Progress Over Perfection: Trainer Stef Corgel on Eating Disorder Recovery, Body Image & Real Strength

Welcome to episode six of Tone It Down. In this conversation, Karena sits down with Tone It Up trainer and Hume co-owner Stef Corgel for an honest, uplifting conversation about finding strength through the toughest seasons. From her college basketball dreams to navigating a decade-long journey with disordered eating, Stef shares how she discovered that true wellness isn't about perfection, it's about showing up for yourself with compassion. Together, they dive into the power of vulnerability, the importance of foot health (yes, really!), why sleep is your secret weapon, and how being part of a community can change everything. How do I heal my relationship with my body and fitness? This episode is a beautiful reminder that recovery isn't linear, you're stronger than you think, and every step you take toward taking care of yourself is worth celebrating. And be sure to follow and subscribe to The Big Silence podcast with Karena Dawn (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-big-silence/id1607181597) for Thursday's follow-up episode with eating disorder recovery expert Dr. Wendy Oliver-Pyatt.  (04:43) Healing through vulnerability & community Speaking your truth can break the shame cycle. When one person shares their story, it helps others feel less alone Your recovery journey might take years, and that's okay. Progress isn't always linear, and every step forward counts Finding your safe space to be honest about your struggles is the first step toward healing and helping others do the same (10:36) Recovery is possible with the right support Getting professional help is essential—therapy, nutritionists, and doctors can provide the guidance you need Your support system matters! Family and friends who show up with love, even when they don't have all the answers, make all the difference Developing healthy tools and habits gradually replaces old coping mechanisms with ones that truly serve you (15:10) Movement as medicine, not punishment Exercise can be a celebration of what your body can do, not a way to control or punish it Finding joy in movement changes everything. It's about feeling strong and energized, not achieving perfection Surrounding yourself with a community that values health over appearance creates space for real transformation (28:13) Three wellness game-changers you're not thinking about Floss daily; your gum health affects your whole body Love your feet—using toe spacers and practicing foot mobility exercises can prevent injuries and improve your entire movement foundation Prioritize sleep above everything. Consistent, quality sleep is the best recovery tool you can give yourself for mood, inflammation, and overall wellness (27:12) Building something meaningful together Being part of a team brings out your best. Whether it's fitness, business, or sports, collaboration makes everything better Sharing victories and problem-solving together creates something bigger than any one person could build alone When you show up authentically in community, you inspire others to do the same If you or a loved one are struggling with eating disorder recovery, there is help. National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/ NAED Helpline Phone Number (866) 662-1235 Connect with Stef: @StefCorgel (https://www.instagram.com/stefcorgel/?hl=en) on IG Hume Skincare (https://humesupernatural.com/?tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=17747674288&tw_kwdid=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17747695873&gbraid=0AAAAABsPzhm3-rMMCVjQlZpP1LnhQ3IIA&gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOglVu_q6eG-pQPPPtzXSzHG7TI3iv7Gq5rI0EQcqOcNsk0EU03toEp4aAkWREALw_wcB)  Let's Connect: New Year New TI-YOU 6 Week Challenge (https://my.toneitup.com/pages/new-year-new-tiyou-challenge) THE BIG SILENCE PODCAST (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-big-silence/id1607181597) Tone It Up App (https://my.toneitup.com/pages/tone-it-up-app) Tone It Up YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@toneitup/featured) Tone It Up Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/toneitup/?hl=en)