Next Level Greatness - Holistic Wellness & Success Podcast

SEASON 3| #124 ~ I Didn’t Want To Die — Then I Reclaimed My Life

I recorded this at 5am and was whispering to not wake up my hubby. 
I didn’t want to die.
I was sitting in the yard, unable to enjoy even the simplest pleasures:  watching my dogs play, seeing the sun shine.That wasn’t a life.
I didn’t want to die.I just knew that what I was doing was barely existing.
When you’re constantly dizzy and chronically fatigued, 24 hours in a day feels never-ending.
Over and over again for almost two years… i had the thought that if it weren’t for our dogs, my husband, my mother, and even the people who love, respect, and look up to me , I’d be okay with not being here. (I wasn’t suicidal, I just didn’t want to suffer this way.)
Living with chronic illness and having my life diminished so greatly took me to some dark places.
They say when you get to rock bottom, the only way is up.
My north star has always been: no matter what, I’m going to live a joyful life. 
So I got to work, a different kind of work. 
At the end of 2021, I made a decision to do whatever it takes to reclaim myself.
What had gotten me to this state was something I now see in so many successful women:
overriding the body’s signals for rest and a different approach to life that doesnt require powering through. 
Even though I was running a seven-figure business, and on the outside it looked like I had the perfect life, there were certain behaviors that, over time, led to my body saying: no more.
🐍 I would jump straight into work after waking up.
🐍 I’d get so focused that I worked into the late evening despite my husband’s comments. 
🐍I was working out and eating well because it was literally my career & lifestyle, but I wasn’t taking care of my inner landscape. (Many confuse a fit body with true holistic health)
🐍 I was working with people & in friendships who drained me.
🐍 I was saying yes to too many beautiful requests to contribute.
I wanted to be of service. I was capable. But too many yeses led to my detriment.
🐍 Back-to-back Zoom calls.
🐍 Loosey-goosey boundaries.
The list of how I unknowingly self-abandoned is longggg. 
When I decided to heal abd reclaim my life, like with everything else, I went all in.
Colonics. Functional medicine supplements. Hyperbaric chamber therapy. All sorts of gadgets and devices. Tens and tens of $$$. 
They all helped a little, but I still wasn’t getting to the root cause.
My nervous system had become so dysregulated that it was wreaking havoc in my body. That was the missing link.
I was outsourcing my healing, thinking the devices or supplements would fix it, without changing my behavior, my beliefs, or how I was showing up in my life.
Working with my body — specifically my nervous system — gave me breathing room.
It opened space.It lifted the brain fog and dizziness I had been carrying for years.
But that was only part of the equation.
Because you only work on your nervous system and keep the same overworking, overdoing, over-people-pleasing, over-saying-yes patterns, you will stay in a vicious cycle of Band-Aid solutions.
Intuitively, I knew I had to change my way of being. And I did.
Today, I have energy to spare.My brain is clear, crystal clear.The vertigo is completely gone.My love of life is back. 🎉
At 51, this as a new era of wisdom and joy unleashed. 
My mission is to guide other women who, through no fault of their own, have been married to the grind and the hustle, whose bodies are starting to say no, or have already made a big declaration of “we cannot do this anymore.”
This is why I created The Reclamation.
If you’ve been ignoring your body for much of your life…
If you’ve been overriding its signals for rest…
If you’ve been over-giving, over-functioning, overworking and you’ve built a very successful life that looks great on paper…
You don’t come out of that unscathed.
The Reclamation mastermind, a 6-month experience, is about truly reclaiming your vitality, your voice, and your inner light. I walk with you as you go out in the laboratory of life, becoming the updated, vibrant versiok of you. 
It’s not just for women experiencing chronic illness or burnout.
You don’t have to wait until you hit that point.
We start February 10.Doors are open. 7.2k for 6 months in an intimate container of up to 10 women. 
By July, you’ll be feeling alive, vibrant, and shining the light that you were always meant to shine.
DM for details and incredibly juicy BONUS not listed on website. 
♥️Barbie 
The Reclamation Mastermind: https://www.barbiekalev.com/reclamation

#123 ~ Transform Urgency into Calm Action: The Art of Nervous System Regulation

Welcome to this episode of Next Level Greatness, where we delve into the art of making thoughtful decisions from a place of calmness rather than stress. Explore the dynamics of the nervous system and its role in our instinctive responses to stressors. Discover practical strategies to help you shift from urgency-driven actions to more centered and deliberate choices.
Through personal anecdotes and insights, learn how being aware of what triggers your nervous system can unlock new possibilities and enhance your decision-making skills. Embrace the tranquility that comes with understanding and regulating your body's natural responses, and experience the potential for personal and professional growth. Join us on this journey to find peace within chaos and make informed decisions that align with your deepest desires.
 
