Ep.42: How High Functioning Women Can Manage Stress and Prevent Self Abandonment with Dr. Kelly Kessler

In this episode of Insights from the Couch, we’re joined by Dr. Kelly Kessler, a physical therapist and transformation coach, who’s on a mission to help high-achieving women break free from self-abandonment and stress. Kelly shares her own journey of moving from a life of chronic self-sacrifice to one of self-honor and balance, offering strategies that can help you find your way back to yourself. She talks about nervous system regulation, the power of breath work, and why setting boundaries is essential to reclaiming your well-being. Together, we uncover why it’s crucial for women to prioritize their emotional and physical health, even in the midst of busy, driven lives. From techniques like the physiological sigh to embracing your inner critic with compassion, Dr. Kessler’s approach is both gentle and transformative. Tune in for practical tips, grounding insights, and actionable steps to start putting yourself first. Episode Highlights:[0:00] – Welcome and introduction to Dr. Kelly Kessler’s background and mission.[1:14] – Kelly shares her journey from self-abandonment to self-care and transformation.[4:33] – Defining self-abandonment and how it impacts high-functioning women.[6:51] – Recognizing patterns of perfectionism and external validation in personal and professional lives.[9:48] – Breathwork as a gateway to slowing down and self-connection.[12:33] – Starting small: how breathwork and gentle exercise initiated Kelly’s healing journey.[15:39] – Introducing the “physiological sigh” breath technique and its calming effects.[20:30] – Exploring the connection between body, mind, and anxiety management.[23:38] – Taming the inner critic and cultivating self-compassion through daily practices.[27:46] – The role of boundaries in self-care and why they’re essential for personal peace.[34:08] – The grief of setting boundaries and the empowerment it brings.[38:27] – Final takeaways: honoring yourself as a non-negotiable priority. Resources:Dr. Kelly Kessler’s Website – Optimal You Health and Wellness – Find resources, coaching, and programs for personal transformation.Free Guide: Eight Daily Practices for Self-Loyalty and Nervous System Harmony – Available on her website.Follow Dr. Kelly on Instagram: @drkellykessler🔥Get Clear on What You Want in Your Sex Life: Free Download! For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-bookRecognized by FeedSpot:Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts