Less Stressed Life: Helping You Heal Yourself

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life, Alexis Joseph joins me to share her journey of chronic back pain that wouldn’t go away until she uncovered its emotional root. After trying physical therapy, massage, injections, and more, Alexis discovered the mind-body connection and how repressed emotions were fueling her pain. This conversation dives into the work of Dr. John Sarno and Nicole Sachs, the concept of TMS (Tension Myoneural Syndrome), and the healing power of emotional honesty.If you’ve ever dealt with chronic pain, nagging health symptoms, or the feeling that your body is betraying you, this episode might completely shift how you see healing.KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy emotions can trigger very real physical painThe role of unconscious stress in chronic symptomsWhat TMS is and how to know if it applies to youHow journaling and nervous system work helped Alexis healWhy curiosity and self-compassion are more powerful than fearABOUT GUEST:Alexis Joseph is the dietitian, blogger, and mama behind Hummusapien, the food blog she created in 2011 in order to inspire others to eat happy, healthy and balanced. She's also Co-Founder of Columbus-based restaurant group, Alchemy. She uses her passion for cooking and wellness as fuel to help others ignite a more joyful relationship with food. Through years of experience coaching individual clients, consulting with food brands, and conceptualizing restaurants, she combines approachable recipes with nutrition education to bring peace and joy back to the table.WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://www.hummusapien.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hummusapien/WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY OF LESS STRESSED LIFE:🍽️ Over restriction is dead🥑 Whole food is soul food and fed is best🔄 Sustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards)🤝 You don’t have to figure it out alone❤️ Do your best and leave the restSPONSOR:Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at JigsawHealth.com for 10% off—unlimited use!

Send us a textWatch this week's episode! Click here! This week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m talking about how switching from traditional “normal” shoes to barefoot and transitional footwear helped me resolve my own back pain—and how you can safely make the change, too.If you’ve ever dealt with nagging back, knee, hip, or foot pain, this episode is for you! I share what “barefoot shoes” really are (and what they’re not), how heel drop and shoe shape can impact your body mechanics, and the brands I love most—from budget-friendly finds to long-lasting options.In this episode, I cover:Why traditional shoes can contribute to back and knee painWhat makes barefoot and “foot-shaped” shoes differentHow to safely transition without injuring yourselfMy personal favorite barefoot and transitional shoes (some under $30!)Options for adults and kids, including those with flat feet, bunions, or foot painKEY TAKEAWAYS:Strong feet = a strong foundation for your entire bodyYou don’t have to go all-in on barefoot shoes right away—start with transitional optionsMany great shoes now cost $20–$30 instead of $120+A wide toe box and zero-drop sole make a world of differenceStrengthening your feet can improve posture, agility, and reduce painChrista’s favorite barefoot & transitional shoe brands:Budget-friendly:Whitin (Amazon) – under $40, multiple stylesZYEN (Amazon) – slip-on sneaker, ~$20JBU water shoes – great for rivers, summer wearEveryday & transitional:Merrell Trail Glove (more cushion, good starter)Merrell Vapor Glove (thinner sole, more barefoot feel)Flux – attractive everyday styles, thick sole (good for concrete)Storehouse Flats – ballet flats for dressier wearLong-lasting investment brands:Groundies (Christa’s personal favorite overall)Lems – casual & mountaineering looksXero – sandals, boots, casual shoesWildlings – ultra-flexible, thin sole (best for mild conditions)Kids & wide feet:Merrell Trail Glove kidsWhittens boots & tennis shoesXero Chelsea boots (great for flat feet)Other brands to consider:VivoBarefoot – very popular for flat feetBed Stu sandals – zero-drop and cute but slippery on stone❓Questions for Christa? Submit it here: https://www.christabiegler.com/questionsWHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeLeave a review, submit a questions for the podcast or take one of my quizzes here: https://www.christabiegler.com/linksSPONSOR:Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at JigsawHealth.com for 10% off—unlimited use!

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life, Mel Abraham shares the mindset shifts and life lessons that helped him rebuild after cancer, single fatherhood, and losing a third of his wealth in a Ponzi scheme. We talk about redefining wealth, the purpose of money, and how to build true freedom—financially and emotionally.If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind with money or unsure where to start, this episode will help you reframe your relationship with it and move forward with clarity and confidence.KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy most money beliefs are caught, not taughtHow to define your own “enough”The emotional traps that sabotage smart investingLessons from losing it all and starting overWhy financial freedom starts with intention, not incomeABOUT GUEST: Mel Abraham is a USA Today bestselling author, CPA, and entrepreneur who helps people build lives of freedom, purpose, and impact. With over 30 years of experience mentoring entrepreneurs and individuals, Mel shares proven frameworks for creating financial independence and living in alignment with your values. A cancer survivor, single dad, and son of an immigrant, Mel blends real-life resilience with financial wisdom to inspire others to build wealth and lasting legacy—without sacrificing what matters most. WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://melabraham.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melabraham9/WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeSPONSOR: Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at JigsawHealth.com for 10% off—unlimited use!NUTRITION PHILOSOPHY OF LESS STRESSED LIFE:🍽️ Over restriction is dead🥑 Whole food is soul food and fed is best🔄 Sustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards)🤝 You don’t have to figure it out alone❤️ Do your best and leave the rest

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life, Morley Robbins returns to unpack the misunderstood role of copper in energy production, iron regulation, and chronic fatigue. We explore how stress, poor soil quality, and modern health trends have created a widespread mineral imbalance—and why copper might be the missing link for those struggling with burnout, low energy, or hormonal chaos.If you’ve ever been told you’re “low iron” or feel like your energy tank is always on empty, this conversation might just reframe everything you thought you knew about your metabolism.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Why you can’t make energy without copperHow stress and glyphosate deplete bioavailable mineralsWhy most iron labs miss the real issueThe difference between copper supplements and true bioavailable copperHow to start supporting your mineral balanceABOUT GUEST:Morley Robbins is the creator of the Root Cause Protocol and founder of the Magnesium Advocacy Group. Known as the “Magnesium Man,” Morley left a decades-long career in hospital administration after a personal healing experience led him to question everything he thought he knew about health. Since then, he’s become a passionate educator on mineral balance, performing thousands of consults and digging deep into the roles of magnesium, copper, and iron in chronic illness. Through his research and coaching, Morley helps people get to the root cause of fatigue, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances—one mineral at a time.WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://therootcauseprotocol.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therootcauseprotocol/WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY OF LESS STRESSED LIFE: 🍽️ Over restriction is dead🥑 Whole food is soul food and fed is best🔄 Sustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards)🤝 You don’t have to figure it out alone❤️ Do your best and leave the restSPONSOR:Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at JigsawHealth.com for 10% off—unlimited use!

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life, I’m joined by Dr. Jill Carnahan, a functional medicine physician who’s no stranger to adversity. From breast cancer at 25 to Crohn’s disease and mold toxicity, Jill has walked through deep suffering—and shares how those experiences became her greatest teachers. We talk about what happens when your body breaks down, why high achievers struggle to rest, and how healing starts with radical self-compassion.If you’ve ever felt like you had to push through, prove your worth, or handle everything on your own—this conversation might just offer a new way forward. 📽️ Watch the documentary: DoctorPatientMovie.com 📘 Read the book: Unexpected: Finding Resilience through Functional Medicine, Science & FaithKEY TAKEAWAYS:Why survival doesn’t equal healingThe connection between overachievement and chronic illnessHow self-compassion actually creates space for physical healingWhy your story matters—and might be the key to recoveryWhat it looks like to rebuild trust with your bodyABOUT GUEST:Dr. Jill Carnahan is a board-certified functional medicine physician, bestselling author of Unexpected, and host of Resiliency Radio. Known for her compassionate, whole-person approach, she helps high-performing individuals unravel complex health issues by addressing the root cause. A survivor of breast cancer, Crohn’s disease, and mold toxicity, Dr. Jill brings rare insight to her work—blending science, faith, and hard-won wisdom to help others heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually.WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://www.jillcarnahan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjillcarnahan/WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY:Over restriction is dead.Whole food is soul food and fed is bestSustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards)You don’t have to figure it out aloneDo your best and leave the rest

