Do you remember what it feels like to be comfortable in your own skin? Not just confident, but also pain-free, relaxed, healthy, and carefree? Think about the most robust version of your childhood body. This is what “lifeyness” feels like–a joyful spirit and a vibrant physical state of being. It’s about being grounded in the natural world, like many of us were as small children. For many women, reintegrating girlhood into grownup life can be a great way to kickstart their own feelings of joy and vitality. Join me, Professor Sarah, as I discuss books, films, and leaders in the field of wellness and spiritual growth, especially those that help us get in touch with the more joyful and playful side of womanhood. Get the latest insight on holistic trends, nourishing food, and spiritual goodies that support female embodiment and fun! We focus on best practices for healing from disordered mental health and maintaining good physical health—after all these two go hand in hand. This is not a platform for analytical criticism, but we may point out the shadow sides of certain wellness trends. There are some teachings out there (both traditional and current) that were developed with a masculine experience in mind. Many of these are wonderful approaches to health, but some don’t make sense within a feminine context. Some women are paralyzed not only when it comes to sexuality, but when it comes to all desire and appetites. We emphasize fun, play, relaxation (without consumer goods), laughter, and simplicity in the context of mature womanhood (ages 20-120!) Use these concepts to alleviate anxiety, heal trauma, and help you on your path to recovery. Embrace the magical components of girlhood! Some background on the host: I'm an author and professor of English and film. For years, I’ve been into nutrition and biohacking, anything I can get my hands on that leads to optimum physical and mental operation. Medicinal mushrooms, tai chi, Wim Hof breathing, mindfulness, runners highs, probiotics, intermittent fasting, powernapping–you name it! Many of these practices are still part of my daily routine, and more recently, I’ve drilled down to more foundational issues, and my interest lies specifically in “soul hacks” and relationship tweaks. Cover art photo credit: @RobertoNickson