Meant to Move

In this engaging conversation, Vanessa Leone speaks with Tony Eames, the owner of Calm Bar, about his journey from a corporate career to the wellness industry. They explore the importance of recovery practices such as breathwork, saunas, and ice baths, discussing their transformative effects on mental and physical health. Tony shares his personal experiences and insights on how to approach these wellness practices, emphasizing the need for balance and listening to one's body. The conversation highlights the significance of community support in the wellness journey and encourages listeners to embrace their unique paths to health and well-being.You’ll learn about:Recovery is essential for mental and physical health.Breathwork can significantly impact stress levels.Ice baths can be transformative but require a personal approach.Saunas offer both relaxation and health benefits.It's important to listen to your body and adjust practices accordingly.Our Favourite quotable moments:"It's not one thing that’s the answer — it’s part of the bigger picture." - Tony"Start it when you're busy. Even 30 seconds is a win." - Vanessa"Controlled stress helps build resilience."- TonyIf you are interested in real life movement therapy get in touch with Vanessa.Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Tony Eames:Tony Eames is the founder of CalmBar in Rozelle — a unique wellness space where science meets soul, offering infrared sauna, ice baths, breathwork, and sound healing experiences.  As a master breathwork facilitator, Tony guides powerful, heart-opening journeys that help you release stress, tune into your body, and reset your nervous system. With years of experience in both the corporate the wellness sector, through the power of the breath he offers deep, transformative experiences that shift energy, clear the mind, and offer you the opportunity to connect.Website:www.calmbar.com.auInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/calmbar_/About Your Host:Vanessa holds a BSc in Sports Science and brings nearly 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. As a respected Movement Therapist, she combines scientific and holistic approaches to deliver high-quality training for both individuals and groups. Driven by a passion for learning and improvement, Vanessa's mission as an expert generalist is to help others find betterment in their lives. Vanessa trains clients and fitness professionals across Australia, consults for Technogym, and is an accomplished presenter at International Fitness Conferences. Her guiding ethos is simple: do things BETTER! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Meant to Move podcast, host Vanessa Leone engages with Luke and Zoe from Muscle Nerds to explore the multifaceted world of strength training and fitness education. They discuss the definition of strength training, the importance of context in training, and the common misconceptions surrounding health and fitness. The conversation delves into the significance of specificity in training, the impact of personal experiences on training perspectives, and the balance between aesthetic goals and functional strength. They also touch on the importance of movement therapy and the need for a balanced training program that caters to individual needs.You’ll learn about:Strength training is about applying tension to muscles: Functional strength is essential for longevity.Context is crucial in understanding fitness advice: Listening to your body is key to effective training.Health is not just the absence of disease.Movement therapy can take many forms, including walks and light exercises.Balance between cardio and strength training is important.Our Favourite quotable moments:What is strength training? - VanessaContext makes the water clear. - ZoeHealth is not being crippled in your 60s. - LukeIf you’re loving the podcast, share on your socials!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About The Muscle Nerds - Luke Leaman & Zoe Knight:Luke and Zoe own an online (and in-person) education company in the health and fitness industry. Their courses are targeted towards Coaches who want to understand how and why different training methods, exercises, 'diets' and other variables actually work. Our goal is to create critical thinking coaches, who understand enough of the foundational physiology, that they can come up with solutions on their own (as opposed to teaching step a), step b), step c) type content).Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musclenerds_education/About Your Host:Vanessa holds a BSc in Sports Science and brings nearly 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. As a respected Movement Therapist, she combines scientific and holistic approaches to deliver high-quality training for both individuals and groups. Driven by a passion for learning and improvement, Vanessa's mission as an expert generalist is to help others find betterment in their lives. Vanessa trains clients and fitness professionals across Australia, consults for Technogym, and is an accomplished presenter at International Fitness Conferences. Her guiding ethos is simple: do things BETTER! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful conversation, physiotherapist Nicola Andreacchio joins Vanessa Leone to discuss the often-overlooked world of pelvic health. Nicola shares her unexpected journey into pelvic floor physiotherapy and highlights the crucial role it plays in both male and female health. From taboo topics like erectile dysfunction and painful sex to broader issues such as endometriosis, prolapse, and hernias, they explore the physical and emotional implications of pelvic dysfunction. Emphasizing empathy, education, and the importance of listening to one’s body, Nicola advocates for de-stigmatizing these discussions and prioritizing preventative care to improve quality of life across the lifespan.You’ll learn about:Everyone has a pelvic floor: The pelvis is a central hub affecting many bodily functions.Pelvic health issues are often stigmatized and not discussed openly: Communication is key.Men also experience pelvic health issues like erectile dysfunction and prostate health.Women should not only seek pelvic health support during pregnancy.Chronic pain can often be linked to pelvic health issues: Preventative healthcare can help avoid long-term pelvic issues.Our Favourite quotable moments:Everyone has a pelvic floor, and it's crucial for health. - NicolaCommunication is key in discussing pelvic health concerns. - NicolaChronic pain can often be linked to pelvic health issues. - NicolaIf you’re loving the podcast, share with a friend!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Nicola Andreacchio]:Nicola is a pelvic floor physiotherapist from Melbourne, Victoria. She first started working as a general musculoskeletal physio in 2018 and then accidentally fell into the world of pelvic health in 2020. She works with men, women, children and trans clients to help with dysfunction of the pelvic floor and this includes things like toilet training challenges for kids and bladder, bowel and sexual dysfunction in adults.Website:https://www.pelvichealth.melbourneAbout Your Host:Vanessa holds a BSc in Sports Science and brings nearly 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. As a respected Movement Therapist, she combines scientific and holistic approaches to deliver high-quality training for both individuals and groups. Driven by a passion for learning and improvement, Vanessa's mission as an expert generalist is to help others find betterment in their lives. Vanessa trains clients and fitness professionals across Australia, consults for Technogym, and is an accomplished presenter at International Fitness Conferences. Her guiding ethos is simple: do things BETTER! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this 20th episode of Meant to Move, host Vanessa Leone chats with her father, Nick Leone—affectionately known as “Papa Producer.” Together, they reflect on the evolution of the podcast and discuss key themes and insights from previous episodes. They highlight the importance of individualized movement, emotional connection, pain awareness, social exercise, nutrition, breathwork, and the joy of play. Nick shares his behind-the-scenes role, personal experiences, and lessons learned from guests with diverse backgrounds. The conversation emphasizes practical wellness approaches and concludes with reflections on how small, mindful habits can spark meaningful change in health and life.You’ll learn about:Movement should be joyful and individualized: it’s important to leave a session feeling better than when you arrived.Pain is a common experience that needs to be addressed in fitness.Research and credibility are crucial in health and fitness practices.Play and movement are essential for maintaining vitality as we age.Small, achievable changes can lead to significant improvements in health.Our Favourite quotable moments:Movement fills me with joy and purpose. - VanessaNow that I move more, I don't get as many pain episodes as I used to. - NickIf I haven’t hit my step goal, I’ll walk around the kitchen bench for 20 minutes. - NickIf you’re loving the podcast, share with a friend!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Nick Leone:Nick is Vanessa’s father and is a retired customs officer. He has been dubbed “papa producer” by Vanessa for his behind the scenes work in helping produce the Meant to Move Podcast and bring it to air. He credits Vanessa for inspiring him to increase his movement and exercise activities, helping him to maintain a healthier lifestyle, improved mobility, and joyful playtime with his granddaughter. About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Vanessa Leone and OD explore the multifaceted nature of exercise programming, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's body, the emotional aspects of movement, and the need for personalized approaches to fitness. They discuss the balance between routine and variety, the significance of recovery, and practical strategies for implementing change in exercise habits. The dialogue highlights the role of play in movement and encourages listeners to rethink traditional fitness paradigms, making exercise a joyful and integral part of life.You’ll learn about:Exercise programming should be personalized and adaptable, and reflect real-life movements and needs.Emotional well-being plays a significant role in physical performance.Variety in exercise and small changes in routines can enhance engagement and results.Understanding individual stressors can inform exercise choices.Playful movement can reignite joy in exercise.Our Favourite quotable moments:Variety in exercise can enhance engagement and results. - IanRecovery is as important as the workout itself. - IanPlayful movement can reignite joy in exercise. - IanIf you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review! Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Ian O’Dwyer:Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.IG - feel.somaFB - /feelsomaWebsite: https://www.feelsoma.comAbout Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Vanessa Leone interviews Gary Ward, a prominent figure in the fitness industry known for his innovative approach to movement and anatomy. They discuss the importance of understanding the human gait cycle, the role of the nervous system in movement, and practical strategies for improving body awareness and movement efficiency. Gary emphasizes the need for individuals to take ownership of their bodies and explore new movement patterns to alleviate pain and enhance performance. The discussion also touches on the significance of addressing past injuries and habits that affect current movement capabilities.You’ll learn about:Movement is a behavior that becomes habitual over time: creating awareness can lead to significant improvements.Waking up sleepy parts of the body can improve overall movement: self investigation is key to understanding and improving movementUnderstanding the gait cycle is crucial for assessing movement efficiency.The nervous system plays a significant role in how we move and feel.Practitioners should focus on helping clients find the root cause of their issues: injuries from the past van impact current movement patterns..Our Favourite quotable moments:The body is always working at 100%. - GaryThe magic is in the experience of movement. - GaryMovement is a language we need to learn. - VanessaIf you are interested in real life movement therapy get in touch with Vanessa.Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.Gary WardGary is known for breaking the mould of anatomical thinking and for his creation of the Flow Motion Model. Gary has been featured several times in books, television spots, and many podcasts. Gary lives in Bali, works with elite athletes in the USA and mentors a team of therapists who also look after the athletes. AiM is a global education business that operates online and in person.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garyward_aim/Website:www.findingcentre.co.ukAbout Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode, John Sinclair discusses the concept of "microdosing movement"—breaking down exercise into small, accessible, and purposeful doses tailored to individual lifestyles and needs. He explains how his company, Seven Movements, helps people improve function through seven-minute daily movement "snacks," especially for those who find traditional fitness environments or 60-minute sessions inaccessible. John challenges conventional fitness programming, advocating for personalized, low-barrier approaches that prioritize well-being and function over aesthetics. By reframing movement as adult recess and tying it to purpose, it fosters a healthier lifestyle, ultimately aiming to make fitness accessible and enjoyable for everyone.You’ll learn about:Microdosing movements can significantly improve health outcomes.Traditional fitness programming often overlooks individual needs: the industry must evolve to be more inclusive and supportive.Self-selection in exercise leads to better adherence and results.Corporate culture can greatly influence employee health and wellness: “recess” for adults can enhance productivity and well-being.Fitness professionals need to empathize with clients' challenges.Our Favourite quotable moments:Exercise doesn't have to be complicated. - JohnMovement should be fun and engaging. - JohnFitness should inspire, not intimidate. - JohnIf you’re loving the podcast, share on your socials!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About John Sinclair:John Sinclair, originally from Lucky Lake, Saskatchewan, is a lifelong advocate of movement and health, inspired by his background as a multi-sport athlete. With a degree in Physical Education and Sport Performance from the University of Alberta, he has over 25 years of experience as a trainer and strength coach, working with athletes from amateur to Olympic levels. Now based in Sunrise, Florida, John is the Director of Programming for the Institute of Motion and ViPR PRO, co-founder of Seven Movements Health, and leads Authentic Health Coaching. He also consults globally, most recently for the Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection's Wellness Experience.Website: http://www.sevenmovements.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/authentichealthcoach/About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode, Vanessa shares her transformative experience with a deep breathwork session combined with sound healing and Reiki. She discusses her intentions, the emotional releases she experienced, and the profound sensations that arose during the session. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of community support and the liberating nature of surrendering to the process. She encourages listeners to explore their own mind and body connections through breathwork and to seek out new experiences.TakeawaysThe experience was a deep exploration of breathwork and sound healing.Breathwork can lead to emotional releases and a sense of community.Surrendering to the process can be liberating and transformative.The session included live music that enhanced the experience.Vanessa felt a range of sensations, including warmth and heaviness in her body.The sound healing allowed for visual and physical sensations to emerge.Breathwork can be a profound practice for personal growth.It's important to be open to new experiences and awe.Community support during such experiences can be very powerful.Vanessa encourages listeners to explore their own breathwork journeys. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Vanessa and Michael explore various aspects of nutrition, emphasizing the importance of fibre, the benefits of black beans and nuts, and the role of micronutrients. They discuss practical tips for incorporating healthy foods into daily diets, the significance of food prep, and the joy of enjoying foods like chocolate. The conversation highlights how small changes can lead to significant health benefits.You’ll learn about:Black beans have more polyphenols than blueberries, making them a superfood.Eating walnuts can lower mortality risk during chemotherapy treatments.Mushrooms can help prevent breast cancer, while Nigella seeds are beneficial for thyroid function and overall health.Caffeine can block the absorption of iron, so timing matters.Creatine is a well-researched supplement with numerous health benefits.Our Favourite quotable moments:Caffeine can block iron absorption. - MichaelAdding joy to nutrition is essential. - MichaelFood prep makes healthy eating easier. - VanessaIf you’re loving the podcast, share with a friend!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About our guest Michael Fisher:Michael is Vanessa’s partner and shares her ethos of being better. Michael is passionate about food, coffee and the English Premier League club, Arsenal. Michael has been a natural bodybuilder since the age of 21. Michael is an enthusiastic and accomplished home cook and is meticulous and disciplined in the way he plans meals with a balanced approach that is focused on nutritional value, and adequate protein and fibre that all contributes to sustainable and healthy habits, as well as enjoyment of food. Michael emphasises the important role of gut health in overall well being.Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mfisher1410/About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Vanessa Leone and OD explore the concept of fluidity in the body, discussing the importance of fascia, movement, and the lymphatic system. They delve into how emotional health is connected to physical fluid flow and provide practical tips for enhancing fluidity through breath and playful movement. The discussion emphasizes the significance of applying knowledge to improve health and well-being.You’ll learn about:Fascia and fluidity in the body play a significant role in movement and is crucial for overall health.The lymphatic system relies on movement to function properly.Breath through the nose enhances oxygen flow and relaxation.Playful movement and incorporating it into exercise can stimulate fluidity and joy.Knowledge is not enough; application is essential for health benefits.Our Favourite quotable moments:What is fluid in the body? - IanIs it fluid? Is it rhythmical? - IanMovement is the key to fluidity. - IanIf you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review! Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Ian O’Dwyer:Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.IG - feel.somaFB - /feelsomaWebsite: https://www.feelsoma.comAbout Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Vanessa Leone speaks with calisthenics coach Yannick Kwai-Pun about the evolution, philosophy, and personal journey within the realm of bodyweight training. They discuss the importance of skill development, overcoming injuries, and the significance of mobility in calisthenics. Yannick shares insights on realistic expectations for beginners and highlights key movements that promote lifelong fitness. The conversation emphasizes the journey of training over the destination, making calisthenics accessible and enjoyable for all ages.You’ll learn about:Skill development in calisthenics is a lifelong journey: focus on the journey, not just the end goal.Mobility is crucial for effective calisthenics training.The press handstand is a blend of strength and skill.The muscle-up is a functional movement with real-world applications.Calisthenics encourages a deeper understanding of body mechanics and can be adapted for all ages and fitness levels.Our Favourite quotable moments:You can still progress even later in life. - YannickSkill development is a lifelong journey. - VanessaThe muscle-up is a functional movement. - YannickIf you are interested in real life movement therapy get in touch with Vanessa.Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Yannick Kwai-PunYannick has a background in Olympic weightlifting and is a strength and conditioning coach who has always been heavily invested in the pursuit of strength in various forms. In 2015, while rehabilitating from a few injuries, Yannick discovered the Ido portal method which slowly pivoted him towards bodyweight strength training. At the end of 2016 he began coaching online, which has had a big influence on what he currently teaches. His main mission is to make skill work accessible to all by breaking movement patterns down in a way that is easily understood and designed to educate and not intimidate.Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/yankwaipun/About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this enlightening conversation, Vanessa Leone and Mikayla Foss delve into the intricacies of women's health and performance, emphasizing the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle, the impact of birth control, and the necessity of tailored training approaches. They discuss how to empower women through education and awareness, the significance of building lean muscle, and the benefits of high-intensity training. The dialogue also touches on personal experiences with movement therapy and the importance of listening to one's body throughout different life stages.You’ll learn about:Setting women up for success requires tailored health recommendations.The menstrual cycle significantly impacts women's performance.Birth control can have varied effects on women's health.High-intensity training and building lean muscle is beneficial for women and their long term health.Empowerment comes from understanding one's body and capabilities.Our Favourite quotable moments:We want to set women up for success. - MikaylaIt's about consistency and patterns. - VanessaLong walks are my movement therapy. - MikaylaIf you’re loving the podcast, share on your socials!Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Mikayla FossMikayla Foss is a Senior Performance Coach at Exos in Phoenix, Arizona. Her role consists of creating digital content for the Exos app platform, co-coaching NFL offseason groups, and traveling internationally to educate other coaches on the Exos training system. In recent years, Mikayla has helped lead initiatives around supporting women in work, sport, and life - addressing the underrepresentation of women in medical and performance research. She helps women optimize their training, fueling, and recovery to align with their unique physiology—empowering women to harness their cycle as a superpower.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/likeafoss/Exos Online Course:https://exoslearn.inspire360.com/p/harnAbout Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Vanessa Leone and Emma Masters delve into the transformative power of breathwork, exploring its significance in wellness and mental health. They discuss the science behind breathing, the effects of over-breathing, and the importance of CO2 in our respiratory health. Emma shares practical techniques for incorporating breathwork into daily life, the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the practice, and the necessity of finding qualified practitioners. The conversation emphasizes the connection between breath, emotions, and overall well-being, encouraging listeners to explore breathwork as a tool for healing and self-discovery.You’ll learn about:Over-breathing is a common issue in modern society, often linked to stress.CO2 plays a crucial role in our respiratory health and should not be viewed negatively.Practical breathwork techniques can be easily integrated into daily routines and tailored to individual needs.Finding a safe and qualified practitioner is essential for effective breathwork.Breathwork can facilitate emotional releases and healing and enhance performance and energy levels.Our Favourite quotable moments:"Breathwork can help with PTSD." - Emma"There's a breath for that." - Emma"We store emotions in our tissues." - EmmaResources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Emma MastersEmma Masters is an internationally acclaimed fitness presenter, educator, and business owner with nearly two decades of experience in the health and fitness industry. Having held senior roles, including Group Exercise Manager for Virgin Active in both Australia and the UK, Emma has established herself as a leader in the field. Emma is founder of Experience Age Consultancy, a company dedicated to group fitness education + boutique fitness consultancy as well as co-founder of Therapy Fitness, a studio and brand that aims to 'change the feeling of fitness' by focusing on the mental and emotional benefits of movement alongside physical wellness.Instagram:instagram.com/ema_masters instagram.com/therapyfitness_auWebsite:https://www.experienceageconsultancy.com/https://www.therapyfitness.com.au/About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode, Vanessa explores the concepts of muscle tension and tightness, emphasizing the importance of understanding how our muscles function at rest and during activity. She discusses the impact of stress on muscle tension and provides practical techniques for down-regulating muscle activity to improve overall physical health and reduce pain.TakeawaysAll muscles are always on to a certain extent.Muscle tension can be influenced by stress and fatigue.It's important to learn how to down-regulate muscle tension.Breath techniques can help reduce muscle tension.Feeling tension in the body is common and can be managed.A soft belly indicates proper muscle relaxation.Muscles working too hard at rest can lead to fatigue.Visualization can aid in muscle relaxation.Chronic tension may require professional help.Practicing relaxation techniques can improve movement and reduce pain.Sound Bites"How do we down regulate?"Chapters00:00Understanding Muscle Tension vs. Tightness02:56The Impact of Stress on Muscle Function05:50Techniques for Down-Regulating Muscle TensionResources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Vanessa Leone and Ian "OD" O'Dwyer discuss the importance of fascia in movement, health, and performance. OD explains how fascia, which encases every structure in the body, plays a key role in communication, fluid flow, and force mitigation. They explore the differences between "Viking warriors" (stiffer individuals) and "temple dancers" (more flexible individuals), emphasizing the need for personalized training approaches. The conversation covers common misconceptions about stretching, the impact of hydration on tissue health, and how certain exercises, like box jumps, can affect the body. They conclude with practical insights on optimizing movement for longevity.You’ll learn about:Fascia is composed of 70% water and various proteins; fluid dynamics are essential for healthy fascia function.Tightness in tissues is often a misconception; it's more about hydration and movement.Fascia plays a significant role in communication within the body.Box jumps may not be suitable for everyone and can lead to injuries.Understanding and conditioning the fascial system is key to preventing injuries and crucial to overall health and wellness.Our Favourite quotable moments:"Fascia is the key to your health." - Ian"You can change your bendy body." - Ian"Box jumps can lead to injuries." - IanIf you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review! Resources:In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.About Ian O’Dwyer:Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.IG - feel.somaFB - /feelsomaWebsite: https://www.feelsoma.comAbout Your Host:Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.