The V Movement

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sign up on our WAITLIST! Be the first to learn about our upcoming 8 week series: Menopause Masterclass Fitness & Wellness.Welcome to the V Movement Podcast! Join us in this mini podcast series focused on the menopause transition and post-menopause phase of life. Our goal is to provide education and insights to help you navigate this stage of life with a greater understanding. We discuss the importance of addressing and understanding menopause, the impact of education on perception, and how a change in mindset can impact this transition. Tune in to join the conversation and learn more about your body's changes. Stay empowered and keep the V's in your life moving!Find a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sign up on our WAITLIST! Be the first to learn about our upcoming 8 week series: Menopause Masterclass Fitness & Wellness.In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Misty JD, founder of Mother's Village and Modern Day Wild Woman, a nonprofit in Humboldt County dedicated to uplifting mothers through connection and community. Misty shares how the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic sparked the creation of Mother's Village, and how the organization now provides support circles, childcare, and holistic care with the help of trained doulas and wellness professionals. Episode Resources:A Mothers Village WebsiteFind a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sign up on our WAITLIST! Be the first to learn about our upcoming 8 week series: Menopause Masterclass Fitness & Wellness.Join us as we sit down with Casey Schmidt, a registered nurse and board-certified lactation consultant, to explore the depth of her role in supporting new families. Casey sheds light on the many dimensions of lactation consulting, which extend beyond latching to include nursing, dietetics, pediatrics, dermatology, psychology, and holistic family care. She discusses the significance of the "golden hour" after birth, the mechanics of hand expression and milk production, and the emotional challenges parents may face, such as breastfeeding grief and trauma. Casey also highlights the value of prenatal consultations, peer support groups, and the vital connections between breastfeeding, hormonal shifts, and pelvic health. This episode emphasizes the need for comprehensive postpartum care and the power of community in supporting new parents.Bio: Casey Schmidt is a registered nurse and board-certified lactation consultant in private practice and at Providence St Joseph in Eureka, California. She is passionate about supporting families as they transition into the role of parenthood. She strives to approach every family with kindness and works to facilitate an environment that enhances feelings of safety, joy, connection, and love. Early bonding, uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact, and human milk feeding can have long-lasting health benefits across an individual and family's lifetime. Casey continues to study and advocate for breast/chestfeeding as the biological norm and a way to increase food sovereignty.Episode Resources:Breastfeed Humboldt Facebook Casey Schmidt RN IBCLCSkin to skin/Nils Bergman MDBreast care & kindnessBreastfeeding videosFind a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

In today's episode, Sarah Landis interviews Bobby Spurlock who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and perinatal mental health specialist. They discuss the complexities of postpartum depression, birth trauma, and infant loss. Bobby shares her insights on how these experiences impact both mothers and their partners, highlighting the deep connection between mental health and physical well-being. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sign up on our WAITLIST! Be the first to learn about our upcoming 8 week series: Menopause Masterclass Fitness & Wellness.Episode Resources:Want to connect with Bobby Spurlock, LCSW? Click HEREFind a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

This episode features a special guest, Atavia Minutus, a gut health coach and nutritional therapist from the UK, who specializes in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Atavia discusses the complexities of IBS, including its various symptoms, causes, and the impact stress and diet have on gut health. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sign up on our WAITLIST! Be the first to learn about our upcoming 8 week series: Menopause Masterclass Fitness & Wellness.Episode Resources:

In today's episode, Sarah is interviewing Elyse Martin, who is an RN. Elyse is an experienced RN of many years and has found her passion in maternal health. Listen in as they go over topics related to maternal health including high risk pregnancies, genetic testing, and various other tests a person may experience during their pregnancy.Find a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

In this milestone 20th episode of the V Movement Podcast, the hosts celebrate their journey with a toast! Celebrate with us and tell us what you want to learn about next! Email us at info@thevmove.com.Contact us via email at info@thevmove.com. Find a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locator➡️  Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️  Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletterhttps://the-v-movement.ck.page/600c481290

