EMBODY explores real-life issues that cause stress, pain & trauma and how we can recover, repair and thrive through the challenges in our life. Welcome to the conversation! EMBODY is hosted by, Michelle Major, who is passionate about breaking the stigma attached to women's mental health and wellbeing through a trauma-informed lens. Michelle founded The Sunshine Project in 2012 after a lengthy career in leadership roles within the financial services industry. For almost 12-years, Michelle, ha ...
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Michelle is pressing pause on the podcast for a short time due to work commitments and an important work project that needs a final push to get over the line! Please remember to like & subscribe so you don't miss the episodes when we return in a couple of months time. We look forward to sharing the next stage of our journey with you all very soon. …
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S4; Ep 10: Changing Cycles with Joanne Callan
55:31
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In this episode, Michelle, is joined by Joanne Callan. Joanne is a Holistic Therapist and Well Being Coach and a Relax Kids Coach in 2020 Joanne founded Changing Cycles a Social Enterprise that is focused on “creating a world where the cyclical nature of women is understood, integrated and respected throughout our society.” We chat about: The cycli…
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S4, Ep9: The problem with female empowerment culture
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, shares her views on the female empowerment culture we see played out on social media platforms. Michelle shares: Why the female empowerment culture is not trauma-informed The link between patriarchy, capitalism, and narcissism The harm caused by the promotion of privilege The difference between cultural norms V's bi…
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On this weeks episode, Michelle, shares her reflections on prioritising commitments after a busy work schedule meant this weeks podcast was a day later than usual. Michelle shares: The importance of checking in with the body before forcing ourselves to power through in order to please other people Extra commitments mean extra choices and options Ho…
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S4, Ep 7: Men in the Arena - mental health, vulnerability & healing with Matt & Mike
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On this weeks episode, Michelle, is joined my Matt Kovatchis & Mike David. Matt and David are co-hosts of 'Men in the Arena' Podcast and are based across the pond in Chicago. We chat about: Mens mental health The healing process Sexuality The true meaning of success Toxic masculinity Becoming more connected and authentic Discerning what to share pu…
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S4, Ep6: Self-love, toxic positivity & spiritual bypassing
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In this episode, Michelle, shares her views on self-love in a culture that promotes toxic positivity and spiritual bypassing. When we are operating from an ego perspective acts of self-love can actually lead us to display traits of narcissism. Michelle shares: The difference between ego self-love and genuine self-love Alternative language for self-…
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S4, Ep 5: Spirituality, becoming a vegetarian and eating meat again after 17-years!
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32:49
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In this episode, Michelle, shares how her spiritual journey lead her to becoming a strict vegetarian in 2005. For 17-years, Michelle, refrained from eating any fish, chicken or meat. Then, after discovering somatics and becoming more connected to her own body, Michelle, for the first time in almost two decades, began to get cravings for meat again.…
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S4, Ep 4: The Universal Language of Music with Louise Kelly
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In this episode, Michelle, is joined by Music Therapist, Louise Kelly. Louise is also a single mum to a wonderful 17-year old son. Louise is a highly experienced Music Therapist with 24 years experience working as a HCPC Registered Music Therapist, 17 of those devoted to children and young people specifically. Louise is passionate about sharing a “…
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S4, Ep 3: Why regulation isn't always regulating!
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, explores the complexity of regulation and why some practices that promote regulation aren't always regulating! Michelle talks about: Somatics and what this word really means Why the wellness world's focus on down-regulation isn't always what the nervous system needs Why looking calm and relaxed isn't always the inne…
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S4, Ep 2: Wise Up - Power, Wisdom & the Older Woman with Barbara Scully
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In this weeks episode I am joined by Irish Broadcaster, Writer and Author, Barbara Scully. During this conversation we discuss Barbara's brilliant book, her life experiences and what inspired her to write her first book. We chat about: Being a single mother in Ireland in the 80's - the judgement, discrimination and harm caused by patriarchy Victim …
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S4, Ep 1: Welcome to Season 4 - An Alternative New Year Offering!
