The September Reset Your Nervous System Actually Needs

I couldn’t have imagined a more fitting and spookily appropriate way to end season one of Cancer Cured Me.After 101 episodes, so many wonderful guests and conversations that have genuinely changed my life, I’m pressing pause. And the timing of this final episode feels almost unbelievable.Today, on the very day I’m recording this, I received the news I’d been hoping and praying for. A large lump I’d discovered in my breast several months ago, almost ten years after my original breast cancer diagnosis, could no longer be found during my NHS breast clinic investigations.I’m sharing this with happy tears, enormous gratitude and a heart full of hope.In this very personal episode, I’m opening up about what’s been happening behind the scenes, the pressures of life that had gradually taken me away from some of the practices I know help me feel my best and why this experience has reminded me, once again, how important it is to listen to our bodies.I share the emotional experience of returning to the breast clinic, the kindness of the wonderful NHS team, the relief of my results and why I’m more determined than ever to help women understand their nervous systems, protect their capacity and stop putting themselves at the bottom of the list.This isn’t about telling anyone what to do or promising that my experience will be theirs. It’s simply my story, shared in the hope that it might bring a little light to someone who needs it.Because if there’s one thing these 101 episodes have taught me, it’s that we should never wait for a crisis to start looking after ourselves.What’s next?Although Cancer Cured Me is taking a break, my work is certainly not!I’ll be continuing to share everything I’ve learned through nervous system education, coaching and my HELD™ retreats, including:HELD™ Day Retreat: 15 November 2026HELD™ Cotswolds Retreat: 19–22 March 2027HELD™ Regulated Leader Retreat: 22–25 March 2027I’m also introducing my free Capacity Checker, a simple 15-question check-in to help you reflect on how much you’re holding and where you might need a little more support.Please remember to explore the previous 100 episodes. There are some extraordinary conversations waiting for you that I know will help you understand your body and nurture your health and wellbeing.Thank you for listening, for sharing this journey with me and for being part of Cancer Cured Me. This may be the end of season one, but it certainly isn’t the end of the story.Keep believing. Keep listening to your body. And above all, be kind to yourself.With love,La xA little medical note: This episode shares my personal experience and is not medical advice. If you discover a breast lump or notice any changes or symptoms, please seek medical advice and appropriate assessment. Everyone’s experience is different.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Win a place at my next private day retreat!To celebrate 100 episodes of Cancer Cured Me, I’m giving one listener a place at my private day retreat in Berkhamsted on Sunday 15 November 2026, worth £147.Enjoy women’s health and hormone education with Adele Wimsett, nourishing food from our nutritionist chef, a facial massage workshop with pro-ageing expert Susanne, a sound bath, a goody bag and time with me, Alex. A beautifully curated day to feel cared for.To enter: email [email protected] with the subject 100 EPISODES GIVEAWAY, your name, your favourite episode and what stayed with you. Closes 11.59pm UK time, Sunday 8 November 2026. Free entry. UK residents aged 18+. Travel and accommodation excluded. Full rules below.Please also help me celebrate by following the podcast, downloading an episode and leaving an honest review. I’d love to see your screenshots! These actions are optional and don’t affect your chance of winning.Here it is - our 100th episode! Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And some beautiful timing.This milestone falls in the very week my guest Chloe Jane launches her non-toxic clothing brand, Cloco. I couldn’t have planned a more fitting conversation.After five members of her family experienced cancer, Chloe became determined to understand more about prevention and what we can do to look after ourselves. That determination led her to establish Cloco Health, working as a cancer prevention specialist, and now to launch her own organic cotton underwear and activewear brand.What makes me particularly hopeful is that Chloe is still in her twenties. It’s thrilling to see someone of her generation taking such an interest in health, asking questions and turning everything she’s learnt into a fabulous business with purpose.We talk about cancer prevention, everyday environmental exposures and what we wear against our skin, alongside the passion and resilience it takes to bring an idea like this to life.As someone who has experienced breast cancer, this conversation meant so much to me. I’m delighted to share it with you for episode 100.Connect with Chloe JaneCloco: www.clocoofficial.comCloco Health: www.clocohealth.comInstagram: @clocohealth and @_clocoofficialTo every guest and everyone who has listened, shared or sent me a message - thank you for being part of these 100 episodes.Giveaway rules• One prize: one retreat place worth £147 on 15 November 2026 in Berkhamsted, including the programme and food above. Travel and accommodation excluded. Non-transferable; no cash alternative.• Open to UK residents aged 18+ available to attend. Promoter, draw administrators and their immediate families excluded.