The Art of We 127. Cancer, Embodiment & Erotic Return with Melissa Michaels
In this powerful and deeply intimate episode of The Art of We, Krista sits down with visionary movement educator Melissa Michaels to explore the intersection of sexuality, embodiment, and healing—through the lens of Melissa’s late-stage ovarian cancer journey. What unfolds is a story of profound transformation, where trauma, loss, and surgery become portals into deeper intimacy, love, physical pleasure and devotion to life force.
“The Art Of We” podcast with Krista Van Derveer and guest Melissa Michaels
00:00 — Intro
00:55 — Melissa’s cancer diagnosis story and background
06:15 — The ritual of preparing for surgery & calling in community
09:46 — The post-surgery declaration
12:19 — Intimacy, partnership, and scarred bodies
15:34 — How Melissa worked with pain and chemo
23:12 — Building intimacy with others & the sacredness of presence
25:36 — Chemotherapy: grief, gratitude, and identity shifts
28:21 — Reclaiming sexuality and orgasm after cancer
33:04 — The long road back to intimacy and physical connection
36:36 — Balancing solitude and partnership with devotion to aliveness
40:58 — Melissa’s guidance for returning home to your body
46:19 — What this journey taught her about love, humanity, and the path forward
50:22 — Where to learn more about Melissa's work & the short film Twisted Gift
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Resources Mentioned:
Get in Touch:
- The Art Of We Website
- The Art of We Instagram
- Integrative Psychiatry Institute: Psychedelic Therapy Training
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