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We are kicking off Season 4 with a new year and a new perspective on all this 'new year, new year' noise that we are bombarded with on social media, our culture and society. Michelle shares: Why it's ok to not have big resolutions, create big goals or make big decisions about your life; Whilst everyone celebrates all their BIG achievements during 2…
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S3, Ep 10: Puppy love, kindness & oxytocin
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This is our last episode before the Christmas break. On this weeks episode I share the delight and joy of welcoming a new puppy into her wee family. I talk about: The grief and loss of other pets and why I decided to wait over 4-years before getting another pet Creating safety in the home for a new pet Why kindness is the greatest antidote to stres…
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S3 Ep9: My Story - Starting over again after burnout, redundancy & divorce
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My wellbeing story began in 2005 when I enrolled in a counselling skills course. I was 25-years old at the time, married and had a very successful career in financial services. I enjoyed all the external measures of success - the sports car, the big house, the five star holidays, designer handbags, the lot. Yet I felt like there was something missi…
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In this episode, Michelle, shares her self-care tips for managing our wellbeing during the festive period. Michelle shares: The importance of giving ourselves permission to feel our feelings Setting boundaries over the festive period Self-care is about 'me too' rather than 'me first' Cultivating self-care when we are parents and care givers Why the…
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S3, Ep7: How to escape the comparison trap!
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In this episode, Michelle, shares how social media primes us to compare ourselves with others. Michelle shares: The different types of compassion A photo has more than one story How our nervous system state can drive us to compare more Boundaries & comparison Research into comparison Thoughts & comparison How to move past comparison Who we should w…
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, explores why it's so important that we seek help and support in our helping roles. Michelle shares: The skill of holding space Increasing our capacity to be with clients bigger emotions/sensations Boundaries in the therapeutic process Merging & disengaging with our clients Resonance in our nervous system Why persona…
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S3, Ep5: Trauma in the newsroom with Leona O'Neill
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In this weeks episode I am joined by Leona O'Neill, who is a Lecturer of Journalism at University of Ulster, Author and Tedx Speaker after spending 25-years as a news journalist in Northern Ireland. Leona co-edited 'Breaking: Trauma in the Newsroom' alongside BBC's Chris Lindsay. The book is a collection of real-life stories written by journalists …
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S3, Ep4: The Climb - Grief, Suicide, & Mount Kilimanjaro with Emma Mullan
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In this weeks episode I am joined by entrepreneur & professional hiker, Emma Mullan. Emma held a Director role in HR for 14-years and served as President of Newry Chamber from 2019 - 2021. Along with her commitment to business, innovation and entrepreneurship, Emma has been a passionate hiker for 14-years. When she suffered a bereavement by suicide…
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S3, Ep3: Sexuality, Intimacy & the Nervous System with Dee Larsen
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In this weeks episode I am joined by Dee Larsen - a Certified Sexuality Practitioner and founder of Body Conscious Studio based in Belfast. Dee offers one to one and couples sessions from her studio or online. “I believe that sexual wellbeing is an intrinsic part of our overall happiness. It is vital that we have access to education about our bodie…
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S3, Ep2: Creating space & rest during busy periods
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During this episode, Michelle, explores how we can support our nervous system health during busy periods. Michelle shares: Cultural & societal norms V’s biological norms Widening our window of tolerance Building nervous system capacity The different types of self-care Creating more support & rest Why support is so important Support the show Thanks …
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S3, Ep1: The Pain & Beauty of Intergenerational Trauma with Deirdre Nicole Heggarty
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Welcome to Season 3 of EMBODY! To celebrate the start of another season, Michelle, was joined by Deirdre Nicole Heggarty, a Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist, specialising in Play Therapy. Prior to this, Deirdre, was a primary school teacher in Ireland and Abu Dhabi. The theme of our conversation is intergenerational trauma. It’s a powerful conver…
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I am beyond excited to announce Season 3 of EMBODY! We will kick off our next season on Monday 9th October with more fantastic professionals and interesting themes and topics. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss the episodes when they launch! I will be taking a little break from podcasting until then to rest and recharge. If you have any topics…
