The Happy Mama Movement with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz

Everyone's experience of this intense time in history is unique - but there are, of course, some common themes, especially when it comes to mamahood. The intensity of everyone at home; The pressure to entertain and teach;The lack of personal space, and the reminder, again, of how difficult it can be to even pee in peace. But there's also a lot of different issues and challenges coming up for so many mamas in this community, and it is my intention to ensure I create content that talks to each of you, the best way I can. Today, I wanted to honour the solo mamas, and reached out to my amazing friend and solo mama to three, Lisa Corduff. In this podcast, Lisa talks about parenting on her own, and the grief and loneliness that has been triggered. But she also shares, as she always does, an insight into your strength as a solo parent, and the reminder you may just need today: You've got this. You've already proven you can do hard things - this is no different. Even if you are not a solo parent, you'll get so much out of this interview. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special CALMCAST episode, I interview Eve Rodsky, author of Fair Play, a worldwide phenomenon (and Reese Whitherspoon's book club pick) that teaches a revolutionary way of redefining the invisible work so many women do, and rebalance who does what in the home. And as we all hunker down in our homes, trying to balance work with school on top of everything else we usually do, I knew there was never a better time to interview Eve. In this interview, Eve highlights the massive imbalance that women have in the homes, taking on more of the mental load and invisible workload, no matter what their intention before they had children. She shares why this is, and more importantly, how we can correct it - without resentment and anger. Eve also talks about the global opportunity we have right now to redefine a woman's worth, and how we can re-value time and family. To download her free cards, and bring more Fair Play into your home, go to her website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For today's special CalmCast episode, I want to share with you a very special meditation I created for a group of mamas recently. As we all try to navigate our way through this time, we gathered together, on a live call, to support each other...and as part of that call, I shared a meditation I have been doing in my own daily practice.This meditation has helped me immensely to know: I am not doing this alone.I know that within me is the strength of all those who came before...my own grandmothers and great grandmothers, but also the women of previous generations who have been the warriors and the space holders and the source of love and wisdom.We have the ability to call on this.It is deep within us, deep in our DNA.And so, I share this meditation with you today.May it remind you, too, that you have all that you need.And when you feel overwhelmed or alone, breathe in and call in those who have come before you.x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

These are uncertain times... but there are answers for us, mamas.There may not be answers for when this will be over, and what the greater effect will be, but there are answers that can bring peace, hope, and resilience.For the coming weeks, and as long as we all need it, I am going to be increasing the Happy Mama Movement Podcast to two times a week, bringing you content that will inspire you, reassure you, and give you ideas and support.Think of it as a pop-up radio station, especially made for mamas with children young children during the COVID-19 pandemic.They will be known as the CALMCAST episodes.Today, I am bringing you an interview with Beth Berry, creator of Revolution from Home and mama to four girls. When this pandemic became known, Beth was one of the first mamas I thought of - because surely if we ever needed a revolution from home, this is the time.In this episode, Beth shares her views of what's happening, and how we can care for ourselves as mamas during this time. Her calm approach, and her insight into honouring the mess of it all right now, was soothing to my soul - I hope it is for you too.You can find more of Beth's resources and inspirations at Revolution from Home. And if you would like more support, more community, live meditations and classes to support you through this time, please take a look at my pop-up membership, Returning Home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

These are challenging times. As mamas, as women, as daughters, and as citizens, we are the Space Holders. And in the world right now, that means there's a lot on our shoulders. But how do we be a container of calm when there's so much chaos and fear around us? As so many of us return home, how do we create a sanctuary in our homes, in our minds and in our bodies? In response to the coronavirus, I reached out to Sanctuary Creator and Elemental Space Healer and mama, Helen Joy Butler, to share with us how we can create Sanctuary in our homes at the moment - and be a container of calm. In this episode, Helen shares practical ways to look after yourself as a mama and a woman right now, how to monitor your own health and wellbeing, and create a space in your home and lives that support you right now. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW TO SUPPORT YOURSELF DURING THESE TIMES, Amy has created special support and community at Returning Home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sure, you're superwoman. You can juggle kids and a home and a deadline and the in-laws visiting and a last minute trip to Spotlight to buy a costume for the dress up party this weekend. You're a mama - superwoman is part of the job description. But what happens when being Superwoman becomes your default? You start saying yes to everything, without asking if this is really the right thing for you, right now? And how do you still honour what you most want in life (especially beyond motherhood) while checking that inner balance? In this episode, I share my own recent 'relapse' back into Superwoman Addiction, and how I've found my way back to balance again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your body is always talking to you. Always.Whether its PMS, or anxiety, or your hair is falling out, there are so many clues and signs your divinely designed body is giving you. But most of us do not listen or take note. We're taught to whisper about a woman's body; We're taught to be embarrassed by what our body does, and ignore the natural cycles of our hormones. And in turn, we grow up out of alignment with what it really means to be a woman. Dr Nat Kringoudis calls herself a 'detective of women's body' - and she is. As a Doctor of Chinese Medicine and specialist in women's hormones and fertility for a very long time, she can put together what's out of alignment with your body from following a trail of symptoms. But at the core of her message is - we need to learn our body's ways. We need to understand our cycles, live in accordance with what works for us, and end this cycle of judgement and depletion. Not only for ourselves - but for our children too. You can learn more about how you can get back in balance at https://www.natkringoudis.