For many midlife women, stress isn't just an occasional visitor—it’s a constant undercurrent. We juggle careers, caregiving, changing bodies, and the quiet (or not-so-quiet) ache for deeper fulfilment. In this powerful episode of Life, Health & The Universe, we meet Marie Young—a woman who, like so many of us, once checked all the boxes for success yet felt something was missing.
Marie’s story begins in the corporate world, where she climbed the ladder and lived the hustle, all while carrying a deep sense of disconnection. Despite professional success and years in the performing arts, behind the scenes she was battling depression, burnout, and a longing for something more grounded—more real.
It was yoga and breath work that cracked open the door. That first class wasn’t just exercise—it was a remembering. It reconnected her to her body, her spirit, and her purpose. What followed was a profound journey of healing, self-discovery, and embodiment.
A key turning point in Marie’s path was her exploration of the vagus nerve, especially its ventral branch—a crucial player in the body’s ability to relax and feel safe. Marie discovered simple, soul-nourishing techniques like self-massage, humming, and chanting (yes, even in the car!) that gently awaken this nerve and bring the nervous system back into balance. One favourite? Chanting “Aum”—a vibration that soothes the stress response and reconnects us to the present moment.
This episode is a treasure chest of wisdom for any woman in midlife who’s feeling frayed at the edges. We explore:
How the vagus nerve governs your ability to rest, digest, and feel safe
Why corporate success often masks deep spiritual hunger
Simple, doable practices to shift from stress into stillness
How ancient techniques like yoga and chanting offer real-world relief
The power of embodiment coaching to help you reclaim your calm and confidence
Marie also shares a grounded view of today’s shifting wellness culture. From tech companies embracing mindfulness, to women stepping away from performative success and into soul-aligned leadership, there’s a new path opening. One that prioritises presence over pressure. Purpose over productivity.
Whether you’re navigating peri-menopause, career pivots, or just craving peace in your nervous system, this episode is a gentle but powerful invitation to come back to yourself.
Because the truth is, midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s a call. And your body already knows the way home.
Listen now on your favourite podcast platform.
