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In this episode of Aligned Expressions, I’m joined by Debra Reis, MSN, RN, CNS, clinical nurse specialist, author, and international speaker known as the Empowered Nurse Advocate. With over 25 years of experience using integrative therapies in clinical settings — including cancer care — Deb brings powerful, practical tools for navigating stress and overwhelm in real life. Our conversation focuses on three simple ways to overcome stress and overwhelm, especially for those living with chaotic schedules and high emotional demands. Deb shares her evidence-based pproach, which supports the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of well-being through relaxation techniques, aromatherapy, and gentle movement. One of the highlights of our interview is a guided breath practice Deb leads us through that helps balance the nervous system and mitigate stress in just minutes. It’s a technique you can use anytime you feel anxious, overstimulated, or emotionally overloaded. If you’re looking for practical tools to feel calmer, more grounded, and more resilient, this episode offers both inspiration and immediate relief. Tune in to learn how to find calm in the chaos — one breath at a time. Website: https://debrareis.com Free Guide: https://debrareis.com/3-ways-to-overcome-stress-and-overwhelm

In this episode, I’m joined by Ar. Surabhi Kumari, an Architect, Wellness Space Strategist, and the founder of Sucupirah Designs—a healing-centered design studio devoted to helping women transform their homes into sanctuaries of nourishment and nervous system support. As a professional with over a decade of experience in architecture and green building—including years designing for a leading eco-luxury hotel chain—Surabhi brings a unique and refreshing lens to how we inhabit space. Her approach weaves together sustainability, ancestral wisdom, sensory psychology, and mindful spatial practices, forming the heart of her Sucupirah Wellness Design Framework. Surabhi believes that the spaces where women live, work, and rest carry profound influence on emotional wellbeing, stress recovery, and life transitions. In her work, she explores how intentionally curated environments can: calm the sympathetic nervous system nourish emotional resilience support women through cycles of change create a sense of rootedness, safety, and expansion As a LinkedIn News–Featured Thought Leader, she writes about space as a tool for wellness, identity, and conscious living—inviting women to reclaim their environments as reflections of who they are and who they are becoming. Her mission is beautifully clear:to guide women in creating homes that heal, comfort, and empower them at every stage of life. LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/architect-surabhikumari Newsletter — EcoWellDesign Digest:https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7330968371829624837 Website:sucupirahdesigns.com (Website currently being updated) Connect with Surabhi

This very special episode of Aligned Expressions marks a first in the podcast’s history—three incredible guests at once for a powerful, heart-centered conversation. In October, host Sherry Steine joined eight co-authors to launch the transformative new book Resonate Healing Voices Anthology: A Collective Project of Professional Wellness Steward Practitioners, created by Dr. Michelle Boulden-Hammond and Radiance Carrying Friends. Today, three of these radiant voices are here to share their wisdom, their journeys, and the sacred intention behind this collaborative project. I’m honored to welcome: Dr. Michelle Boulden-Hammond — Editor, co-author, and visionary behind the anthology. A trailblazing advocate for holistic wellness, Dr. Michelle blends transpersonal counseling, sound healing, and women's wellness practices to empower women to align mind, body, and soul. Dr. Karen Raye Haymore — A nationally recognized holistic health practitioner, author, and speaker who is dedicated to preserving ancestral healing traditions. With a doctorate in Metaphysical Science and Natural Medicine, she bridges ancient practices with modern holistic approaches. She is also the founder of the Holistic Professionals of Color Association. Mekeva Miller — An Ayurvedic Body Therapist rooted in a maternal lineage of intuitive and holistic healing. Mekeva integrates traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with mystical insight to guide clients through transformative journeys of wellness, embodiment, and intuitive growth. Together, we explore the inspiration behind the anthology, the power of collaborative healing work, and the deeply personal practices each author brings to the world. This episode is filled with reflections on legacy, intuition, ancestral wellness, and the many ways we as healing practitioners support others on their journey toward balance and renewal. Whether you are a wellness professional, a seeker, or simply someone who loves stories of healing and empowerment, this episode offers wisdom, connection, and profound insight. Tune in and join us as we celebrate this beautiful publication—and the collective voices rising to help others reclaim their wholeness.