• Free entry by email as described above. One entry per person. No purchase, follow, download, review or screenshot required. Entries open on episode publication and close at 11.59pm UK time on 31st October 2026.• One winner selected at random on 1 November 2026. Acceptance required within 48 hours or a replacement will be drawn. Venue details supplied privately.• Entry details used only to administer the draw and prize, without marketing sign-up. Non-winning emails deleted within 90 days of the retreat.• Promoter: Alexandra Simms, Cancer Cured Me. Address: Castle Hill, Berkhamsted, HP4 1HE Not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Instagram or Facebook.Guest perspectives and personal experiences, not medical advice. Clothing and lifestyle choices cannot guarantee cancer prevention or replace medical care.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the sugar alternative you’ve been searching for has been growing on trees in India for thousands of years?If you’ve ever struggled with sugar cravings, emotional eating, fluctuating energy levels or finding a natural alternative to refined sugar that actually tastes delicious, this episode of Cancer Cured Me is one you won’t want to miss.I’m joined by Kristina Locke, founder of SugaVida, to explore Palmyra Blossom Nectar, an ancient Ayurvedic ingredient that’s being introduced to a whole new generation of health-conscious consumers.As someone who’s had a lifelong love affair with sugar, I was absolutely fascinated when I first discovered SugaVida. A naturally sweet, caramel-flavoured alternative to refined sugar that I could use in my cooking, baking, coffee and Greek yoghurt? I was already interested. But when I started learning about its traditional uses, nutritional profile and the research Kristina is involved in, I knew I had to share her story.And believe me, this conversation goes far beyond sugar!Kristina spent years working in the high-pressure world of London PR before travelling to India, immersing herself in yoga, Ayurveda and traditional nutrition. That journey eventually led her to the remarkable Palmyra palm tree and the creation of SugaVida.Together we explore the relationship between sugar, blood glucose, gut health, the nervous system, hormonal wellbeing, energy, sleep and the importance of nourishing our bodies with real food.Enjoy 15% off SugaVidaI’ve been enjoying SugaVida myself, and I’m delighted that Kristina has kindly offered Cancer Cured Me listeners a special discount.Use discount code ALEXANDRASIMMS for 15% off your SugaVida order.CLICK HERE TO BUY SUGAVIDAWhether you’re looking for a refined sugar alternative, interested in Ayurvedic nutrition or simply curious about making small changes to your everyday wellbeing, I really hope this conversation inspires you to explore what’s possible.Because sometimes the most interesting discoveries aren’t new at all. They’ve been part of traditional food cultures for centuries.Enjoy listening!Follow SugaVida on InstagramCancer Cured Me explores personal experiences, complementary wellbeing practices and conversations with guests from across the world of health. Health claims expressed by guests are their own. Research into Palmyra nectar’s specific therapeutic effects remains developing, and no sugar product has been established as a treatment for cancer, diabetes or other medical conditions.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if something as simple as touch could help you feel calmer, sleep better and reconnect with your body?In this episode of Cancer Cured Me, I’m joined by my wonderful sister-in-law, Harriet Maton, an experienced reflexologist and Reiki Master with over 20 years of experience and a passion for natural health.Reflexology was one of the first complementary therapies I turned to during my own breast cancer journey, and its impact on my wellbeing was profound.Together, we explore what reflexology actually is, how it works, and why this ancient therapy is attracting interest for stress relief, relaxation, sleep and nervous system wellbeing.We also discuss:The benefits of reflexology for stress, sleep and relaxationReflexology during and after cancer treatmentReflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) for breast cancer-related lymphoedemaHarriet’s remarkable experiences supporting clients with chronic health conditionsThe importance of human touch and connectionSimple self-reflexology, acupressure and breathing techniques for the whole familyHarriet’s beautiful new Reflex Balm, designed to make natural wellbeing accessible at homeThis is a fascinating conversation about taking a more active role in your wellbeing, getting curious about your body and discovering the power of small, nurturing practices.Resources and linksWebsite: www.harrietmaton.co.ukInsta: @harriet_matonFind a qualified reflexologist through the Association of Reflexologists: https://www.aor.org.uk/custom/far-search/Find a specialist Reflexology Lymph Drainage practitioner: https://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.ukReflexology is a complementary therapy intended to support wellbeing alongside appropriate medical care.