Women of the Well | Holistic Women’s Health and Wellness – Details, episodes & analysis

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A quick note: We recorded this at our practitioner event, so we're talking clinician-to-clinician in parts. But if you're navigating pelvic pain yourself, you might find it really validating to hear how we think about symptoms, nervous system states, and what actually drives lasting change.

If you're a practitioner working with pelvic pain, you've probably felt the pressure to fix, the complexity of trauma and chronic symptoms, and the frustration of treatments that don't create lasting change.

In this episode, we share the foundations of the Vera Wellness approach to pelvic pain – an evidence-informed, nervous-system-led framework that shifts care away from symptom whack-a-mole and toward genuine transformation.

Recorded live at our online practitioner event on 30 October, this conversation includes practical tools, a powerful case study, and a clear reframe that changes everything: pain isn't the problem to eliminate – it's information. 

And the nervous system is the foundation of both patient outcomes and practitioner sustainability.

If you're craving a more grounded, embodied approach to pelvic pain care – one that supports your patients without burning you out – this episode is for you.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why the nervous system is the foundation of pelvic pain care (and clinician wellbeing)
• A real patient case study – and what changed when care shifted from "fixing" to listening
• The Vera philosophy: no one is broken, and no one needs to be fixed
• Pain as information – and what happens when we replace fear with curiosity
• Polyvagal theory: nervous system states and what they look like in the consult room
• The "alarm vs fire" reframe: why conventional care often tries to silence symptoms while the deeper drivers remain
• Catastrophising, overprotection and central sensitisation – and why these matter clinically
• Co-regulation: how your tone, pace and presence shape patient safety and outcomes
• Guided regulation practices you can use immediately (including pelvic and self-compassion-based tools)
• Why paradigm-shifting care requires paradigm-shifting ways of working

For practitioners:

If today's conversation resonates, you may be feeling the same shift we're seeing across women's health – a desire for care that is more embodied, integrative and nervous-system-led.

In 2026, Dr Peta Wright, Dr Thea Bowler and holistic physiotherapist Paula Hindle are hosting Transformational Medicine: Alchemising Pain into Power with two pathways:

• 4-day in-person immersive retreat (17–20 April 2026)
• 12-week online program (starts 4 May 2026)

Explore the program here: https://www.verawellness.com.au/practitioner-program-intensive

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

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DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

Today’s conversation is a little different.

Dr Thea and Vera physiotherapist Paula Hindle take you inside the sauna at the end of a long clinic day – a place where their most honest reflections tend to unfold.

This episode opens a deeper look at what it really means to hold space for suffering in women’s health. 

Not with a rush to fix, but from a grounded, embodied place where practitioners learn to regulate their own nervous systems while sitting alongside their patients’ pain.

Paula and Thea explore the subtle but profound shift that happens when clinicians start listening with curiosity.

This is a conversation about attunement, presence and the reality that true transformation rarely begins with a medical intervention – it begins with being witnessed.

If you’re a practitioner who feels called toward a more heart-centred, embodied, nervous-system-led approach to pelvic pain, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we talk about:

• The art of sitting with discomfort – what happens in us as clinicians when we witness pain without immediately jumping to solutions.
• A powerful patient story and how healing unfolded when the focus shifted from pathology to nervous system understanding.
• Attunement in practice – how Paula recognised dysregulation the moment the patient walked in, and why she abandoned the “plan” to create space for grief, safety and connection.
• Letting the patient guide the process – the difference between algorithmic care and compassionate, responsive care in pelvic pain.
• Why clinicians must be regulated first – the capacity to hold another’s story is directly linked to the state of our own nervous systems.

The truth is, real healing often begins long before hands-on treatment.

It begins in the pause – the moment we sit with discomfort, listen deeply, and allow a patient’s story to unfold without rushing toward certainty or control.

When practitioners regulate themselves, the whole room changes.

Safety expands. Insight emerges.

And the patient’s own wisdom becomes a central part of the therapeutic process.

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For practitioners: Transformational Medicine – Alchemising Pain into Power 

If today’s conversation resonates, you may be feeling the same shift we’re seeing across women’s health – a desire for more embodied, integrative, nervous-system-based care.