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the books that changed my life, and continues to transform it every time I pick it up, is 'Circle of Stones' by Judith Duerk. When I found it, it was the first time I'd ever felt invited into another way of viewing being a woman: a way that felt so ancient yet so familiar. A way which I realised I was craving. And it hasn't changed. The Circle of Stones reminds us, as mamas and as woman, that there needs to be a place of women, to learn the way of women. And I hope that this podcast is a place for you to do that too - to learn the ways of women and mama. In this episode, I ask you about SPACE. Space to go deeper, to be quiet, to ask what matrescence is transforming in you. Do you have that space? Even if its just a few minutes a day, or a tiny 'closet' in your house, like Judith Duerk speaks about? This is what we need mamas. Space, and a place and way of women and mama. My REDEFINE program - a 40 day online program that will hold the space for you to learn YOUR ways of being a mama and a woman, a warrior and a lover - is open for a very short time. Join us by Friday 14th here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I invite you into a conversation with one of my closest friends, and greatest supporters: Lisa Corduff. But it's a podcast episode with a twist - this time, I am being interviewed by Lisa on her phenomenal new podcast Conversations with Lisa. I've been talking about matrescence and the new story we need to tell about motherhood for a while now, but something very powerful happens when you sit with a phenomenal spaceholder and friend - the very best of you comes out. I adored this conversation. I think it's a real and raw insight into life with kids and business and relationships and our dreams. It's a real conversation about what we all struggle with, and how similar our worries and fears are. And it's a chance to sit with us, Lisa and I, and talk about what we all want to be talking about: the truth about being a mother and a woman. You can listen to more of Lisa's amazing interviews here, and learn more about her work here. And if you are ready to REDEFINE motherhood and womanhood for yourself too, the next round of REDEFINE begins on 16th February. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've all heard that we have a choice. In every moment, we have a choice in what we think and what we put our attention on. Sounds easy enough, right? Except when life throws you heartbreak, right when you welcome your second child into the world.This podcast is not about heartbreak though - it's about trust, and intuition, and the grace you will need to be able to choose differently. It's an empowering story of a mama who's world crumbled right at the time she thought all her dreams had come true. And it's an insight into the power we all have, even when things don't turn out the way we'd like them, simply by asking 'what's the next right step?' Tara O'Kelly is a mama to two, a midwife, and a woman who has found and lived the truth that: we all have the answers inside of us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Something has shifted.This new year has already brought so many changes and challenges, and it's calling us as mamas to do it differently.WE are the change-makers, mamas.In this episode, Amy shares her 2020 VISION, and how she sees us all coming together: as a mama, and as an elder.Here's her invitation:As a mama:You start to redefine motherhood, womanhood, and your true self;you work on your stories of enough-ness, of what a good mother and a successful woman looks like;you bring back ritual and routine in your life, you slow down, you listen inwards, you undo the addiction to busy;you accept that it’s up to you to change the generational patterns of mothers and women before you;and you surround yourself with women who support you and believe in you.You do this by:Bringing rituals into your life;healing old stories, old beliefs, and forgiving yourself and others;learning about a more natural and ancient way of honouring your emotions, healing your body, and supporting your family;learning to meditate, to journal, to connect with your creativity;redefining what it means to be a mama, a warrior, a lover, a creator;realising that matrescence and motherhood is an invitation to emerge new and accepting that invitation. Your next steps: Redefine and Essential Happy Mama. As an elder:You accept that you have a special role to play in changing the way mothers feel about themselves, no matter how small;you know that what you’ve been through had a purpose, and you feel the pull to make sure others don’t go through the same pain;you believe that the smallest act of kindness has an enormous ripple effect, and you know you can create a ripple;you work on your own stories so you can be there for others;you live by example, but without perfection - no one needs perfection anymore;you lead, you guide, you hold space, you rise.You do this by:Bravely accepting that you have a role to play, no matter how small;learning the rituals and ways of women, including the ancient ways that have been rejected and ignored;committing to training and growing and being a student of womanhood and motherhood;surrounding yourself with people who lift you up and back you;turning each set-back and challenge into a chance to rise to the next level, and then sharing that lesson with others;knowing that a change is coming, that matrescence is a global shift in how we value motherhood, and accepting that you are a part of that. Your next step: Mama Rising and Essential Mama Rising. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The final podcast for 2019 to honour all that has unfolded this year, and the past decade. This episode is a reminder that we are all transforming, constantly evolving and shedding who we were to become who we are meant to be. It is a message of strength to every mama out there who's in the messy middle, and holding on to the hope that she too will emerge stronger. May we all remember that this is a process of emerging - as a mother and a woman. You can join the End of Year Program - EMERGE - here, and be part of two live workshops in early January to really honour this new beginning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acceptance is a beautiful thing. It's that time in your life when you stop fighting, you let go of the stories and the expectations and the grief, and you accept. You see that it is what it is. You even begin to find the joy in it all.And acceptance is often what we want - and are told we should get.But you can't rush acceptance. You can't hurry through your feelings and your grief, no matter what everyone around you is saying. To arrive fully at acceptance and gratitude, you have to take your time. Too often though, we don't allow this.In this episode, I speak with mama and author Melanie Dimmitt. Melanie experienced what many of us would describe as our greatest fear: a birth that resulted in a severely disabled child. Melanie's had to learn what true acceptance means, as her whole world and identity was shifted.In this episode, she shares not only her own story, but the 50 other parents of children with various disabilities she interviewed around the world to better understand what was happening to her and her family. Her book - Special - is a collection of those nuggets of wisdom.You can order "Special: Antidotes to the obsessions that come with a child's disability" now here, and follow Melanie on social media here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I want you to know something, mama... Matrescence is about more than just being a mother - this is about being a woman. A woman who knows herself, who listens to herself, and who values herself. If we deny this understanding, we deny her a chance to learn about herself. We force her to go back to proving herself again, looking outside of herself for validation and success. I remember when the beginnings of motherhood completely cracked me open, forcing me to re-evaluate everything in my life. It was the very first time I questioned who I was and what I was doing, and I felt the beginnings of something stirring within. But, I didn't know what to do what those questions. I didn't understand what was happening to me. I searched for answers, for someone else talking about this, and when I found nothing, I pushed it away. By pushing that away, I pushed my growth down. I denied what my body was trying to tell me, and what my intuition was calling me to do. I just got back on with life - because that was what I saw we needed to do as women. Matrescence is a forgotten transition that is so much more than just the transition to becoming a new mama: it's the transition into a new way of being. This is why we need to understand and talk about it. In this episode, I share the bigger WHY - why this is so important, and why this affects you, now. This is also why I have gathered together two of the world's leading experts on this transition of womanhood together: Dr Oscar Serrallach and Dr Aurelie Athan, together with myself, will come together on 5th December to call out this forgotten transition and why it's time to change it. And I would love you to be there. Simply pre-order my new book - Mama Rising - before the 5th, and join us. This event will leave you both inspired and ignited. Head here for all the details Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not too long ago, most of the transition of motherhood was invisible. We were so focused on childbirth, and the perfect birth plan, and then beyond that? All about the baby.But that is beginning to change: post-partum doulas, acknowledgement of a fourth trimester, even post-natal depletion. It’s the beginning of a change.But what about the invisible messy middle of motherhood? That time when the newborn bubble is long-gone, and the reality of juggling a toddler, or school holidays, or hand foot and mouth with a deadline at work kicks in?This ‘messy middle’ is so important - but ignored. We are so focused on keeping all the balls in the air, we lose ourselves in the doing. We celebrate busyness and multi-tasking. We prioritise everyone else.This is the part we need to reclaim mamas - all these years in the middle. No more invisibility. No more denial. Let’s reclaim the middle, and the woman within them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is an exciting time. We’re having conversations about what it means to be a woman, a mother, an equal, all over the world. New barriers are being broken. It’s revolutionary.But as we change the conversation around motherhood, I am often asked ‘what about the dads?’ And my answer is usually - yes, there are big changes for men when they become Dads, but that’s not my passion. Someone else can pick that up and run with it. And I hope they do.Well, mamas… I’ve found him.Damian Waters, or Muddy as he is known to almost everyone, is the man behind The Wingman Collective (please go and follow him immediately. You won’t regret it).And as I began to read his insights into being a wingman to his amazing wife, I saw something that is very very rare - but very very exciting.Here was a man who recognised the ‘old system’ that he had been brought up in. And here was a man who was willing to work on himself and those old beliefs, and make some significant changes in order to let his wife rise too.This interview is profound.Damian was nervous - this was his first ever podcast - but I think that makes it even more important. It’s not a polished self-development dude just sharing another anecdote from the stage.This is a Dad, in the trenches with his kids and his career, seeing that his wife was very lost and needing to find something for herself again.He saw her struggles, and realised he had a part to play in it.And so he looked within, and found that it was time for him to let her shine.I hope you love this episode as much as I do.Both Damian and I hope that you can share it with your partners, and start a new conversation about how you support each other.And when you do, please let ‘Muddy’ know - I know he’d love it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's something you need to know, mama.It's the secret to what you've been feeling since starting this motherhood journey. It's the missing link, the forgotten transition of womanhood.Understanding this ancient yet thoroughly modern insight into motherhood will change everything. It will explain that pull to be there for your child's every moment, yet also crave your independence. It will stop the guilt and the comparison, and allow you to soften into the gift of motherhood.It's called matrescence: the radical identity shift a woman goes through as she becomes a mother.To celebrate the release of my brand new book - Mama Rising - I am so excited to share with you today the introduction to this