Wellness For Real at Any Age

I believe our brain has a very different connection with food than any other sort of vice or addiction (if you will) that we try to use to fill a void within ourselves. If we don’t receive the nurturing or comfort from interactions with other people…but most often from our own Selves…this manifests into using food to feel this nurturing and comfort. It becomes our best friend. Take a listen to learn how to begin to break free and create a healthier relationship with food.

If you're trying to lose some weight and/or gain back health or create optimal health, then what we eat & how much we eat is one of the most important ways to influence your results. Learning to distinguish when you are truly hungry, & what your body is truly hungry for, is a key to unlocking optimal health & well-being. Learn strategies to implement this skill.

Experimentation & evaluation are 2 very powerful tools for those wanting to lose weight for good and/or wanting to make any behavioral changes. You will learn how these tools work to create change, HOW to use them, WHEN to use them & exactly what questions to ask yourself to get results.

In this episode I talk about disordered eating patterns including binging, secret eating & emotional eating. I wanted to create an episode about Secret Eating in particular because, for many people who suffer with this issue, it feels incredibly shameful which creates negative issues within all aspects of our lives including our relationships with ourselves and others. It is a pattern of eating that is not talked about very often in the weight loss space but the truth is, many people deal with the habit of secret eating every day. I believe the more we talk about it and bring it out into the light, the more people can heal from this kind of disordered eating & the shame that surrounds it.

There is often a misunderstanding that we need to feel motivation or use willpower to behave or act in a new or different way. The simplest example many of us can relate to would be “I need to feel motivated to change my over-eating habits” or “I need more willpower to move my body”. Those are the things our brains tell us and we believe it. But remember that our brain often does not tell us the truth. Its goal is to conserve energy and make you feel safe so it makes sense it tells us these things, but the reality is it is not the true. Learn how to create willingness which leads to much easier weight loss or any goal in life you have set for yourself. This episode will teach you how to actually enjoy the weight loss process without having to feel like you’re white-knuckling anything. If you find yourself saying, “I just need to try harder” this episode is for you! To learn how I help my clients lose weight for good, create healthy relationships with food and live the life they desire, head over to HeatherHeynen.com

In this episode I talk about a specific way to approach restriction with food that works. There are ways to set guidelines for yourself that set you up to comply and follow these personal guidelines without feeling deprived or sad or like you’re missing out.

In this episode I discuss how to cultivate satisfaction in your food life (& regular life) through your behaviors, thoughts & food-choices. This is one of the principals I’ve incorporated within my own way of eating & one of the strategies I work with my clients on to cultivate LASTING weight loss. It is also an important part of long-term weight loss that no one really talks about (even though it’s incredibly important). This episode will give you a new, fresh way of looking at your food-relationship, your relationship with your body, & your relationship with your SELF.

Yoyo dieting is not only physically difficult on our bodies, it is incredibly emotionally & mentally exhausting & detrimental to our well-being. Living life in this way actually creates a life with extra stress & an unneeded focus on body and food (which takes away from focus and intention with other parts of our lives). It creates a very damaged and unhealthy relationship with our bodies & then with our Selves (I let myself fall off the wagon again. I’m such a failure. Im an awful person, etc). Take a listen and lean how to stop this cycle & lose the weight for good.

Does this sound familiar: “I do OK during the week but once the weekend comes, I lose it....its a free for all with food”. Or “I stick to my food plan during the week but once Friday night hits, it’s all over. I eat everything and anything”. If you find yourself in this hurtful cycle and constantly experience Monday morning remorse and regret, this episode can help you learn how to create weekends that are fun and free while still beginning each week without regret and feeling happier.

Build muscle after 40. Improve climbing performance. Recover faster. Stay strong on the wall.If you’re a climber over 40 and not seeing the strength gains you want, your daily protein intake may be the missing link.In this video, I break down 4 simple protein rules for climbers that make it easy to hit your daily protein target — without tracking obsessively or overcomplicating your nutrition.As we age, muscle protein synthesis declines. That means climbers over 40 need a more intentional protein strategy to build muscle, maintain power, protect tendons, and improve recovery between climbing sessions.Whether you’re projecting harder sport routes, pushing into harder bouldering grades, or trying to recover faster, getting enough protein directly impacts your strength-to-weight ratio, recovery speed, and long-term climbing longevity.In this video you’ll learn:​ How much protein climbers over 40 actually need• The simple formula to calculate your ideal daily protein intake• Why lean protein supports muscle without unwanted fat gain• 4 simple, practical rules to follow that guarantee you’ll hit your daily protein goalIf you care about climbing stronger after 40, 50, and beyond — this is foundational.Subscribe for evidence-based strategies on climbing nutrition, mental training, strength training for climbers, recovery optimization, injury prevention, and aging strong as an athlete.Listen to the end to learn how to get my “protein cheat sheet” that makes getting in your daily dose of protein even easier.Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: https://www.instagram.com/heather.heynen?igsh=cGc5YTFidXM4Njlr&utm_source=qrFB: Heather HeynenLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this video is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

In this episode I discuss how to say no to ourselves & still feel good. Have you ever experienced the difficulty of saying no to the extra piece of cake or the second donut? Have you ever asked something like this... “How do I get myself to say no to the thing I know is going to bring me consequences I don’t want while not feelings so deprived and sad when I do say no?!” I discuss this more in depth, & I give you examples of the thoguhts, feelings behaviors many experience around this topic &, as always, I give a couple very practical thought l-work and behavioral strategies you can begin to implenment today in order to get you to a place of being able to say no to yourself at appropriate times AND also feel good about saying no….not feeling deprived, not feeling sad.

In this episode I teach you what reframing is and how to implement the technique into your life to make any change you want to make and make it last. As always, I give practical thought strategies and behavior strategies you can begin to implement today to start changing your life and body.

In this episode I explain WHY you keep doing things you don’t want to do and HOW to unwind your patterns of behavior that are not serving you (including eating & drinking behaviors). You will learn why you often continue to get stuck in patterns of behavior and thoughts that you don’t want to do. For example: you want to drop weight but continuing to over eat even though you really don’t want to...so frustrating! Begin to understand why this happens and HOW to change it.

Can you really climb V7 after 50? Or is that level reserved for younger climbers?At 52 years old, I decided to stop guessing and find out.In this video, I test my current limits, break down what’s actually holding climbers back after midlife, and share what I’m changing in my training to make V7 a realistic goal — not a fantasy.If you’re over 40, 50, or beyond and still want to:• Climb harder• Get stronger• Improve power and recovery• Avoid the slow decline everyone warns you aboutThis channel is for you.Aging does not automatically mean regression. But it does require smarter training, better recovery, and strategic strength work.In this video, you’ll learn:✔ What V7 really demands physically✔ Where midlife climbers lose ground (and how to fix it)✔ My honest strengths and weaknesses at 53✔ The plan to close the gapIf you're a climber who refuses to fade quietly, subscribe. This channel is about aging with power, performance, and purpose.New videos coming on:– Climbing performance after 50– Strength training for aging athletes– Recovery, hormones, and resilience– Mental toughness in midlifeLet’s redefine what’s possible.Are you trying to push into a new grade after 40 or 50? What’s your current project level?Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: https://www.instagram.com/heather.heynen?igsh=cGc5YTFidXM4Njlr&utm_source=qrFB: Heather HeynenLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

If you’re a climber over 40, your training, recovery, and mindset need to evolve — or progress slows. In this episode of Next Send, I focus on three critical areas that make all the difference for midlife climbers:* Recovery: how to let your body actually adapt* Strength training: why it’s non-negotiable after 40* Identity & mindset: the stories we tell ourselves about agingI could have talked about a dozen other strategies, but these three create the foundation for climbing longevity and performance.🎯 Subscribe to Next Send for practical strategies on:* Everything Climbing over 40, 50, 60 & BeyondWebsite: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: https://www.instagram.com/heather.heynen?igsh=cGc5YTFidXM4Njlr&utm_source=qrFB: Heather HeynenLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkout#ClimbingOver40 #MidlifeClimber #NextSendThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

In this episode I talk about Future-You-Work, what it is & how to implement it into your life to get to your weight loss and health goal (or any goal you hold!) much quicker & easier & make it last for a lifetime. As always, I give practical strategies you can start to implement today!

This episode is focused on how to gain psychological flexibility which gives you quicker, easier, lasting weight loss. Not to mention contentment, more moments of joy & a meaningful life. As always I give very practical strategies you can start implementing today.

If you have tried to lose weight or create new healthy habits by going on a diet in the past and have experienced misery, sadness & frustration which led to giving up, you’re not alone. In this episode I talk about how to get to your goal weight and keep it there for life without feeling like you’re on a diet.

In this episode I discuss if your over-eating or binging behavior is coming from unresolved past experiences or is it, at this point, just a habit. I talk about how to figure out where your behavior is stemming from and how to approach the behavior to get to freedom from the over-eating and/or bingeing behaviors.

“But if I’m not following a plan how am I going to lose weight?” In this episode I offer you a different way to think in order to get away from thoughts of restriction and deprivation and create feelings of freedom and empowerment so that losing weight will actually work for the long-term!

YES-exercise & movement is important for our health & well-being BUT the most recent research shows us that exercising will NOT work for long-term weight loss & often brings on weight-gain. I talk about how you can assess yourself (if your goal is to drop some pounds) to know if you should lessen your exercise routine, add in different ways of exercising and/or just stick to what you’re doing.

Do you have a desire to be free of the food/weight/body chatter that seems to be a constant in your life? Do you dream about waking up and not having your first thoughts be about “what will I eat today?”…either looking forward to food or feeling sad because you feel like you need to restrict or diet today? Do you have constant chatter in your brain about how fat you are or how you’re such a terrible person for choosing to eat the thing you really should not have eaten or even the “I’m such a good person for staying on my diet”? Do you wonder if you will ever eat like a normal person again? Do you have a binging habit or an overeating habit that brings you guilt and shame?Its that constant, persistent, chattering voice that carries the theme of food, weight, body, shame, guilt. Its exhausting and miserable. You are not alone. Take a listen to learn how to begin to get away from what you want in your mouth to instead what you want out of life while getting to the body weight and health goals you desire.

In this episode I discuss the importance of satiety at meals to create lasting weight loss. I give practical behavioral & thought-work strategies you can begin to implement today to practice eating to satiety to bring you lasting weight loss.

In this episode I discuss how cultivating self-compassion for yourself creates weight-loss & why it works quicker and easier than taking the hard-line, self-critical stance most of us employ to try to make changes. I also discuss HOW to create self-compassion and give practical strategies to begin right away.

This episode addresses a topic that affects many of us during this time of year: navigating the holidays when it comes to overeating and emotional eating. Take a listen to understand the psychology behind our overeating and emotional eating during the holidays as well as learning very practical tips that you can implement starting today so that by the first week of January, you are feeling moment and freedom instead of shame, guilt and regret. https://heatherheynen.com/ Follow me: @heynencounselingandcoaching & @peakproteinrecipes Please support this show’s sponsors: 5Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets! https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkout The Amino Co. Amino acid supplements to help meet your protein goals. Highlight and open this link for 30% off your order. http://aminoco.com/HH30 PhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & More! https://physivantage.com/ Enter Discount Code FRIENDS15 at checkout The information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

In this episode I talk about the why behind how we THINK about sleep is the most important factor in getting good sleep. I give you practical thought-strategies that can be implemented today as well as a few tips on specific sleep hygiene skills that can be put into practice to increase quality of sleep.

In this episode I discuss how food can create our moods and what specific foods you can take away & add in to your diet to create less anxious & depressive symptoms & create a more steady mood.

In this episode I talk about how our core beliefs are what influence our behaviors. I discuss how doing the work to cultivate a belief system of worthiness & value create lasting weight-loss & goal attainment in a much quicker, easier, & lasting fashion. As always, I give practical strategies you can start implementing today!

In this episode I discuss why we over-eat into the evenings & give some some practical behavioral & thought-work strategies to break the habit and drop the weight for good.

In this episode I discuss which way is the best way for you to make behavior changes...is it through fear or love? You will learn how your self-talk (internal dialogue) influences your behavior. I also give 2 strategies that you can implement today to start to shift into behavior-change-producing thought-patterns.

In this episode I discuss exactly what food urges are and how to surf through them with ease. Learn a practical protocol-strategy to manage urges and lessen their intensity and frequency and therefore lose weight, get lean & experience food-freedom.

Neutralizing our narratives really is some of the deeper work that we can do to lose our weight (physical & mental) for good. In order to get to that effortless state of health and well being (living in your body of healthy weight and feeling energetic, alive and wonderful) we need to take a look at our narratives…our stories…around weight loss, our relationships with food, our Selves. Learn how to do this through techniques & strategies used in Narrative Therapy & lose your weight for good.

Shame is a heavy topic & one that is often not discussed in the weight-loss and optimal health world. Yet, I find it is what makes or breaks a person’s ability to lose weight for good as well as live a life of meaning, purpose and joy. Learn how to figure out if you are living from a place of shame & if you are, how to begin to move through & beyond it. To work with me go to HeatherHeynen.com

This episode is a little more practical & on the behavior side of things vs the thought-work side of weight loss. I explain and define food sequencing, food pairing and meal timing and then give you a few examples of how you can experiment implementing one or all 3 to bring you results.

This episode is all about anxiety and worry and fear and how to break the cycle of this type of habitual thinking. I discuss a little bit about my own struggle with anxiety, what exactly anxiety is, how it manifests into our lives and those around us, and then how to begin to change this type of thinking. As always, I give some practical strategies that you can begin to implementt today.

There are 3 main styles of eating and learning which one (or ones) you are can be helpful and useful as each one offers a different relationship to weight loss, weight gain and weight maintenance. Having an understanding of your eating style can give you that clarity needed to understand what tools for weight loss or maintenance will most likely work quicker and have more impact for you. Take a listen to learn what your eating style is and how to apply that for quicker and easier weight loss.

I hear a lot about boredom eating from clients and this is definitely something I have struggled with myself. You find yourself not actually hungry but bored and so we go to food to basically entertain ourselves. Take a listen to learn how to stop boredom eating for good. https://heatherheynen.com/Follow me: @heynencounselingandcoaching & @peakproteinrecipesProGo Protein Bars. Real food ingredients. Get a free box with this link: https://progonutrition.com/pages/affiliate-free-starter-pack Use : HEATHERPROGO at checkoutOr for 10% off anything use code HEATHER105Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets! 5Strands Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & More! https://physivantage.com/ Enter Discount Code FRIENDS15 at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Loneliness isn’t just emotional—it’s biological. Research shows it raises risk of heart disease, dementia, and even early death. In this episode, we dig into the science of the loneliness epidemic and why it hits so hard after 40. More importantly, you’ll learn practical, real-world strategies you can use today to build meaningful connection and improve your healthspan.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone get all the attention in midlife—but blood sugar swings and cortisol imbalances may be the hidden saboteurs behind your energy crashes, stubborn belly fat, and sleepless nights. In this episode, we break down how these two hormones disrupt wellness after 40 and share simple, science-backed strategies you can start today to balance them for better energy, mood, and body composition.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

So many of us wait for confidence before we take action—but what if that’s backwards? In this episode, discover why courage matters more than confidence, how to build your “courage muscle,” and why embracing courage in midlife and beyond keeps us energized, growing, and fully alive.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

In this episode of Wellness for Real, we explore the hidden cost of people-pleasing—how saying “yes” when you want to say “no” affects your hormones, sleep, weight, nervous system, and emotional well-being. You’ll learn how this chronic stress pattern shows up in the body, how it contributes to burnout and overeating, and most importantly, how to start breaking the cycle with simple, science-backed strategies.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Muscle isn’t just for bodybuilders—and it’s not just about looking good. In this episode of Wellness for Real at Any Age, we explore why muscle is your best medicine after 40. Discover how strength training and protein intake directly impact your lifespan and healthspan, what the “longevity gap” really means, and practical ways to build lean muscle starting now. With inspiring real-life stories, myth-busting insights, and a healthy dose of motivation, this episode will shift the way you think about aging—and your body’s potential.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

In this episode of Wellness for Real, we dive deep into why carbs are not the enemy—despite what decades of diet culture have taught us. You'll learn how cutting carbs can backfire, especially for women and active individuals, and how adequate carbohydrate intake supports performance, mood, hormones, and sleep as we age. With evidence-based science, compassionate insights, and actionable strategies, this episode will help you start healing your relationship with carbs and reclaiming food freedom.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

If you’re over 40 and finding that your energy just isn’t what it used to be, you’re not alone—and it’s not all in your head. Hormonal shifts, sleep disruptions, changes in metabolism, and daily stress can all chip away at your vitality. But the good news? There are simple, sustainable ways to feel more energized every day—without relying on caffeine or sugar to get through the afternoon.In this episode, we’ll explore small, realistic lifestyle shifts that can make a big difference in your daily energy levels. You’ll learn how to fuel your body and mind in ways that support sustained energy, improve focus, and help you feel more alive in your day-to-day life. Whether you’re juggling work, caregiving, or just want to feel better in your body again, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you move through your days with more strength, clarity, and ease.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

We often think that body image struggles are just for the young—but for many women, the reflection in the mirror becomes even more complicated with age. In this episode of Wellness for Real at Any Age, we explore what it really means to make peace with your appearance as you grow older. Learn why body image concerns persist (and even intensify) in midlife, how to challenge the inner critic, and the power of shifting from criticism to compassion. With real-life examples, practical mindset tools, and a fresh take on what it means to age well, this is an empowering listen for anyone tired of shrinking or hiding.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Feeling anxious, wired-but-tired, or just flat-out off lately? You might be running on invisible stress—and you’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack the hidden stressors that lead to chronic overdrive, especially for women in midlife. You’ll learn how to identify functional burnout, understand your body’s stress load, and use a simple 7-day nervous system reset to start feeling grounded, calm, and re-energized. This is your practical roadmap to healing burnout and reclaiming your vitality—without overhauling your entire life.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Why do tendon injuries and inflammation increase after 45, especially for active women? In this episode, we explore how hormonal changes in perimenopause and menopause affect connective tissue health, slow recovery, and create lingering pain. Learn why estrogen and progesterone are crucial for tendon strength, and discover actionable strategies—from training tweaks to hormone optimization—that help break the injury cycle and keep you thriving. If you’re dealing with stubborn elbow, hamstring, or Achilles pain, this episode will give you new tools and hope.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

Do you ever find yourself reaching for food when you’re not actually hungry—just stressed, bored, or overwhelmed? In this episode, we explore the roots of emotional eating and how to respond to your emotional needs without turning to food. You’ll learn how to identify emotional hunger, practice urge surfing, and rebuild trust with your body—all with compassion, not judgment.This is a must-listen if you're ready to feel more in control, more connected to yourself, and more at peace with food.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.

What if midlife wasn’t a breakdown—but a breakthrough? In this episode, we explore the concept of second puberty, the real biological and neurological transformation that happens in your 40s and 50s. Far beyond hot flashes and hormone drops, this transition is a complete body-brain recalibration.We cover:​The brain science behind hormone shifts and why it affects your mood, memory, and energy​How your stress and metabolism systems are adapting—and how to support them​The real reason your workouts and eating patterns may not be working anymore​Six practical, science-backed strategies to support your body and mind during this evolutionIf you’ve been wondering why you feel so different lately—and what to do about it—this episode will give you the clarity and tools to move forward with power.

Protein gets all the love—but there's another macro just as critical, especially after 40: fiber. And not just any fiber—resistant starch, a powerhouse nutrient that boosts insulin sensitivity, balances hormones, feeds your gut, and helps you feel fuller longer.In this episode, we’ll uncover:​The science of fiber, soluble vs. insoluble, and why it’s essential post-40​What resistant starch is and how it can reduce inflammation and support metabolism​Common signs of fiber and resistant starch deficiency​Real-life, delicious ways to increase both without digestive drama​How to combine protein and fiber to stay full, balanced, and energizedIf you’re struggling with stubborn weight, hormonal swings, or blood sugar crashes, this episode could be the key to unlocking real progress.My Website: https://www.heatherheynen.comFollow me:IG: @heynencounselingandcoachingFB: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessLink to the NO-PREP, NO-COOK MEAL PLAN PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to the HIGH PROTEIN, HIGH FIBER EATING GUIDE PDF https://heatherheynen.com/store Link to my ebook High Protein, Easy Recipes:my-downloadable-530035Please support this show’s affiliates:David Protein Bars: Highest Protein, No Sugar, Lowest Calorie, Best Tasting protein bar out there! https://davidprotein.com/HEATHERPhysiVantage: The Best Whey Protein, Collagen & Morehttps://physivantage.com/?ref=HEATHERHEYNENEnter Discount Code HEATHERHEYNEN at checkoutThorne Supplements (High Quality Supps) Get 10% off with this link:https://www.thorne.com/u/PR12562435Strands: Affordable, easy food intolerance testing for humans and pets!  https://www.5strands.com/#HeatherHeynen. Enter Discount Code HeatherHeynen at checkoutThe information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program.