In April 2026, Dr Peta Wright, Dr Thea Bowler and Paula Hindle will be hosting a 4-day immersive retreat and practitioner program designed to help clinicians:

• Understand their own nervous system
• Experience regulation and embodiment tools firsthand
• Learn how to attune to complexity, trauma, and pain in the clinical room
• Develop a more grounded, compassionate and effective approach to pelvic pain

You can find all the details here: https://www.verawellness.com.au/practitioner-program-intensive. 

Early bird pricing ends on 31 December 2025 and payment plans are available.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

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DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

This week’s episode of Women of the Well is a little different. 

Due to the recent cyclone and flooding at our clinic, we couldn't record our usual episode.

Instead, we have something truly special for you – a deeply nourishing Heal Your Sacred Pelvis meditation guided by expert pelvic floor physiotherapist Paula Hindle.

This meditation was created for our 9-week Heal Your Pelvic Pain program, which is currently underway. It’s a powerful and insightful practice designed to help you reconnect with your pelvic space. However, it can also be confronting – especially if you’ve experienced pain, trauma, or disconnection in this area. 

Please know that you are in control throughout the practice. If you need to pause, return to your breath, or step away, honour that.

What to expect in this guided meditation:

✨ A gentle yet profound practice to reconnect with your pelvic space
✨ Breathwork and visualisation to help release stored tension, trauma, or emotions
✨ A safe space to observe and honour your body’s wisdom
✨ A reclamation of your sacred feminine energy

This meditation invites you to explore your relationship with your pelvic space – acknowledging past experiences, releasing what no longer serves you, and cultivating healing, pleasure, and empowerment.

Find a quiet, comfortable space, and allow yourself to fully receive this practice.

We’ll be back with our usual episodes as soon as possible. 

Until then, we hope this meditation offers you the restoration and insight you need.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

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DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

Continuing our fertility series on the podcast, this week we’re exploring a more intentional path to conception.

Because conception isn’t just about biology…

It’s also about connection, energy, and creating space for new life. 

And while fertility tracking and supplements have their place, there’s a deeper, more intentional way to approach this journey.

In this episode, Dr Peta and Sam explore conscious conception, sharing how yogic and tantric philosophies offer a more holistic path to pregnancy. 

They discuss the power of ritual, mindfulness, and body awareness to help you feel more aligned, present, and connected – both with yourself and your partner.

Whether you’re preparing to conceive now or simply want to deepen your relationship with your body and fertility, this conversation will give you a new perspective on what it means to truly welcome new life.

Listen now to learn:

🍃 Why conscious conception is about creating space – physically, emotionally, and spiritually – before bringing a child into the world.

🍃 How stress, modern lifestyles, and rigid timelines can impact fertility – and why surrendering to the process matters.

🍃 The power of ritual in conception, from walking together in nature to setting intentions before intimacy.

🍃 How moon cycles, circadian rhythms, and the nervous system influence fertility and overall well-being.

🍃 The role of body connection practices – like self-massage, moonbathing, and breathwork – to foster deep trust in yourself and your journey.

🍃 A simple but beautiful ritual to honour and invite a soul into your life.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a more intentional, connected, and holistic approach to conception.

Additional resources:

💻 Our online course, Unlocking the Power of Your Cycle is designed to help you deeply understand your menstrual cycle – so you can identify your most fertile days and support your body for a healthy conception.

🪷 More about Sam Lindsay-German and her healing work with women. 

🧘‍♀️ Join Sam for Sadhana recorded live each weekday at 5am in The Calm Room.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au.

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events, join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

When it comes to conception, most people focus on when to get pregnant – but what about how to prepare your body for pregnancy?

In this episode, Sam Lindsay-German speaks with naturopath and fertility expert Elysia Humphries about the essential steps to support your reproductive health – whether you're thinking about trying soon or simply want to optimise your fertility for the future.

They cover everything from egg and sperm quality to the key lifestyle, diet, and mindset shifts that make a difference in your ability to conceive.

Listen to this episode to learn:

🍃 Why fertility isn’t just about egg count – and how to improve egg quality at any age.

🍃 The impact of hormonal contraception and why coming off the pill early matters for conception.

🍃 How stress, sleep, and nutrition influence reproductive health – and practical ways to optimise each.

🍃 The essential nutrients and supplements for egg and sperm health (and why preconception care matters for both partners).

🍃 How fertility is so much more than biology – what emotional, energetic, and lifestyle factors can impact your ability to conceive.

This episode is a must-listen if you’re planning for pregnancy or simply want to be more informed about your reproductive health.