new book all about matrescence.And to be one of the very first to receive Mama Rising, and be invited to a world-first online event with Dr Oscar Serrallach and Dr Aurelie Athan, simply pre-order your book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Motherhood comes with a lot of expectations, both spoken and unspoken. Passed down from generation to generation, we inherent so many unconscious beliefs around what it means to be a good mother and woman.Matrescence, if honoured correctly, can change that.Matrescence is an invitation to examine not only who you used to be, but who you are becoming. It's a chance to look at your lineage, and decide how you want to create your future.It's the time in your life when you get to look at who you were, and who you want to be.Nagma Dawn is a mama of three who walked into one of my workshops a number of years ago with a tiny baby in her arms, and an open heart. She wanted to know more. She wanted to understand who she was now. She felt the stirrings of something within her - a desire to step back from the corporate career she'd been pursuing - but she wasn't sure what it was... or if she could do it.In this episode, Nagma shares her story of finding herself through creativity and courage. It will inspire you to look within at your own stories and expectations, and be ready to explore who might be there underneath all of those expectations.You can read Nagma's first children's book - Arya's Flying Dreams - here, and explore your creativity through her work at Creative Mama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Early motherhood brings a total shift of focus - from you as a woman and a partner, to Mother. We get that. We know that’s part of the process.But after a while, you begin to realise that maybe, just maybe, you need to start shifting that focus back onto yourself a little - and your relationship. How do you reunite again, after being so focused on being a mama? How does the massive shift inside you translate to how you feel about your partner? Over the years, the strain of trying to be Super Woman and juggle all the things began to show in my relationship. There were many times when I was filled with resentment that I was the one who shouldered so much. We both did our best, but it wasn't what it should be. And I didn't know how to reconnect in a new way. That is, until a simple sentence explaining what we, as women, really need began to change it all. In this episode, I honestly share how things have changed in my relationship, and invite you to join in a special short online course to redefine your relationship - in a very powerful way. Join REUNITE before 31st October, and join for a special one hour coaching call (two timezones available) to talk through how your relationship is evolving. All the details are here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matrescence forces us to redefine who we are.It asks us to look at what’s working, who we think we are, what we’re attached to, and how we value ourselves - and not just in the first weeks and months of motherhood, but over and over again.(In fact, it’s kind of never ending. But don’t let that put you off!)But as we peel back those layers of identity and attachment, what does that leave?As my guest this week - author, mama and now children’s book creator Amy Molloy - says:If I’m not that person, then who am I?This podcast is a reminder that we never stop asking ourselves this question - and that’s OK.With each new layer we peel back, we’re getting closer to our true self.You can contribute to the funding of Amy’s new amazing children’s book that also deeply supports and benefits the parent reading it (when we really need it the most) here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s so easy to decide that now is not the right time.Motherhood, household chores, school holidays, deadlines, illnesses… there’s always something. Always.But we have two choices -We can choose to keep putting ourselves on hold, waiting for that perfect moment when everything lines up and the heavens open for us to GET A MINUTE TO OURSELVES…Or we can choose to do it anyway.We can decide that it’s good enough for now.Today on the podcast, I was inspired to record something for you after a recent coaching session. This mama, at home with two young boys, was telling me how she decided to listen to one of my meditations in the car - even with her son in the back, watching Paw Patrol.And in this decision, she chose to honour herself - as a woman. Beyond being a mama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most mothers have experienced exhaustion, pain, forgetfulness, indecision, low energy levels, moodiness, or some form of baby brain.And it's no wonder: the process of growing a baby depletes a mother's body in substantial ways - on average, a mother's brain shrinks 5% during pregnancy, and the placenta saps her of essential nutrients that she needs to be healthy and contented.But with postnatal care ending after six weeks, most women never learn how to rebuild their strength and care for their bodies after childbirth.As a result, they can suffer from the effects of depletion for many years, without knowing what's wrong or getting the support and treatments that they need.Dr Oscar Serrallach is the man behind this insight, and is changing the way we honour being a mother. By bringing in these new understandings of what really happens to a woman’s body, he’s allowing us all to breathe out … realising that there isn’t something ‘wrong’ with us. We’re just depleted.You can learn more about Dr Serrallach’s work on his website, and order a copy of his book here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Where have they gone? Where have those milestones, those celebrations, those INITIATIONS of womanhood gone? They have become invisible. Forgotten and pushed-aside for a faster paced life. A life where we are all meant to be the same, all of the time. To honour motherhood differently, we need to honour womanhood differently. They go hand in hand. To change the way women feel about being a mother, we need to change the way we initiate them into the very beginnings of this whole experience: becoming a woman, then becoming a mama, then when our children leave home, then when we evolve again in menopause. These are the initiations we have forgotten. But the invitation is there for you now, mama...what do you need to be honoured?and can you give that to yourself, or seek it out, now? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How would knowing you're a sacred woman change things for you? How would you treat yourself, how would you honour yourself, how would you love, and parent, and live if you KNEW you were a sacred woman? This is the question that sparked a divine journey into discovering and uncovering what it means to honour yourself as a whole woman. Megan Dalla-Camina, in her new book 'Simple, Soulful, Sacred' explore why we are so disconnected to ourselves as women, and how we can come back home to the truth - that we really are sacred women. Because at the core of it, when we begin to see and honour ourselves this way, everything else flows. You can read more of Megan's work at www.megandallacamina.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We think we're the only ones who find it hard.We look at Instragram and see only the best bits - the yoga in the morning, the smoothie for breakfast, the happy family moment on the beach. And we judge.I don't want to do this anymore. I don't want you to think that I never have those days where it's all too hard, that I'm at capacity, and I want to hide. Because I do - I really do.So in this very personal episode, recorded from my kitchen floor on one of 'those' days', I share with you what happens behind closed doors, in the hope that you too can know that it's OK for us to rise AND rest. It really is OK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s a lot to be worried about.Our kid’s health, their safety, bullying, screen time.At first, it was how to just keep them alive, and then, as they get older, the fears seem to compound with each passing day…How can we ensure they’re safe? How do we instill a deep sense of self within them? How do we let go when we want to keep them so close?Trust, and surrender. That’s what I have to remember, over and over again:Trust, and surrender.Choosing love over fear as a mama is one of the greatest challenges, and in this episode, meditation teacher and mama Fleur Chambers shares her own journey with post-natal anxiety, and finding her way to love over fear.You can listen to Fleur’s phenomenally successful meditations on Insight Timer, or explore her online programs here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I used to teach that self-care was the answer to so much of our strugggles as mamas. That if we just 'filled our cup first', we would change that feeling of overwhelm,And I believed it. In fact, I practised what I preached - over and over again. Until my pursuit of trying to squeeze everything in, including the self-care, caused early labour and complete burn out.So when I talk about how to finally switch out of that comparison mode and the feeling that you've never done enough now, I share from a place of real learning:I've had to figure out why, no matter what I did, I couldn't seem to slow down or be kind to myself.This podcast episode is a little different this week. Rather than a short insight from me, I am sharing with you an online workshop I recently taught on self-criticism, and how we can finally stop pushing ourselves so hard each day. How we can let go of Superwoman, and actually start living our life with joy and connection. And I share practical insights that have finally worked in helping me - and thousands of others - switch off that inner critic, and be the mama AND woman they want to be.And remember, you can join the 40 day REDEFINE program until Friday 30th August here - this is the last time I will be running this program this year, and at this price. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We SAY we're going to slow down and prioritise what's really important to us, and yet we keep trying to do all the things.We know our health needs us to step off the never ending to-do list treadmill, and yet we struggle to say no.Why? Why is it that as life gets busier with babies, we find it so hard to admit we can't be Superwomen anymore, and slow down a little?This is the question I ask Meg Berryman. Meg has been through her own discovery of why she was so addicted to busy-ness, and how she can live a slower and more intentional life. And now, she helps other mamas do the same. Because at the end of the day, it's time we broke up with busyness mamas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's not in another to-do list.It's not in getting up earlier, or staying up later.And it's definitely not in just being busier.The balance we crave as mamas and as women has nothing to do with what is going on in our lives (yes, nothing!), but is all about how you are acknowledging what you need and who you are right now.Matrescence is a transformation - an ongoing, every expanding transformation. And if we don't take a time to acknowledge what is going on, and turn off that Superwoman Addiction, we'll just get more and more burnt out.Balance comes from a completely new way at looking at yourself right now, mama...And in this episode, I begin to shine a little light on what that means.You can also join my completely free 5 Days to Real Balance program - starting on 19th of August.Thousands of mamas have been through this program, and have inundated me with messages about how much it helped them find more balance and calm.Join here. 100% Free.x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's one of the last unspoken areas of mamahood: sex, passion, and desire once we become parents. But if we are to truly embody being a whole woman, it's a part of us we can no longer ignore or hide in shame. How do you reconnect to this part of yourself when your whole world has been turned upside down? How do you ignite passion again when your relationship with your body is transforming? And what stories are you carrying within you about being a sensual woman AND a mother? When it comes to shining a light on these important issues, Susana Frioni is the perfect mama. A pioneer in supporting women to reactivate and reconnect to their sensual selves, even through motherhood, Susana shares in this episode how we can all embody this part of ourselves again. To listen to Susana's brand new podcast series on love, sex, desire and motherhood, and explore her work further, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This isn't just a process of becoming the mama and woman you long to be... it's also an undoing of so many outdated and incorrect beliefs and patterns. To rise, we must also unlearn, undo, and let go. So often, this is the part we forget to talk about. Over and over again, the hardest part of mamahood has been the undoing of the old beliefs about what happiness and success and a being a 'good mother' and a 'good wife' is. I've had to look deep within at the blocks and fears, and realised that if I am to 'become', I first have to 'undo'. In this episode, I share how important this part of the process of matrescence is, and remind you that no matter how bumpy and uncomfortable it may feel right now, you are on the right