Send us a textIt’s the end of June, and I’m wrapping up our listener-powered Q&A series with a jam-packed solo episode. I tackle three big questions from Sarah, Jeanine and Wendy that span swollen fingers after COVID, mast-cell mayhem, bumps around the eyes, fertility prep, and even rheumatoid arthritis. Thanks for being here! KEY TAKEAWAYS:Swollen Fingers Post-COVID: Often linked to cellular stress, mineral imbalances (esp. low potassium), and mast cell activation. Support adrenals and mineral status first.Mast Cell & Eczema: Consider nervous system inputs (EMDR, breathwork, stress history), liver drainage, and gentle anti-inflammatory support like Holy Basil.Fertility Prep: Focus on mitochondrial support, nutrient repletion, progesterone monitoring, and nervous system regulation at least 3 months preconception.Skin Bumps Around Eyes: Often tied to liver sluggishness and drainage issues. Use face mapping as a tool; consider low-level toxin load and mineral depletion.RA vs. OA: RA = immune dysfunction; assess food reactivity (e.g., nightshades), gut health, and family toxin exposure. OA = structural; consider regenerative injections (e.g., prolozone).Family Symptom Clusters: Think environmental—evaluate for mold, radon, or metals (e.g., uranium on HTMA). Toxic burden may explain “mystery” symptoms.Rate • Review • Reach OutLove these quick-fire case breakdowns? Share the episode, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and drop your next burning question here https://www.christabiegler.com/questions and I might answer it on air after our July 4th hiatus.See you in July, Christa 🧡

Send us a text 🌟 ⚠️ This is the episode you didn’t know you desperately needed. 💥 Wills, trusts, probate... sounds boring? Think again. This convo might just save your family thousands—and a whole lot of stress. 👀💸 This week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m joined by estate attorney and certified performance coach Ali Goff, who’s not only brilliant but also shows up to legal talks in a T-shirt that says “Future Dead Person.” So you know we’re going to have fun while talking about something that usually feels… well, kind of morbid.In this honest and surprisingly juicy convo, we’re digging into trusts, wills, and the documents every adult needs—but most avoid until it’s too late. I brought Ali on the show (and to our upcoming retreat in Salt Lake City 🎉) because she knows how to make complex stuff digestible and, dare I say, enjoyable. She also drops some wild stories that might just light a fire under your adulting.Whether you’re 35 or 75, this episode will make you laugh and realize just how much stress (and money) you can save your family by planning now.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Why estate planning isn’t just for the rich or the retiredWhat actually happens when you die without a will or trust (hint: it’s not pretty)The $50K+ mistake most families make without realizing itWhy online legal templates might cost you more than they saveThe difference between a will and a trust—and why one skips court dramaWhat documents every parent must have in place (especially for guardianship)How to make sure your family isn’t left scrambling in a medical or financial emergency👯‍♀️ Want to hang with Ali and me in person? There are still a few seats left for the fall retreat. It's not just about health—it's about protecting your peace, your people, and your legacy. Apply now: https://www.lessstressedliferetreats.com/saltlakeABOUT GUEST: Alexandria “Ali” Goff is the founder and CEO of Goff Legal, a boutique California law firm specializing in estate planning and administration. A passionate educator and certified performance coach, Ali empowers fiduciaries and business owners to grow with clarity and confidence. She frequently speaks for professional organizations and serves on the UC Davis School of Law Alumni Board. Outside of work, Ali lives in Loomis with her husband, two sons, and their menagerie of pets. She’s also a Level 1 Sommelier who enjoys wine tasting, travel, and live music. WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://gofflegal.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goff.legal/ WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlife

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m answering two listener questions—one about histamine intolerance and another about gut testing for a 3-year-old with allergies and chronic symptoms. If you’ve ever wondered whether histamine is really the problem or if stool testing is worth the investment, this episode is for you.In this episode, I share why histamine intolerance is almost always a secondary issue (not the root cause), what body systems need support instead, and how I approach gut testing in young kids—especially when allergies, itching, and immune symptoms are involved. I also walk through how to think critically about testing and what questions to ask before you invest.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Why histamine isn’t the root cause—and what usually isHow symptoms like allergies, flushing, anxiety, or hives can signal deeper dysfunctionWhen DAO enzymes might help—and why I rarely use themWhat the GI MAP stool test actually reveals (and what it doesn’t)The #1 mistake people make with testing—and how to avoid itHow to think like a practitioner when evaluating symptoms, history, and lab data❓Questions for Christa? Submit it here: https://www.christabiegler.com/questions 🚨Christa is currently taking clients through the end of June! Book a call here: https://www.christabiegler.com/scheduleWHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeLeave a review, submit a questions for the podcast or take one of my quizzes here: https://www.christabiegler.com/linksNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY: 🍽️ Over restriction is dead 🥑 Whole food is soul food and fed is best 🔄 Sustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards) 🤝 You don’t have to figure it out alone 💛 Do your best and leave the rest

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m answering two listener questions around childhood eczema—when it flares from pool exposure and when gut healing alone isn’t enough. If you’ve been navigating eczema with your child (or yourself) and feel like you’ve hit a wall despite diet changes and supplements, this one’s for you.In this episode, I break down the different types of eczema and how they react to things like chlorine, chemical sensitivity, and gut imbalances. I also share what clues to look for (like how symptoms show up after swimming or starting solids) and why doing things in the right order can make all the difference.❓Got your own question for Christa? Submit it here: https://www.christabiegler.com/questions 🚨Christa is currently taking clients through the end of June! Book a call here: https://www.christabiegler.com/scheduleKEY TAKEAWAYS: • When chlorine (or other pool chemicals) may calm vs. flare eczema • How to identify different eczema types and what they really mean • Why gut healing protocols don’t always work—and what to do instead • What birth stories, antibiotics, and early solids can tell you about root causes • Why order of operations matters (especially in kids under 5) • When it’s time to stop guessing and get fresh eyes on the caseWHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeLeave a review, submit a questions for the podcast or take one of my quizzes here: https://www.christabiegler.com/linksNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY: 🍽️ Over restriction is dead 🥑 Whole food is soul food and fed is best 🔄 Sustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards) 🤝 You don’t have to figure it out alone 💛 Do your best and leave the rest

Send us a textThis week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m joined by Nicole Sachs for a juicy and mind-blowing convo that just might change the way you think about your symptoms.Nicole is a total powerhouse when it comes to helping people heal chronic pain, anxiety, long COVID, and all the mystery symptoms that make you feel like a walking question mark. We get into her story of being diagnosed with a gnarly spinal condition at 19, how she healed without surgery, and what that has to do with repressed emotions, a dysregulated nervous system, and a little tool she created called JournalSpeak.We’re talking science, soul, and the sneaky ways our bodies try to keep us “safe” by holding onto stuff we were never meant to carry. If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to fix your pain, fatigue, gut issues, skin flares, or anxiety, you are going to want to take notes on this one.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Why your pain is real even if it’s not coming from where you thinkHow your body uses symptoms to protect you from emotional overloadWhat the emotional reservoir is and why it keeps overflowingWhy some people feel emotionally frozen and how to safely thawHow to rewire your brain and regulate your nervous system with JournalSpeakWhy self-compassion is not fluffy—it’s freaking necessary for healing ABOUT GUEST:Nicole Sachs, LCSW is a psychotherapist, author, speaker, and creator of the JournalSpeak method and The Cure for Chronic Pain platform. A direct student of Dr. John Sarno, Nicole has helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world heal from chronic pain, anxiety, and other mind-body conditions without medication or surgery. Through her books (Mind Your Body, The Meaning of Truth), podcast, courses, retreats, and practitioner training program, Nicole teaches the science and soul of self-healing with compassion, clarity, and a little bit of sass.WHERE TO FIND:Website: https://www.yourbreakawake.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolesachslcswWHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionistPodcast Instagram: @lessstressedlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlifeNUTRITION PHILOSOPHY:Over restriction is dead.Whole food is soul food and fed is bestSustainable, synergistic nutrition is in (the opposite of whack-a-mole supplementation & supplement graveyards)You don’t have to figure it out aloneDo your best and leave the rest