Meet Your Body with Jessica Valant, MSPT

Does it feel like every day there's a new health trend, supplement, workout, or expert telling you what you should be doing? With so much information available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed—and even harder to know what deserves your time, energy, and money. In this replay of one of our most important episodes of Meet Your Body, Jessica shares a simple framework for filtering through the endless stream of health advice so you can confidently decide what matters most for your body. She explains why you don't have to follow every trend, how to stop comparing your health journey to someone else's, and why the best plan is one that fits your life, goals, and current season. Jessica also walks you through her practical five-category method for organizing new health information and shows you how choosing just three priorities for the next three months can help you make meaningful progress without feeling scattered or burned out. If you're ready to stop chasing every new wellness trend and start making intentional, personalized decisions about your health, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and your next best step. Sponsors: ➡️ Get up to 50% off and free greens at FactorMeals. Use code meetyourbody50off at this link: http://www.factormeals.com/meetyourbody50off ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Change is one of the few things we can count on in life—and yet it's something most of us resist. In this personal episode, Jessica shares what she's navigating in her own life right now, from the changes that come with aging and a changing body to family dynamics, work, and the uncertainty that every new season can bring. Through honest reflection and practical tools, Jessica explores how we can meet change with more curiosity, self-compassion, and resilience instead of fear. She shares the questions she asks herself during difficult transitions, why looking back can remind us of the strength we already have, and how focusing on what we can control helps us move forward with confidence. If you're feeling like life looks different than it used to—or you're standing at the beginning of a new chapter—this episode is a reminder that you don't have to have everything figured out. Change can feel uncomfortable, but it can also become one of our greatest teachers. Join Jessica for an honest conversation about learning to trust yourself, meet your body where it is, and embrace the beauty of growing through every season of life. Sponsors: ➡️ Get 20% off your water purifier from AquaTru with code MEETYOURBODY - ⁠⁠⁠http://www.aquatru.com⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After her annual book recommendations episode, Jessica couldn't resist creating one more reading list—this time with a very special guest! Her 13-year-old daughter joins her to share their favorite fiction books for girls, with recommendations organized by age and reading level. They both love to read and share books together and they are excited to bring their favorites today. They divide their recommendation list into four sections, beginning with books for approximately third-grade readers and progressing through the pre-teen and early teen years. Along the way, they give details about each book recommendation so you can accurately decide if it's right for the young reader in your life. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, librarian, or a young reader searching for your next favorite series, this episode is full of engaging, age-appropriate fiction recommendations to help girls fall in love with reading. We hope you'll discover some new favorites to enjoy together—or on your own. Sponsors: ➡️ Get 15% off OneSkin with code MEETYOURBODY http://www.oneskin.co/meetyourbody⁠ . After check out they'll ask where you heard about them. Please support our show and tell them we sent you! Resources: ⚫︎ List of books from this episode https://jessicavalant.com/book-recommendations-for-pre-teen-and-early-teen-girls ⚫︎ Links to purchase books mentioned in this episode and support independent bookstores: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/6154345⁠ ⚫︎ Book Huddle on Instagram: ⁠⁠http://instagram.com/bookhuddle⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica's favorite books episode for adults: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000717556857⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more:⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength:⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠Jessica Valant Pilates app:Apple IOS - ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠Google - ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's one of my favorite episodes of the year! In this annual tradition, I'm sharing the books that inspired me, challenged my thinking, made me laugh, let me escape and kept me turning pages long after bedtime. From fiction fantasy, drama and romance to non-fiction empowerment and women's health, there's something here for every kind of reader. I'll tell you why each book made my list, who I think will enjoy it most, and the lessons or stories that stayed with me long after I finished reading. Whether you're looking to learn something new, find your next page-turner, or simply add a few great titles to your reading list, I hope this episode introduces you to a book you'll love. Sponsors: ➡️ Get 20% off my favorite Honeylove bras at http://www.honeylove.com/MEETYOURBODY . After check out they'll ask where you heard about them. Please support our show and tell them we sent you! Resources: ⚫︎ All my favorite books: https://shopmy.us/shop/collections/6154345 ⚫︎ Book Huddle on Instagram: ⁠http://instagram.com/bookhuddle⁠ ⚫︎ Previous favorite books episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000717556857 ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more:⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength:⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠Jessica Valant Pilates app:Apple IOS - ⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠Google - ⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you are a runner, some of the most important workouts you do happen on the days you aren't going for a run. In this episode of Meet Your Body, physical therapist and women's health expert Jessica Valant, MSPT, explains why cross training is one of the most valuable