126. Finding Joy in Midlife

Can chronic stress trigger perimenopause symptoms? Angie Hawkins says yes—and she’s lived it. If you’ve ever felt like the stress of holding everything together might actually be breaking your body down, this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. I’m joined by Angie Hawkins—Inner Glow Coach, author, and fierce advocate for authentic self-love—to talk about the profound connection between stress, emotional suppression, and perimenopause.Angie vulnerably shares her personal journey from emotional rock bottom to healing—from pushing herself to prove her worth, to quitting a toxic job and watching her perimenopause symptoms vanish within weeks. Together, we explore what it really means to listen to your body, honor your emotional needs, and rediscover joy in midlife.Whether you're feeling disconnected, burned out, or just a little unsure of what brings you joy anymore—this conversation will meet you where you are. In this episode:·         Angie’s story of stress-induced burnout, Hashimoto’s, and early perimenopause symptoms·         How unresolved emotional trauma can manifest in the body·         The surprising disappearance of her perimenopause symptoms after quitting her job·         Why many midlife women can’t answer the question, “What brings you joy?”·         How play, mindfulness, and wonder are powerful antidotes to chronic stress·         The truth about spiritual healing modalities—not every tool is for everyone·         How Angie helps women stop chasing love and start glowing from within Resources Mentioned:·         FREE Inner Glow Guide: Start your journey from not-enough to radiant confidence Download here·         Running in Slippers – Angie’s powerful memoir on emotional healing and self-love Get the book·         Website: https://www.runninginslippers.com·         Instagram: @angiehawkins808 Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!