Ep 392 The Second Clock Inside Your Body: The Rhythm Women Were Never Taught to Read

Most women have been told their cycle is something to manage, track for fertility, or push through. What almost no one is saying is that your cycle is a second biological clock running inside your body at all times. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours and is governed by light. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Men have one main rhythm. Women have two. This is not a flaw in our design. It is added intelligence. In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what is actually happening underneath the surface of each phase. Your brain structure shifts across the cycle. Your immune system, metabolism, insulin sensitivity, microbiome, and nervous system are all moving with you. You will learn why the same stressor can feel completely different from one week to the next, why luteal phase cravings are real signals and not willpower failures, and how to begin matching your work, food, and rest to the phase you are actually in. Whether you are trying to conceive or simply want to stop fighting your own body, this episode offers a more accurate map of how you are designed to function.   Key Takeaways: Women have two main biological rhythms. The circadian rhythm is roughly 24 hours. The infradian rhythm is roughly 28 days and is governed by the menstrual cycle. Most lifestyle and research advice is built around the male 24-hour clock, which is part of why so many women feel exhausted. Your brain structure literally changes across the cycle. The hippocampus shifts in volume, connectivity between regions changes, and verbal fluency, spatial reasoning, and pain perception all move with the phases. Feeling like a different person at different times of the month is neurobiology, not emotional volatility. Your immune system is rhythmic. It is more active in the first half of the cycle and shifts after ovulation, when progesterone becomes mildly immunosuppressive to prepare the uterus for a possible embryo. This is why colds, autoimmune flares, and allergies can shift across the month. Basal metabolic rate rises slightly in the luteal phase, and insulin sensitivity changes. The same meal can land differently depending on where you are in your cycle. Luteal phase cravings are often a real signal of higher energy needs. The gut and vaginal microbiomes also shift cyclically with hormones. You are not a static system. Everything inside your body moves with you. Heart rate variability tends to be higher in the follicular phase and lower in the luteal phase. The same stressor can land very differently depending on when in the month it arrives. Your nervous system is operating from a different baseline. From a TCM perspective, the liver works harder in the luteal phase to prepare for menstruation, which can show up as more irritability, less energy, and stagnation when qi is not flowing freely. Working with the cycle is not just a fertility tool. It is a way of living that supports energy, focus, mood, and recovery across the entire month. Practical starting points: track more than your period (energy, sleep, mood, focus, hunger, stress response), match the work to the phase when possible, and eat in a way that responds to what your body is actually doing in each phase.   Host Bio: Michelle Oravitz, L.Ac., FABORM, is a board-certified fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, and author of The Way of Fertility. She is the host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, where she explores the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern fertility science, nervous system health, and the deeper, often overlooked terrain of mind-body fertility. Through her clinical practice and online programs, Michelle works with women trying to conceive and with practitioners who want to bring a more holistic, integrated approach into their work.   Research and Resources Cited: Brain structure and function changes across the menstrual cycle (hippocampal volume) Cyclical changes in hippocampal volume across the menstrual cycle Menstrual cycle effects on cognition: verbal fluency and spatial reasoning Pain perception and threat sensitivity across the menstrual cycle Progesterone and immune modulation in the luteal phase Basal metabolic rate variation across the menstrual cycle Insulin sensitivity and the menstrual cycle Gut microbiome variation across the menstrual cycle Vaginal microbiome shifts across the menstrual cycle Heart rate variability across the menstrual cycle Cortisol and HPA axis response across the menstrual cycle   Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