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, shares the harmful victim blaming that sadly still exists in our society surrounding domestic and sexual assault. Michelle shares: Statistics for numbers of reported crimes in the UK and Northern Ireland The barriers that exist in our criminal justice system The myths and victim blaming culture for those who've been…
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S2, Ep9: The trauma of cancer, body shaming, and toxic positivity with Eilish Craig
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In this weeks episode I am joined by the genuine and authentic, Eilish Craig. Eilish is a Counsellor & Mental Health Facilitator who's world came crashing down around her after a cancer diagnoses at 41-years old. In this open, raw and honest conversation, Eilish shares her experience of first being diagnosed, to being in recovery, and how much body…
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S2, Ep8: Ocean Therapy - sea swimming, safety, breathing & free diving with Hannos Windisch
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1:17:09
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In this episode, Michelle, is joined by ocean expert, Hannos Windisch. Hannos is the founder of Free Dive Northern Ireland and is a Certified SSI Level Two Instructor. Hannos received training by the Italian national record holder Linda Paganelli. Hannos offers a variety of unique sea activities on the North Coast of Northern Ireland. During this f…
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S2, Ep7: Consent, Boundary Rupture & Repair
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, explores the theme of consent, boundary rupture and repair. ***TRIGGER WARNING*** Please note there are references to the types of boundary ruptures we might experience. For example, sexual, domestic/emotional abuse, control, stalking, and harassment so please mind yourself and take breaks if you need to. Michelle h…
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In this weeks episode, Michelle, talks about embracing cycles as we prepare to transition from the summer months to term time again. Michelle shares: Why transitions take time and need space Why the rhythm and routine are supportive for our nervous system Term time is not just for our children Why September feels like January September's offerings …
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S2, Ep5: 6 Important Questions for Clients
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In this episode, Michelle, shares 6 important questions for clients to ask potential professionals when seeking out emotional support. Sadly there is a lot of misinformation and misrepresentation on social media which can cause confusion and misplaced credibility. Here are the 6 key questions explored in this conversation: 1) Are they a member of a…
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On this week's episode, Michelle, shares the hope and optimism of how we can renegotiate trauma to live a more vibrant, whole and authentic life! As always, please mind yourself whilst listening and take breaks or seek support if you feel triggered. Michelle share's: The story of 'Nancy' - a client of Dr Peter Levine's back in 1969 who inspired fur…
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S2, Ep3: The Healing Powers of Play with Siobhan Wilson
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In this weeks episode I am joined by Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist and Play Therapist, Siobhan Wilson. Siobhan is also the owner of Roe Valley Therapy Centre in Limavady and just so happens to be one of my closest friends! Siobhan and I met back in 2005 during our Counselling Skills course in Limavady College. We sat beside each other on the f…
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S2, Ep2: Zen Meditation, Somatic Experiencing & Early Developmental Trauma with Alex Greene
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1:09:58
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This week I am= joined by Alex Greene, who began studying the mind body connection in Hawaii in 2000 through Zen meditation and traditional martial arts. This lead to a curiosity in structural bodywork. Alex found that becoming certified in bodywork was the 'missing ingredient' in his practice at that time. This lead to further comprehensive traini…
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S2, Ep1: Pregnancy, Birth & Human Rights with Sara Benetti
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In this episode, Michelle, is joined by Birth Doula, Sara Benetti. Sara is passionate about protecting the birth experience and supporting women throughout their pregnancy so they feel empowered to create a birth plan of their choice. During this rich and warm conversation, we discuss: The role of a Doula The benefits a Doula can bring to the birth…
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I am beyond excited to bring you season 2 of EMBODY - launching on Monday 17th July. Make sure you're following the feed so you don't miss an episode! Here's a little sneak peak at some of the interesting and informative topics myself and my guests will be discussing during season 2: Pregnancy Birth Early Developmental Trauma Attachement Styles Mem…