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Additional resources:

💻 Our online course, Unlocking the Power of Your Cycle is designed to help you deeply understand your menstrual cycle – so you can identify your most fertile days and support your body for a healthy conception.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au.

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au.

To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

For many women, fertility can feel like a ticking clock – especially when conversations about egg freezing and fertility testing are becoming more common. 

But how much do we really understand about ovarian reserve, egg quality, and the realities of fertility preservation?

In this episode, Dr Peta, Dr Thea and Sam break down what the AMH test (often called the ‘egg timer test’) actually tells you, when egg freezing might be a good option, and why this whole conversation is bigger than just biology.

Listen now to find out:

🍃 What the AMH test measures and why it doesn’t predict your ability to conceive naturally.

🍃 The truth about ovarian reserve and how age, lifestyle, and stress impact fertility.

🍃 How the egg freezing process works – success rates, costs, and key considerations.

🍃 The biggest misconceptions about the pill and fertility (does birth control really preserve your eggs?).

🍃 Why most women who freeze their eggs never use them – and what this tells us about fertility, career, and life choices.

This is a must-listen episode if you’re curious about fertility preservation, feeling anxious about your biological clock, or simply want to make more informed decisions about your reproductive health.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

What if the way we’ve been treating pelvic pain is keeping women stuck in a cycle of suffering?

For too long, the standard approach to pelvic pain – whether it’s endometriosis, period pain, or persistent discomfort – has focused on managing symptoms rather than addressing the deeper causes. 

Women are left feeling like their bodies are betraying them, caught in an endless loop of medications, surgeries, and frustration.

In this episode, Dr Peta and Dr Thea reveal a different way forward – one that helps you reclaim your body, rather than fight against it. 

They share how nervous system regulation, mindset shifts, and body awareness can transform your relationship with pain and open the door to true healing.

🎧 Listen now to find out:

🌿 The mind-body connection in chronic pelvic pain – why pain isn’t just physical.

🌿 How nervous system dysregulation and past experiences can amplify pain.

🌿 Why self-compassion and nervous system regulation are key to true healing.

🌿 The science behind pain, inflammation, and hormonal balance.

🌿 How you can reclaim agency over your body and move towards healing.

Struggling with period pain, endometriosis, or chronic pelvic discomfort?

The Heal Your Pelvic Pain program is designed to help you break free from the cycle of pain. 

This 9-week program, led by Dr Peta Wright, Dr Thea Bowler, and physiotherapist Paula Hindle, gives you the tools to:

✨ Understand the root causes of pelvic pain.

✨ Rewire your nervous system for safety and ease.

✨ Reconnect with your body to feel empowered, not defeated.

📅 Course starts on Monday, 17 February 2025

🎟 Sign up by Friday 14 February to join this transformative program.

✅ Learn more and sign up here.

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📢  Free Workshop – Monday, 10 February at 12pm AEST

Before the course begins, Paula Hindle will be hosting a free online workshop – open to everyone – to help you prepare for healing and set yourself up for success. 

Join us for practical strategies and insights to start making shifts in your body and nervous system.

🔗 Register for the free workshop here.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au.

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

Have you ever wondered how to optimise your fertility – whether you’re thinking about conceiving now or in the future?

In this episode, Dr Peta, Dr Thea, and Sam break down the essential factors influencing fertility.

From understanding ovulation to the impact of lifestyle choices, they share key insights to help you reconnect with your body and take charge of your reproductive health.

Listen now to find out:

🌿 The physiology of conception and what needs to happen for pregnancy to occur.

🌿 How to track ovulation naturally – recognising key signs your body gives you.

🌿 The role of stress and nervous system regulation in fertility.

🌿 The impact of age, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors on reproductive health.

🌿 Why fertility is more than just baby-making – it's a key indicator of overall wellbeing.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

💫 Unlocking the Power of Your Cycle – A self-paced online course from Vera Wellness to understand and work with your menstrual cycle.

📖 The Fifth Vital Sign by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack – A guide to understanding your menstrual cycle as a health report card.

💻 YourFertility.org.au – A trusted resource for evidence-based fertility information.

📱 Yuka App – A helpful tool for checking endocrine disruptors in personal care products.

🥦 The Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 – A guide to reducing pesticide exposure in your diet.

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If you struggle with endometriosis, debilitating periods, or persistent pelvic discomfort – find out more about our new online course Heal Your Pelvic Pain. 