There is a quiet conversation happening inside your body that may be shaping your fertility more than almost anything else you have been told to focus on. It is happening in your gut, your reproductive tract, and your uterus. Until recently, science assumed the uterus was sterile. We now know it is not, and the bacterial communities living in these three places are in constant communication with one another, influencing your hormones, your immune response, and your ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy. In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what the research actually shows about the gut, vaginal, and uterine microbiomes, why this is one of the most overlooked pieces of the fertility puzzle, and what you can realistically do to support these ecosystems without falling into fear or expensive supplement spirals. You will learn why diversity is wonderful in the gut but not always ideal in the reproductive tract, how the estrobolome regulates your hormones, and how nervous system regulation, sleep, fiber, and fermented foods quietly shape the entire system. This is a grounded, science-backed conversation that gives you a clearer map of your own body. Key Takeaways: The uterus is not sterile. It has its own microbiome that influences implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates. A reproductive tract dominated by Lactobacillus is associated with significantly better fertility outcomes, including higher IVF success and lower miscarriage and preterm birth rates. Diversity in the gut microbiome is healthy. In the uterus and lower reproductive tract, the opposite is true. A quieter, Lactobacillus-dominant environment is what supports fertility. The estrobolome, a collection of gut bacteria, regulates how your body metabolizes and clears estrogen. When it is off, estrogen can recirculate and contribute to issues like endometriosis, fibroids, and irregular cycles. Roughly 70 percent of your immune system lives in your gut, and gut inflammation can show up as uterine inflammation, affecting implantation. Antibiotics, hormonal birth control, chronic stress, poor sleep, and harsh products like douches and scented washes all disrupt these microbiomes. Foundational support is simple and accessible: a wide variety of plant fibers, real fermented foods, consistent sleep, nervous system regulation, and leaving the lower reproductive tract alone. Microbiome testing is now far more accessible and gives you specific information about your own body, so you can stop guessing and make targeted choices instead of throwing every wellness tool at the problem. Host Bio: Michelle Oravitz, L.Ac., FABORM, is a board-certified fertility acupuncturist, Ayurvedic practitioner, and author of The Way of Fertility. She is the host of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, where she explores the intersection of Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern fertility science, nervous system health, and the deeper, often overlooked terrain of mind-body fertility. Through her clinical practice and online programs, Michelle works with women trying to conceive and with practitioners who want to bring a more holistic, integrated approach into their work.  Research and Resources Cited: The endometrial microbiome and its impact on reproductive outcomes Evidence that the endometrial microbiota has an effect on implantation success or failure Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal microbiome and pregnancy outcomes The vaginal microbiome and preterm birth Estrobolome: the gut microbiome and estrogen metabolism The gut microbiome and the female reproductive system Vagus nerve, gut-brain axis, and reproductive health Antibiotic use and the female microbiome  Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/   Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

Dr. Shivani Gupta returns to the podcast to share what she has learned since writing her new Hay House book, The Inflammation Code. In this conversation we explore why inflammation is rising so dramatically in modern life and how that plays into fertility, hormone balance, and overall vitality. Dr. Shivani breaks down the three doshas in Ayurveda, which she calls Elemental Design, and explains how understanding your own makeup of air, fire, and earth can help you choose the foods, rhythms, and rituals that actually nourish your body. We also talk about Mental Inflammation, circadian living, the healing power of nature, and why modern life keeps so many women stuck in survival mode. Dr. Shivani shares the science behind turmeric, why absorption matters, and when to use it and when to pause it during IVF and transfer windows. This is a grounded, practical conversation about returning to ancient wisdom in a way that feels doable in real life.   Key Takeaways: Inflammation is rising because of environmental toxins, processed foods, chronic stress, and constant mental stimulation. The body is living in survival mode rather than thriving. Ayurveda teaches that each of us has a unique Elemental Design made of air, fire, and earth. Knowing your primary and secondary doshas helps you choose foods, rhythms, and rituals that bring you back into balance. Mental Inflammation is a real physiological state created by constant phone use, email, and sympathetic activation. It feeds physical inflammation, and physical inflammation feeds it back. Living in rhythm with nature's circadian clock is one of the most powerful and free tools we have. Walking outside, eating seasonally, and sleeping from 10 to 2 supports lymphatic clearance and reduces inflammation. Preparing the body for conception through gentle detoxification, nourishment, and tissue health is the same work that supports vibrancy through perimenopause. A vibrant body is a fertile body. Turmeric is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories we have, but absorption matters. Black pepper and healthy fats increase bioavailability significantly. Turmeric can support fertility conditions linked to inflammation such as endometriosis, PCOS, and recurrent implantation challenges, but it should be paused during IVF cycles and transfer windows because it thins the blood and can thin the uterine lining. Supplementation should be phased with the guidance of a practitioner. Every season of the body calls for a different protocol. About the guest: Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and speaker who blends classical Ayurveda with functional medicine to help women calm inflammation, balance hormones, and restore energy. With a Master's in Ayurvedic Sciences and a PhD focused on turmeric, she translates ancient wisdom into simple daily rituals, including Elemental Design personalization, Mental Inflammation resets, gut and estrobolome support, and spice-based micro-habits. Her new book, The Inflammation Code (Hay House, February 2026), is a practical, non-diet system for cooling chronic inflammation to improve brain fog, bloat, pain, sleep, and mood. Dr. Shivani is the host of the Fusionary Health Podcast and creator of the Emmy-nominated TV show Vibrant Health with Dr. Shivani Gupta. Learn more at shivanigupta.com.  Connect with Dr. Gupta: Instagram: @dr.shivanigupta | https://www.instagram.com/dr.shivanigupta Facebook: @theshivanigupta | https://www.facebook.com/TheShivaniGupta YouTube: @dr.shivanigupta | https://www.youtube.com/@dr.shivanigupta/videos Pinterest: @theshivanigupta | https://www.pinterest.com/theshivanigupta Website: https://www.shivanigupta.com Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care.   The Inflammation Code book: https://www.theinflammationcode.com Fusionary Formulas: https://www.fusionaryformulas.com (code WHOLESOMEFERTILITY for 15% off)  7-Day Inflammation Detox Challenge: https://www.7dayinflammationdetox.com/optin1641313075014  The Inflammation Code Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-inflammation-code/id1680587836  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com  Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