Host Allison Craig explores the topic of pelvic health and the benefits of weightlifting, especially heavy weightlifting, for those assigned female at birth. She addresses common misconceptions and barriers to weightlifting, such as fear of bulking up or getting injured. She emphasizes the crucial role of a strong pelvic floor in overall health and well-being and how Kegels alone are not sufficient. It is important to integrate weightlifting into health routines to improve muscle mass, bone density, vascular health, posture, stability, and body composition. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Sign up for our upcoming class Sunday September 8th, 3pm at Body Works Fitness Fortuna CAEpisode Resources:Next Level - Dr. Stacy SimsMenopause Manifesto - Dr. Jen GunterFind a PT near you through the APTA Pelvic Health Locatorhttps://www.aptapelvichealth.org/ptlocator➡️ Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️ Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

In today's episode, Sarah interviews Taylor Bloedon who is the co-chair and an Associate Professor in Kinesiology at Cal Poly Humboldt with an emphasis on nutrition and health promotion. She has a Ph.D. in Food and Nutrition Sciences with an emphasis in Exercise Science. She is also Registered Dietitian and a Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. They will be discussing hormanal changes and how we can improve our health through diet during perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. Episode Resources:https://www.eatright.org/⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Sign up for our upcoming class Sunday September 8th, 3pm at Body Works Fitness Fortuna CAContact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ➡️ Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️ Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

In today's episode Sarah is speaking with Dr. Melinda Myers who is a seasoned clinical psychologist and owner of Good Relations in Eureka CA. She shares insights on what people should know about sex including the importance of communication, consent, and pleasure. She also elaborates on the complexities of desire, and the importance of educating people about sexual health. Get ready for an insightful and empowering discussion that just might change the way you think about sex. Contact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Sign up for our upcoming class Sunday September 8th, 3pm at Body Works Fitness Fortuna CA

In today's episode we have the pleasure of hearing a presentation by co-host Dr. Sarah Landis and her colleague Bobby Spurlock who is a clinical social worker certified in perinatal mental health. They presented at the Postpartum Support International (PSI) conference in Washington DC in July of this year. This presentation focuses on the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on perinatal mental health with a focus on marginalized and rural communities. Contact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Sign up for our upcoming class Sunday September 8th, 3pm at Body Works Fitness Fortuna CA

In today's episode Sarah Landis is interviewing Jolene who is a nurse practitioner with 16 years of experience in women's health. They review perimenopause and menopause discussing common symptoms and treatments such as hormone therapy and lifestyle changes to improve overall health at this stage in life. Enjoy and hope you learn something new!Register for Menopause and the Female Athlete!Thursday August 8th 6-7pm at Pivotal Connections, Arcata CAContact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ➡️ Follow us on IG @thev.movement➡️ Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

Sarah Landis, PT, DPT board certified women's health specialist discusses personal and professional experience with pregnancy and postpartum care. It addresses common concerns such as prolapse, incontinence, constipation, and sex during pregnancy and after childbirth. Contact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ➡️ Follow us on Instagram @thev.movement➡️ Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletter

In this episode of the V Movement podcast, we address common questions about pelvic floor physical therapy (PT).Contact us via email at info@thevmove.com. ➡️ Follow us on IG @thev.movementhttps://instagram.com/thev.movement➡️ Subscribe on YouTube @TheVMovement➡️ Join our newsletterhttps://the-v-movement.ck.page/600c481290

In this episode of the V Movement podcast, Holly Wilson, owner of Liberty Fitness in Eureka, shares her journey with endometriosis and pelvic health challenges. Holly discusses her struggles with painful periods from a young age, the medical challenges she encountered, and her eventual diagnosis of endometriosis. She also discusses her experience with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) following the surgery. Holly's story underscores the importance of patient advocacy, accessible medical research, and the need for improved understanding and treatment of female reproductive health issues.Episode ResourcesLiberty Fitness - Book a session with Holly!https://libertyfitnessboutique.com/Book Recommendations: Period Repair Manual by Lara Bridenhttps://helloperiod.com/en-us/products/period-repair-manualFollow us on IG @thev.movementWatch on YouTube @TheVMovementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comMusic provided by POW/Sunset Beach courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!Disclaimer: ​​The information shared in this podcast by Sarah, Allison, and our guest interviews are intended for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While we are licensed physical therapists, we are not your personal physical therapists and no patient/provider relationship is formed. If you have any health concerns or questions, please consult your medical provider. The information on this podcast or any of our platforms is to use at your own risk.

