochondria, supporting mitochondrial function may help the whole endocrine system work more efficiently, which can matter for cycle regularity and fertility.
• Ken shares anecdotal reports connected to fertility, including unexpected pregnancies and healthy babies born to women in their 40s.
• C60 is not a cure and does not replace the basics. Nourishing food, clean water, rest, and nervous system care still do the foundational work. Ken describes it as one supportive tool in the toolkit.
• Purity and testing matter. Ken notes that many supplements are mislabeled, so third-party tested, high purity sourcing is essential.

About the guest:

Ken Swartz, known as Ken the Scientist, was working on radiation and fusion research when he experienced a result that did not fit the science he trusted. With a background in economics, education, and leading multiple research laboratories, his work led him into projects connected to radiation and the MOXY fusion reactor.

During that time, he began using Carbon 60 as a radiation protectant, something he already understood from earlier scientific research. A few months in, he started noticing unexpected shifts in his energy and overall health. About eight months later, a routine eye exam revealed that a previously identified age-related vision issue was no longer visible, something his optometrist had never seen before.

That moment, in 2016, led Ken to dedicate his work to the research, study, and production of Carbon 60. Today he is co-founder of C60 Power, a company focused on producing high purity C60 using certified organic oils and a clean, solvent-free process. At the core of his work is a simple belief: your health is your responsibility, and people have more influence over how they feel and function than they have been led to believe.

Learn about C60: https://www.whatisc60.org

Shop C60 (10% off with code WHOLESOME): https://go.shopc60.com/247K73T/J8P3N/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/C60Power/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/c60power
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c60power
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@c60power
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShopC60Power
Email: divina@shopc60.com

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by holistic nutritionist Robyn Srigley to discuss menstrual health, prolonged bleeding, ovulation tracking, and the pressure many women feel to "optimize" every part of their fertility journey.

Robyn explains why a positive LH test does not always confirm ovulation, how low progesterone and iron may contribute to prolonged bleeding, and why normal lab results do not always mean the body is functioning optimally. We also discuss the importance of listening to your body, simplifying your wellness routine, and focusing on nourishment rather than perfection.

Key Takeaways:

A normal period runs about three to seven days. Bleeding or spotting that drags on for weeks, or shows up throughout the cycle, is worth investigating rather than waiting out.

Low progesterone is one of the most common patterns behind prolonged bleeding. When ovulation is weak or absent, estrogen runs unopposed and the lining sheds unpredictably.

LH strips show that the brain is signaling for ovulation. They do not confirm it happened. Basal body temperature lets you see, in hindsight, whether you actually ovulated.

Heavy bleeding and low iron feed each other. Standard iron salts often absorb poorly, while gentler forms like iron glycinate, paired with vitamin C, and whole food sources such as beef liver tend to be better tolerated and more effective.

"Within range" on a lab is not the same as optimal. What you feel in your own body is real information, even when results come back normal.

More is not always better. Slowing down, simplifying, and removing what your body does not need can matter more than adding another supplement to the pile.

Nervous system regulation comes first. When the body feels safe and settled, digestion and absorption improve, which supports everything else you are working toward.

Guest Bio:
Robyn Srigley is a Cycle Guide, Fertility Nutritionist, and Women's Health Educator who helps women understand irregular cycles, prolonged bleeding, ovulation, and fertility through a grounded, holistic lens. Her work blends body literacy, nourishment, nervous system support, and herbal wisdom to help women hear what their cycles are communicating and feel more informed, empowered, and confident in their bodies. After her own PCOS, now PMOS, diagnosis sent her searching for real answers, she went on to conceive both of her sons naturally and has spent more than a decade guiding other women to better understand their bodies. She shares daily on TikTok.

Connect with Robyn:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robynsrigley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynsrigley
Beacons (all links): https://beacons.ai/robynsrigley

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

How much of your fertility is written in your DNA, and how much can you actually influence? In this episode, I'm joined by genetic counselor Natalie Samson to explore the fascinating world of genetics, epigenetics, and what they really mean for your fertility journey.

Natalie breaks down the difference between the genes you're born with and how those genes get expressed, which is where epigenetics comes in. We talk about how your nutrition, stress, environment, and daily choices can turn certain genes on or off, and why that shift is so empowering. We also get into why MTHFR is only one gene out of more than 20,000, the role of methylation and hormone metabolism, what carrier screening can reveal about both male and female fertility, and how personalized testing can take the guesswork out of supporting your body.

This is a grounded, hopeful conversation about understanding your unique blueprint. Your body isn't broken. Sometimes it's simply waiting for the right information.

Key Takeaways:
- The genes you're born with don't change, but how they're expressed can shift based on your nutrition, stress, environment, and lifestyle. This is the heart of epigenetics, and it puts more in your hands than most people realize.
- MTHFR is just one gene out of more than 20,000. Looking at the full methylation pathway, rather than MTHFR alone, gives a much clearer picture of how to support your body.
- More methylated B vitamins isn't always better. With certain gene variants like COMT, too much can actually drive anxiety, a racing heart, and trouble sleeping, so personalized dosing matters.
- Carrier screening can reveal more than inherited conditions. It can sometimes uncover hidden contributors to both male and female infertility.
- Genetic testing can guide truly personalized nutrition by showing how you process folate, omega-3s, histamine, and gluten, instead of prescribing a one-size-fits-all diet.
- Your intuition counts as data. The most useful approach combines genetic testing, bloodwork, and your own felt sense of your body.
- Privacy matters. Working with a HIPAA-compliant provider keeps your genetic information protected in ways that direct-to-consumer testing often does not.

Guest Bio:
Natalie Samson, MS, CGC, INHC, is a board-certified genetic counselor and integrative nutrition health coach, and the founder of Golden Genetics. After training in cancer genetics, she felt called toward a more proactive and preventative approach, inspired in part by watching her brother thrive through holistic, lifestyle-based care. Today she blends conventional genetic testing with functional, nutrition-focused interpretation to help people understand their unique genetic blueprint and make personalized, empowered choices for their health and fertility. Her practice is fully virtual, and she works with individuals and couples through preconception and beyond.

Natalie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geneticswithnatalie/ 

Golden Genetics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldengeneticshealth/ 

Website: https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/ 

Book a Logistics call with Natalie: https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/book-a-discovery-call-1 

Natalie's 4P Framework Quiz: https://form.typeform.com/to/RkvZ32qV 

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

At 41, Rebecca Rumsey was told a concussion had pushed her into early menopause. Her cycle disappeared, her FSH climbed, and her hormones went quiet. Instead of accepting that her chance to become a mother was over, she spent a full year rebuilding her health from the foundation up, and went on to conceive both of her sons naturally in her mid 40s.

In this conversation, Rebecca and Michelle talk about why fertility has far more to do with your biology than the number on paper. They get into the real, practical shifts that made the difference, like adding nourishing animal foods back into her diet, supporting her nervous system, protecting her sleep, and paying attention to light and circadian rhythm. They also explore the parts of this journey that rarely get talked about, including the pressure that builds around the fertile window, the loneliness so many women carry, and the quiet confidence it takes to trust your own knowing when the world keeps pointing to your age.

If you have been told your numbers are too low or your window has closed, this is a grounded, hopeful reminder that your body is not broken, and that you have more influence over your fertility than you have been led to believe. 

Key Takeaways:

• Your biological age matters more than your chronological age. Fertility responds to how you care for your body, not simply the year you were born.
• AMH is not the whole story. It fluctuates often and, outside of IVF, says little about your ability to conceive. Cervical mucus, cycle quality, estrogen, and progesterone tell you far more.
• Hormones are built from cholesterol and healthy fats. For many women, adding nourishing animal foods like eggs, grass fed butter or ghee, and quality meat supports hormone production in a way a depleted diet cannot.
• Nervous system regulation is the front door. Doing less can feel uncomfortable when you are used to pushing, but calming the stress response is often what allows the body to shift.
• Light and circadian rhythm influence fertility. Morning sunlight, dimmer evenings, and less blue light at night help lower cortisol, which otherwise suppresses the sex hormones.
• Sleep is foundational. It supports hormonal health, gut health, mood, and the body's ability to repair and regenerate.
• Five minutes of meditation a day is enough to begin. The discomfort of sitting still is part of the work, and the brain starts to shift within about a week.
• Joy and community are real fertility factors. Connection eases isolation and is linked to better outcomes, something research on group support has shown.
• Confidence and self trust change everything. Living in your truth and releasing the fear of judgment are part of the healing, not separate from it.

Guest Bio: 

Rebecca Rumsey is a holistic fertility expert helping women over 40 navigate complex fertility challenges using a science based, holistic approach. After being told she was in early menopause at 41, she went on to naturally conceive and have two children at 44 and 46. She now guides women worldwide in optimizing their health and improving their chances of pregnancy, often after being told it was not possible.

Connect with Rebecca:
Website: https://www.rebeccarumsey.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fertileafter40/ 

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this solo episode, Michelle takes you into one of the most underrated topics in fertility. Light. Specifically, how the way you interact with light during the day and at night is shaping your hormones, your ovulation, your egg quality, and your sleep more than almost anything else you are doing. You will learn how melatonin protects developing eggs, how the circadian rhythm anchors the menstrual cycle, and the four foundational light habits that rebuild fertility from the most ancient signal in the body.

Key Takeaways:

• Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant in the follicles, not just a sleep hormone
• Circadian disruption shows up in altered LH pulsing, delayed ovulation, and shortened luteal phase
• Morning light exposure is one of the most impactful fertility habits a woman can build
• Evening light, screens, and artificial light at night suppress melatonin and disrupt cycles
• In Chinese medicine, light rhythm directly supports yin, the foundation of fertility

Harmonize Moon Cycle: michelleoravitz.com/hackyourcycle 

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this solo episode, I explore something I see again and again on the fertility path. The moment a label gets attached to your body, something shifts. A word from a doctor, a number on a lab report, a diagnosis. Suddenly you are not just living in your body, you are living inside the story you were handed about it.

We look at two powerful words. Placebo, where belief in a treatment creates real, measurable improvement, and its lesser known shadow, nocebo, where a negative expectation produces real, measurable harm. Drawing on a body of research, including a large meta-analysis of more than eight thousand people and the well-known work on how labeling shapes outcomes, I unpack how the words we hear, and the words we tell ourselves, land in the body in ways we can measure.

Then I bring this home to fertility. The labels so many women carry, from diminished ovarian reserve to advanced maternal age to hostile uterus, carry a second emotional and physiological payload that almost no one warns you about. I share the Chinese medicine view of the Bao Mai, the channel connecting the heart to the uterus, and how what lands in the heart reaches the womb. This is the same truth that modern nocebo research is only now naming.

This is not about positive thinking on command, and it is never about blame. It is about gently taking back authorship of the story your body lives inside. I close with grounded ways to separate the data from the story, soften the language you carry, and protect your inner environment in this tender season.

Key Takeaways:

• The placebo effect is well known, but its shadow, the nocebo effect, is just as real. A negative expectation alone can produce genuine physical symptoms, not imagined ones.

• A 2023 meta-analysis of 130 studies and more than 8,000 people found a reliable, medium sized nocebo effect across many health outcomes. The expectation of harm was enough to create the experience of harm.

• Labels carry power. Research shows that simply being told a medication was a cheaper generic, with nothing else changed, led more people to report side effects and feel it worked less well. The body responds to the label, not only the substance.

• Belief can heal as well as harm. In the Crum and Langer hotel maids study, women who were simply told their daily work counted as exercise showed real drops in weight, blood pressure, and body fat, with no change in behavior.

• On the fertility path, clinical labels carry a hidden emotional and physiological payload. The reproductive system is highly sensitive to the nervous system, and a frightening label can quietly feed a fear and stress loop.

• Chinese medicine has described this for thousands of years through the Bao Mai, the heart to uterus channel. When the heart is calm, the message reaches the womb. When the heart is in distress, the womb feels it. What lands in the heart reaches the body.

• This is never about blame or forcing positivity. It is about reclaiming authorship. Separate the data from the story, question the language you have absorbed, protect your inner environment, and cultivate genuine calm.

About the Host:

Michelle Oravitz is a fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, ABORM Fellow, and host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast. She is the author of The Way of Fertility and the founder of The Wholesome Lotus. Michelle blends modern fertility science with the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, helping women understand their bodies as intelligent and responsive rather than broken. Her work centers on nervous system regulation, root cause healing, and the deep connection between the mind, the heart, and fertility.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:

Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility

Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Featured in this episode, my Fertility Affirmations Ebook, a gentle, grounded way to begin offering your body kinder and truer words:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/fertilityebook

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle explores the recent name change from PCOS, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, to PMOS, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, and why this shift matters for women navigating hormone imbalance, irregular cycles, insulin resistance, and fertility challenges.

Michelle explains how the old name focused too much on ovarian "cysts," while the new name better reflects the whole-body nature of the condition, especially the metabolic and hormonal patterns that often drive symptoms. She also shares how Chinese Medicine has long understood this condition as a full-system imbalance involving digestion, metabolism, dampness, stagnation, qi, blood, the liver, and the kidneys.

In this episode, Michelle offers simple, supportive ways to begin working with the body, including balancing blood sugar, eating warm nourishing foods, reducing stress, supporting the nervous system, and moving consistently. Most importantly, she reminds listeners that the body is not broken. It is intelligent, responsive, and capable of finding its way back to flow.

Key Takeaways:

• PCOS has been renamed PMOS to better reflect its hormonal, metabolic, and ovarian connection.

• Insulin resistance can play a major role in irregular cycles, acne, unwanted hair growth, and ovulation challenges.

• Chinese Medicine has always viewed this pattern as a whole-body imbalance rather than just an ovary issue.

• Supporting blood sugar, digestion, stress levels, and gentle movement can help shift the body toward better flow and fertility health.

• Your body is not broken. It is responding to the inputs it has been given, and those inputs can change.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Fertility Detox (free ebook) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/fertility-detox

The Wholesome Fertility Journey (memberships + calls) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Timmons, MD, a board-certified family physician and longevity doctor, to explore why fertility cannot be separated from whole-body health. After more than a decade in traditional primary care at UCLA Health, Dr. Timmons recognized how often the conventional system waits for disease rather than addressing the dysfunction beneath it. She now blends functional, precision, and longevity medicine to help her patients build true vitality from the inside out.

We talk about why your terrain matters as much as any protocol, how gut health quietly drives inflammation and autoimmune conditions, and why so many seemingly unrelated symptoms trace back to a compromised gut lining. Dr. Timmons walks us through the role of leaky gut in fertility, the importance of blood sugar stability for egg and sperm quality, and the everyday lifestyle inputs that influence cellular health, including light exposure, circadian rhythm, time-restricted eating, and microplastic exposure.

She also shares which longevity practices are accessible to everyone, why social connection turned out to be one of the strongest predictors of long life in Harvard research, and the simple food order and movement habits that move the needle most for metabolic health. This conversation is a thoughtful, grounded look at how to support the body so it can do what it already knows how to do.

Key Takeaways:

Fertility is a reflection of whole-body health, not an isolated system. Optimizing your terrain matters as much as any procedure or protocol.

Gut health is foundational. Leaky gut and compromised intestinal lining can drive autoimmune conditions, inflammation, and impaired nutrient absorption, all of which affect fertility outcomes.

Even a nutrient-rich diet cannot do its work if the gut barrier is inflamed. Healing the gut lining is often the missing piece in fertility preparation.

Chronic inflammation is one of the biggest drivers of disease and reproductive dysfunction. Identifying and addressing inflammatory triggers can shift the entire picture.

Blood sugar stability directly impacts egg and sperm quality. Simple shifts like eating fiber and protein before carbs, walking after meals, and avoiding late-night eating make a real difference.

Light, circadian rhythm, and meal timing are powerful regulators of hormonal and cellular health. A simple 12-hour overnight fast offers measurable benefits without extreme restriction.

Microplastics and environmental toxins are quietly impacting reproductive health. Fiber, NAC, sweating, and reducing plastic exposure all support your body's natural detox pathways.

Longevity practices are accessible to everyone. Whole foods, movement, quality sleep, clean water, and strong social connection are the real foundations of a long, healthy life.

Social connection is one of the strongest predictors of longevity, even more than diet or socioeconomic status in Harvard research. Community is medicine.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Jennifer Timmons, MD is a Longevity Physician and the Founder and Medical Director of Timmons Wellness, a concierge medical practice providing hyper-personalized healthcare. With over 10 years of experience practicing traditional primary care at UCLA Health, along with advanced training in Functional and Integrative Medicine, Precision Medicine, and Longevity Medicine, Dr. Timmons is committed to helping people enjoy longer, healthier lives through a customized care model. Her expertise includes hormone optimization, metabolic and cardiovascular health, proactive disease prevention, weight management, and more, encompassing both proven strategies and innovative technologies. As Founder and Medical Director of Timmons Wellness, she helps people move beyond basic wellness toward longevity medicine, and build sustainable habits that increase not just the years of their lives, but their number of healthy years.

Website: TimmonsWellnessMD.com
Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @JenniferTimmonsMD

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Visualization gets sold in the fertility world wrapped in language about manifesting and the universe, which can turn a lot of women off and skips over what is actually happening in the body. In this episode, Michelle resets the conversation and grounds it in the research. She walks through a Cleveland Clinic study where mental training of a finger muscle alone produced a 35 percent strength increase, the 2006 Israeli study showing that hypnosis during embryo transfer doubled IVF pregnancy rates, and the Fanchin research linking uterine contraction frequency to implantation outcomes. The episode then teaches the distinction between external and internal imagery, the piece almost no fertility content explains, and offers a clearer, gentler way to use this tool that does not put the responsibility for conception on a woman's mental discipline. The Chinese medicine view of the heart, the shen, and the Bao Mai is woven throughout.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• In a 2004 Cleveland Clinic study, twelve weeks of mental finger training (no physical movement) increased finger strength by 35 percent, demonstrating that vivid imagery alone produces measurable change in the body through stronger cortical signaling to the muscle.

• A 2006 case-control study at Soroka Medical Center in Israel found that women who received clinical hypnosis during their IVF embryo transfer had a 53.1 percent clinical pregnancy rate compared to 30.2 percent in the control group, with implantation rates doubling from 14.4 to 28 percent.

• The likely mechanism behind the IVF hypnosis finding is uterine receptivity. Fanchin et al. (1998) showed that high-frequency uterine contractions at the time of embryo transfer reduce implantation by displacing the embryo. Imagery from a relaxed state quiets that activity.

• There are two kinds of visualization, and they are not equally effective. External imagery (seeing yourself from outside) produces weaker physiological response than internal imagery (feeling the experience from inside the body). Almost all fertility scripts teach the weaker version.

• Effective fertility visualization is short, frequent, done from a regulated state, and led by the felt sense rather than the picture. Two to five minutes a day, daily, will do more than thirty minutes done sporadically.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Want grounded, body-based practices for nervous system regulation during the trying to conceive journey? Download the free BE CALMM Protocol:
BE CALMM Protocol: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm

For tailored next steps based on what your body needs most, take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey:
Rooted Fertility Membership: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/rooted-fertility-mindset-membership 

Curious about the philosophy behind this episode? My book The Way of Fertility weaves ancient wisdom and modern science into a complete fertility framework:
The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

For more about my work and offerings:
Main site: https://www.michelleoravitz.com

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources and community support:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/

If you have been on the fertility journey long enough to feel like your body is somehow disorderly, this episode reframes that picture from the ground up. Michelle starts with one of the most quietly stunning experiments in modern biology: isolated heart cells in a petri dish, with no nervous system attached, will spontaneously synchronize their rhythms when placed near each other. From there she walks through cardiac coherence and resonance frequency breathing, the surprisingly tight coupling between heart rate variability and the menstrual cycle (including HRV ultradian rhythms that anticipate the LH surge), and the Chinese medicine view of harmony as a relational property between organ systems. The takeaway shifts the orientation of fertility work entirely. Coherence is not something to generate. It is something to stop interrupting. The episode closes with four practical shifts that work with the body's native pull toward order rather than against it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Isolated heart cells, separated from the heart and placed in a petri dish, continue to beat on their own and will spontaneously synchronize their rhythms when placed near each other. Coherence is not something the body has to be taught.

• Breathing at approximately six breaths per minute (around 0.1 Hz) places the breathing and heart rhythms into a measurable, coupled state called cardiac coherence, supported by peer-reviewed research analyzing 1.8 million biofeedback sessions.

• Heart rate variability and the menstrual cycle are not parallel systems. Grant et al. (2020) showed that HRV ultradian rhythms anticipate the onset of the LH surge, meaning the autonomic nervous system and the reproductive system are coupled oscillators.

• In Chinese medicine, health is the smooth flow and harmonious interaction of qi between organ systems. The heart, which houses the shen, sets the tone for the entire system, including the womb through the Bao Mai channel.

• Most fertility plans are organized around adding things, but coherence is allowed through subtraction. The work is to remove what interrupts the body's native rhythm: light at night, constant device input, suppressed emotion, sleep deprivation, eating in a sympathetic state.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Free chapter of The Way of Fertility (book) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Top 10 Fertility Boosting Tips Ebook https://www.michelleoravitz.com/mytop10fertilityboostingtips

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this deeply moving conversation, Michelle sits down with Oshikha Pandey, founder of Merely Mindful and a conscious conception practitioner blending nervous system regulation, breathwork, and Ayurvedic wisdom. Oshikha shares the personal journey that led her to reverse her own PCOS and conceive naturally, and what she learned along the way about the body, the nervous system, and the often-overlooked role of safety in fertility.

Together, they explore why the 90 days before conception (often called the zero trimester) matter so much, how subconscious fear and stored emotion can quietly shape reproductive function, and why doing all the right things on paper sometimes still does not lead to pregnancy. Oshikha brings forward the ancient teaching of Garbh Sanskar, the science behind nervous system coherence, and a grounded approach to preparing the body, mind, and spirit to welcome a child.

This episode is for any woman who has felt like she is doing everything right and still wondering what is missing. It is a reminder that the body is intelligent, that healing the inner environment matters as much as the outer protocols, and that conscious preparation can change everything.

Key Takeaways:

• The body opens to conception when it feels safe, not when it feels pressured. Chronic stress and unresolved emotion influence hormones, ovulation, and implantation in tangible ways.

• The three to six months before conception (the zero trimester) are a powerful window for egg quality, hormonal balance, and nervous system preparation.

• Subconscious patterns, ancestral imprints, and stored emotional pain can quietly shape fertility. Healing these layers is part of the work, not separate from it.

• Reversing PCOS and supporting reproductive health benefits from a root-cause approach that integrates lifestyle, somatic regulation, detoxification, and metabolic health.

• Coherence between heart, mind, and womb creates the internal environment where the body can receive life. Daily nervous system practices are foundational, not optional.

• Women heal best in community. Being witnessed, supported, and held by other women is part of how the body remembers safety.

• The womb is a creative center. When you tend to it with reverence rather than urgency, fertility often follows.

Guest Bio:

Oshikha Pandey is the founder of Merely Mindful and a conscious conception practitioner specializing in nervous system regulation, breathwork, and Ayurvedic lifestyle medicine. She works with women who are trying to conceive, especially those navigating PCOS, IVF journeys, miscarriage, or unexplained infertility.

Her work is rooted in a simple but often overlooked truth: the body does not open to conception when it feels under pressure. It opens when it feels safe. Drawing from research in stress physiology alongside traditional systems like Ayurveda and Garbh Sanskar, Oshikha helps women understand how chronic stress, emotional load, and lifestyle patterns can directly influence hormonal balance, ovulation, and reproductive health.

After reversing her own PCOS and conceiving naturally, Oshikha developed a structured approach that combines somatic regulation, detoxification, and emotional healing, supporting women not just in trying harder, but in creating the internal environment where the body can receive life. Her work bridges the gap between clinical fertility care and the deeper mind-body connection, bringing both precision and presence into the journey to motherhood.

Connect with Oshikha

Website: https://merelymindful.com

Instagram: @oshikhapandey

LinkedIn: Oshikha Pandey

Email: oshika@merelymindful.com

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources and community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:

Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility

Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I sit down with Deanna Hansen, founder of Block Therapy and Fluid Isometrics, to explore the often overlooked role of fascia in healing, fertility, and emotional wellbeing. Deanna shares her own remarkable story of healing chronic pain, anxiety, and weight struggles by working with the fascia, and explains how compression in the body, suppressed breath, and stored trauma quietly impact our health over time.

We talk about why proper diaphragmatic breathing is foundational to fertility, why the feet hold so many clues to pelvic alignment and reproductive health, and how releasing the fascia can support better menstrual flow, hormone balance, and overall vitality. Deanna explains the concept of TIP (Trauma Induces Programming and Patterning), how everyday traumas shape our posture and breath, and why creating space in the body is essential for the cells, organs, and energy to thrive.

If you have been feeling stuck, congested, or disconnected from your body, this conversation offers a grounded and empowering perspective on how to gently come back home to yourself.

Key Takeaways:

• Fascia is a connective web that links every cell, organ, and system. When it is congested or compressed, flow slows down and symptoms emerge in seemingly unrelated places.
• Trauma, suppressed emotion, and chronic shallow breathing pattern the body over time, creating compression that can show up as pain, fatigue, weight gain, hormonal imbalance, or fertility challenges.
• Diaphragmatic breathing is one of the most powerful tools we have. It supports the nervous system, oxygenates the cells, massages the organs, and helps the body release what it no longer needs.
• The feet are often a hidden key to fertility. Misalignment in the feet creates compensation up through the pelvis, which can affect menstrual flow, hormone movement, and reproductive health.
• Conditions like cramps, fibroids, cysts, and stagnation often reflect a body that cannot fully release each cycle. Creating space and improving flow allows the body to do its natural work.
• The body is intelligent, not broken. Pain and symptoms are messages, and when we listen with curiosity instead of fear, healing becomes possible.

Guest Bio:
Deanna Hansen is a pioneer in fascia decompression for physical and emotional transformation, with over 20 years of clinical experience and more than 50,000 hours working in the fascia. A Certified Athletic Therapist, she is the founder of Fluid Isometrics and Block Therapy, a self-care practice that is meditation, exercise, and therapy all in one. Deanna is also the author of Unblock Your Body: How Decompressing Your Fascia Is the Missing Link in Healing.

Website: www.blocktherapy.com
Book: Unblock Your Body on Amazon
Instagram: @blocktherapy

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Women's Wellness Coach Samantha Chandler for a conversation that may completely shift the way you think about iron, blood loss, and your body's wisdom. If you've been told you have low iron or low ferritin, especially while trying to conceive or during pregnancy, this episode offers a perspective that is rarely shared in mainstream care.

Samantha walks us through how iron actually moves in the body, why bloodwork can be misleading, and why so many women are taking iron supplements without truly absorbing them. She explains the role of copper, vitamin A in the form of retinol, and ceruloplasmin in regulating iron, and why the body recycles iron rather than needing more of it from supplements. We also explore how heavy periods, postpartum hemorrhage, fatigue, hair loss, and even thyroid issues can all be connected to iron not moving properly through the system.

This conversation is a beautiful reminder that the body is intelligent, that symptoms are messages, and that real healing often comes from supporting the body's natural rhythms rather than overriding them.

Key Takeaways:
• Why low iron on bloodwork does not always mean the body is actually low in iron
• How copper, ceruloplasmin, and vitamin A in the form of retinol work together to move iron through the body
• Why iron-fortified foods and iron supplements can interfere with the body's natural ability to recycle iron
• The role of blood loss as one of the body's primary ways of regulating iron
• How heavy periods, hair changes, fatigue, anxiety, and skin issues can all point back to iron dysregulation
• Why whole food sources like beef liver, cod liver oil, and adrenal cocktails support the body better than synthetic supplements
• A grounding reminder that the body is always communicating, and symptoms are messengers, not malfunctions

Guest Bio:

Samantha Chandler, also known as Wellness & Womb, is a Women's Wellness Coach who focuses on iron's movement in the body. Many women are told they are low in iron, but as Samantha teaches, low iron in the blood does not mean iron is low in the body. She coaches clients, health providers, and doctors on how iron actually moves so they can get to the root of the issues women are experiencing in their health. Samantha has worked with over one hundred women and consistently sees transformative results, all without iron supplements or iron infusions.

Connect with Samantha:
Website: wellnessandwomb.com
Instagram: @wellnesswomb_
TikTok: @wellnessandwomb
YouTube: @wellnesswomb_

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Most women have been told their cycle is something to manage, track for fertility, or push through. What almost no one is saying is that your cycle is a second biological clock running inside your body at all times. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours and is governed by light. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Men have one main rhythm. Women have two. This is not a flaw in our design. It is added intelligence.

In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what is actually happening underneath the surface of each phase. Your brain structure shifts across the cycle. Your immune system, metabolism, insulin sensitivity, microbiome, and nervous system are all moving with you. You will learn why the same stressor can feel completely different from one week to the next, why luteal phase cravings are real signals and not willpower failures, and how to begin matching your work, food, and rest to the phase you are actually in. Whether you are trying to conceive or simply want to stop fighting your own body, this episode offers a more accurate map of how you are designed to function.

Key Takeaways:

• Women have two main biological rhythms. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Most lifestyle and research advice is built around the male 24-hour clock, which is part of why so many women feel exhausted.

• Your brain structure literally changes across the cycle. The hippocampus shifts in volume, connectivity between regions changes, and verbal fluency, spatial reasoning, and pain perception all move with the phases. Feeling like a different person at different times of the month is neurobiology, not emotional volatility.

• Your immune system is rhythmic. It is more active in the first half of the cycle and shifts after ovulation, when progesterone becomes mildly immunosuppressive to prepare the uterus for a possible embryo. This is why colds, autoimmune flares, and allergies can shift across the month.

• Basal metabolic rate rises slightly in the luteal phase, and insulin sensitivity changes. The same meal can land differently depending on where you are in your cycle. Luteal phase cravings are often a real signal of higher energy needs.

• The gut and vaginal microbiomes also shift cyclically with hormones. You are not a static system. Everything inside your body moves with you.

• Heart rate variability tends to be higher in the follicular phase and lower in the luteal phase. The same stressor can land very differently depending on when in the month it arrives. Your nervous system is operating from a different baseline.

• From a TCM perspective, the liver works harder in the luteal phase to prepare for menstruation, which can show up as more irritability, less energy, and stagnation when qi is not flowing freely.

• Working with the cycle is not just a fertility tool. It is a way of living that supports energy, focus, mood, and recovery across the entire month.

• Practical starting points: track more than your period (energy, sleep, mood, focus, hunger, stress response), match the work to the phase when possible, and eat in a way that responds to what your body is actually doing in each phase.

Host Bio:

Michelle Oravitz, L.Ac., FABORM, is a board-certified fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, and author of The Way of Fertility. She is the host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, where she explores the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern fertility science, nervous system health, and the deeper, often overlooked terrain of mind-body fertility. Through her clinical practice and online programs, Michelle works with women trying to conceive and with practitioners who want to bring a more holistic, integrated approach into their work.

Research and Resources Cited:

• Brain structure and function changes across the menstrual cycle (hippocampal volume)

• Cyclical changes in hippocampal volume across the menstrual cycle

• Menstrual cycle effects on cognition: verbal fluency and spatial reasoning

• Pain perception and threat sensitivity across the menstrual cycle

• Progesterone and immune modulation in the luteal phase

• Basal metabolic rate variation across the menstrual cycle

• Insulin sensitivity and the menstrual cycle

• Gut microbiome variation across the menstrual cycle

• Vaginal microbiome shifts across the menstrual cycle

• Heart rate variability across the menstrual cycle

• Cortisol and HPA axis response across the menstrual cycle

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

 Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:

Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility

Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

There is a quiet conversation happening inside your body that may be shaping your fertility more than almost anything else you have been told to focus on. It is happening in your gut, your reproductive tract, and your uterus. Until recently, science assumed the uterus was sterile. We now know it is not, and the bacterial communities living in these three places are in constant communication with one another, influencing your hormones, your immune response, and your ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy.

In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what the research actually shows about the gut, vaginal, and uterine microbiomes, why this is one of the most overlooked pieces of the fertility puzzle, and what you can realistically do to support these ecosystems without falling into fear or expensive supplement spirals. You will learn why diversity is wonderful in the gut but not always ideal in the reproductive tract, how the estrobolome regulates your hormones, and how nervous system regulation, sleep, fiber, and fermented foods quietly shape the entire system. This is a grounded, science-backed conversation that gives you a clearer map of your own body.

Key Takeaways:

• The uterus is not sterile. It has its own microbiome that influences implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates.

• A reproductive tract dominated by Lactobacillus is associated with significantly better fertility outcomes, including higher IVF success and lower miscarriage and preterm birth rates.

• Diversity in the gut microbiome is healthy. In the uterus and lower reproductive tract, the opposite is true. A quieter, Lactobacillus-dominant environment is what supports fertility.

• The estrobolome, a collection of gut bacteria, regulates how your body metabolizes and clears estrogen. When it is off, estrogen can recirculate and contribute to issues like endometriosis, fibroids, and irregular cycles.

• Roughly 70 percent of your immune system lives in your gut, and gut inflammation can show up as uterine inflammation, affecting implantation.

• Antibiotics, hormonal birth control, chronic stress, poor sleep, and harsh products like douches and scented washes all disrupt these microbiomes.

• Foundational support is simple and accessible: a wide variety of plant fibers, real fermented foods, consistent sleep, nervous system regulation, and leaving the lower reproductive tract alone.

• Microbiome testing is now far more accessible and gives you specific information about your own body, so you can stop guessing and make targeted choices instead of throwing every wellness tool at the problem.

Host Bio:

Michelle Oravitz, L.Ac., FABORM, is a board-certified fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, and author of The Way of Fertility. She is the host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, where she explores the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern fertility science, nervous system health, and the deeper, often overlooked terrain of mind-body fertility. Through her clinical practice and online programs, Michelle works with women trying to conceive and with practitioners who want to bring a more holistic, integrated approach into their work. 

Research and Resources Cited:

• The endometrial microbiome and its impact on reproductive outcomes

• Evidence that the endometrial microbiota has an effect on implantation success or failure

• Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal microbiome and pregnancy outcomes

• The vaginal microbiome and preterm birth

• Estrobolome: the gut microbiome and estrogen metabolism

• The gut microbiome and the female reproductive system

• Vagus nerve, gut-brain axis, and reproductive health

• Antibiotic use and the female microbiome

 Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:

Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility

Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Dr. Shivani Gupta returns to the podcast to share what she has learned since writing her new Hay House book, The Inflammation Code. In this conversation we explore why inflammation is rising so dramatically in modern life and how that plays into fertility, hormone balance, and overall vitality. Dr. Shivani breaks down the three doshas in Ayurveda, which she calls Elemental Design, and explains how understanding your own makeup of air, fire, and earth can help you choose the foods, rhythms, and rituals that actually nourish your body. We also talk about Mental Inflammation, circadian living, the healing power of nature, and why modern life keeps so many women stuck in survival mode. Dr. Shivani shares the science behind turmeric, why absorption matters, and when to use it and when to pause it during IVF and transfer windows. This is a grounded, practical conversation about returning to ancient wisdom in a way that feels doable in real life.

Key Takeaways:

• Inflammation is rising because of environmental toxins, processed foods, chronic stress, and constant mental stimulation. The body is living in survival mode rather than thriving.

• Ayurveda teaches that each of us has a unique Elemental Design made of air, fire, and earth. Knowing your primary and secondary doshas helps you choose foods, rhythms, and rituals that bring you back into balance.

• Mental Inflammation is a real physiological state created by constant phone use, email, and sympathetic activation. It feeds physical inflammation, and physical inflammation feeds it back.

• Living in rhythm with nature's circadian clock is one of the most powerful and free tools we have. Walking outside, eating seasonally, and sleeping from 10 to 2 supports lymphatic clearance and reduces inflammation.

• Preparing the body for conception through gentle detoxification, nourishment, and tissue health is the same work that supports vibrancy through perimenopause. A vibrant body is a fertile body.

• Turmeric is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories we have, but absorption matters. Black pepper and healthy fats increase bioavailability significantly.

• Turmeric can support fertility conditions linked to inflammation such as endometriosis, PCOS, and recurrent implantation challenges, but it should be paused during IVF cycles and transfer windows because it thins the blood and can thin the uterine lining.

• Supplementation should be phased with the guidance of a practitioner. Every season of the body calls for a different protocol.

About the guest:

Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and speaker who blends classical Ayurveda with functional medicine to help women calm inflammation, balance hormones, and restore energy. With a Master's in Ayurvedic Sciences and a PhD focused on turmeric, she translates ancient wisdom into simple daily rituals, including Elemental Design personalization, Mental Inflammation resets, gut and estrobolome support, and spice-based micro-habits. Her new book, The Inflammation Code (Hay House, February 2026), is a practical, non-diet system for cooling chronic inflammation to improve brain fog, bloat, pain, sleep, and mood. Dr. Shivani is the host of the Fusionary Health Podcast and creator of the Emmy-nominated TV show Vibrant Health with Dr. Shivani Gupta. Learn more at shivanigupta.com. 

Connect with Dr. Gupta:

Instagram: @dr.shivanigupta | https://www.instagram.com/dr.shivanigupta

Facebook: @theshivanigupta | https://www.facebook.com/TheShivaniGupta

YouTube: @dr.shivanigupta | https://www.youtube.com/@dr.shivanigupta/videos

Pinterest: @theshivanigupta | https://www.pinterest.com/theshivanigupta

Website: https://www.shivanigupta.com

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

The Inflammation Code book: https://www.theinflammationcode.com

Fusionary Formulas: https://www.fusionaryformulas.com (code WHOLESOMEFERTILITY for 15% off) 

7-Day Inflammation Detox Challenge: https://www.7dayinflammationdetox.com/optin1641313075014

 The Inflammation Code Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-inflammation-code/id1680587836

 Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

 Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:

Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility

Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

The egg that will ovulate three months from now is starting to mature right now. In this solo episode, Michelle dives into one of the most hopeful conversations in fertility: the 90 day window of egg development. Both ancient wisdom and modern science agree that what you do during this window can directly influence the quality of the egg that eventually releases.

Michelle walks you through what's actually happening inside your ovaries during those three months, bridges the modern research on mitochondria with the Chinese medicine concepts of Jing and Blood, and shares the five practical pillars she uses with her patients to support egg quality from the inside out.

Whether you're trying to conceive naturally, preparing for IVF, or thinking about your fertility for the future, this episode is a foundational one. You have far more influence over your fertility than you've ever been told, and this episode shows you exactly how to work with your body during the window that matters most.

Key Takeaways:
• Egg development spans roughly a 90 day window, and the environment of your body during those three months directly shapes the quality of the egg that ovulates.
• Eggs are the most mitochondria-rich cells in the body, which is why mitochondrial health is the foundation of egg quality.
• The Chinese medicine concepts of Jing (essence) and Blood are describing the same phenomenon modern research calls mitochondrial health and ovarian blood flow.
• Pillar 1 — Nourish with real food: prioritize protein, healthy fats, antioxidant-rich vegetables, iron-rich foods, and warming cooked meals.
• Pillar 2 — Protect your mitochondria: CoQ10 (ideally Ubiquinol), omega 3s, consistent 7 to 9 hours of sleep, and personalized supplementation under a practitioner's guidance.
• Pillar 3 — Support blood flow: acupuncture, gentle movement, abdominal massage (like Mayan or Arvigo), warmth over the lower belly and back, and no ice water around your cycle.
• Pillar 4 — Regulate your nervous system: extended exhale breath work, time in nature, reduced screen time, pockets of silence. You cannot out-supplement a dysregulated nervous system.
• Pillar 5 — Reduce your toxic load: swap plastic for glass, upgrade skincare and cleaning products, eat organic from the dirty dozen, filter water, and skip handling receipts.
• Your body is asking for partnership, not perfection. One day does not make or break an egg; a pattern of loving care over 90 days is what shapes the environment.


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Fertility Detox (free ebook) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/fertility-detox

The Wholesome Fertility Journey (memberships + calls) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

If you've recently received a low AMH result and feel like your body has already betrayed you, this episode is for you. In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what AMH actually measures, what it cannot tell you, and why so many women with low numbers still go on to conceive, some with help and some without.

You'll learn the critical difference between egg quantity and egg quality, what a low AMH does not mean, which factors can actually influence your number, and what to do if your results came back lower than you hoped. Michelle blends holistic and medical perspectives to help you move out of panic and into partnership with your body.

If you've been told your AMH is too low, or if fear is making big decisions for you right now, this episode will help you come back to yourself, understand your body more deeply, and reclaim your sense of possibility.

Key Takeaways:
• AMH is a proxy measurement for ovarian reserve (egg quantity), not a predictor of natural conception or egg quality.
• Egg quantity and egg quality are two different things. A low AMH does not mean your eggs are not healthy.
• A low AMH is not a diagnosis of infertility, early menopause, or a failed future. It is one data point among many.
• Several factors can influence your AMH, including vitamin D status, thyroid function, autoimmunity, chronic stress, environmental toxins, and hormonal contraception.
• Egg quality is influenceable during a 90 day window through nourishment, mitochondrial support (like CoQ10), sleep, blood flow, and nervous system care.
• Fear makes poor long term decisions. Before committing to an aggressive treatment plan, pause, breathe, and look at the full picture of your health.
• You are not broken. A lower number on a lab report is not a verdict on your worth as a woman or your potential as a mother.


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Free chapter of The Way of Fertility (book) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Top 10 Fertility Boosting Tips Ebook https://www.michelleoravitz.com/mytop10fertilityboostingtips

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if the missing piece in your fertility puzzle isn't your hormones, your eggs, or your uterus, but your gut? A growing body of peer-reviewed research is now showing that the gut microbiome directly regulates estrogen metabolism, immune function, and systemic inflammation, and when it is out of balance, all three can go sideways in ways that no standard fertility panel will ever catch.

In this episode, Michelle breaks down the science behind the gut-fertility axis, introduces the estrobolome (the community of gut bacteria responsible for metabolizing estrogen), and explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine has understood this same connection for thousands of years through the liver, the spleen, and the pattern of damp heat, and what you can actually do to start supporting your gut today. 

Key Takeaways

• Your gut microbiome directly controls how much active estrogen is circulating in your body, and dysbiosis can push it too high or too low.
• Standard hormone blood tests cannot show how your gut is metabolizing estrogen over time.
• A dysbiotic gut shifts the immune system into a reactive state that can interfere with embryo implantation.
• When the gut lining becomes permeable, inflammatory signals travel through the bloodstream and directly affect the reproductive organs.
• Healing the gut through food, movement, and nervous system regulation addresses the root cause rather than chasing symptoms.
  
  

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com

Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off

For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if the key to improving egg quality has less to do with the egg itself, and more to do with the environment it lives in? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz breaks down a landmark study out of UCSF that used cutting-edge 3D imaging to map entire human and mouse ovaries at the cellular level, and what the researchers found is reshaping everything we thought we knew about ovarian health.

The study revealed that eggs are not scattered randomly throughout the ovary. They live inside communities made up of blood vessels, nerves, and support cells, and that surrounding environment actively shapes how eggs mature and how long they last. Even more striking, the researchers discovered that sympathetic (fight-or-flight) nerves are woven throughout the ovary and play a direct role in regulating which eggs receive the signal to grow.

Michelle also explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine has been describing this exact system for thousands of years through the framework of Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Qi flow, and how these ancient concepts map with remarkable precision onto what modern science is now confirming.

This episode will shift the way you think about fertility. Your ovarian ecosystem is not fixed. It is alive, responsive, and shaped by how you live every day.

Key Takeaways: 

• Egg quality is shaped not just by the egg itself, but by the entire microenvironment surrounding it, including blood vessels, nerves, and support cells.

• Fight-or-flight nerves inside the ovary directly regulate which eggs receive the signal to mature.

• Ovarian blood vessel health is one of the first things to decline with age, reducing the nutrients and signals follicles need even when eggs are still present.

• The ovarian environment is dynamic and responds to what you eat, how you sleep, how you move, and the state of your nervous system.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine has described this system for thousands of years through Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Liver Qi stagnation, concepts that map directly onto what modern science is now finding.

• Practical support focuses on improving circulation, nourishing Kidney Jing, regulating the nervous system, and reducing inflammation

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com

Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off

For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Could the missing piece in your fertility journey have nothing to do with hormones, and everything to do with your nervous system? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz explores the powerful overlap between polyvagal theory (modern neuroscience) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), revealing why both systems point to the same root cause: a body that doesn't feel safe enough to create life.

Michelle breaks down how the three states of the nervous system, ventral vagal (safety), sympathetic (fight-or-flight), and dorsal vagal (shutdown), map directly onto foundational TCM concepts like smooth Qi flow, liver Qi stagnation, and kidney deficiency. She also explores the profound heart-uterus connection, known in TCM as the Bao Mai, and how a settled heart and regulated nervous system create the internal environment most supportive of conception.

This isn't about relaxing more. It's about active, body-based regulation, and Michelle shares practical tools including acupuncture, herbal medicine, breathwork, and movement to help you get there.

Key Takeaways:

• Your body will not prioritize reproduction when it feels unsafe, and safety is a biological requirement for conception.

• Polyvagal theory and Traditional Chinese Medicine map the same nervous system states, just in different languages separated by thousands of years.

• Both modern science and TCM confirm a direct heart-uterus connection, meaning a settled heart creates a more receptive environment for conception.

• Regulation is an active, body-based process and not simply relaxation or telling yourself to calm down.

• A slow, extended exhale is one of the fastest ways to activate the ventral vagal pathway and shift your nervous system state.

• Your nervous system filters the present through every past experience, including old stories about your body being broken or not enough.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com

Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off

For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode I am joined by Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial), a professional belly dance instructor and creator of The Belly Dance Solution, to explore how movement can deeply support fertility, pelvic health, and overall well-being. With over 20 years of experience and a background in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer brings a unique perspective on how dance can be both healing and empowering.

In this episode, we dive into how belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor, improves circulation, and supports reproductive health. We also explore the powerful mind-body connection, the role of awareness in healing, and how playful, feminine movement can regulate the nervous system and bring energy back into the body. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't always have to feel like work, it can feel like joy, expression, and connection. 

Key takeaways:

• Belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor while promoting both contraction and relaxation

• Movement increases blood flow and energy (Qi) to the reproductive organs

• Awareness and intentional movement can shift both physical and emotional health

• Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility and overall well-being

• Playful, feminine movement can be a powerful and healing modality

Guest bio:

Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial)  is a professional belly dance instructor with over 21 years of experience. She's the creator of The Belly Dance Solution - a research-backed program that's been featured in Women's World magazine (twice!) and First for Women. Over 30,000 women have joined the program to address bladder leaking through targeted belly dance movements. With a Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer combines ancient movement wisdom with modern pelvic floor science to help women find relief in a way that's actually fun and boosts their confidence.


Connect with Jennifer:

• Visit her website 

• Follow her on Facebook and Instagram

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: 

https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving), founder of The Fertility Co-Living, to explore a completely new approach to egg freezing that combines medical care, holistic wellness, and community. Aliza shares her personal journey through egg freezing, including the emotional challenges, high financial costs, and lack of support she experienced. After spending thousands of dollars on a cycle that resulted in only a few eggs, she knew there had to be a better way, which led her to create a retreat-style experience where women can go through egg freezing together while receiving both clinical and holistic support.

In this episode, we discuss the true cost of egg freezing in North America, why more women are choosing to go abroad, and how integrating nervous system regulation, nutrition, and community can improve both the experience and outcomes. This is a powerful conversation that brings a more human, supported, and intentional approach to fertility care.

Key Takeaways:

• Egg freezing in North America can cost up to $20,000 per cycle.

• Many women feel isolated and unsupported during the process.

• Going abroad can significantly reduce costs and improve access.

• Holistic practices may support egg quality and overall outcomes.

• Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility health.

• Community support can transform the emotional experience.

Guest Bio:

Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving) is the founder of The Fertility Co-Living, a retreat-style experience that merges medical care, holistic wellness, and community for women freezing their eggs abroad. Inspired by her own difficult and costly egg-freezing journey in Canada, Aliza created a new model of fertility care that supports women emotionally, physically, and financially.

With a background as a luxury events producer for brands like Prada and Harper's Bazaar, she brings a unique perspective to designing meaningful, elevated experiences. Her work is redefining how women approach egg freezing by combining science, holistic health, and connection.

SOCIAL MEDIA / ADDITIONAL LINKS

Website: www.thefertilitycoliving.com
Instagram: @thefertilitycoliving
Email: aliza@thefertilitycoliving.com

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026 

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin), author of Spirit Mama, to explore the deeper connection between the mind, body, and spirit in the fertility journey.

Ariane shares her personal story from corporate success to navigating fertility challenges including miscarriage and IVF, and how it led her to redefine what it means to become a mother. We discuss the hidden emotional patterns like control, perfection, and self-judgment, and how awareness of these can create powerful shifts.

We also dive into reconnecting with the body, trusting your inner voice, and cultivating a relationship with something greater than yourself. This conversation offers a more compassionate, holistic perspective for anyone feeling like something is missing from the conventional fertility approach.

Key Takeaways: 

• Fertility is not just physical; emotional and spiritual factors matter.

• Control, perfection, and self-judgment can block natural flow.

• Reconnecting with your body is essential for conception.

• Awareness and self-compassion create powerful internal shifts.

• Your relationship with life influences your fertility journey.

• There are many ways to "mother" beyond physical birth.

Guest Bio: 

Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin) is an author, elite coach, and speaker who lives globally between New York, Switzerland, and Cape Town with her partner Alfie and their 12-year-old son Everest. She specializes in helping people navigate major life transitions and is now bringing that expertise to the fertility and motherhood journey through her Spirit Mama book series. She has spoken and coached at companies such as Google, Twitter, Morgan Stanley, Investec, The IDB, KPMG, L'Oreal, Amazon, Nestle, and Redbull amongst others, and has been a keynote at events including Oprah's Conference and Maria Shriver's Women's Conference. Beyond the corporate world, Ariane works with schools and teachers in the US and worldwide, doing readings and fun workshops with kids and educators, speaking for the ASBO (Association of School Business Officials), and keynoting at Board of Education events. Her TED talk, "The Skills We Need to Teach Our Kids," has resonated with audiences worldwide. Ariane has appeared on dozens of TV and radio shows, including NBC's Today Show, the CBS Early Show, CNN, and ABC News Now.

Connect with Ariane:

• Website: https://www.arianedebonvoisin.com/

• Spirit Mama: https://spiritmamabook.com/

• Instagram (Spirit Mama): https://www.instagram.com/spiritmamaofficial/

• Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/arianedebonvoisin/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianed1/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ariane-de-Bonvoisin/100063747638605/
   

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?

Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with a former client to share her powerful trying-to-conceive journey, one that began with endometriosis, frustration, and the quiet fear that her body was "failing" her.

For nearly two years, she did everything "right." She saw specialists, monitored cysts, adjusted her diet, optimized her lifestyle, and pushed herself to stay positive. But behind the structure and to-do lists was a nervous system under pressure and a heart carrying more than it should.

In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional breaking point that changed everything, the moment she shifted from "What's wrong with me?" to "What do you need from me?" We talk about boundaries, reconnecting with joy, meditation, surrender, and the unexpected spiritual signs that preceded her pregnancy, including vivid dreams, intuitive moments, and a powerful final act of letting go.

This episode is a reminder that fertility is not just physical. It is relational. It is emotional. It is deeply personal. And sometimes, the shift that changes everything isn't another supplement or protocol, it's a transformation in how we relate to ourselves.

If you've ever felt ashamed, behind, exhausted, or like you're carrying this alone, this story will meet you exactly where you are.

You are not broken.

And you do not have to walk this journey alone.

Key Takeaways:

• Fertility journeys often involve emotional highs and lows, and learning to shift from self-blame to self-compassion can be a powerful turning point.
• Nervous system support through practices like meditation, boundaries, and reconnecting with joy can play a meaningful role in supporting fertility.
• Lifestyle changes such as nutrition, stress reduction, sunlight, and movement can help create a more supportive environment for conception.
• Letting go of control and embracing surrender can open the door to deeper trust in the body and the fertility process.
• Many women experience intuitive or spiritual moments on their fertility journey, reminding them they are not alone in the process.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson, founders of The Fertility Class @thefertilityclass and teachers of the Aviva Method, a pelvic centered movement practice designed to support hormonal balance and fertility.

In this conversation, we explore how targeted rhythmic movement can improve circulation to the reproductive organs, support communication between the brain and ovaries, and help regulate the menstrual cycle. Marta shares her personal story of recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea after years of overtraining and undernourishing her body, while Zsofia talks about overcoming PCOS symptoms and restoring her cycles through fertility focused movement.

We also discuss how gentle, intentional movement can reduce pelvic stagnation, calm the nervous system, and create a sense of safety in the body, which is essential for ovulation and reproductive health. Marta and Zsofia explain how the Aviva Method works, why it is different from traditional workouts, and how many women notice improvements in ovulation, cervical mucus, PMS symptoms, and overall hormonal balance.

