The Body Nerd Show

LED face masks are all over my social media feed, but do they actually work? Or is just another expensive skincare gimmick? In this episode, we're diving into the science behind light therapy (aka photobiomodulation) and exploring whether red light therapy can truly improve your skin's texture, tone, and collagen production. From NASA's accidental discovery to clinical trials showing wrinkle reduction and collagen boosts, we'll break down how different wavelengths (and colors) of light affect your skin and what you should look for before buying one of those glowing masks. So if you've ever wanted to add an LED face mask to your cart but aren't sure if it's hype or real? This episode is for you! You'll learn: The science behind LED and light therapy How red light and infrared masks work Why all light is not created equal And what studies say about real results for wrinkles, skin texture and more All the links: Get 10% off your purchase of any Omnilux LED device when you use my link or click here [affiliate] Russell BA, Kellett N, Reilly LR. A study to determine the efficacy of combination LED light therapy (633 nm and 830 nm) in facial skin rejuvenation. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2005 Dec Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomed Laser Surg. 2014 Feb Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what you should be doing)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

You've probably heard of gua sha, facial massage, or even therapy ball work for swelling and puffiness, but did you know those are all forms of lymphatic drainage? The lymphatic system is responsible for waste removal (and a whole bunch of other processes) throughout your body. And in this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm breaking down what the lymphatic system does, how lymphatic massage works, and why it's way more than just a spa trend. You'll learn how gentle, intentional touch can help move lymph, reduce swelling, and support your immune system, especially after injury, illness, or chronic inflammation. So whether you're dealing with swelling, stiffness right now, or just curious how to feel better faster, this episode will show you how to get things moving again. You'll learn: The science behind lymph and why movement matters Why it's essential for healing, immunity, and recovery How to safely use lymphatic drainage massage for swollen joints, chronic conditions, and migraines All the links: Happe, Svenja, et al. "The efficacy of lymphatic drainage and traditional massage in the prophylaxis of migraine: a randomized, controlled parallel group study." Neurological Sciences 37 (2016): 1627-1632. How to Do Lymphatic Drainage Massage [Video] Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what you should be doing)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/  

Do you need hours at the gym for it to count? Nope! In today's episode, I'm breaking down exactly how much movement it really takes to support your health… according to science, not social media. Whether you're struggling to stay consistent or just want to know what the bare minimum is (and why it's enough), I've got you covered with today's episode. You'll learn: How much you have to workout for it to "count" If weekend-only workouts can still improve your health What the CDC and NHS say about minimum activity (and how to make it work for you) Simple mindset shifts that make it easier to stay on track (even when life gets busy) All the links: Liao, Dan‐Qing, et al. "Association of Accelerometer‐Derived Physical Activity Pattern With the Risks of All‐Cause, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer Death." Journal of the American Heart Association 14.8 (2025): e039225. Sinatra, Stephen T., et al. "Grounding–The universal anti-inflammatory remedy." biomedical journal 46.1 (2023): 11-16. CDC Physical Activity Basics NHS - Physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64 Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what to do)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

If you've ever dealt with chronic pain or injuries, you know the journey to healing doesn't always feel linear. Some days, it's one step forward… and others feel like you've taken four steps back. But what if the marker of progress isn't pain? What if progress looks more like rebuilding trust in your body... …creating a sense of safety in how you move... …and learning how to listen without fear or frustration? In this episode, I'm joined by chronic pain specialist and physical therapist Dr. Tawny Kross - and she shares why pain isn't always a sign of damage and why your body and brain need safety to heal. Whether you're deep in your healing journey or just trying to make sense of how your body feels, I know you're going to love this one. You'll learn: Why pain does not always mean something is broken How to build nervous system resilience and capacity to reduce pain Why progress isn't about less pain How to proceed with your movement when you're in a flare-up All the links: @dr.tawny.kross on Instagram Kross Centered Care Body Awareness Guide 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

