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What if trusting your intuition isn't about becoming more spiritual — but becoming more connected to yourself? In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, I sit down with longtime friend, Reiki practitioner, intuitive and Intuitive AF Squared podcast host Renee Jensen of 11 Eleven Healing for a wide-ranging conversation about intuition, trauma, nervous system healing, self-trust, spirituality and the very human work we can't bypass. We talk about the intersection of the energetic and the embodied — and why pulling cards, receiving Reiki, connecting with your guides or having a powerful healing session can only take you so far if you're still disconnected from what's actually happening inside your body. Because eventually, you have to become an active participant in your own healing. Renee describes why understanding your patterns and learning to shift your own energy matters once you leave the healing room. Pasted text(2) We also get into self-gaslighting and what happens when you've spent years questioning, suppressing or explaining away your own experience. How do you begin distinguishing intuition from fear? How do you rebuild trust in what you feel and know? And what changes when you finally start listening? Pasted text(2) Along the way, we explore manifestation vs. co-creation, codependency, synchronicities and glimmer moments, divine timing, authenticity, the nervous system, inner-child wounds, toxic positivity, grief, and the breakdown that can come before a breakthrough. Renee also shares the story behind Intuitive AF Squared and her belief that intuition isn't reserved for a special few — we're all navigating the tension between fear and programming on one side and inner knowing, authenticity and purpose on the other. Pasted text(2) This isn't a conversation about bypassing the hard stuff in pursuit of enlightenment. It's about living the work. About trusting yourself enough to follow the breadcrumbs. And recognizing that sometimes the messy, uncomfortable, unexpected part of the journey isn't keeping you from where you're supposed to go. It is how you get there. In this episode, we talk about: Intuition vs. fear, trauma and conditioningWhy spirituality can't replace connection to your bodyReiki, energy work and embodied healingRebuilding self-trust after years of self-gaslightingManifestation vs. co-creationWhy co-creation may be the opposite of codependencySynchronicities, “glimmers” and following the breadcrumbsDivine timing and letting go of the need to have it nowWhy healing requires participation, patience and supportThe grief that can accompany growth and sheddingToxic positivity and allowing two things to be trueWhy the hard parts may actually be part of your pathLiving what you teachAbout Renee Jensen:Renee Jensen is the founder of 11 Eleven Healing, a Reiki practitioner and intuitive, and the host of Intuitive AF Squared, where she explores intuition, energy, spirituality and the human experience. 🎧 Listen to Intuitive AF Squared and connect with Renee through 11 Eleven Healing.

What if healing isn’t actually about “fixing” yourself? In this solo episode of Self Care Is My Job, I’m getting honest about something I struggle with personally and as a somatic self-care coach: I want there to be an answer. A practice. A tool. A switch we can flip that finally makes anxiety, old patterns, emotional pain, and discomfort go away. But healing doesn’t work that way. We’re talking about why real change happens through small shifts over time, why knowing what might help isn’t the same as being able to do it, and why old patterns returning doesn’t mean your healing has failed. I also explore anxiety and panic, the limitations of black-and-white wellness advice, the urge to “fix” the people we love, and what I’m beginning to understand as one of the most important skills in healing: learning to be with discomfort while trusting that you have your own back. Maybe the goal isn’t to never struggle again. Maybe it’s being able to meet yourself inside the struggle and know: I trust myself through this. I have my own back. This episode also marks a shift in how I want to show up here: less definitive advice, more honesty about the nuanced, complicated work of being human. Heal out loud so that others don’t suffer and die in silence. If this episode hits home, send it to someone who might need it — and follow Self Care Is My Job so we can keep doing this work together.