If you are trying to conceive naturally, navigating irregular cycles, or simply looking for a supportive way to reconnect with your body and reproductive health, this episode offers a powerful perspective on movement as medicine for fertility.

Key Takeaways:

• The Aviva Method uses rhythmic pelvic focused movement to improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and support reproductive health.
• Gentle and intentional movement can help regulate the nervous system and create the sense of safety the body needs for ovulation.
• Pelvic stagnation from long hours of sitting and chronic stress may impact fertility and hormonal balance.
• Movement that targets the pelvic region can support communication between the brain and reproductive organs.
• Many women report improvements in cycle regularity, ovulation timing, PMS symptoms, and cervical mucus after consistent practice.

Guest Bio:

Marta is a health coach, certified yoga teacher, and Aviva Method instructor. After navigating infertility and hormonal imbalance herself, she restored her health naturally through movement, nutrition, and holistic practices. With over a decade of experience and a background as a competitive ballroom dancer, Marta combines specialized knowledge with deep body awareness to help women restore hormonal balance and support fertility naturally.

Zsofia is a certified Aviva Method teacher, entrepreneur, and former fashion executive. Diagnosed with severe PCOS as a teenager and told she might never conceive, she healed naturally through movement and nutrition. After leading global strategy for brands like Net-A-Porter, she introduced the Aviva Method from Hungary to the UK and US. Today, she dedicates her work to helping women worldwide reconnect with their bodies and reproductive health.

Connect with Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson:

Visit their website: https://thefertilityclass.com 

Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefertilityclass/

Fertility class: Use coupon code MICHELLE for a discount https://myclass.thefertilityclass.com/a/2148088258/B7vhx2Qo


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty), the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40. Cha shares her incredible story of naturally conceiving at 46 and welcoming her daughter at 47 after being told that motherhood later in life was unlikely.

In this conversation, we talk about the realities of fertility after 40, the mindset shifts that can support a fertility journey, and how lifestyle factors such as nutrition, movement, emotional health, and reducing environmental toxins can influence reproductive health. Cha opens up about her experience with miscarriage, finding hope again, and why she believes women deserve more empowering messages about fertility and age.

We also explore holistic fertility support, including how acupuncture can improve blood flow, regulate the nervous system, and support overall reproductive health. This episode is a powerful reminder that statistics do not define your fertility journey and that there are many factors that can influence fertility and natural conception. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Pregnancy after 40 is possible and fertility statistics do not define your personal fertility journey.
• Mindset, hope, and emotional resilience can play an important role in supporting fertility.
• Lifestyle choices such as whole foods, regular movement, and reducing toxins may support egg quality and hormonal health.
• Acupuncture may improve circulation to the uterus and ovaries which can support reproductive health.
• Creating a supportive emotional and physical environment may help support conception and pregnancy

Guest Bio: 

Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty)  is the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40, a platform she created after naturally conceiving at 46 and giving birth at 47. Her journey challenges societal norms around age and motherhood, offering hope to women who are being told it's too late. Through her empowering content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Ch-a shares personal insights on fertility, hormonal health, miscarriage, and motherhood over 40. She speaks candidly about her lived experience, including managing stress, nutrition, and healing after loss—and emphasizes a holistic, hope-filled approach to wellness and conception. Her mission is to uplift, inform, and empower women to trust their bodies, embrace their timing, and know that motherhood later in life is possible and beautiful.

Connect with Ch-a:

Visit Ch-a website www.pregnancyoverforty.com 

Follow her on Instagram @pregnancyoverforty (IG, TT, YT)

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle sits down with Aimee Raupp (@aimeeraupp) to explore the latest breakthroughs in fertility science and ovarian rejuvenation. From PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy and rapamycin to senolytics, peptides, and low-dose naltrexone (LDN), this conversation dives into emerging tools that may support egg quality, ovarian function, and fertility after 35.

They also challenge long-standing scientific dogma around ovarian aging and discuss whether women are truly born with all the eggs they'll ever have. If you're navigating diminished ovarian reserve, PCOS, endometriosis, insulin resistance, or age-related fertility concerns, this episode offers cutting-edge insights and practical hope grounded in evolving research.


Key Takeaways:

• PRP ovarian rejuvenation may improve ovarian function and support natural conception in some women.

• Emerging research questions the belief that women are born with all their eggs, opening new conversations about ovarian aging and regeneration.

• Rapamycin and senolytics (like fisetin) are being studied for their potential role in delaying ovarian aging and reducing inflammation.

• Peptide therapy may support hormonal balance, egg quality, insulin sensitivity, and conditions like PCOS.

• Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) may help regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and support fertility outcomes in certain cases.
  
  

Guest Bio:
Aimee Raupp (@aimeeraupp) , MS, LAc, is a leading fertility expert, licensed acupuncturist, women's health advocate, and bestselling author dedicated to helping women improve egg quality, balance hormones, and optimize their ability to get and stay pregnant, naturally or with IVF.

She is the author of Chill Out & Get Healthy, Yes, You Can Get Pregnant, Body Belief, and The Egg Quality Diet, a clinically proven 100-day fertility program designed to reduce inflammation and enhance reproductive health.

With over 20 years of clinical experience, Aimee works with clients worldwide through virtual fertility coaching and treats patients at her New York and Connecticut clinics. She is the founder of Aimee Raupp Beauty and co-founder of Rejoova, a science-backed fertility supplement company supporting egg and sperm health.

Her work has been featured on The View and in Glamour, Allure, Shape, Well + Good, MindBodyGreen, and GOOP, with endorsements from leaders in wellness and personal development.

Connect with Aimee Raupp:

Visit her website
Follow her on Instagram
Follow her on Tiktok
Learn more Healthgevity here

For more information on working with Aimee and her team of fertility coaches and acupuncturists, email info@aimeeraupp.com


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Jay Campbell (@jaycampbell333), health optimization expert, author, and founder of BioLongevity Labs, to explore the powerful intersection of peptides, metabolic health, and fertility.

Jay shares how therapeutic peptides like HCG, HMG, and GLP compounds can support male fertility, insulin resistance, and metabolic balance when used correctly. We discuss the rise of GLP-1 medications, why microdosing matters, and how inflammation and visceral fat are major contributors to declining fertility rates.

Beyond the physical, we also dive into mindset, consciousness, and how belief systems impact healing and reproductive outcomes. This conversation bridges cutting-edge science with empowered awareness, and offers a new perspective on fertility optimization in the modern world.

Key Takeaways:

• Therapeutic peptides such as HCG and HMG can help stimulate FSH and LH to support male fertility.

• Chronic inflammation and visceral fat are major drivers of insulin resistance and declining fertility.

• GLP-1 medications can be helpful tools when microdosed and combined with proper lifestyle habits.

• Insulin-controlled living and metabolic flexibility are foundational for hormonal balance.

• Sustainable fat loss requires resistance training, adequate protein intake, and hormonal optimization.

• Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors contribute to the global fertility decline.

• Mindset and consciousness play a significant role in healing, longevity, and reproductive success.

Guest Bio: 

Jay Campbell (@jaycampbell333) is a global authority in hormone optimization, peptides, and human longevity, a five-time international bestselling author, and the co-founder of BioLongevity Labs—often called "the Amazon for biohackers." For more than two decades, he has led the field of metabolic health and anti-aging science, helping millions enhance vitality, repair their biology, and take control of their health. Known for cutting through misinformation, Jay translates complex biomedical research into practical, real-world strategies with integrity and no-BS clarity, blending cutting-edge science with a consciousness-driven approach that elevates biology, mindset, identity, and purpose. He is also the author of the upcoming book Metabolic Awakening, which addresses the global misuse of GLP drugs and introduces the first responsible, science-aligned framework for microdosing GLP peptides to support long-term metabolic repair rather than temporary weight loss.

Connect with Jay:

Follow him on InstagramVisit his website 

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Nathan S. Bryan (@drnathansbryan), a leading scientist and world-renowned expert in nitric oxide research.

We explore why nitric oxide is foundational for fertility, blood flow, hormone health, and longevity, and how poor nitric oxide production impacts egg quality, uterine lining, sperm motility, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial function. Dr. Bryan also breaks down common misconceptions around beet supplements, mouthwash, fluoride, and medications that can quietly block nitric oxide production.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to conceive, navigating hormonal imbalances, or looking to support long-term reproductive and metabolic health by addressing root causes.

Key Takeaways:

• Why blood flow to the uterus, ovaries, and testes is essential for conception and IVF success
• How nitric oxide supports cellular energy, oxygen delivery, and reproductive function
• The connection between nitric oxide, blood sugar regulation, and PCOS
• Why nitric oxide is critical for energy production, aging, and cellular repair
• How sugar, fluoride, mouthwash, and acid-blocking medications impair nitric oxide production

Guest Bio:

Dr. Nathan S. Bryan @drnathansbryan is a leading scientist, biotech entrepreneur, and expert in nitric oxide research. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents, his groundbreaking work has revolutionized the understanding of human health, longevity, and performance.

A former professor of molecular medicine, Dr. Bryan left academia to challenge Big Pharma and misinformation, creating science-backed solutions for optimizing health. He is the author of The Secret of Nitric Oxide and founder of drnathansbryan.com, where he empowers individuals to reclaim their health and defy aging. Dr. Bryan's mission is to educate and lead a health revolution focused on nitric oxide's powerful benefits for longevity and peak performance.


Connect with Dr. Nathan:

Follow him on Instagram for more updates

Click here to check out Dr. Bryan's Nitric Oxide Supplements: Use coupon code FERTILITY10 to get a 10% discount!


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle explores the powerful connection between creativity and fertility, revealing the science behind why women often feel more inspired during their fertile window. Drawing from a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, she breaks down research showing that originality peaks during ovulation and explains how fertility hormones influence creativity, brain chemistry, and emotional openness.

Michelle also asks a deeper question: could creativity itself support fertility? Blending neuroscience, nervous system regulation, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and hormonal health, she explains how creative flow can reduce stress, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, and support reproductive function. This episode offers a fresh, holistic perspective for anyone trying to conceive, recovering from burnout, or seeking to reconnect with their natural life force through creativity and flow.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity naturally peaks during ovulation, especially in originality and novelty

• Creative states calm the nervous system and reduce fertility-disrupting stress hormones

• From a TCM perspective, creativity and fertility are governed by the same principle: flow

• Engaging in creativity can help regulate hormones, emotions, and reproductive energy

• Fertility is not just biological, it is energetic, emotional, and expressive

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed hormonal conditions. In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle is joined by Megan Stewart, Founder and Executive Director of the PCOS Awareness Association, to unpack why PCOS can look so different from person to person and why so many women struggle for years before receiving real answers.

Megan shares her powerful personal journey, from experiencing symptoms as young as nine years old to navigating years of medical dismissal, a PCOS diagnosis at sixteen, and later cervical cancer. Together, Michelle and Megan explore how PCOS impacts fertility, mental health, metabolism, and the nervous system, including insulin resistance, elevated testosterone, anxiety, depression, and cycle irregularity. This conversation also offers hope, highlighting supportive approaches such as acupuncture, lifestyle rhythm, nervous system regulation, and holistic care that can help restore balance and empower women to trust their bodies again.

Key Takeaways:

• PCOS symptoms and why they vary so widely
• Misdiagnosis and common PCOS myths
• Hormones, insulin resistance, and fertility challenges
• The overlooked mental health impact of PCOS
• Acupuncture, holistic care, and nervous system support
• Building community, advocacy, and real-world resources

Guest Bio:

Megan Stewart is the Founder and Executive Director of PCOS Awareness Association, one of the leading organizations dedicated to education, advocacy, and support for people with PCOS. She works to close the diagnosis gap, improve healthcare equity, and empower individuals to understand and advocate for their own bodies. Through community programs and nationwide initiatives, Megan champions compassionate, evidence-based PCOS care.

Connect with Megan:

Visit their website
Follow them on Instagram for more updates


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this expansive and deeply illuminating episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle is joined by San Qing, a Daoist priest, teacher of internal alchemy, and lifelong explorer of consciousness, healing, and human potential.

San shares his extraordinary origin story, including a near-death experience as a child, spontaneous clairvoyant and healing abilities, and his eventual ordination in Daoist lineages in China. Together, Michelle and San dive into the nature of reality, the illusion of identification with the material world, and how true healing occurs when we access the stillness beneath thought, diagnosis, and fear.

This conversation bridges ancient Daoist wisdom with modern conversations around quantum healing, consciousness, and fertility. It explores how attachment to labels, timelines, and medical predictions can keep the body stuck, and how returning to the "void," the place of non-identity and stillness, allows the body and spirit to reorganise into harmony.

This episode is a powerful invitation to remember that healing is not something we force, but something we allow when we reconnect with our deeper intelligence.

Key Takeaways:

• Healing begins beyond the physical body, in consciousness and energy
• Identifying too strongly with diagnoses can limit what the body is capable of
• Stillness and non-attachment create space for transformation
• The body must be able to hold the energetic charge of healing
• Ancient Daoist teachings offer a roadmap for embodied, sustainable healing

Guest Bio: 

Taoist Master San Qing is a profound healer. When he talks, there is something else that goes on in the room. The room is filled with light and love. Taoist Master San Qing has over 30 years' experience guiding people, teaching people, opening people up to their true potential as a human being, as a light being, as just being. San Qing is an ordained priest and 66th generation lineage holder and 126th generation lineage holder of Taoism. San is a Taoist master of Qigong and Neigong, is a prolific channel and healer who has built a reputation for direct access to the spirit realm. He is grateful every day to his teachers, the Three Pure Ones and the Tao, for allowing him to witness miracles. San works with people all over the world showing them, that the impossible is possible. 

• Website: https://immortaltaoistrites.com/
• The Way 126 App (Web, iOS & Android): https://theway126.com/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiY-8SXc5g7oJRlA02tQluw
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theway_126

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Christina Bjorndal ( @drchrisbjorndal), a naturopathic doctor, author, and mental health expert, for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about healing beyond diagnoses.

Dr. Christina shares her personal journey through depression, bipolar disorder, suicide attempts, and recovery, and how those experiences shaped her integrative approach to mental health and whole-person healing. Together, we explore the profound connection between the mind, body, nervous system, and spirit, and why true healing requires more than symptom management.

In this episode, we talk about how trauma, nutrition, gut health, stress, and unexamined thought patterns can influence mental health and fertility. Dr. Christina also explains why labels can be limiting, how epigenetics shapes our health beyond genetics, and why cultivating self-compassion and safety in the body is foundational to healing.

This conversation offers hope, perspective, and practical insights for anyone navigating mental health challenges, fertility struggles, or the pressure to "fix" themselves instead of understanding what their body is asking for.

Key Takeaways: 

• Mental health diagnoses describe symptoms, not root causes
• Healing requires addressing the nervous system, not just the mind
• Thoughts directly influence physiology through stress hormones and immune function
• Epigenetics explains how environment, trauma, and lifestyle shape health outcomes
• Digestion and nutrition depend on nervous system regulation, not just food choices
• Self-compassion and self-acceptance are essential, not optional, for healing
• Hope and possibility are powerful forces in recovery and fertility journeys
  
  

Guest Bio: 

Dr. Christina Bjorndal ( @drchrisbjorndal), ND is a naturopathic doctor, mental health advocate, gifted speaker, and best-selling author who blends clinical expertise with lived experience. Drawing from her personal journey through depression, anxiety, bulimia, bipolar disorder type 1, cancer, and surviving multiple suicide attempts, she offers a deeply compassionate and integrative approach to mental health.

Trained in naturopathic and mind-body medicine, Dr. Christina focuses on whole-person healing, addressing the nervous system, nutrition, trauma, and self-compassion. She is the author of Beyond the Label: 10 Steps to Improve Your Mental Health with Naturopathic Medicine and the creator of two educational programs supporting both individuals and clinicians in moving beyond mental health labels.

Connect with Dr. Christina Bjorndal:

Website: https://drbjorndal.com
Instagram: @drchrisbjorndal
Facebook: Dr. Christina Bjorndal
Twitter/X: @drbjorndal
YouTube: Christina Bjorndal

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

To find out more about our Fertility Coaching Certification Program, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitymethodcertification 

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Margaret Cali, a Fertility and Mindset Coach and founder of Cali Coaching. Margaret shares her deeply personal fertility journey, which began at age 25 and included miscarriage, PCOS, medication complications, emotional burnout, and years of feeling lost and disconnected from herself.

After stepping away from the relentless cycle of trying to conceive and focusing on healing her nervous system, mindset, and emotional wellbeing, Margaret went on to conceive successfully through IVF at age 40. Her story is a powerful reminder that fertility is not just a medical journey, it is an emotional, mental, and whole-body experience.

In this conversation, we explore what burnout during fertility really looks like, why emotional support is so often missing from fertility care, and how rebuilding your inner world can transform not only your fertility journey, but your life. Margaret also shares the tools that helped her heal and introduces her RISE Method, an emotional readiness approach designed to support women at every stage of trying to conceive.

Key Takeaways: 

• Fertility struggles affect the nervous system, identity, and emotional wellbeing, not just the body
• Burnout can block your ability to receive, restore, and reconnect with yourself
• Emotional healing is not time wasted, it is foundational to fertility and long-term wellbeing
• Small, consistent shifts create powerful transformation over time
• You don't have to carry the emotional weight of fertility alone

Guest Bio: 

Margaret Cali (@margaretcali.au) is a Fertility and Mindset Coach and founder of Cali Coaching. After a decade-long fertility journey marked by miscarriages, PCOS, medication complications, and profound emotional burnout, Margaret spent five years rebuilding her inner world. That transformation later paved the way for her successful IVF journey at age 40. Drawing from her lived experience, 30 years in education, and her commitment to filling the emotional gap in fertility care, Margaret developed The RISE Method, an emotional readiness approach that helps women reconnect with themselves, strengthen their resilience, and navigate fertility challenges with clarity and calm. Her work is grounded in the philosophy that guided her own healing: to embrace the process, transform with purpose, and empower your future. This guiding belief is one she now shares with women who feel lost, overwhelmed, or disconnected during their fertility journey. Margaret now supports women at every stage of trying to conceive, helping them feel emotionally prepared, deeply understood, and anchored in hope.

Websites/Social Media Links:

Website: https://www.margaretcali.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margaretcali.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MCaliCoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-cali-4bb936188/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@margaretcali
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@margaretcali
Email: mcalicoaching@gmail.com

To apply for Margaret's program, click here. 

__________________________________________
Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

To find out more about our Fertility Coaching Certification Program, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitymethodcertification 

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Gabriella Rosa @dr.gabrielarosa, a globally recognised fertility specialist and researcher, to unpack the truth about fertility after 40.

We explore why age alone is not the real issue, what actually impacts egg and sperm quality, and how metabolic health, lifestyle factors, and emotional wellbeing play a much bigger role in conception than most people are told. Gabriella also shares insights from her clinical research and discusses the importance of addressing fertility-related trauma and stress.

This episode offers clarity, hope, and evidence-based guidance for anyone navigating fertility in their late 30s and 40s.

Key Takeaways: 

• Fertility myths around age 35 and 40
• Egg quality, sperm quality, and mitochondrial health
• Why fertility is a team effort
• Metabolic health and lifestyle factors that influence conception
• The emotional impact of infertility and why support matters
• Gabriella's clinical trial supporting emotional wellbeing in fertility
  
  

Guest Bio:

Gabriela Rosa @dr.gabrielarosa is a world-renowned fertility specialist, author, and Harvard-awarded scholar. She is the founder of The Rosa Institute and creator of the Fertility Breakthrough Program™, which has transformed the lives of over 140,000 couples in 110+ countries. Gabriela's work focuses on addressing the root causes of infertility using an evidence-based approach that combines modern science with natural medicine. With extensive training in reproductive health, naturopathy, and public health, Gabriela is passionate about empowering couples to achieve their dream of parenthood while improving their long-term health and well-being.


Connect with Gabriela Rosa:

Website: https://fertilitybreakthrough.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FertilitySpecialistGabrielaRosa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.gabrielarosa/
Fertility Breakthrough Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fertilitybreakthrough/
Fertility Breakthrough Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosainstitutefertilitybreakthrough 

______________________________
Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by biological dentist and integrative health coach Dr. Toni Engram  (@drtoniengram) to uncover one of the most overlooked foundations of reproductive health: your mouth.

Most people do not realize that oral health is deeply connected to inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and fertility challenges. In this eye opening conversation, Dr. Toni explains how hidden infections, gum disease, mercury fillings, and even everyday products like fluoride can quietly impact hormones, gut health, thyroid function, and pregnancy outcomes.

We dive into the science behind biological dentistry, the truth about fluoride, safer approaches to dental procedures, how the oral microbiome affects your fertility, and why preconception dentistry is one of the most powerful yet underutilized steps for preparing the body for pregnancy.

If you have been working on your fertility, supporting your gut, addressing autoimmune conditions, or simply trying to reduce inflammation and support your hormones, this episode is a must listen. Your mouth may be the missing piece.

Key Takeaways: 

• Oral health is directly connected to inflammation, gut health, and autoimmune conditions.
• Mercury fillings and hidden infections can trigger systemic inflammation and impact fertility.
• Biological dentistry uses safer materials and focuses on root cause healing.
• Fluoride carries risks including thyroid disruption and neurotoxicity.
• Xylitol, hydroxyapatite, and simple daily habits can safely support remineralization and overall oral health.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Toni Engram is a biological dentist, integrative health coach, and owner of Flourish Dental Boutique in Richardson, Texas. After facing her own autoimmune challenges, Dr. Engram transformed her traditional practice into one centered on whole-body wellness and the prevention and root cause treatment of oral disease.