Heal Your Pelvic Pain is a 9-week program, led by Vera Wellness gynaecologists Dr Peta and Dr Thea, alongside physiotherapist Paula Hindle, which combines evidence-based practices to help you:

✨ Understand the root cause of your pain.

✨ Calm your nervous system.

✨ Reconnect with your body to experience more ease and vitality.

The course begins on Monday, 17 February 2025. 

Learn more and sign up here.

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DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

What if healing pain wasn’t just about treating your body – but learning to truly listen to it?

In this episode, Sam sits down with Vera Wellness physiotherapist Paula Hindle to uncover how reconnecting with your body and regulating your nervous system can transform your healing journey.

Paula shares her deeply personal story of loss and resilience, explaining how it shaped her holistic approach to physiotherapy, and why the mind-body connection is key to recovery.

🎙️In this episode, we explore:

🌿 The nervous system’s role in pain and healing and how recognising your states can help you find relief.

🌿 Moving beyond labels and why chronic pain is more than just a physical issue.

🌿 Creating safety and connection with simple tools to calm your nervous system and rest deeply.

🌿 Transforming adversity into purpose and how challenges can spark personal growth.

If you’re ready to move beyond the pain and reconnect with your body, our live online Heal Your Pelvic Pain course is open for enrolment.

Heal Your Pelvic Pain is a 9-week program led by Vera Wellness gynaecologists Dr Peta Wright and Dr Thea Bowler, alongside physiotherapist Paula Hindle, which combines evidence-based practices to help you:

✨ Understand the root cause of your pain.

✨ Calm your nervous system.

✨ Reconnect with your body to experience more ease and vitality.

The course begins on Monday, 17 February 2025, and we have an Early Bird rate available until 1 February.

Use the code EARLYBIRD100 at checkout for $100 off the full price of the program.

Learn more and sign up here.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

💻 Polyvagal Theory by Dr Stephen Porges – The science behind the nervous system.

🧘‍♀️Guided practices such as yoga, meditation, and somatic techniques to reconnect with your body.

💚 Our live online Heal Your Pelvic Pain course is open for enrolment until 14 February 2025.

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au.

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Send us a text here

What if pleasure could be the key to alleviating pelvic pain? 

In this episode, Sam Lindsay-German sits down with Brooke Dobó, one of Vera’s expert physiotherapists, to explore the connection between pleasure, safety, and pain.

You’ll learn why working with your body and nervous system, rather than against it, can help you move toward a state of safety, vulnerability, and relief.

🎧 Listen now to explore:

🌿 How pleasure and pain can coexist – and why embracing body sensations is crucial for healing.

🌿 The connection between chronic pelvic pain and the nervous system – and why safety is foundational for experiencing pleasure.

🌿 Why diagnoses like "vaginismus" can often be unhelpful – and how reframing them leads to empowerment.

🌿 Practical ways to reconnect with your body through small, daily sensory practices that promote calm and pleasure.

🌿 Tips for creating intimacy and connection with yourself and your partner, including gentle and mindful approaches to touch and presence.

Whether you’re experiencing pelvic pain, struggling with intimacy, or just curious about how pleasure can become part of your healing journey – this episode offers hope and actionable tools to move forward.

And we have some exciting news to share!

Our live Heal Your Pelvic Pain course will begin on 17 February 2025.

This 9-week online program, led by Vera Wellness gynaecologists Dr Peta and Dr Thea and our women's health physiotherapist Paula Hindle, combines evidence-based practices to help you:

✨ Understand the root cause of your pain so you can take control of your healing journey.

✨ Calm and rewire your nervous system so you can shift from constant stress to feeling grounded and supported.

✨ Reclaim your relationship with your body and rediscover its capacity for joy, pleasure and connection.

We have a special Early Bird rate for podcast listeners until 1 February 2025 and places are limited.

Use the coupon code EARLYBIRD100 to claim your discount. 

Learn more and join us here.

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Resources mentioned in this episode:

• 📖 Healing Pelvic Pain by Dr Peta Wright – A comprehensive guide on managing pelvic pain.
• 📖 Come As You Are by Dr Emily Nagoski
• 🎙️ Your Erotic Blueprint Type interview with Jaiya

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For more information about us, visit VeraWellness.com.au. 

We’d love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @verawellness.com.au

​​To stay in the loop with every new episode of Women of the Well and gain first access to special resources and events – join our Podcast VIP Club here.

______________________

DISCLAIMER:

This podcast is for information and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.