What if healing isn’t something someone gives you, but something you learn to access within yourself?In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, Samantha Long sits down with therapist, breathwork facilitator, and community organizer Matthew Smith to explore the real foundations of healing: community, emotional release, and embodiment practices.Matthew is a licensed therapist who works with adults struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, and is a co-founder of The Sanctuary—a space designed for social connection and creative expression.Together, they break down how breathwork, somatic experiences, and group connection can help regulate the nervous system, process emotions, and create lasting change.In This Episode We Discuss✨ Why loneliness is at the root of many mental health struggles✨ The power of community in healing✨ Breathwork as a tool for emotional release✨ Letting go of control in personal growth✨ The difference between “healing” vs. facilitating healing✨ Why talk therapy isn’t always enough✨ How self-expression helps you feel seen and connectedConnect with Matthew SmithWebsitehttp://matthewsmithwellness.comThe Sanctuaryhttp://[email protected] with Samantha LongInstagram @selfcareismyjob @the_aligned_heart Website http://alignedheart.net

What if self-care wasn’t about bubble baths..but about keeping promises to yourself? In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, Samantha Long sits down with virtual personal trainer Heather Nieves, founder of I Love Me Yoga + Fitness, to talk about the real foundations of self-care: strength training, habit stacking, accountability, and building confidence through consistency. Heather shares how she helps women create sustainable wellness routines through home workouts, yoga, meditation, and mindset work that break the on-again, off-again fitness cycle. They discuss: • Strength training as real self-care • Habit stacking and staying consistent • Breaking unhealthy fitness patterns • Accountability and confidence building • Creating habits that last long-term Join Heather’s Program: I ♥️ My Body 2.0 Skinny is OUT Strong is IN A 4-week accountability and empowerment program designed to help you break the on-again, off-again fitness cycle. ✔ 30–45 minute workouts (home or gym) ✔ Yoga ✔ Meditation with affirmations to embody these habits long-term It’s time to pour into YOU. Join here: https://tinyurl.com/mua2e326 Connect with Heather Nieves Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamheathernieves Email [email protected] Connect with podcast host Sam Long: Instagram: @selfcareismyjob @the_aligned_hear Website: alignedheart.net

What if healing isn’t about fixing yourself… but about slowing down?In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, Samantha Long (somatic self-care coach) sits down with Madison — yoga instructor, art therapist, and women’s wellness coach — to talk about healing through creativity, releasing perfectionism, and why so many women feel stuck.Madison shares her powerful story of becoming her grandmother’s caregiver at 17, how that experience led her to art therapy, and why she chose to leave the clinical route to create her own trauma-informed wellness business.We explore:How art therapy supports nervous system regulationWhy perfectionism keeps women stuckThe science behind slowing downSomatics, creativity, and parasympathetic activationWhy community healing mattersLetting go of binary “black & white” thinkingThe power of expressive art for womenIf you’ve ever felt like:“I don’t have a creative bone in my body.”“I feel stuck in the same day over and over.”“I don’t know how to slow down.”This episode is for you.It’s about the process — not the product.🎨 Connect with Madison:Instagram: @reflective.resiliencewww.reflectiveresilience.com🧘‍♀️ Connect with Samantha:Instagram: @selfcareismyjob @the_aligned_heartwww.alignedheart.net#WomensWellness #ArtTherapy #SomaticHealing #SelfCarePodcast #NervousSystemRegulation

In this powerful conversation, Samantha Long welcomes coach, web designer, and retreat host Turbo Rainbow for an honest, heart-led discussion on embodiment, self-care, and building meaningful connections both online and in real life.Together, they explore:• What embodiment actually means (beyond the buzzword)• Why self-care isn’t a checklist — it’s a baseline• Letting go of shame and black-and-white “consistency”• Boundaries, nervous system regulation, and somatic awareness• Why women struggle to receive — and how retreats create real integration• Building community instead of competing online• Choosing yourself without guiltThis episode is for women who feel exhausted, overextended, and disconnected from themselves and are ready to soften, receive, and come home to their bodies.✨ Samantha also shares details about co-teaching yoga at the Aurora Retreat in Asheville, North Carolina, hosted by Turbo Rainbow.Links & Resources:• Aurora Retreat (March 26–29, Asheville, NC): neon.attitude.arts.com🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on embodiment, self-care, nervous system healing, and living authentically.