The egg that will ovulate three months from now is starting to mature right now. In this solo episode, Michelle dives into one of the most hopeful conversations in fertility: the 90 day window of egg development. Both ancient wisdom and modern science agree that what you do during this window can directly influence the quality of the egg that eventually releases. Michelle walks you through what's actually happening inside your ovaries during those three months, bridges the modern research on mitochondria with the Chinese medicine concepts of Jing and Blood, and shares the five practical pillars she uses with her patients to support egg quality from the inside out. Whether you're trying to conceive naturally, preparing for IVF, or thinking about your fertility for the future, this episode is a foundational one. You have far more influence over your fertility than you've ever been told, and this episode shows you exactly how to work with your body during the window that matters most. Key Takeaways: • Egg development spans roughly a 90 day window, and the environment of your body during those three months directly shapes the quality of the egg that ovulates. • Eggs are the most mitochondria-rich cells in the body, which is why mitochondrial health is the foundation of egg quality. • The Chinese medicine concepts of Jing (essence) and Blood are describing the same phenomenon modern research calls mitochondrial health and ovarian blood flow. • Pillar 1 — Nourish with real food: prioritize protein, healthy fats, antioxidant-rich vegetables, iron-rich foods, and warming cooked meals. • Pillar 2 — Protect your mitochondria: CoQ10 (ideally Ubiquinol), omega 3s, consistent 7 to 9 hours of sleep, and personalized supplementation under a practitioner's guidance. • Pillar 3 — Support blood flow: acupuncture, gentle movement, abdominal massage (like Mayan or Arvigo), warmth over the lower belly and back, and no ice water around your cycle. • Pillar 4 — Regulate your nervous system: extended exhale breath work, time in nature, reduced screen time, pockets of silence. You cannot out-supplement a dysregulated nervous system. • Pillar 5 — Reduce your toxic load: swap plastic for glass, upgrade skincare and cleaning products, eat organic from the dirty dozen, filter water, and skip handling receipts. • Your body is asking for partnership, not perfection. One day does not make or break an egg; a pattern of loving care over 90 days is what shapes the environment. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Fertility Detox (free ebook) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/fertility-detox The Wholesome Fertility Journey (memberships + calls) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus

If you've recently received a low AMH result and feel like your body has already betrayed you, this episode is for you. In this solo episode, Michelle walks you through what AMH actually measures, what it cannot tell you, and why so many women with low numbers still go on to conceive, some with help and some without. You'll learn the critical difference between egg quantity and egg quality, what a low AMH does not mean, which factors can actually influence your number, and what to do if your results came back lower than you hoped. Michelle blends holistic and medical perspectives to help you move out of panic and into partnership with your body. If you've been told your AMH is too low, or if fear is making big decisions for you right now, this episode will help you come back to yourself, understand your body more deeply, and reclaim your sense of possibility. Key Takeaways: • AMH is a proxy measurement for ovarian reserve (egg quantity), not a predictor of natural conception or egg quality. • Egg quantity and egg quality are two different things. A low AMH does not mean your eggs are not healthy. • A low AMH is not a diagnosis of infertility, early menopause, or a failed future. It is one data point among many. • Several factors can influence your AMH, including vitamin D status, thyroid function, autoimmunity, chronic stress, environmental toxins, and hormonal contraception. • Egg quality is influenceable during a 90 day window through nourishment, mitochondrial support (like CoQ10), sleep, blood flow, and nervous system care. • Fear makes poor long term decisions. Before committing to an aggressive treatment plan, pause, breathe, and look at the full picture of your health. • You are not broken. A lower number on a lab report is not a verdict on your worth as a woman or your potential as a mother. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Free chapter of The Way of Fertility (book) https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Top 10 Fertility Boosting Tips Ebook https://www.michelleoravitz.com/mytop10fertilityboostingtips Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

What if the missing piece in your fertility puzzle isn't your hormones, your eggs, or your uterus, but your gut? A growing body of peer-reviewed research is now showing that the gut microbiome directly regulates estrogen metabolism, immune function, and systemic inflammation, and when it is out of balance, all three can go sideways in ways that no standard fertility panel will ever catch. In this episode, Michelle breaks down the science behind the gut-fertility axis, introduces the estrobolome (the community of gut bacteria responsible for metabolizing estrogen), and explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine has understood this same connection for thousands of years through the liver, the spleen, and the pattern of damp heat, and what you can actually do to start supporting your gut today.  Key Takeaways Your gut microbiome directly controls how much active estrogen is circulating in your body, and dysbiosis can push it too high or too low. Standard hormone blood tests cannot show how your gut is metabolizing estrogen over time. A dysbiotic gut shifts the immune system into a reactive state that can interfere with embryo implantation. When the gut lining becomes permeable, inflammatory signals travel through the bloodstream and directly affect the reproductive organs. Healing the gut through food, movement, and nervous system regulation addresses the root cause rather than chasing symptoms. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

What if the key to improving egg quality has less to do with the egg itself, and more to do with the environment it lives in? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz breaks down a landmark study out of UCSF that used cutting-edge 3D imaging to map entire human and mouse ovaries at the cellular level, and what the researchers found is reshaping everything we thought we knew about ovarian health. The study revealed that eggs are not scattered randomly throughout the ovary. They live inside communities made up of blood vessels, nerves, and support cells, and that surrounding environment actively shapes how eggs mature and how long they last. Even more striking, the researchers discovered that sympathetic (fight-or-flight) nerves are woven throughout the ovary and play a direct role in regulating which eggs receive the signal to grow. Michelle also explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine has been describing this exact system for thousands of years through the framework of Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Qi flow, and how these ancient concepts map with remarkable precision onto what modern science is now confirming. This episode will shift the way you think about fertility. Your ovarian ecosystem is not fixed. It is alive, responsive, and shaped by how you live every day. Key Takeaways:  Egg quality is shaped not just by the egg itself, but by the entire microenvironment surrounding it, including blood vessels, nerves, and support cells. Fight-or-flight nerves inside the ovary directly regulate which eggs receive the signal to mature. Ovarian blood vessel health is one of the first things to decline with age, reducing the nutrients and signals follicles need even when eggs are still present. The ovarian environment is dynamic and responds to what you eat, how you sleep, how you move, and the state of your nervous system. Traditional Chinese Medicine has described this system for thousands of years through Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Liver Qi stagnation, concepts that map directly onto what modern science is now finding. Practical support focuses on improving circulation, nourishing Kidney Jing, regulating the nervous system, and reducing inflammation Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

Could the missing piece in your fertility journey have nothing to do with hormones, and everything to do with your nervous system? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz explores the powerful overlap between polyvagal theory (modern neuroscience) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), revealing why both systems point to the same root cause: a body that doesn't feel safe enough to create life. Michelle breaks down how the three states of the nervous system, ventral vagal (safety), sympathetic (fight-or-flight), and dorsal vagal (shutdown), map directly onto foundational TCM concepts like smooth Qi flow, liver Qi stagnation, and kidney deficiency. She also explores the profound heart-uterus connection, known in TCM as the Bao Mai, and how a settled heart and regulated nervous system create the internal environment most supportive of conception. This isn't about relaxing more. It's about active, body-based regulation, and Michelle shares practical tools including acupuncture, herbal medicine, breathwork, and movement to help you get there. Key Takeaways: Your body will not prioritize reproduction when it feels unsafe, and safety is a biological requirement for conception. Polyvagal theory and Traditional Chinese Medicine map the same nervous system states, just in different languages separated by thousands of years. Both modern science and TCM confirm a direct heart-uterus connection, meaning a settled heart creates a more receptive environment for conception. Regulation is an active, body-based process and not simply relaxation or telling yourself to calm down. A slow, extended exhale is one of the fastest ways to activate the ventral vagal pathway and shift your nervous system state. Your nervous system filters the present through every past experience, including old stories about your body being broken or not enough. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode I am joined by Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial), a professional belly dance instructor and creator of The Belly Dance Solution, to explore how movement can deeply support fertility, pelvic health, and overall well-being. With over 20 years of experience and a background in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer brings a unique perspective on how dance can be both healing and empowering. In this episode, we dive into how belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor, improves circulation, and supports reproductive health. We also explore the powerful mind-body connection, the role of awareness in healing, and how playful, feminine movement can regulate the nervous system and bring energy back into the body. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't always have to feel like work, it can feel like joy, expression, and connection.  Key takeaways: Belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor while promoting both contraction and relaxation Movement increases blood flow and energy (Qi) to the reproductive organs Awareness and intentional movement can shift both physical and emotional health Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility and overall well-being Playful, feminine movement can be a powerful and healing modality Guest bio: Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial)  is a professional belly dance instructor with over 21 years of experience. She's the creator of The Belly Dance Solution - a research-backed program that's been featured in Women's World magazine (twice!) and First for Women. Over 30,000 women have joined the program to address bladder leaking through targeted belly dance movements. With a Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer combines ancient movement wisdom with modern pelvic floor science to help women find relief in a way that's actually fun and boosts their confidence. Connect with Jennifer: Visit her website  Follow her on Facebook and Instagram Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026 For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus  

On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving), founder of The Fertility Co-Living, to explore a completely new approach to egg freezing that combines medical care, holistic wellness, and community. Aliza shares her personal journey through egg freezing, including the emotional challenges, high financial costs, and lack of support she experienced. After spending thousands of dollars on a cycle that resulted in only a few eggs, she knew there had to be a better way, which led her to create a retreat-style experience where women can go through egg freezing together while receiving both clinical and holistic support. In this episode, we discuss the true cost of egg freezing in North America, why more women are choosing to go abroad, and how integrating nervous system regulation, nutrition, and community can improve both the experience and outcomes. This is a powerful conversation that brings a more human, supported, and intentional approach to fertility care. Key Takeaways: Egg freezing in North America can cost up to $20,000 per cycle. Many women feel isolated and unsupported during the process. Going abroad can significantly reduce costs and improve access. Holistic practices may support egg quality and overall outcomes. Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility health. Community support can transform the emotional experience. Guest Bio: Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving) is the founder of The Fertility Co-Living, a retreat-style experience that merges medical care, holistic wellness, and community for women freezing their eggs abroad. Inspired by her own difficult and costly egg-freezing journey in Canada, Aliza created a new model of fertility care that supports women emotionally, physically, and financially. With a background as a luxury events producer for brands like Prada and Harper's Bazaar, she brings a unique perspective to designing meaningful, elevated experiences. Her work is redefining how women approach egg freezing by combining science, holistic health, and connection. SOCIAL MEDIA / ADDITIONAL LINKS Website: www.thefertilitycoliving.com Instagram: @thefertilitycolivingEmail: [email protected] Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertilityFacebook: The Wholesome Lotus