path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Motherhood is often the catalyst for so much change, and so many old beliefs and patterns rising to the surface - this is part of it's purpose: Matrescence is a shedding of the old, and a becoming the new. Over the years, however, I have heard thousands of women say they are afraid to look at what is coming up. They know they are struggling, but they're afraid of what change would actually mean. So how do we face all that is rising to the surface as we navigate motherhood - without fear? How do we empower ourselves to face it all, and become the women we are meant to be? In this episode, I give you practical ideas on stepping into this journey of becoming. If you want more support in anyway, please remember you can reach out of me on social media, and if you want to learn about how I am using essential oils to help heal myself, you can request to join my free Essential Oil FB group - The Essential Happy Mama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What stories and beliefs have you been told about what it means to be a good woman and a good mama? What are the folklore of your life - and are they serving you? Are they even something you think about? One of the most important elements of matrescence - the transformation of a woman through motherhood - is this opportunity to examine all that we have been told about what it means to be successful and 'good'. For many of us, this is the first time we've paused to question any of this! And it can be confronting. But when we realise that motherhood is a chance to completely redefine ourselves, we finally start to connect to what makes us happy. Jeanette Schneider is a mama and an author. Her book - 'Lore' - is a beautiful and powerful insight into the folklore of our lives as women. It examines both the unconscious beliefs we may be carrying, as well as the conscious thoughts we tell ourselves day in and day out. In this interview, we talk about the changing nature of motherhood around the world at the moment, how to harness your past to create your future, and what legacy we are leaving our children. You can see more of Jeanette's work, her book, and all the details of the new media app she is currently creating here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the years, I have heard so many mamas share with me what their Inner Mean Mama sounds like. I know that we, as mamas and women, are so hard on ourselves, often feeling like we're never good enough, or worrying that we're always screwing it up. And then, when I talk to them about self-compassion and kindness, I see their eyes glaze over. "Yes, yes... I need to be kinder to myself. I get it." But nothing would really change. At the core of it, they didn't know how to be any other way. So what does self-compassion actually look like? Behind the theory of it, how do you practice self-compassion, day in, day out? In this episode, I share what self-compassion looks like in my day. This isn't just an idea, it's a way of living - a way of honouring ourselves, and the constant changes we are experiencing as we navigate matrescence. May it spark new ideas on how you too can start to live with deep self-compassion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have been told that strength comes from our willpower, our ability to keep on going, our resilience in the face of fear.And yes, of course, that is true. As women and mamas, we have that innate ability to soldier on, no matter what. Especially when it involves our children.But motherhood requires a softening too. When life throws challenges at us, we must also learn how to surrender and trust, and honour what we are going through.Laura Trotta is a phenomenally successful woman in a very masculine-driven world. She’s succeeded in an industry that is dominated by the outward idea of success. And she prided herself on her ambition and achievements.But when her son began to show signs of social and emotional struggles, her usual coping method needed to change. And as she navigated the path to diagnosis, she realised that the only way through this was to learn how to soften and trust.This is a deeply moving and emotional insight into what we are capable as mothers, and how important it is to trust that slowing down to heal and process is the real sign of strength. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would happen if the world talked about motherhood - and womanhood - differently? How different would our experiences of raising children and balancing all that is asked of us be? Would it change the rate of burn out, overwhelm, and yelling? Would it alter the numbers of past natal depression, adrenal fatigue, marriage breakdowns? And would knowing what we share in this podcast create happier families - and ultimately a happier world? I think so. I really do. I believe that it's time to completely change the way we support women and each other, through the language we use, the tools we give to women, and the way we gather together. And I want to not only change the way YOU feel about yourself, but empower as many of you as possible to do the same with others. In this episode, I share the birth of something very new and exciting: Mama Rising. This will be a training program for anyone who wants to support women through motherhood, and life. To learn more and be the first to know all of the details, register at happymama.com.au/mamarising Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To be a spaceholder - what does that actually mean? The idea of a woman as the spaceholder is at the core of so many of my programs and teachings, but is often a concept many don't truly understand. And when they do 'get it', there's often overwhelm and resentment. Why is it that I have to hold it together for so many people? How am I expected to hold the space for so many when I'm already doing so much? But the idea of spaceholder is actually one that comes with great empowerment - if we understand it properly. In this episode, I speak with Heather Plett, an international speaker, facilitator, and writer who specializes in the art of holding space. We speak about what it really means to be there for someone - whether it's your children, your partner, your parents or your friends - how to ensure you don't get spaceholder burnout (yes, it's a thing, and you'll recognise the symptoms!), and what an honour it is to be a spaceholder when we finally see what it's real purpose is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For Anna, it was more a feeling than anything:on paper, she had the life she wanted, but when it came to what was happening behind closed doors, she was drowning.She yelled at her kids.She wasn't the wife she wanted to be.She really didn't know who she