Parenting can be both beautiful and complicated. It's rewarding and deeply depleting. In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, host Samantha Long sits down with Jannae Rice, Integrative Mental Health Specialist and Founder of Embodied Parenting, to explore how we can use our most triggering parenting moments as opportunities for growth, healing, and deeper connection with our children.Jannae shares wisdom around embodied parenting, emotional regulation, and how our nervous system responses often stem from unresolved past experiences. “Because of past triggers and traumas, it’s hard to differentiate — is this the past or the present? Our system gets glinchy, and then we are reactive versus responsive.”Learn how to ground yourself in the present, access sovereignty through embodiment, and transform parenting challenges into moments of empowerment and love.If you’re a parent craving peace, connection, and emotional freedom, this conversation will change how you see yourself and your family.Jannae Rice – Embodied ParentingFacebook: facebook.com/embodiedparentingsupportInstagram: instagram.com/embodied.parentingConnect with Samantha LongWebsite: www.alignedheart.netInstagram: instagram.com/the_alignedheartLinktree: linktr.ee/samanthalongFor private yoga, self care mentoring, or speaking engagements: [email protected]*This content is for personal development purposes only and not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.*

In this episode of Self Care Is My Job, we welcome Jenn Haddix, The Self Love Yogi, for a heartfelt conversation about rekindling self love, rebuilding confidence, and rediscovering self worth.Many of us realize that the lack of self trust and self worth can hold us back from living our full expression. But self love isn’t just a mindset shift, it’s a deep inner process of healing, awareness, and compassion. Jenn guides us through this unfolding journey using yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to help you “break the matrix” and reconnect with your authentic self. “Can you imagine if all of us were born and allowed to be the fullest expression of ourselves? The world would be a very different place.” ~ Jenn HaddixWhether you’re healing from self doubt, nurturing your inner child, or seeking tools for self compassion, this episode offers grounded wisdom to help you fall in love with yourself again.Connect with Jenn Haddix:Instagram: @theselflove.yogiWebsite: tgl.yoga.comListen to The Self Love Yogi Podcast: https://tglyoga.com/podcast-2/Hosted by Samantha Long:Website: www.alignedheart.netInstagram: @the_aligned_heartLinktree: linktr.ee/samanthalongAMARE MENTAL WELLNESS COMPANY (Fundamentals Pack): https://amare.com/g10/63334 *This Content is for personal development purposes and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions*

In this episode, we sit down with Mindset Flipper and Coach Stacey Uhrig to talk about how to reframe your thoughts, build emotional resilience, and stay grounded through life’s challenges.Stacey shares practical mindset tools to help you shift your perspective, recognize your triggers, and consciously choose thoughts that empower your personal growth. If you’re ready to stop reacting and start responding with awareness and strength, this conversation is for you. Your thoughts create your reality, learn how to flip them in your favor. Connect with Stacey Uhrig: flipyourmindset.comHosted by Samantha Long www.alignedheart.net Instagram: @the_alignedheart

We’re focusing on the body and how physical health connects deeply with our mind and spirit.So many of us have struggled with diets that don’t work, emotional eating, or chasing the “perfect” weight. What if instead of restriction, the answer was mindfulness?In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by Jessica Kishpaugh, Holistic Nutritionist, Mindfulness Life Coach, and mom of three, to talk about intuitive eating, food freedom, and how to develop a healthy lifestyle that feels good, not punishing.Jessica, founder of Loyo Wellness, helps women overcome cravings, rebuild trust with their bodies, and make self-care a non-negotiable. Together, we’ll explore what it means to live in alignment with your body’s needs and find true balance in mind, body, and spirit.Connect with Jessica:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/loyowellness/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicakishpaugh/https://www.loyowellness.comConnect with Samantha Long:Website: alignedheart.net | Instagram: @the_aligned_heart⚠️ This content is for personal development and educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical or therapeutic advice.

This week on Self Care Is My Job, I’m joined by Krista Buccari, Licensed Massage Therapist and founder of True Nature Body & Beauty Therapy, for a conversation that moves far beyond skincare.I first discovered Krista through her viral gua sha and facial massage videos — but her work goes much deeper. Through modalities like non-linear movement, fascia release, and somatic touch, Krista helps clients release trauma stored in the body, ease the nervous system, and reconnect with their innate radiance.In this heartfelt episode, we explore the mind-body connection through fascia, how tension and trauma live within our tissues, and why movement and awareness are key to true healing. Krista also shares her personal story of body image struggles, surgeries, and emotional recovery, and how these experiences shaped her purpose as a bodyworker. Krista reminds us: “Fascia remembers everything that ever happened to you. Your body is your subconscious mind. Movement is the language of the body.”Connect with Krista:Instagram → @truenature.beautytherapyWebsite → truenaturebodytherapy.comConnect with Sam:Website→ alignedheart.net Instagram → @the_aligned_heart *This content is for personal development purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with any medical questions.