In this nourishing episode of Aligned Expressions, host Sherry Steine sits down with the radiant and deeply knowledgeable Kim Richardson, MS, C-IAYT, E-RYT 500 — owner of Yes You Yoga and Wellness in Birmingham, Alabama — to explore sound as an ancient and modern form of vibrational medicine. Together, Sherry and Kim dive into: ✨ The history and roots of sound therapy across ancient cultures✨ Sound as an alternative vibrational healing modality✨ How instrumental sound trends are shaping today’s wellness experiences✨ The neuroscience behind sound and the nervous system✨ Practical ways sound supports meditation, anxiety reduction, and deep relaxation✨ How trauma-informed sound practices help create safe, inclusive healing spaces✨ Sound therapy’s role in community healing and reducing health disparities Kim brings a wealth of experience as a certified yoga therapist, sound practitioner, and wellness leader. Her work spans hospitals, cancer centers, VA programs, and youth behavioral health units through the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Arts in Medicine program. In 2024, she received the International Association of Yoga Therapists' prestigious John Kepner Seva Award for her service with veterans and under-resourced communities. This conversation is filled with wisdom, practical guidance, and profound heart — inspiring us to listen more deeply, breathe more fully, and welcome sound as a gentle companion in our healing journeys. 🎧 Tune in and experience how sound can soothe the spirit, settle the mind, and help us reconnect to our inner harmony.

In this episode of Aligned Expressions, I sit down with Stephanie Wigenton, Co-Founder and Owner of Wigenton Candle Co., to explore the powerful connection between clean living, wellness, and breast cancer advocacy. Wigenton Candle Co. was founded on a simple yet profound belief: what we breathe in matters. Stephanie shares how her love for candles collided with the hidden truth about toxins in mainstream products—and how that realization led her to create beautifully scented, clean-burning candles made with natural soy wax and non-toxic ingredients. Together, we discuss her journey of transforming personal wellness needs into a mission-driven business, the healing role of scent and ritual in everyday life, and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness and prevention. About Stephanie Wigenton:Stephanie Wigenton is the Co-Founder and Owner of Wigenton Candle Co., a wellness-driven candle and home fragrance brand rooted in scent psychology and the art of creating scented memories. With an undergraduate degree in Organizational Leadership, she built a robust career in the corporate sector—spanning operations, human resources, sales, and client management—before stepping into entrepreneurship. Her journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when her search for candles that wouldn’t trigger asthma or allergies inspired her to create her own non-toxic alternatives. Today, Stephanie combines her leadership experience with a passion for wellness, guiding Wigenton Candle Co. as a platform for clean living, education, and advocacy, particularly around breast cancer awareness. Whether you’re a candle lover, a wellness seeker, or someone curious about toxin-free living, this conversation will inspire you to rethink the air you breathe, the light you invite into your space, and the ways small daily rituals can support long-term health.

In this heartfelt conversation, Sherry Steine welcomes Dr. Gail Parker—renowned psychologist, yoga therapist, and author—to explore the profound ways restorative yoga can support recovery from deep-seated wounds and generational stress. Dr. Parker shares her insights on integrating restorative yoga into a personal or professional healing practice, the role of rest as a radical act of self-care, and how this work nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are a wellness professional, a yoga practitioner, or someone seeking tools for personal transformation, this episode offers compassionate wisdom and practical guidance for cultivating wholeness and renewal. Gail Parker, Ph.D., C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, is an author, psychologist, and a yoga therapist educator. She is the author of Restorative Yoga for Ethnic and Race-Based Stress and Trauma and Transforming Ethnic and Race-Based Traumatic Stress with Yoga. Dr. Parker is a lifelong practitioner of yoga and is well known for her pioneering efforts to blend psychology, yoga, and meditation as effective self-care strategies that can enhance emotional balance, and contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of practitioners. She teaches yoga therapists, yoga teachers, and behavioral health professionals how to utilize Restorative Yoga to support stress reduction and recovery from ethnic and race-based traumatic stress.

On this episode, How to Radically Pour into Your Own Cup, we welcome the inspiring Tara-Whitney Rison, known professionally as Tara-Whitney. Tara-Whitney is a certified health and wellness coach, consultant, actress, speaker, and the visionary Founder & CEO of RADICAL REFILL, LLC — an artistic-wholistic wellness company devoted to liberating high-achieving women from chronic burnout and guiding them into whole-person centered work and lifestyles. Currently pursuing her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition + Integrative Health at Maryland University of Integrative Health, Tara-Whitney brings both academic rigor and creative soul to her work. Her radical wellbeing framework empowers women to refill their cup without guilt and place their health at the forefront. In this conversation, Tara-Whitney will share powerful, practical, and artistic approaches to self-renewal, and preview the transformational retreats and offerings emerging through RADICAL REFILL. Get ready for a deeply honest and uplifting dialogue on why putting yourself first is not only radical — it’s essential. Stay tuned and let Tara-Whitney inspire you to redefine how you nourish your mind, body, and spirit.

n this inspiring episode of Aligned Expressions, I sit down with Robyn Love, Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT), experienced yoga teacher (E-RYT 500), visual artist, and founder of Atha Yoga School. Robyn brings over a decade of experience in yoga therapy, offering personalized practices that weave together movement, breath, and meditation to support healing on all levels. Robyn’s work is deeply informed by her background as a visual artist with decades of international exhibitions, as well as her spiritual studies as a jukai student in the Mountains and Rivers Order of Zen Buddhism. Her teaching is grounded in the timeless wisdom of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, emphasizing the power of steady effort (abhyasa) and letting go (vairagyam). Through The Well Institute, I had the honor of taking Robyn’sYoga and Art Therapy class—and was profoundly moved by her ability to integrate creative expression into somatic experience. In our conversation, we explore how art and yoga intersect as tools for emotional insight, embodiment, and renewal. If you’re curious about how creativity and contemplative practice can support emotional healing, this episode will speak straight to your soul.