Does having an injury or pain mean you need to stop moving? In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by Dana Jones, host of The Pain Free Athlete Podcast, for a myth-busting conversation about pain, injury, and movement. Together, we debunk some of the most common and harmful fitness myths that keep you stuck. If you've ever wondered what to do when you're in pain, why rest isn't always the best solution, or how to stay active safely, this episode is for you. Dana and I also dive into the mindset shifts that help you navigate workouts and life — even when you're in pain. You'll learn: Why no pain, no gain is not true (especially if you're already in pain Why pain doesn't have to be a normal part of aging How to navigate your workouts when you're injured or in pain All the links: Pain Free Athlete Podcast @painfreeathletepodcast on Instagram Dana's journaling prompts for pain Boulder Back Pain Study - Effect of Pain Reprocessing Therapy vs Placebo and Usual Care for Patients With Chronic Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial Nicole Sachs - Break Awake 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/  

If you're living with an autoimmune condition or managing chronic inflammation, building sustainable habits can feel overwhelming. But what if you could feel better by doing less, not more? This week on The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by Dr. Amy Behimer, PharmD, NBC-HWC - a board-certified health and wellness coach, pharmacist, and the creator of The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Health™. Diagnosed with MS in 2012, Amy blends her personal journey with professional expertise to help others feel better through feel-good habits - without falling into the trap of perfectionism. Whether you're living with MS or another autoimmune diagnosis, I promise you this conversation is the breath of fresh air and permission you've been waiting for. You'll learn: The key habits for reducing inflammation Why rest is more effective than "stressing less" How to set perfectionism aside and make truly sustainable habits What inflammation really is and how to measure progress beyond just lab results All the links: The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Health Podcast Amy's Website [Amy Behimer Coaching] Your #1 Habit Quiz @amybehimercoaching on Instagram 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork Getting stuck? Drop me your question on the Body Nerd Hotline at 818-396-6501 and I'll cover it on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

What if your flexibility is actually causing your pain? Hypermobility is more than just being bendy - it's a connective tissue condition that can affect your joints, your gut, your nervous system, and more. I just thought it was totally normal to be able to hyperextended my knees 🙊 In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by physical therapist and movement specialist Dr. Melissa Koehl, who shares her personal and professional experience with hypermobility. From a career-ending injury as a competitive gymnast to developing her own method for managing pain and building strength, Dr. Melissa is a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating life in a hypermobile body. We're digging into the real-life impact of hypermobility, including how it affects your gut, your nervous system, and your daily movement. You'll learn: Why hypermobility is more than just being bendy Why building strength is key for long-term pain relief and injury prevention The gut health and hypermobility connection How to navigate the healthcare system as a hypermobile person All the links: Ground Control Course with Dr. Melissa Chimera Health - Dr. Melissa's Website @dr.melissakoehl.pt on Instagram 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

Sitting too much is wrecking your body, but what if you could sneak in movement while stuck in the car? Whether you're commuting to work, driving the kids around, or just sitting at your desk, too much sitting can lead to stiff joints, back pain, and tight hips. But you don't need a full workout to feel better. Movement snacks (small, intentional movements throughout the day) can be more beneficial than a full length workout - especially if keeping it simple means you actually do it! In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I sit down with Hope Zvara, founder of Mother Trucker Yoga®, to talk about simple ways to bring mobility into your long drives and improve your flexibility in just a few minutes a day. Hope's super practical tips will help you feel your best… even on your busiest days. 🙌 You'll learn: How movement snacks can be more beneficial than exercise How to bring mobility into your long drives How to improve your health and flexibility in just a few minutes every day All the links: @hopezvara on Instagram Mother Trucker Yoga Hope's Book - Trucking Yoga: Simple Fitness for the Long Haul Book Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual Therapists and Movement Professionals Exercise Snacks: A Novel Strategy to Improve Cardiometabolic Health. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2022 Jan 1. 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

The Body Nerd Show is officially back! And today's episode is a little different. Instead of talking about how to move better, we're talking about grief. Because grief isn't just losing someone you love - it's forced change of any kind. The loss of a job, a friendship, a relationship, or even just life not turning out the way you expected. And for the last year, I've been deep in it. Losing my dad in August completely changed my life. So in today's episode, I'm sharing where I've been, what's next for the show, and how we can navigate grief (of all kinds) together. Thanks for being here. It means more than you know. 💖 You'll learn: Where I've been for the last 10 months Where we're going with the podcast And what's next for the Body Nerd Show All the links: Good Mourning Podcast with Sally Douglas and Imogen Carn The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss by Mary-Frances O'Connor 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/  

As someone who is currently diving deep into all things gut health-related, I am really excited to invite Dr. Meg Mill on today's episode. Dr. Meg is a Functional Medicine Practitioner, author and speaker and you might remember her from episode 195 on Hormones and Headaches. So when she reached out about today's topic, I was instantly interested. Especially because symptoms of mast cell activation can impact the skin with hives, rashes, or itching, the GI tract with diarrhea, bloating, nausea, and general body symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, coughing, and inflammation. Basically, it's a lot. So if you're someone who seems to struggle with a variety of symptoms that don't fall under one umbrella, I know you'll find our conversation super insightful. Enjoy my conversation with Dr. Meg Mill! You'll learn: Symptoms of histamine intolerance and mast cell activation All about histamines and how they can impact the body (beyond hay fever) The role estrogen and progesterone play in histamine levels (and can contribute to migraines and mood swings) Gut health strategies to manage histamine intolerance to reduce symptoms All the links: Reversing Mast Cell Activation and Histamine Intolerance Summit 2.0 with Dr. Meg Mill [event] Dr. Meg's guide to Histamine Intolerance Dr. Meg Mill's website @DrMegMill on Instagram Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

Today I'm joined by Ragen Chastain - a remarkable speaker, writer, and thought leader in weight science, weight stigma, and health.  With all the talk about Ozempic and Wegovy, I knew we needed to do a deep dive here on the Body Nerd Show Podcast and have an expert to guide us through.  And Ragen 100% delivered on both fronts.  Whether you're curious about these medications, interested in weight science, or simply looking to expand your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights and perspectives.  As I've said on the show time and time again - my goal is to provide you with as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision for yourself.  So enjoy today's episode with Ragen Chastain! You'll learn: How Ozempic and Wegovy (Semaglutide a GLP-1 receptor agonist) work The intersection of weight science, weight stigma, and healthcare How Big Pharma manipulates language and research And why we need a shift towards informed-consent healthcare that's NOT swayed by marketing dollars All the links: Dances with Fat - Ragen's Website Weight and Healthcare Newsletter (Ragen's Substack) @Ragenchastain on Instagram Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co  

Would it surprise you to know that you don't need to lose weight to get out of pain? I frequently get messages that include something along the lines of "I know I need to lose weight but…" which breaks my heart because I believe that life without pain is possible for everyone - no matter what your body looks like or feels like right now. We've been sold this idea that the pain in our joints is directly related to body mass. But time and time again - the research does not find this to be true. You don't need to lose weight to get out of pain. And the idea that some amount of pain is something we have to just "live with" because of our age or body type is nonsense. You'll learn: Why you don't need to lose weight to get out of pain Why focusing on BMI is a waste of time (and missing the point) How there is no definitive scientific link between body mass, weight loss, and pain All the links: The association between chronic pain and obesity. J Pain Res. 2015;8:399-408. Published 2015 Jul 14 Evers Larsson, U. Influence of weight loss on pain, perceived disability and observed functional limitations in obese women. Int J Obes 28, 269–277 (2004). Effect of weight loss on musculoskeletal pain in the morbidly obese. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British volume 1990 72-B:2, 322-323 Unraveling the Directional Link between Adiposity and Inflammation: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Approach, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 95, Issue 1, 1 January 2010 Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

More than 50 million people in the U.S. live with osteoporosis, a bone disease that leads to a decrease in the structure and strength of bone. But what if I told you that the best way to rebuild bone strength doesn't require any pharmaceuticals? Because it might surprise you to know that osteopenia isn't the same as osteoporosis. But should we be treating them differently? In today's episode, I'm joined by physical therapist (and my hiking partner), Dr. Sarah Court (@sarahcourtdpt), and she's sharing her best tips to improve bone density, the difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia, why strength training might be a better bet than pharmaceuticals and how to get started with strength training when you're worried about building stronger bones. We're scared into the idea that our bones are becoming weak and brittle - and for some people, this may 100% be true. And from the conversations I'm having with clients and my DM's on social media, it's clear this is on many of our minds, and I couldn't be more excited to tackle it in today's episode. Dr. Sarah is here to guide us through the nuances of building stronger bones - so whether this is top of mind or not, I know you're going to enjoy today's episode! You'll learn: The difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia How to improve bone density How to get started with strength training (and why you absolutely want to) All the links: Heel Drop Exercise [YouTube] Sarah's Website - SarahCourtDPT.com Follow Sarah on Instagram - @sarahcourtdpt Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

Do you drink coffee? When I posted the video "Why I Quit Caffeine (and you should too!!)" on YouTube in 2017, I quickly realized just how passionate folks are about their coffee rituals. Fast forward to 2024 - and I still don't drink coffee. Not a drop. Not even in ice cream! But I'm not entirely anti-caffeine. I do, however, still have a cup of tea every morning, but I tread carefully because too much caffeine turns me into the Energizer Bunny with insomnia. Many of my experiments start with a curious "I wonder what would happen if…" and giving up coffee was no exception. The result? No regrets. Waking up is a breeze, falling asleep is a dream, and that notorious 3 pm crash is a distant memory. And before you scroll away - hear me out - coffee affects the adenosine receptors in your brain. Drink coffee, create more receptors, crave more coffee—it's a deliciously vicious cycle. Stay caffeinated (or not)! ☕️ You'll learn: What adenosine is and how caffeine works in your brain Why you need more coffee to feel awake And how to be more energized without having to rely on coffee All the links: [Why I Quit Caffeine (and you should too) Video] Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

The internet is filled with fitness myths that promise quick fixes and magical solutions. From the carnivore diet to the "best exercise to make shredded abs!" - there's a lot of 💩 out there. So when UK-based Michael Ulloa (@michaelulloapt) came through my feed calling out lies on the internet - I knew I wanted to be friends and have him on the show. Michael is a personal trainer and performance nutritionist with a unique talent for making health advice accessible and empowering for everyone, regardless of their fitness background. And while we could have gone through the myths line by line, I wanted to empower you with your own BS detector. So whether your feed is filled with the carnivore diet or some other nonsense - if you're ready to bust some myths, today's episode is for you! You'll learn: How to spot BS on the internet Why "it depends" is the best phrase to look for How to bridge the gap between fitness professionals and regular people just wanting to move better and feel better All the links: Michael's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelulloapt/ Get Fit with Michael program: https://www.getfitwithmichael.com/ Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

Unlock the secrets to a pain-free life - recent research reveals that retraining your brain is the key to saying goodbye to chronic back pain without surgery. But is life without pain possible? Even if you have an x-ray or MRI that says the only fix is surgical? Here's a revelation: MRI studies on people without back pain consistently reveal a significant percentage with disc issues but zero pain. This challenges the idea that disc issues are always correlated with pain. And I know this goes against what most of us have been told about back pain — which is precisely why I recorded this episode. There is an increasing amount of data and research that has found decreases in pain with mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques but it seems that information has yet to reach orthopedic surgeons in practice. So if you believe that life without pain is possible, but you're not quite sure how to get there — today's episode is for you! 🔗 (all research and references are available in the show notes at aewellness.com) You'll learn: The surprising link between pain and your brain The transformative power of the mind-body connection in overcoming pain. How therapy balls and activations can help you get out of pain All the links: Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine in people without back pain. New England Journal of Medicine 331.2 (1994) Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations. American journal of neuroradiology 36.4 (2015): 811-816. Reattribution to Mind-Brain Processes and Recovery From Chronic Back Pain: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2023 Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co  