My signature Unclenched to release or tension, stress, and trauma
 
 

#122 ~ Are You Doing Too Much. How To Say Yes To What Matters

In this episode of Next Level Greatness, join me as I delve into the creation of my ambitious project "Unclenched" and the valuable lessons learned along the way. I share my personal journey of discovering the balance between taking on multiple responsibilities and focusing on what truly matters.
Witness the challenges and triumphs of producing a 30-day sequence that includes both video and audio, and the unexpected difficulties that emerged during the process. From mastering the art of letting go of perfection to hiring a team for support, this episode reveals the importance of investing in the long-term benefits of one's work.
Explore the notion of setting boundaries, saying no to unnecessary commitments, and understanding the true cost of trying to do it all. Filled with insights on personal growth, somatic movement, and the joy of celebrating one's capacity, this episode encourages listeners to prioritize well-being over being perpetually busy.
Unclenched: https://www.barbiekalev.com/unclenched
 

#121- Embodied Peace: When Self-Care Becomes Second Nature

Welcome to the Next Level Greatness podcast, where we explore the power of slowing down and embracing a more integrated approach to self-care. Join us as we discuss how rushing through life can be a conditioned response and discover the transformative benefits of making rest and calm a part of who you are, rather than a separate practice.
In this episode, we uncover how meditation, somatic work, and other modalities, when truly integrated into daily life, can lead to a state of embodied peace. Learn how to infuse your actions with serenity and delve into our unique offerings, including the upcoming launch of the self-paced 'Unclenched' program and the 'Reclamation' experience for those seeking deeper transformation.
Tune in for insights that aim to help you cultivate a healthier, happier lifestyle by embracing the lessons learned from these transformative practices. Don't miss our reflection on how embodying such practices can change the world around us for the better.
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
Pre-order Unclenched here: UNCLENCHED
The Reclamation (13-Week Experience): RECLAMATION 
 

#120 - Reclaiming Life Force and Living with Purpose

Welcome to the latest episode of Next Level Greatness. In this episode, join me on a personal journey of transformation and self-discovery as I share my experiences of leaving a long-term role and delving into the world of somatics. Discover how embracing change and focusing on personal growth has revitalized my life and allowed me to create impactful courses designed to help women unleash their true potential.
Learn about the power of somatic practices and how they can regulate your nervous system, releasing stress and fostering inner peace. Explore the excitement of launching the new program, Unclench, which combines education, practical applications, and somatic movement workouts to empower you to live a life full of vitality.
If you're ready to embark on your own journey of inner growth and transformation, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with me for more insights and join a supportive community of individuals committed to personal excellence.
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
Pre-order Unclenched here: UNCLENCHED

#119 ~ Stress, Healing, and the Interconnectedness of Body Systems

In this eye-opening episode of Next Level Greatness, we delve into the complexities of the nervous system and its role in our healing journey. Join us as we explore the interconnectedness of the body's systems, highlighting the physical and mental toll of chronic stress and illness. Learn practical techniques for regulating the nervous system, drawn from personal experiences with vertigo and chronic fatigue.
Discover the revolutionary concept of neuroplasticity and how it can transform your health by retraining the brain and nervous system. This episode offers hope and encouragement for those struggling with chronic conditions, proving that healing is possible with the right understanding and approach. Experience the power of gratitude and the possibility of seeing the world in color once again through effective nervous system work.
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
Pre-order Unclenched here: UNCLENCHED
 
 

#118 ~ Digital Detox To Magnetism: Lessons From Sabbatical

In this 26-minute episode, I share my transformative journey through a 3-month social media sabbatical and the unexpected wisdom gained upon my return. Discover practical strategies for cleaning up your digital space, reconnecting authentically with your community, and intentionally reintegrating social media into your life without letting it consume you. I reveal surprising moments of clarity that emerged after disconnection and explore the concept of digital magnetism—how stepping away can paradoxically make your online presence more impactful. Whether you're considering your own social media break or seeking a healthier relationship with digital platforms, this episode offers actionable insights and personal revelations. Plus, get a sneak peek into my upcoming mastermind program designed to help you cultivate authentic connection in our hyper-connected world.
 
Pre-order Unclenched: here
Subscribe to my YouTube: here
Successful woman ready for the next level of inner expansion, learn about Ascension

#117 ~ How Somatic Practices Help Driven Women Release Stress and Reclaim Their Power

This episode delves into the personal journey of discovering the profound impact of stress and trauma on the body and mind. It explores the challenges faced along the way and the transformative power of somatic exercises for healing and stress release. Learn valuable tools and insights to help regulate the nervous system, foster emotional intelligence, and embrace a more balanced life.
 
Pre-order Unclenched here: UNCLENCHED 

#116 ~ High Performance AND/OR True Alignment...what are you seeking?

In this episode of Next Level Greatness, join us as we explore the realms of high performance and true alignment, seeking clarity on what these terms really mean. Through a deeply personal reflection, our host shares an interaction that triggered an internal journey about her own path and motivations.
Dive into a discussion about partnership, collaboration, and how certain conversations can prompt profound introspection. Discover insights on navigating work and healing in ways that are deeply personal and impactful for sustained success.
This episode invites listeners to consider their own narratives and desires, urging a balance between external achievements and internal well-being, ultimately advocating for a life that harmoniously blends ambition with self-care.
 
Pre-order Unclenched at introductory rate: here 
Subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE 
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#115 ~ How Stress Triggers Pain & Somatic Practices for Relief

In this episode of Next Level Greatness, we delve into the intricate relationship between stress and physical pain, revealing how our bodies manifest emotional turmoil. Discover the secrets behind why your hips and jaw might become painful during stressful times and explore the fascinating science of somatic practices that can help you alleviate this discomfort.
Join the host as she shares personal experiences, including caring for her aging mother, and offers insights into using self-care techniques to build resilience. Learn how to listen to your body's signals, manage stress-induced physical responses, and adopt practices to nurture both your body and mind.
 
Pre-order Unclenched at introductory rate: here 
 
Subscribe to my YouTube channel HERE 
 
If you loved this episode, please leave a review! Your review helps push this podcast out to other people!