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To celebrate our 10th episode and end of our first season of EMBODY, Michelle shares one of her most favourite and popular embodied relaxation practices! (For obvious reasons, please do not drive whilst listening to this). In today's modern and busy world, embodied relaxation is a gentle and safe way to reconnect to the body, inviting all parts to …
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S1, Ep9: The Evolution of Mothering with Carol Smyth
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In this episode I am joined by Carol Smyth, who is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), La Leche League Leader, author, and CBT Therapist based in Northern Ireland. Carol shares my passion for the nervous system and neuroscience - weaving both into her educational materials and in her private practice. We chat about: The e…
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S1, Ep8: The Polarising World of Wellbeing
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This is episode, Michelle, explores the polarisation of our wellbeing world and why we need a more integrative approach to healing, especially when working with the nervous system. Michelle shares: What is polarisation? Examples of the types of polarisation that exists in wellbeing, for example, mindset, meditation, yoga, somatic's A trauma-lens vi…
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S1, Ep7: Stress, Trauma & the Nervous System
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In this episode, Michelle, shares the difference between stress, trauma and the impact this has on the nervous system. Please mind yourself during this conversation. Even the word trauma can be activating for our nervous system. Michelle discusses: How short-term stressors impact the nervous system When stress develops into chronic stress The diffe…
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S1, Ep6: Breakdown to Breakthrough: yoga, menopause and music with Julie Preston
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59:59
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On this episode I am joined by Julie Preston, Founder of TruYou Yoga Wellness, Senior Yoga Teacher (Yoga Alliance Professionals UK), Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist, Kirtan Leader and Trauma Informed Holistic Coach. We dive deep in this conversation! Julie openly shares the pivotal moments in her life that changed the trajectory of her career, health and …
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S1, Ep5: Routine medical procedures & the nervous system
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In this episode, Michelle, shares why our nervous system can have a big emotional response to something that is deemed 'routine' and how our mind will want to constantly over-ride the somatic self. Michelle discusses: * Why boundary ruptures can make these routine appointments more challenging; * Even though we know in our mind that we need these l…
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S1, Ep4: Periods, Burnout & Rest with Lisa de Jong (part 2)
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24:35
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Welcome to part 2 of my conversation with Lisa de Jong. I really enjoyed these conversations. I hope they resonate and touch you too. In this episode we discuss : The stages and seasons of our menstrual cycle Why rest is so important All the different ways we can rest when we are busy What self-care looks like when we are connected with our menstru…
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S1, Ep3: Periods, Pain & Power with Lisa de Jong (part 1)
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In this episode I am joined by Lisa de Jong, a Health Coach specialising in the menstrual cycle, chronic pain & trauma. Lisa works with clients on a 1-2-1 basis and also offers an accredited training course. Lisa also hosts the 'From Pain to Power' Podcast. Lisa shares her personal story of endometriosis and how the challenges of getting a proper d…
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S1, Ep2: Becoming more visible, taking risks & growing with our nervous system!
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In this episode, Michelle, shares some insight into becoming more visible and the nervous system. Sharing our voice, taking up more space, and sharing our professional expertise, views and opinions can feel exposing, especially when you are a woman. Every time we wish to seek out a new job, a promotion, professional development, a new course or tra…
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S1, Ep1: Why embodiment is so hard in today's modern culture.
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In this episode, Michelle, explores why embodiment is so hard in today's modern culture. "We don't have enough real life mirrors in our society reflecting back to us what it's like to be deeply human so we feel more more seen, heard and understood." We need to change the mental health conversation from "what's wrong with you?" to "what happened to …
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Hello! And a very warm welcome to the EMBODY podcast with me, your host, Michelle Major. I'm so delighted to connect with you on here. I'm passionate about breaking the stigma attached to women's mental health and wellbeing through a trauma-informed lens. Join me and my guests for a wide range of interesting and informative conversations where we d…
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