So much about motherhood is beautiful; but there’s a lot we’re not told about what happens to our bodies afterward. In this powerful episode, Sam Long is joined by Jennifer Collard Forns, PT, RYT 200, to talk openly about pelvic floor health, why it matters, and why “a little leak” is never normal. Many mothers experience urinary incontinence, painful sex, or pelvic pain after giving birth, yet these issues are often dismissed or ignored. Jenn explains how pelvic floor physical therapy can help you reconnect with your body, rebuild strength, and reclaim confidence and comfort. We talk about the importance of self-care, body awareness, and breaking the silence around women’s health. You’ll walk away from this episode feeling informed, empowered, and ready to prioritize your own wellness. BONUS: Join my Facebook Community Self Care With Sam for extra educational videos and Jenn’s list of recommended lubes! Connect with Samantha Long: Website: alignedheart.net Instagram: @the_aligned_heart ⚠️ This content is for personal development and educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical or therapeutic advice.

In this honest and inspiring episode of Self Care Is My Job, host Samantha Long sits down with Amanda May, a sober mom living in wine country, to talk about what happens when we stop numbing and start feeling. Our culture glamorizes alcohol, especially for moms, but behind every “mommy needs wine” meme lies exhaustion, overwhelm, and disconnection. Amanda shares how she went from numb to powerful after deciding to quit drinking 10 months ago, and why sobriety has brought her more peace, clarity, and presence than she ever imagined. In this episode, we explore: - The truth about mommy wine culture - What “sober curious” really means - How alcohol impacts your nervous system and emotions - Reclaiming self care without the wine glass - Finding community, connection, and clarity in sobriety If you’ve ever wondered what life might feel like without alcohol, or if you’re just ready to stop numbing and start living, this conversation is for you. Connect with Amanda May: Instagram: @sober_musings_with_mandy Connect with Samantha Long: Website: alignedheart.net Instagram: @the_aligned_heart ⚠️ This content is for personal development and educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical or therapeutic advice.

Join us in this radiant and heart-centered episode as we explore “Expressive Mama,” an upcoming community event created for mothers who are ready to reclaim their voice, creativity, and joy. We break down everything you can expect at the event — from open-mic-style sharing, karaoke, dancing, somatic movement, creative arts tables, and delicious offerings like café beverages, light bites, wine tasting, raffle entry, and giveaways — all happening at Zen Haus Café in Ridgewood, NJ on Friday, 12/12 from 7–10 PM. REGISTER HERE: https://www.alignedheart.net/expressivemama But beyond the event itself, this episode goes deeper. We talk about what it truly means for mothers to express themselves without pressure, perfectionism, guilt, or comparison.Why is it so hard for moms to take up space creatively?Why do we silence our voices, numb our artistic impulses, or forget that we are more than caretakers? Together, we explore how creative expression becomes a form of healing: a way to reconnect with identity, regulate emotions, build community, and reignite joy. Tune in for inspiration, empowerment, and a reminder that your voice, your creativity, and your magic matter. Connect with Ambily: instagram: @seenandheardcoaching www.seenandheardcoaching.com Connect with Sam: instagram: @the_aligned_heart www.alignedheart.net

This episode of Self Care Is My Job brings you a delicious conversation with Danielle Savory, a Master Certified Life Coach, Mindfulness Teacher, and Sex Coach for Women, about how to use your brain for better sex and why pleasure is a powerful form of self care.We talk about:- How the brain and nervous system affect desire- Why mindfulness and presence can totally change your sex life- Reclaiming pleasure as empowerment- Overcoming shame and stress in the bedroom- The simple, science-backed ways to feel more turned onDanielle’s work helps women reconnect with their bodies, release guilt, and cultivate pleasure from a place of confidence and self-love.Whether you’re single or partnered, this episode will help you redefine what it means to be present, connected, and fully alive.Connect with Danielle Savory:https://www.instagram.com/thesexcoachforwomenhttps://daniellesavory.com/Connect with Samantha Long:https://www.instagram.com/the_aligned_heart https://www.alignedheart.net/⚠️ This content is for personal development and education only and not a substitute for medical or therapeutic advice.