Allison and Sarah discuss the intricacies of bowel movements, the importance of regularity, and how different factors like diet, stress, and travel can affect digestive health. They explain various stool types and provide tips for dealing with constipation and diarrhea, such as using a squatty potty, staying hydrated, and managing stress. They also touch on the connection between bowel health and pelvic floor function. Episode ResourcesClick HERE for the Bowel Massage videoSarah's book recommendation:- Robert Galbraith adult book seriesAllison book recommendation:- Come as you are by Emily Nagoski- The body keeps score by Bessel van der KolkFollow us on IG @thev.movementWatch on YouTube @TheVMovementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comMusic provided by POW/Sunset Beach courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!

Sarah interviews Bonnie Crotzer, a fascia specialist. Bonnie shares her journey of discovering fascia while dealing with various injuries and chronic pain during her ballet career. She recounts how traditional methods like yoga and acupuncture lead her to explore fascia. Fascia, a connective tissue, is described as the fabric of the body, offering countless benefits, including improved mobility, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being. Bonnie discusses her technique, fascia flossing, which emphasizes gentle internal exfoliation of tissues through active engagement. She highlights its significance for structural support, hormonal balance, immune system function, and pelvic floor health. The conversation delves into how the fascia connects various body parts and how addressing it can lead to better health outcomes. Bonnie hosts classes, has a variety online resources, and retreats that she offers to help others explore fascia and its benefits.Episode ResourcesLearn more about Bonnie's program The FlossClick HERE for the link to Dr. Jean Claude Guimberteau video Strolling under the skinFollow us on IG @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comMusic provided by POW/Sunset Beach courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!

Allison and Sarah discuss pelvic organ prolapse, a common condition where pelvic organs descend due to weakened vaginal tissue walls. In this episode we cover the following:Types of prolapse:- Cystocele (anterior wall, bladder)- Rectocele (posterior wall, rectum)- Uterine prolapse (top support system, uterus)Common causes of prolapse:Childbirth, particularly vaginal birthsHypermobility conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndromeAging and hormonal changes during menopauseSymptoms of prolapse:- Heaviness in the pelvis- Difficulty emptying bowels or a feeling of incomplete evacuation- Symptoms worsening after physical activity or by the end of the dayExplanation of the grades of prolapse:- Grade 1: Mild, slight mobility at the top of the vaginal canal- Grade 2: More noticeable bulging into the vaginal canal- Grade 3: Visible at the vaginal opening- Grade 4: Tissue protruding outside the vaginal openingTreatment options:- Non-surgical: vaginal estrogen, pelvic floor physical therapy, pressure management techniques- Pessaries: internal support devices fitted by a gynecologist- External support garments and compression wear- Surgical options for severe cases, with considerations for recovery time and second opinionsImportance of exercise in managing prolapse:- Moderate exercise reduces prolapse risk compared to sedentary lifestyles and extreme heavy lifting- Emphasis on proper pressure management and pelvic floor recruitment during activitiesEpisode ResourcesClick HERE for free access to the Bowel Massage videoFollow us on IG @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comMusic by POW/Sunset Beach courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!

Listen in to Allison's interview with Abby Ruiz where she discusses her pelvic health journey from pregnancy to postpartum. Abby discusses her experience including including pubic symphysis pain, prolapse, and getting back to running. If this episode rings true for you or a friend please share! The more we all learn and share our experiences, the better we can all help each other.Follow us on IG @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!

In this episode, Allison and Sarah dive into the fascinating vagus nerve. Here's a brief rundown of the key points covered:1. Introduction to the Vagus Nerve: The vagus nerve is the 10th cranial nerve and the longest mixed cranial nerve, affecting both sensory and motor functions.It is called the "wanderer" because it extends from the brainstem through various organs down to the abdomen.2. Nervous System Overview:The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves).The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "rest and digest" response.3. Functions of the Vagus Nerve:It influences heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, digestion, gut motility, reflex actions (like coughing and swallowing), inflammation, mood, and pain regulation.The vagus nerve has significant effects on many internal organs, including the heart, lungs, stomach, and intestines.4. Practical Exercises:Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing exercises help activate the vagus nerve, promoting a calming effect on the body.Suboccipital Release: Using tennis balls or gentle massage techniques to relieve tension at the base of the skull.Diaphragm Release: Manual or cupping techniques to alleviate tension in the diaphragm, enhancing breathing and indirectly benefiting the pelvic floor.5. Impact on Pelvic Floor Health:Stress and the fight-or-flight response can tighten the pelvic floor muscles. Awareness and relaxation techniques can help mitigate this.The vagus nerve's influence extends to the pelvic floor, making its proper functioning essential for overall health.6. I Love You Massage:A massage technique aimed at improving intestinal motility and relieving constipation by following the path of the large intestine.This simple, yet effective technique can be done at home to support vagus nerve function and overall digestive health.Episode ResourcesClick HERE for free access to the Bowel Massage videoFollow us on IG @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!

Sarah graciously shares about her experience as a mother of 4. She goes through each pregnancy and what she learned!Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!Episode ResourcesFind more about Sarah's private PT practice at https://www.theaxispt.com/

Sarah shares about a retreat hosted by Pelvic Vitality! It has been postponed until February 2025 so listen in about what the retreat will be about!Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!Episode ResourcesPelvic Vitality Retreat!Good Relations

In this episode, we'll be debunking common misconceptions surrounding diastasis recti, shedding light on its definition, causes, and impact on individuals. Stay tuned as we hear from Sarah, who graciously shares her personal journey with diastasis recti. Whether you're dealing with diastasis recti yourself, curious to learn more, or a healthcare professional seeking insights, this episode is for you. Let's navigate the intricacies of diastasis recti and uncover the truth behind this often misunderstood condition.Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!Episode Resources:Is Diastasis Recti Abdominis Associated With Low Back Pain? A Systematic ReviewThe Diastasis Project

One of the most common diagnoses we see as pelvic floor PTs is urinary incontinence. This diagnosis is surprisingly very common affecting at least 50% of the vulva owners which increases in prevalence to 75% in women over the age of 65. Unfortunately many of us have been told “that's the price of child birth” or “that's just part of getting older”. While child birth and aging has its affects on the pelvic floor, it doesn't mean that urinary incontinence has to be what you deal with. There are many treatments including pelvic floor PT that can help decrease leakage if not completely eliminate it.Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comOur introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comFind a PT near you!Resources:The V Movement's Bladder Diary HandoutNational Association for Continence Bladder Diary

In this episode Allison and Sarah debunk the myth that weightlifting is harmful to the pelvic floor and emphasize the importance of exercise for overall health. They discuss common pelvic floor issues like bladder leakage and pelvic organ prolapse. Allison and Sarah provide an overview of the pelvic floor muscles and their function, highlighting their role in various bodily functions like urination, defecation, and sexual pleasure. They stress the importance of proper breathing mechanics during exercise and encourage listeners to pay attention to their breath and pelvic floor engagement while lifting weights. They advocate for informed decision-making and self-advocacy, sharing personal experiences and research findings.Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter Our introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comEpisode Resources:Acute Effect of Heavy Weightlifting on the Pelvic Floor Muscles in Strength-Trained Women: An Experimental Crossover StudyIs Physical Activity Good or Bad for the Female Pelvic Floor? A Narrative Review

Welcome to the V Movement Podcast, where pelvic health takes center stage and the V's in your life get moving! Join hosts Allison Craig, a pelvic health specialist, and Sarah Landis, a board-certified women's health physical therapist, as they embark on an empowering journey through the intricate world of pelvic health. In this debut episode, Allison and Sarah introduce the mission behind the V Movement, aiming to empower and educate listeners on all things pelvic health.Delving into topics ranging from bladder and fecal leakage to pelvic pain and sexual health, the hosts shed light on common concerns often overlooked or dismissed. With a blend of expertise and personal experience, they navigate the complexities of pelvic health, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support. From postpartum struggles to diastasis recti, Allison and Sarah share their own journeys, offering relatable insights and practical advice.Through candid conversations and expert interviews, the V Movement Podcast aims to break down barriers, spark meaningful discussions, and provide valuable resources for listeners seeking guidance on pelvic health. Whether you're experiencing pelvic health issues or simply curious about the topic, this podcast invites you to join a community that embraces these important discussions.So, tune in, laugh, learn, and let's keep the V's in our lives moving towards better pelvic health. Together, let's empower pelvic health and keep the movement going!Follow us @thev.movementJoin our newsletter or email us info@thevmove.comFind a PT near you!Our introduction music provided by POW/Sunset Beach/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com