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coming to you from New York with a story I genuinely couldn’t have planned.A completely unexpected act of generosity led to an unforgettable 21st birthday, Harry Styles at Madison Square Garden, a dream coming true and a pretty big realisation for me about how uncomfortable I can be with simply receiving.In this little solo episode, I’m talking about letting go of control, allowing good things to happen without immediately wondering what we need to give back, and why some of the very best moments in life happen when we stop rushing long enough to actually notice them.I’m also sharing a little about my recent women’s wellbeing day retreat, the conversations around hormones, health, sleep and our nervous systems, and why I’ll definitely be creating more of these days.Sometimes we don’t need to make more happen. Sometimes we need to create enough space to receive what’s already coming.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Ayurvedic Approach to Cancer: Hope, Healing & Exceptional Survivors with Dr Sam WattsWhy circadian rhythm, purpose, mindset, food and even having more fun could matter far more to our health than we realiseI’m bringing you part two of my encore conversation with the brilliant Dr Sam Watts, author of The Ayurvedic Approach to Cancer, and honestly, there is SO much in this one.Sam has spent years researching Exceptional Cancer Patients, people who have survived years beyond a terminal prognosis, and instead of simply calling them statistical outliers, he wants to know why.What are they doing differently? What do they have in common? And what can the rest of us learn from them?We talk about hope, self-belief, neuroplasticity, purpose and the mind-body connection, including why Sam believes one of the biggest common threads amongst exceptional survivors is having an incredibly strong reason to live.But this episode isn’t just about cancer.We get into circadian rhythm, sleep, movement, blood sugar, Ayurveda, herbal medicine, medicinal mushrooms, olive oil, gut health and nutrition, as well as something I think we massively underestimate: actually enjoying our lives.Sam talks about the impact of work, relationships, hobbies, fun and having something that lights you up, and shares the fascinating connection between Monday mornings, job dissatisfaction and heart health.We also talk about eating with a calm nervous system, why he is obsessed with good quality extra virgin olive oil, his thoughts on mushrooms including chaga and lion’s mane, and why health may be far less about doing everything perfectly and much more about the way we live every single day.As ever with Sam, this conversation is full of hope without pretending there is one magic answer.If you’ve experienced cancer, are supporting somebody who has, or you simply want to understand more about Ayurveda, cancer prevention, integrative health and living well, I think you’ll get so much from this one.Find Dr Sam Watts:Instagram: Dr Sam WattsWebsite: mindbodymedical.co.ukBook: The Ayurvedic Approach to CancerAnd if you haven’t heard Part One yet, go back and listen to that one too because these two episodes really belong together.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why personalised health, nervous system balance and your daily rhythm matter more than the latest wellness trendTo mark Dr Sam Watts speaking at the Yes to Life event on 26 September, I’m bringing back one of the most valuable conversations from the Cancer Cured Me podcast.Sam talks so much sense in this episode and his message feels more relevant than ever.We are surrounded by health advice telling us what we should eat, when we should fast, how we should exercise and which wellness practice everyone apparently needs to follow. But what if there is no single right answer?In this fascinating introduction to Ayurveda, Dr Sam Watts explains why something that supports one person may leave another feeling depleted, stressed or unwell. Ayurveda gives us a framework for understanding our individual needs rather than forcing ourselves to follow generic health rules.We explore how our relentless pace of life can keep the body in a stress response before the day has even properly begun and why restoring health does not have to involve completely overhauling your life.Sam shares how small, consistent practices can help us reconnect with our bodies, support the nervous system and take greater ownership of our health.In this episode, we discuss:What Ayurveda actually is and why it is far simpler than many people imagineThe three doshas: Vata, Pitta and KaphaHow to recognise what brings your individual mind and body into balanceWhy fasting, cold showers and other popular health trends are not right for everyoneHow rushing through the morning can trigger a fight-or-flight responseThe importance of natural morning light and circadian rhythmWhy sleep begins with what you do when you wake upSimple Ayurvedic practices including self-massage, oil pulling and tongue scrapingThe difference between your natural constitution and the imbalances created by daily lifeHow food, stress, relationships, work and emotional wellbeing all influence our healthThe six tastes of Ayurveda and a simple approach to nutritional varietyWhy birdsong, nature and time away from our phones can help the body feel safeHow to begin living more Ayurvedically without following another restrictive regimeThis is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about paying attention, understanding your own body and choosing a few practices that genuinely support you.As Sam explains, health and healing are not simply things that are done to us. We can place ourselves at the centre of the conversation and develop the knowledge, autonomy and agency to make more informed choices.If you have ever wondered why a supposedly healthy practice leaves you feeling worse or you are exhausted by conflicting wellness advice, this conversation is for you.Listen now and join me again next week when I republish the second part of my conversation with Dr Sam Watts. We will go deeper into his book, The Ayurvedic Approach to Cancer, and explore how Ayurvedic principles can support people living with and beyond cancer.