I came to Michelle completely burnout. I suspected I was going through early menopause and was also struggling with stress, brain-fog, fatigue, depression, crippling anxiety. I had also just completed treatment for breast cancer. It was a scary and confusing time but I was eager to bring my body back to balance.
Initially Michelle and I worked together on nutrition. As someone who has always enjoyed cooking I thought I was fairly knowledgeable around food and diet. However, after completing various food, medical, lifestyle and stress questionnaires, Michelle opened my eyes and educated me to the fact that I wasn’t always consuming the right food at the right time to best support my body. She made recommendations and suggested alternatives to some of my food habits. In particular, we identified that my body was lacking in proteins, resulting in an addiction to sugar, particularly sugary drinks. Living for years with huge variations in my blood sugar levels resulted in mood swings and fatigue at certain points of the day. Since I have worked with Michelle I feel more balanced and I rarely get “Hangry” like I used to..!
Following Michelle’s expertise and guidance I undertook a GI test. Michelle was clear and supportive at explaining my GI test results. She then made recommendations of beneficial supplements to take, which included her facilitating a gut cleanse to bring my body back to balance. After cancer treatment, I was taking a cocktail of random supplements, hoping that it would help support my body and immune system. However, following Michelle’s guidance and suggestions of suitable supplements resulted in a stronger immune system; increased energy levels; better mood; more stable weight; improved condition of my hair, skin and nails and a boost in compliments from others!
Michelle helped me get my hormones in balance. Chemotherapy, radiation and hormone therapy had resulted in what I thought was early menopause at 39, although I wasn’t certain. What I did know was that I was a hormonal mess; I accepted crippling anxiety, mood swings and unpredictable menstrual cycles as “normal”. Furthermore, the breast cancer I had was hormone receptive which was a further indication that my hormones were out of balance. Michelle suggested I had my hormone levels tested using the DUTCH test. I cannot recommend this test enough - Michelle’s explanation of my results and her recommendations were priceless! Having this knowledge and understanding of my hormone levels meant I was able, and felt empowered, to make well-informed decisions going forward. Michelle’s open-minded approach also meant I felt able to make decisions that were right for me and my body. She also went ‘above and beyond’ to provide me with support, advocacy and encouragement while I found my voice and navigated health professionals during this time.
Michelle also used various techniques, including breathwork, to help me recognise and release emotional trauma from my body. This ensured that my body and mind were in an optimum place for healing. She also used her vast knowledge and expertise to recommend helpful books, films and meditations, many of which have been paramount in my healing journey.
Michelle has played a massive part in my recovery from burnout and breast cancer. I don’t just feel like “me” again; I genuinely feel like the best version of myself. I have balance back in my body and mind for the first time in decades! My energy levels and lust for life have improved greatly, meaning I am now able to enjoy doing my work in the world and spending quality time with family and friends. Thank you Michelle for playing such a pivotal role in my recovery and road back to full health!