This episode explores what it truly means to feel at home in your body—something many women realize they’ve rarely, if ever, experienced. I reflect on my own journey with body image, including how early influences shaped my perception and how those patterns carried into midlife and perimenopause.
We discuss the shift from viewing the body as something to evaluate or “fix” to approaching it with greater awareness, curiosity, and partnership. I also address the often unspoken sense of grief that can arise during this stage of life, and how it can coexist with appreciation for the body you have today. Throughout the episode, I offer simple, practical ways to begin rebuilding a more supportive and connected relationship with your body.
In this episode:
[00:01] – Opening the conversation and asking: when did you last feel truly at home in your body?
[02:00] – Sharing my personal history with body image and early conditioning
[05:30] – Why midlife changes can intensify body criticism—and how to start reframing it
[07:15] – Moving from “what’s wrong with me?” to “what does my body need?”
[10:01] – Making space for grief around your younger body while still moving forward
[12:30] – How joy and play help you step out of body monitoring and back into living
[14:45] – Three simple invitations to begin rebuilding your relationship with your body
Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:
Website: https://risingwomanproject.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae
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139. Emotions hit hard in midlife