was, or how to get out of this hole.4 Months ago, when Anna and I first jumped on a call together, I could see how overwhelmed and broken she was. As she explained to me:"Motherhood threw me for six, and I didn't know how to fix it.""Nothing material changed, but everything has changed."This is what happens when we start to really show up for this, .We stop yelling and become the mama we want to be.We forgive ourselves and those around us.We have the tools to cope with whatever comes our way.We KNOW that no matter what, we'll never ever go back to who we were again.Anna's story is possible for us all.When you surround yourself with the most divine group of mamas, and show up as best you can each day, things will change - it is impossible for them NOT to.No matter where you are in your motherhood story, you can take the smallest steps to begin your own healing. And if you want to explore whether a 4 month program, like my Divine Life, is right for you, here are the details. It closes on the 6th of June, and places are strictly limited. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On reflection, the IDEA of self-care, self-reflection, even daily meditation sounds nice - but really, is it even possible? When so much of our lives seem to be filled with the 'urgent and important' tasks of life, these ideas just keep getting pushed down the list.But what if we were to start to consider that nothing was more urgent and important than our health, our mental health, our inner sense of peace?What if we could see that the ONLY thing we needed to ensure happened every single day was the one thing that actually made all the difference: time on ourselves.In this episode, Amy talks about how we can start to switch our thinking from prioritising everything else to realising that nothing else matters more than our how we feel about ourselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"If I'm not Superwoman, then how am I going to get it all done?"That's what I believed for so long. And it's what I've heard mamas say for years. It's nice to think that we can slow down, let go of the pressure, look after ourselves a little better, and be in the moment with our loved ones... but when the reality is our house is a mess and our to-do list never, ever ends, then how? How is that even possible?There is a way to get it all done, mamas - and it's all about redefining Superwoman.Yes, you still need those super powers, but you approach them in a very different way.In this episode, I speak with Simone Denny - entrepreneur, business owner, coach, and mama to two. We speak about realising that the life you are building is actually not what you want at all, and how to refocus and find your real 'superpower' and purpose.And for all my New Zealand mamas - Simone and I are holding a full day workshop on this exact topic (and so much more!) on the 8th of June! All details and tickets available here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I want to show my children what is possible. I want them to see that you can be a kind, compassionate and present mama, and still do what you love. I want to show them that you can have a healthy and respectful marriage with three kids taking up ALL OF YOUR SPACE. I want them to know that it's possible to be happy and full without being Superwoman. And if I want them to see ALL of this, then that means ... my number one priority is to be a living example of what's possible. In this podcast episode, Amy talks about this simple and powerful idea, how it is helping her prioritise things differently, and how you too might use this idea to refocus on what you really want your children to see. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you find peace with parts of this mamahood journey that aren't so joyful and happy? What if you feel a sense of sadness or anger that it seems so much easier for others? How exactly do you live with grace? These are the questions author and mama Cathy Spooner had to face when she realised that deep down inside, she was not happy. On the outside, she should have been - she had all she'd dreamed about. but somewhere underneath it all, there was a sense of loss too. A loss of herself, and a loss of some of the core joyful moments of early mamahood. In this beautiful interview, Cathy shares her story of post-natal depression and darkness, and how she has found her way back to herself - her true self. Grace, and what it really means on a daily basis, has helped her put rock-solid self-care practices into her life, and has guided her to realise that even when it's nothing like you want it to be, motherhood is the making of you. If you'd like to read more of Cathy's story, use the code HAPPYMAMA here to receive a generous 20% off her book 'Living with Grace'.And find out more about Cathy here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If only it were as easy as listening to a podcast, and ... that's it.⁣⁣Your thoughts are changed. ⁣⁣Your energy is cleared, your old stories of not being good enough, your beliefs that you should be doing more, transformed.⁣If only.⁣⁣Every single day for the past decade, I have committed to myself and my family that I will do my best:⁣⁣my best for them, and for me.⁣⁣I know you feel the same - ⁣⁣you don't want to unconsciously walk through this time - this beautiful stage of motherhood ​​​- with your eyes closed. ⁣⁣But how? ⁣⁣How do we keep showing up each day, doing our best? ⁣⁣Today, I have a podcast with a difference to share with you: ⁣⁣it's not an interview with a global expert on motherhood or womanhood.⁣⁣This time, it's actually a recording of a video I did earlier this year to share a new tool I have brought into that daily commitment to be my best.​​​​​​​​⁣⁣It’s something new for my Happy Mama tribe - and I share it with you as yet another invitation to ask: ⁣How am I going to support myself to show up as my best?⁣You can learn more about essential oils and how I'm sharing and using them here. And you can join my brand new 40 days to Essentially Calm program here (only until the end of April 2019). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If we want to work, does that mean we value motherhood less?And if we suddenly find ourselves reprioritising our career plans to be with our little ones while they are still little, does that mean we have given up on our ambition?Can we make decisions on what we most want at this time of our life without the judgement of what it actually 'means'?For so long, we've been told that we have a choice: one or the other. One means we love being a mum, and the other means we love our job. And these 'competing devotions', as author and professor of gender and sociology, Mary Blair-Loy describes it, often make us feel stuck.In this episode, I share how this realisation that I couldn't have both (and what I believed that meant for me) has affected me, and how we can all start to look at our own competing devotions, and decide for ourselves what we really want right now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We think falling pregnant will be easy;We have a very clear idea of what the birth will look like;We believe we know exactly how it will be when we return to work;We have the perfect vision for our perfect families:And of course, motherhood shows us life can be very very different.So how do we navigate the great expectations we have of this time in our life, with the reality that we are faced with?Naomi Woolfson is a mama of two who has had her fair share of 'great expectations' - especially around the process of becoming a mama. But with each challenge comes an opportunity, and in this interview, Naomi shares how she has learnt to detach herself from the 'noise' in her head, find her true self, and come out of the 'hibernation of early motherhood'.Naomi is a mum of two and inspires and supports women on their journeys to and through motherhood.Embrace Fertility was birthed from her journey through infertility, IVF and miscarriage. Naomi started blogging about the anxiety and depression she was experiencing and the relief she found from bringing mindfulness into her life.She retrained as a cognitive hypnotherapist and offers a range of Hypnosis MP3s and online courses including hypnobirthing.She has recently started a podcast - More Mojo for Mums - which is an open and honest account of bringing mindfulness to life with young children. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I used to think I would just tac motherhood onto my life - as if it would be another role on top of all I do. I'd go back to who I was - at work, in my relationship, with my body and health - just with the added bonus of a baby, or three!What I didn't know then, but I know now, is... we never go back. Every part of our lives is changed with motherhood - that's what matrescence is all about. But, if we're not aware of this, we can feel like we've lost a part of ourselves, and we grieve what used to be.Are we allowed to grieve our old lives?Are we even allowed to admit that we wish it was like it used to be?Yes, of course. In fact, grieving the changes in your life is a very important step - no matter where you are in motherhood.In this episode, I share a simple and practical exercise we can all do to help acknowledge the significant changes that we are going through, and become OK with the loss of who we used to be.Listen, and share with me how you went with it.I'd love to hear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does something like mindfulness actually help us as mothers? When so many of us just want to be calmer and more present when we're with our children, how does something like a mindfulness practice actually help? Sometimes, understanding the science behind something can be the key to actually sticking to it. You can see the need for healthy food and exercise, but once you understand what it does to your brain and body, it becomes obvious that this has to be a part of your life. Once you've heard Dr Elise Bialylew explain the science behind mindfulness - in a really down to earth way - you'll feel the same about mindfulness. Being aware of your thoughts is one of the keys to being a Happy Mama. Knowing the tools to reach for when it's all getting too much is absolutely one of the first steps to being the mama you want to be. In this episode, mama and founder of Mindful in May, Dr Elise Bialylew explain how she discovered this truth, how and why it works, and what we can all start doing now to be more mindful, calm and connected. And if you want to try 5 days of FREE mindfulness practice to really start to see how this would support you, click here to join the amazing free 4 day program, along with thousands of other mamas around the world, starting APRIL 8th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If we can accept that right now, in this season of life, we are in 'matrescence', the transformation from woman to mother, then we can start to accept that all we're feeling, all we're going through, all we're facing is a part of a process.In fact, it's a DIVINE process.This is the making of us, mamas.All that we are going through is the making of us.So can we start to change the way we view what we're going through?And, perhaps even see it is a gift?In this episode, I remind us all that matrescence is one of the greatest gifts of womanhood - if only we can start to embrace it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Again and again and again I recognise the stunning beauty in pain. And the outrageous gift that is motherhood - in all its tiresome, messy and unsure glory."These are the words of mama, business woman and my beautiful friend, Lisa Corduff. When I read these words recently, I immediately reached out to Lisa and insisted we jump on a call as soon as possible to discuss.How can we remember the stunning beauty in pain, struggle, overwhelm, suffering?How do we prioritise ourselves as women when our family or our loved ones need us so much?Can we really trust that everything is happening for the best?These are just some of the divine questions I put to Lisa - and her answers will flaw you. As I say in the introduction to this episode, listen with a notepad and pen, mamas. This is a keeper.To follow all of Lisa's insights into motherhood, business and life, visit Small Steps Living or Lisa Corduff.And share. Please share with mamas and friends everywhere. The world needs this conversation to go far and wide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your anger and anxiety was your life calling you?Here's an interesting idea, mamas - what if all that overwhelm, anger, anxiety and worry was actually a gift? What if it was the warning sign your life was sending you, that things were out of balance?As women, we believe anything that is going right is our fault: we should 'fix' it by trying harder, giving more of ourselves, doing more, and doing it better.It's what the world has been telling us our whole lives: do more, do better.But what if the struggles we are feeling are not our fault at all? What if it was a symptom of the values the world has put on us - and our anxiety, anger and depression was our life calling us back to the truth?This is the message from the phenomenal book 'Circle of Stones' by Judith Duerk - and in this episode, I talk about what this means to me, and the courage it takes to decide to listen to your anger, and ask: what is it it's trying to tell me? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.