tools for improving performance, preventing injuries, and helping you enjoy running for years to come. Whether you're training for your first 5K, preparing for a marathon, or simply love getting out for a casual jog, you'll learn how strength training, Pilates, mobility work and other forms of movement can make you a healthier, more resilient runner. Jessica also explains why your body benefits from movement variety and shares practical recommendations for incorporating cross training into your weekly routine. You'll learn: Why running alone isn't enough for long-term health and performance How cross training can improve running efficiency and reduce injury risk The best types of cross training for runners How strength training and Pilates complement your running What a balanced week of training can look like for runners of all levels Whether your goal is to run farther, recover faster, or simply keep doing what you love, this episode will help you build a body that's made to support every mile. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Runner's month in Jessica's UNLIMITED fitness app: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited ⚫︎ "You Don't Have to Run to Be Healthy" podcast episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000677482158 ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us don't spend much time thinking about our lymphatic system—but this incredible network plays a vital role in immunity, fluid balance, healing, and overall health. When it's functioning well, you probably don't notice it. But when it's not, you may experience swelling, puffiness, fatigue, frequent illness, or complications after surgery and cancer treatment. In this episode of Meet Your Body, physical therapist and breast cancer survivor Jessica Valant breaks down the lymphatic system in a way that's easy to understand and immediately useful. You'll learn what the lymphatic system does, how lymph fluid moves throughout the body, and why this often-overlooked system is essential for everything from immune function to recovery and healing. Jessica explains how the lymphatic system acts like a network of highways throughout the body, what happens when traffic gets backed up, and why lymph nodes play such an important role in keeping us healthy. She also shares her personal experience navigating lymph node removal during breast cancer treatment and why understanding lymphatic health became such an important part of her own recovery. You'll discover simple, science-backed ways to support your lymphatic system every day, including movement, walking, stretching, strength training, deep breathing, hydration, and reducing inflammation. Jessica also discusses manual lymphatic drainage, dry brushing, and other popular lymphatic health practices, helping you understand what the research says and who may benefit most. Whether you're recovering from surgery, managing lymphedema, navigating cancer recovery, supporting your immune system, or simply wanting to better understand how your body works, this episode offers practical tools and empowering knowledge to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more connected to your body. Resources mentioned in this episode: Sponsors: ➡️ Get 15% off your order at OneSkin with code MEETYOURBODY - ⁠⁠http://www.oneskin.co/meetyourbody⁠⁠ ⚫︎ 10 Minute Lymphatic Drainage Workout: https://youtu.be/xHgSA1zEcQ0 ⚫︎ Breast Cancer Resource Guide: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://jessicavalant.com/breast-cancer-guide ⚫︎ Cording exercises: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://youtu.be/5ACv3SrcJOo ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back pain can be frightening, frustrating, and overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be a limitation to movement and function! In this episode, physical therapist Jessica Valant shares the facts, myths, and practical strategies everyone should know about lower back pain. Drawing from both professional expertise and her own recent experience with a back injury, Jessica explains why diagnoses like herniated discs and spondylolisthesis are often far less catastrophic than they sound—and why fear can sometimes become a bigger obstacle than the injury itself. You'll learn the difference between acute and chronic back pain, what to expect during the healing process, and how to support recovery with evidence-based strategies. Jessica also discusses the role of inflammation, movement, rehabilitation, and mindset in helping you return to the activities you love with confidence. In this episode you'll learn: • The difference between acute and chronic back pain and how each affects recovery• Why imaging results don't always tell the whole story• How fear and anxiety can influence pain and healing• Simple ways to reduce inflammation and support recovery naturally• Why gentle movement is often one of the most important parts of healing• When to seek help from a physical therapist, physician, or specialist• How to build trust in your body again after a back injury Whether you're dealing with a recent injury, ongoing back pain, or simply want to better understand your spine, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and hopeful. Your body is resilient. With the right information, support, and approach, healing is possible. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Herniated Disc Exercises: https://youtu.be/yjHrRcRKuww ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever missed a few workouts and immediately felt like you were back at square one? You're not alone and today you'll learn both the myth and truth of missing workouts. In this episode of Meet Your Body, Jessica tackles one of the biggest myths in fitness: the belief that missing a few days (or even a few weeks) of exercise means you've lost all of your progress. Drawing on both science and her experience as a physical therapist, Jessica explains what actually happens to your body when you take a break from exercise and why your fitness is far more resilient than you've been led to believe. You'll learn:• How long it really takes to lose strength and cardiovascular fitness• Why short breaks can be beneficial for your body and mind• The science behind muscle memory and getting back into a routine• How all-or-nothing thinking sabotages consistency• Why guilt and shame are often more damaging than missed workouts• Practical mindset shifts to help you stay motivated and resilient Jessica also shares her favorite strategies for navigating busy seasons, injuries, travel, illness, and life's inevitable interruptions without falling into the trap of believing you've failed. If you've ever struggled with consistency, felt guilty for missing workouts, or convinced yourself that you have to "start over," this episode will help you replace fear with confidence and build a healthier relationship with movement. Because fitness isn't about perfection. It's about showing up, adapting, and trusting that your body is always ready to meet you where you are. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ How To Exercise After Surgery or Injury https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000744120966 ⚫︎ Tips for Beginners in Fitness https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000684104488 ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jessica Valant Pilates app:Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors: ➡️ Get 20% off your water purifier from AquaTru with code MEETYOURBODY - ⁠⁠⁠http://www.aquatru.com⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perimenopause can feel confusing, unpredictable and overwhelming — but understanding what’s happening in your body can change everything. In this episode of Meet Your Body, Jessica breaks down the science, symptoms and realities of perimenopause so you can move through this phase feeling informed and empowered instead of fearful. Jessica explains what perimenopause actually is, why hormones fluctuate so dramatically during this time and how those shifts can affect sleep, mood, energy, weight, cycles, hair, vision and overall well-being. She also discusses how to recognize common symptoms, when to seek additional medical support and why every woman’s experience can look different. You’ll learn practical, evidence-based strategies to help support your body through perimenopause, including: How strength training and movement support hormonal health Why protein, fiber and nourishment matter more than restrictive dieting The role stress and nervous system health play in symptoms How to improve sleep and recovery during hormonal changes What hormone testing and HRT can — and cannot — tell you The mindset that is vital to have as you enter perimenopause Jessica also shares personal insights from her own experience navigating perimenopause, offering reassurance, validation and realistic tools to help you feel stronger and more connected to your body during this transition. Whether you’re just beginning to notice changes or are deep in the middle of the hormonal rollercoaster, this episode will help you better understand your body, advocate for your health and approach perimenopause with more confidence, clarity and compassion. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Workout Schedule for Women: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000722952202⁠ ⚫︎ Perimenopause and anxiety: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000745127412 ⚫︎ Nourishing your nervous system podcast episode: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000733951049⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Alcohol and health ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000737413482⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠Jessica Valant Pilates app:Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors: ➡️ Get 50% off Factor Meals with code MEETYOURBODY50off http://www.factormeals.com/meetyourbody50off ➡️ Get 20% off Honeylove at http://www.honeylove.com/meetyourbody Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of Meet Your Body, Jessica sits down with Dr. Sara Tarek to challenge the harmful myths women have been told about health, weight, aging and what it truly means to thrive in midlife and beyond. Together, they unpack why chasing “skinny” often leaves women feeling exhausted, discouraged and disconnected from their bodies — and why building strength, resilience and metabolic health is a far more sustainable path forward. Dr. Tarek explains how childhood experiences, cultural messaging and chronic stress can quietly shape our relationship with food, exercise and self-worth for decades. She also shares practical, evidence-based strategies to support long-term health, including simple daily movement, sleep, mindset shifts, hormone therapy considerations and the surprising power of a short walk after meals. You’ll learn: Why metabolic health matters more than the number on the scale How menopause and hormonal shifts affect fat distribution, energy and muscle mass The connection between trauma, stress and health behaviors Why strength training and daily movement are essential for longevity Small lifestyle changes that can dramatically improve long-term health How to step away from diet culture and build trust with your body again This conversation is important for any woman navigating midlife, menopause or a changing body. You will walk away with practical tips you can apply to your life today and an empowering reminder of the importance of being strong over skinny. About our guest: Dr. Sara Tariq, an internal medicine physician at Northern Virginia Family Practice with more than two decades of clinical and academic experience. A longtime advocate for healthcare equity and cultural transformation, Dr. Tariq is known for her relationship-centered approach to patient care – with a focus on chronic conditions, women’s health, mental well-being, and LGBTQ+ health. Before joining NVFP, she spent over 20 years in academic medicine, mentoring thousands of physicians and driving important conversations around medical education reform, systemic bias, and social justice. Fluent in English, Spanish, Urdu and Hindi, Dr. Tariq brings a global perspective and a deeply personal commitment to patient empowerment and community healing. Thanks to our sponsors! ➡️ Get 15% off your order at OneSkin Shop here⁠. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Dr. Tariq on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/drsaratariqnvfp/ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant app:Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thinking about becoming a Pilates instructor? Or wondering whether your current instructor is truly qualified? Before you sign up for a quick online certification — or trust someone guiding your body through movement — there are important truths about the Pilates industry you need to hear. In this episode of Meet Your Body, Jessica Valant — physical therapist, Pilates expert, and educator — breaks down what it really takes to become a skilled, knowledgeable Pilates instructor. From the true cost of certification programs to the difference between weekend online courses and comprehensive 450+ hour trainings, Jessica shares the insider knowledge every aspiring instructor and Pilates client should understand. You’ll learn: How to identify a reputable Pilates certification program What qualifications to look for in a Pilates instructor The difference between mat training and full equipment certification Why anatomy, biomechanics, and injury knowledge matter How much Pilates teacher training actually costs Jessica also shares her personal perspective on how the Pilates world has evolved over the last two decades — from celebrity fitness trend to respected movement profession — and why quality education matters more than ever for both instructors and clients. Whether you want to teach Pilates professionally, deepen your own movement knowledge, or simply feel more confident choosing classes and instructors that are safe and effective, this episode offers clarity, practical insight, and an honest look behind the scenes of the Pilates industry. Resources mentioned in this episode: Sponsors: ➡️ Get 15% off OneSkin with code MEETYOURBODY - ⁠⁠⁠http://www.oneskin.co/meetyourbody⁠⁠⁠ ➡️ Get 20% off Honeylove - ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.honeylove.com/meetyourbody⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this honest and powerful episode of Meet Your Body, Jessica shares important lessons everyone facing surgery should know. Drawing from her experience as a physical therapist — along with her own six major surgeries — she offers practical tips to help you mentally and physically prepare for surgery and recovery. You’ll hear why you may never feel completely ready for surgery, the importance of becoming an active participant in your own healing, and Jessica’s biggest pet peeve when it comes to the messages many surgeons give their patients about recovery. Whether you’re preparing for surgery now or supporting someone who is, this episode offers reassurance, practical guidance, and a compassionate perspective on healing, strength, and recovery. Resources mentioned in this episode: Sponsors: ➡️ Get 20% off your water purifier from AquaTru with code MEETYOURBODY - ⁠⁠http://www.aquatru.com⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ THREE DAY FREE TRIAL of Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalant.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's Highlights episode is a clip from our full episode all about The Importance of Rest. In this segment, Jessica dives into the habits you may have that seem like rest but are actually causing more stress in your life. Learn what daily rest actually looks like and why it's important for your overall health. Full episode The Importance of Rest: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000741676499 Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more:⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength:⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠ Jessica Valant Pilates app: Apple IOS - ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠ Google - ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠ Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people think longevity requires expensive supplements, complicated routines, or the latest biohacking trends—but what if the real answer is far simpler? In this episode, Jessica breaks down the foundational, research-backed pillars of living a longer, healthier life—without the overwhelm. If you’re tired of conflicting health advice and just want clear, practical steps that actually work, this is your starting point. Jessica shares how small, consistent habits can have the biggest impact on your lifespan and healthspan. From daily movement and intentional walking to prioritizing protein and fiber, you’ll learn how to build routines that fit into your real life—no extremes required. She also dives into the often-overlooked essentials of longevity, including strength and balance for independence, nervous system regulation, quality sleep, social connection, and preventative care. Plus, discover why something as simple as a 10-minute walk after meals can support your metabolic health. This isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most to live a life of health, vitality, energy, independence, strength and joy. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⚫︎ Sign up for Jessica's four week week Longevity program starting May 4th https://jessicavalant.com/longevity-in-unlimited ⚫︎ Create your workout schedule podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000760480305 ⚫︎ Sleep tips podcast ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000700931343⁠ ⚫︎ Nourishing your nervous system podcast episode: ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meet-your-body-with-jessica-valant-mspt/id1649561552?i=1000733951049⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s website, resources, services & more: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎ Jessica’s UNLIMITED community and app with daily workouts for muscle strength: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.jessicavalantpilates.com/unlimited⁠⁠⁠ ⚫︎Watch our podcast episodes on YouTube here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@meetyourbodypodcast⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ YouTube workouts: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaValantPilates⁠⁠⁠  ⚫︎ Follow Jessica on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/jessicavalantpilates⁠⁠⁠Jessica Valant Pilates app:Apple IOS - ⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/mry5ya8r⁠⁠⁠Google - ⁠⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/yh3ty5fp⁠⁠⁠ Sponsors: ➡️ Get 20% off your order at Honeylove with this link http://www.honeylove.com/meetyourbody ➡️ Get up to $300 off your Air Doctor Purifier with code MEETYOURBODY here: http://www.airdoctorpro.com/meetyourbody Jessica Valant and Jessica Valant Pilates, LLC, recommend you consult with a physician before starting any new exercise program. The information given here is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices