103 | Breathing through the Pain: How Breathwork transformed my Endometriosis Journey

What if the thing that could change everything - your stress, your energy, your relationship with your body - was something as simple and as profound as your breath?So many women spend years pushing through discomfort, silencing symptoms, or being told their pain is “normal,” “in their head,” or caused by something unrelated.Endometriosis, in particular, is one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed conditions affecting women - and the impact can be devastating.In this episode, we open a conversation that has been silenced for far too long.I’m joined by Rachael McLean, a master breathwork facilitator who endured years of chronic pelvic pain, medical dismissal, and multiple surgeries before discovering a practice that helped her reconnect with her body, regulate her nervous system, and reclaim her quality of life.Her story is powerful, validating, and deeply hopeful - not just for women with endo, but for anyone who has ever been told to “just put up with” their pain.A gentle note before you listenThis episode is based on Rachael’s lived experience with endometriosis and breathwork, and our shared reflections. It’s offered for information and inspiration, not as medical advice.Always trust your body, and work with your own practitioners and health support team when exploring treatments, changing medications, or trying new approaches.In this episode, we explore:What endometriosis actually is - and why so many women go undiagnosed for yearsHow pain is often dismissed or mislabelled (IBS, anxiety, food intolerance, “normal period pain”)Why so many women learn to push through agony instead of receiving proper supportHow breathwork helped Rachael reduce pain, calm inflammation, and reconnect with her bodyThe link between stress, cortisol, inflammation, and chronic pelvic conditionsHow breath regulates the nervous system and influences pain perceptionThe emotional cost of not being believed - shame, confusion, isolation, and self-doubtThe importance of advocating for your body when professionals don’t listenRebuilding trust in your body after years of being dismissedPractical ways breathwork can support your cycle, pain, and emotional wellbeingConnect with Rachael:Website: https://therefinedbreath.comInstagram: @the_redefined_breathConnect with me:Instagram: @pennyvandersluysExplore my work at pennyvandersluys.com