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if confidence isn’t something you’re born with, but something you can actually build?After spending time at Ideas Fest surrounded by brilliant entrepreneurs, speakers and big thinkers, I noticed something fascinating. Again and again, the difference between the people taking action and the people holding themselves back seemed to come down to one thing: self-belief.That little voice saying, Who am I to do this? What will people think? Why would anyone choose me? can stop us long before we ever find out what we’re capable of.In this solo episode, I’m sharing a brilliantly simple practice I first learned from self-made multimillionaire entrepreneur Lisa Johnson, designed to help you build genuine confidence from the inside out rather than relying on praise, reassurance or external validation.And this isn’t about repeating affirmations you don’t actually believeIt’s about getting radically honest about who you are, recognising your strengths and abilities, acknowledging the bits you don’t love quite so much and learning to back yourself anyway.I also share a wonderfully simple morning mindset practice inspired by Gabby Roslin, plus a little Mel Robbins wisdom, that might completely change the way you start your day.In this episode we explore:Why so many capable people still struggle with self-beliefThe problem with depending on external validationA simple pen-and-paper exercise for building real confidenceHow limiting beliefs can quietly keep us playing smallWhy accepting your imperfections matters just as much as recognising your strengthsHow repetition can begin to change the story you tell yourselfA ridiculously simple morning practice to shift your energy before your feet even hit the floorIf there’s something you’ve been wanting to start, say, create, change or put out into the world but you keep wondering whether you’re good enough to do it, this episode is for you.Because perhaps the question isn’t “Who am I to do this?”Perhaps it’s time to ask: “Why not me?”🎧 Listen now and try the practice for yourself this week.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if we are beginning the conversation about breast health far too late?In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr Nyjon Eccles, founder and clinical lead of The Natural Doctor, a Harley Street practice specialising in precision longevity medicine.With more than 25 years of clinical experience, Dr Eccles works at the intersection of functional medicine, hormonal health, metabolic health and preventative oncology. Our conversation challenges some of the assumptions many of us have been given about breast screening, cancer risk and HRT and explores what a more preventative and personalised approach to women’s health could look like.We talk about:• The important difference between breast thermography and mammography • Why breast density matters, particularly for younger women • Whether women should begin monitoring their breast health before the age of 50 • What an abnormal thermogram may reveal before structural changes are detected • The relationship between nutritional deficiencies and breast health • The difference between synthetic, bioidentical and body-identical HRT • What women could ask their GP when discussing hormone replacement therapy • Why “normal” test results may not always mean optimal health • Functional medicine, longevity and finding the possible root causes of illnessAnd stay until the end, because I ask Dr Eccles one final question:If he could place one piece of health advice on the wall of every GP surgery in the country, what would it be?His answer is remarkably simple and it may completely change the question you ask at your next appointment.Find Dr Nyjon Eccles:The Natural Doctor: https://thenaturaldoctor.orgSubstack: Precision LongevityThis episode is for information and education only. It does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always discuss changes to medication, HRT or supplements with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September can feel like a second New Year. The children go back to school, summer comes to an end and suddenly there is pressure to achieve everything we planned before Christmas.In this gentle welcome back episode, I’m talking about why we don’t need to launch ourselves into September at full speed and how that pressure can affect the nervous system. I also share some simple ways to support yourself through the change of season, from sleep, hydration and morning daylight to getting outside and returning to the breathwork practices from my Summer of Beautiful Breath series.Whether you are getting back into a routine, supporting anxious children or adjusting to someone leaving for university, this is your reminder to be kind to yourself and move into September at a pace that feels right for you.Follow Cancer Cured Me for more conversations about healing, nervous system regulation and living your best life.WORK WITH ME! Let’s go deeper 1:1: from private VIP Wellbeing mornings to ongoing or one off coachingFull details & booking here: www.lalaloves.comInsta:@cancercuredmeRetreats: @lalalovesretreatsCLICK HERE TO JOIN MY COTSWOLDS RETREAT CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HAPPY MONDAY TO RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & NEWS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.