If you're ready to get started with weights or redefine your relationship with strength training — today's episode is for you. I'm joined by the incredible Allison Tenney (@allisontenney). As a former D1 Athlete and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Allison totally gets the "all or nothing" mentality that so often sabotages our progress (especially when you're an overachiever perfectionist like me!). And while I thought this would be a conversation on how to get started with strength training (which it is), we go so much deeper. I've been a proud member of her coaching program, The Den, for the last 2 years and have been loving the strength I've built because of it. In our conversation, you'll learn: How to get started with strength training How to use compassion as an antidote to perfectionism with your workouts How smart strength programming makes a world of difference All the links: Allison on Instagram - @allisontenney Allison's website - https://allisontenneyfitness.com/ Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co  

Are you curious about collagen powder and whether it lives up to the hype? In this week's episode of the Body Nerd Show, we're diving deep into the world of collagen, including exploring what it is, the various types, and most importantly the science behind collagen supplementation. How much should you take if you want to reduce joint pain? Or reduce aging? I'll be honest - I went into this knowing that collagen works but was really surprised at all the ways research has found it helps! But it makes sense when you consider that collagen makes up 25% of all protein in your body. I'm all about providing you with evidence-based information so you can make informed decisions about the best next steps for yourself - and today is no different. So whether you currently supplement with collagen, are thinking about it, or just like to get nerdy - today's episode is for you! You'll learn: Does collagen powder actually work? How much collagen to supplement with to improve joint health And how collagen is needed to improve skin elasticity and hydration from within All the links: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder (the one I use) Hip Mobility Basics Workshop - LIVE January 8, 2024 Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. International Journal of Dermatology 60.12 (2021) The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids 53.10 (2021) Influence of caffeine and hyaluronic acid on collagen biosynthesis in human skin fibroblasts. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2014. Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

Has your physical therapist or chiropractor used a stainless steel tool to work on your persistent knots? If so, you've experienced Graston therapy. The Graston Technique is a type of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IATSM), which research has shown to be effective in improving range of motion and reducing pain. Personally, I've never been a big fan of hard tools, especially if they cause bruising, but this is where things can get confusing. In many Eastern medicine techniques (gua sha, cupping, etc.), bruising is the goal and is seen as a sign of healing. So is Graston just a watered-down, Westernized version of an ancient practice? Does it actually work? In this week's episode, we dive into all things Graston and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. You'll learn: Using tools for bodywork aka instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization The history of the Graston Technique and how it works How hard tools can be used safely and effectively to reduce pain and improve range of motion… without bruising All the links: The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association 60.3 (2016) Instrument-assisted cross-fiber massage accelerates knee ligament healing. Journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy 39.7 (2009) The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2016 The immediate effects of graston instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization and self-stretching on the muscular properties of the gastrocnemius in athletes." Korean Society of Physical Medicine 15.4 (2020) Join me for the next Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co

Can blue light blocking glasses help prevent migraines? For many people who suffer from migraines, sensitivity to light (aka photophobia) is a debilitating piece of the migraine experience. To answer this question, we have to understand a little bit more about how your eyes work, the role blue light plays, and the nerdiest of nerdy cells in your eye - ipRGCs. While the science might not have definitive proof on blue light blockers and migraines, I know there are many people who have found blue light-coated lenses to be super helpful. But do they actually work and are they worth it? So whether you're a seasoned migraine warrior or just curious to learn more about blue light blockers and how they work - today's episode is for you! You'll learn: The connection between migraines and blue light If blue light blocker glasses are a valid preventative for migraines And the 3rd type of cell in your eye that you've never heard about All the links: Thin-film optical notch filter spectacle coatings for the treatment of migraine and photophobia." Journal of Clinical Neuroscience 28 (2016) Phototransduction in ganglion-cell photoreceptors. Pflugers Arch - Eur J Physiol 454, 849–855 (2007) Diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment of photophobia. Survey of ophthalmology 61.4 (2016) Join me for the Movement Mavens Retreat! www.aewellness.com/retreat/ 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode is brought to you by Mobility Mastery Toolkit. Forget icing and stretching - and get a simple program you can do on your own that actually works. The Toolkit includes 30-days of exercises so you know exactly what to do to improve the mobility of your hips, lower back, feet, neck and shoulders. With video demos and a full-body mobility workout calendar, you're just 15-mins a day from feeling stronger and more flexible. Get $20 off when you use the code MASTERY at www.mobilitytoolkit.co