She holds degrees from Texas Christian University and Baylor College of Dentistry and is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) and the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM). Dr. Engram is SMART certified in safe amalgam removal, accredited through the IAOMT, a TBI Ambassador with The Breathe Institute, and a certified Integrative Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.

Her mission is to help patients understand the powerful connection between oral and systemic health, empowering them to optimize their well-being from the inside out.

Links and resources:

Visit Dr. Toni's Website: http://flourish.dental
Follow her on socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtoniengram/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishdentalboutique/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourholisticdentist
X: https://x.com/DentalFlourish
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flourishdentalboutique
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-toni-engram-11081731/

_____________________________


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle offers a heartfelt dose of hope for anyone feeling discouraged, exhausted, or unsure on their fertility journey. Drawing from years of experience as a fertility acupuncturist and coach, Michelle shares powerful stories from her clinic. These stories include women who were told their chances were low, who received discouraging lab results, or who felt their bodies were failing them, yet still went on to conceive.

This episode explores the often overlooked unseen intelligence guiding your fertility. This includes the subtle signs, inner wisdom, emotional landscape, and spiritual connection that influence your body just as much as lab numbers do. Michelle also dives into the science behind belief and emotional states, referencing insights from cellular biologist Bruce Lipton and psychologist Dr. Lisa Miller to bridge the gap between spirituality and physiology.

If you are craving reassurance, perspective, and a reminder that your journey is still unfolding in ways you may not yet see, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways: 

• Your fertility journey is shaped by both the physical and the unseen. Numbers matter, but they are not the whole story.
• Lab values are only a snapshot in time. They can and often do change.
• Miraculous pregnancies can and do happen, even after discouraging diagnoses.
• Emotional and spiritual alignment deeply influence your physiology and hormonal environment.
• Belief, joy, and hope are not only comforting. They are biologically impactful.
• Your body operates through an extraordinary intelligence that we are only beginning to understand.
• Connecting with your spirit baby or inner guidance can open doors in unexpected ways.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if the most powerful tool for boosting fertility has been inside you all along? In this episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle reveals five science backed truths that prove your thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and energy hold far more influence over your fertility than you may realize.

Drawing from research in psychoneuroimmunology, HeartMath studies, quantum biology, and epigenetics, Michelle explains how your mind and body work together to shape hormonal balance, ovulation, and overall reproductive health. You will learn why your inner dialogue affects your cells, how stress disrupts the HPO axis, why a regulated nervous system improves conception rates, and how intention can shift your biology at the energetic level.

If you have been feeling discouraged or disconnected from your body, this episode will help you reconnect to your innate wisdom and remind you that your fertility is not just physical. It is influenced by your emotional wellbeing, your beliefs, and the energy you bring to your healing journey.

Tune in and discover how powerful you truly are.

Key Takeaways: 

• Your thoughts create real, measurable physical change in the body

• Emotions communicate with every cell and shape your hormonal landscape

• The nervous system is the master conductor of reproductive health

• Your energy and intention influence biological responses

• You are capable of rewriting your genetic and emotional patterns

________________________

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this eye-opening episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle sits down with Kim Rogers (@mrsrogers.hood), also known as "The Worm Queen," to have the parasite conversation no one's having but absolutely should.

A seasoned Western medicine professional turned holistic wellness educator, Kim shares her journey from battling endometriosis, mold toxicity, and Lyme disease to founding RogersHood Apothecary and developing the viral ParaFy Parasite Cleanse Kit.

Together, Michelle and Kim dive into the hidden world of parasites, mold, and heavy metals, and how these often-overlooked culprits could be affecting your digestion, mood, skin, and even fertility. You'll learn how exposure happens, why binders and biofilm-busting herbs are key, and when cleansing is safe and beneficial, especially if you're trying to conceive or preparing for IVF.

If you've ever felt unwell despite "normal" labs, this episode will change how you see your body's internal ecosystem and empower you to take charge of your health from the inside out.

Key Takeaways: 

• Discover how hidden parasites and toxins could be silently impacting your fertility, mood, and digestion.
• Learn why "cleaning your soil" may be the missing piece in your preconception or IVF journey.
• Find out the surprising everyday sources of parasites, from pets to produce, and how to protect yourself.
• Understand why binders and biofilm-busting herbs are essential for safe and effective detoxing.
• Hear how Kim's viral ParaFy cleanse is helping thousands reclaim their energy, clarity, and overall wellness.

Guest Bio: 

Kim Rogers (@mrsrogers.hood) is a seasoned wellness professional with over 20 years of experience in Western medicine. After facing her own health challenges including endometriosis, parasites, Lyme disease, and mold poisoning, Kim transitioned from pharmaceuticals to natural healing. She co-founded RogersHood Apothecary in 2021, where she now serves as CEO and creator of the globally recognized ParaFy Parasite Cleanse Kit.

Her viral success on TikTok and Instagram brought global attention to parasite cleansing and holistic detoxification. Through transparency and education, Kim continues to inspire millions to take control of their health and become their own advocates. She also hosts the podcast What's Eating U?!, where she explores the intersections of wellness, environmental toxins, and personal empowerment.

Use coupon code FERTILITY for 10% off at rogershood.com/ref/3077

Links and resources:

• Visit Kim's website: rogershood.com/ref/3077

• Follow Kim on Instagram: @mrsrogers.hood

• Connect with Kim on Facebook: Kim Rogers

• Watch Kim's podcast What's Eating U?! on YouTube: youtube.com/@Whatseatingupodcast

_____________________________

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Rita Black (@shiftweightmastery), a clinical hypnotherapist and weight management expert, to explore how self hypnosis can transform your habits, health, and overall mindset. Rita shares her personal journey of quitting smoking and breaking free from emotional eating through hypnosis and how she has helped thousands do the same.

We dive into the science behind the subconscious mind, the difference between hypnosis and meditation, and how identity shapes your habits, beliefs, and even your physical health. Whether you are trying to change a behavior, reprogram limiting beliefs, or shift your mindset around fertility and well being, this episode will show you how to harness your mind's power to create lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

• How hypnosis works to bypass the conscious mind and rewire habits at the subconscious level.
• The difference between meditation and self hypnosis and why the latter is "meditation with a mission."
• Why identity is the foundation of transformation and how it shapes behavior and physiology.
• How subconscious beliefs can affect fertility, weight, and other health outcomes.
• Simple daily self hypnosis and gratitude techniques to prime your brain for positive change.
• Why quitting smoking or vaping is less about willpower and more about identity and subconscious programming.

Guest Bio:
Rita Black, C.Ht. (@shiftweightmastery), is a clinical hypnotherapist and renowned expert in smoking cessation and weight loss. She is the author of the best-selling From Fat to Thin Thinking: Unlock Your Mind for Permanent Weight Loss and the host of the Thin Thinking podcast. Through her signature online programs, Shift Weight Mastery Process and Smokefree123, Rita has guided thousands to harness the power of their subconscious mind to create lasting, healthy transformations.

She also offers two free resources to help you begin your own transformation journey:

• Free Weight Loss Masterclass: How to Stop the "Start Over Tomorrow" Weight Struggle Cycle and Start Releasing Weight for Good - a 75-minute session that includes a light hypnosis experience to help you identify and remove subconscious barriers to weight loss. Join here - https://shiftmonthlymasterymembership.mykajabi.com/shiftevergreenwebinar

• Free Smoking Cessation Masterclass: How to Stop Smoking Without Withdrawal, Cravings, or Weight Gain — a practical, empowering approach to quitting for good. - Join Here - https://www.smokefree123.com/stop-smoking-masterclass-registration-page2

Links and resources:

Visit Rita's website here
YOU, the Non-Smoker? Yes, it's Possible - learn more here
Follow Rita on Instagram

_____________________________


Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:

 https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

In this solo episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, Michelle Oravitz, fertility acupuncturist and holistic fertility coach, breaks down the most common misconceptions she encounters in her clinic. Drawing on nearly a decade of experience supporting couples on their fertility journey, Michelle sheds light on the myths that can hold people back from conceiving, from misunderstanding the fertile window and fearing healthy fats, to overdoing green juices and neglecting stress management.

You'll learn why fertility is about more than just timing or diet, how mindset and nervous system health play a pivotal role, and why it's essential to approach conception as a shared journey between partners. Whether you're just beginning your fertility path or seeking to fine-tune your approach, this episode will empower you with knowledge and clarity to support your reproductive health naturally.

Key Takeaways: 

• Many women miscalculate ovulation and the fertile window, it's not always mid-cycle.
• Healthy fats like avocado, ghee, and full-fat dairy support hormone production.
• Too much raw food and cold drinks can create a "cold womb," affecting fertility.
• Over-focusing on "doing all the right things" can increase stress and hinder conception
• Fertility is a shared responsibility, sperm health is just as crucial as egg health.
• Seeking professional and emotional support can make the journey smoother and less isolating.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey?
Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey

Join me inside The Wholesome Fertility Collective: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewholesomefertilitycollective

For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com

Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:
https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility

Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support:
 https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/

Connect with me on social:
Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility
Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

What if your fertility journey didn't have to feel like constant striving? What if ease, joy, and trust could actually create the space for conception to unfold naturally?

In this episode, Lauren Enright,  a mind-body fertility coach, birth doula, and former neuroscientist,  shares how to move from overthinking and perfectionism to deep embodied trust. She explains how nervous system regulation, breathwork, and mindfulness practices can awaken your body's innate fertile energy and transform how you experience your path to motherhood.

Key Takeaways: 

• Why perfectionism and overplanning can block your natural fertile flow.
• How regulating the nervous system helps balance the yin and yang of fertility.
• The simple breathwork technique Lauren uses to activate the parasympathetic response.
• The science behind visualization and how it reprograms the mind for healing.
• How mindfulness and slowing down reconnect you to your body's innate wisdom.

Guest Bio:
Lauren Enright is an internationally sought-after mind-body fertility coach, birth doula, and expert in fertility yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. With a unique background as a former neuroscientist and science teacher, Lauren blends evidence-based understanding with spiritual insight to help women release perfectionism and overthinking on their fertility journey. Through her signature mind-body approach, she guides women to reconnect with their body's innate wisdom, regulate their nervous systems, and awaken the fertile energy within. Her mission is to empower women to trust their intuition, break free from stress cycles, and welcome conception with ease, joy, and love.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Lauren Enright on Instagram

• Learn more about Lauren's work on her website 

• Free Mind-Body Fertility Toolkit – Download Here
  
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Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.

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