In this powerful and inspiring episode, Sherry sits down with the radiant Dorris Walker-Taylor, an ambassador for Thistle Farms, to share her incredible journey of healing and hope. Once lost to the streets, addiction, and deep personal trauma, Dorris found her way back to herself through the compassionate embrace of Thistle Farms—a sanctuary for women survivors of trafficking, addiction, and homelessness. Thistle Farms, based in Nashville, TN, is more than just a social enterprise—it’s a lifeline. The organization provides long-term residential healing programs and job training, empowering women to reclaim their lives. Through its signature line of handcrafted aromatherapy products, candles, and body care essentials, women not only learn valuable skills in product formulation and manufacturing, but also launch new careers and rebuild their lives with dignity. Dorris shares how love, community, and purpose helped transform her path—and how the scents she now helps create carry the same healing potential for others. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of resilience, purpose-driven business, and the therapeutic power of scent. Tune in for this exclusive conversation in honor of National Aromatherapy Week, and discover how aromatics and advocacy intertwine at Thistle Farms. For information on Thistle Farms go to: https://thistlefarms.org For more information on Dorris Walker Taylor go to: https://dorriswalkertaylor.com

Join us on this deeply transformative episode of Aligned Expressions as we welcome bestselling author, international psychic medium, and life coach Jamila White. Formerly a marketing consultant, Jamila has spent nearly two decades guiding women from feeling off-balance and fearful of the future to experiencing clarity, peace of mind, and the freedom to live with unconditional joy and purpose. In this conversation, we explore: Trusting Your Inner Voice: How to tap into your intuition and move beyond self-doubt Releasing Fear: Practical rituals and mindset shifts to let go of anxiety and reclaim your power Self-Love in Action: Insights from A Year of Self Love Journal and how weekly prompts can spark lasting change Creating Community: Jamila’s journey founding the 4,000-member Barbados Blackpats network for Black expats and digital nomads Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply ready to deepen your self-connection, Jamila’s wisdom and compassionate guidance will inspire you to come home to yourself. Tune in and discover how to unlock your innate resilience, trust your path, and step fully into your purpose. Connect with Jamila White: Website: www.JamilaWhite.com Facebook: facebook.com/InspiredJamila Instagram: instagram.com/Inspired.Jamila YouTube: youtube.com/c/JamilaWhite LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamilawhite Threads: threads.net/Inspired.Jamila Prepare to release fear, embrace self-love, and embark on a journey back to your true self.

In this soul-nourishing solo episode, Sherry invites you into the sacred art of energetic cleansing through the lens of tradition, intention, and personal practice. ✨ Have you ever felt the need to clear a space—not just physically, but energetically? Join Sherry as she explores the deep roots of smudging, honoring the practices of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas while sharing how these timeless rituals have woven into her own journey through Feng Shui and holistic home wellness. You’ll learn: 🌿 The history and sacred origins of smudging practices 🍂 How to align cleansing rituals with the rhythms of the seasons 🔥 What smudging actually does—energetically, emotionally, and spiritually 💧 Why she created her own smudge spray and how you can use it, too Whether you're a seasoned energy worker or just feeling the call to refresh your home’s vibe, this episode will leave you inspired to reconnect with your space—and yourself—with greater awareness and reverence. Tune in, take a deep breath, and clear the path for something new.

In this episode of Aligned Expressions, we are honored to welcome the dynamic Dr. C. Nicole Swiner, widely known as DocSwiner! A nationally recognized family physician, 7-time best-selling author, speaker, publisher, and wellness advocate, Dr. Swiner has made it her mission to help women break free from unrealistic expectations and prioritize their well-being. Voted as one of the Top 10 Best Doctors in North Carolina, she is a trusted expert in Minority Health, Women’s Health, Mental Health, and Entrepreneurship. She is the founder of Swiner Publishing Company, which supports authors and entrepreneurs in their publishing journeys, and Serenity Hydration and Wellness, a space for IV hydration therapy and self-care consultations. With a powerful presence in the wellness and publishing industries, Dr. Swiner has been featured on major media platforms and has graced stages at Essence Fest and Radio One’s Women’s Empowerment. Today’s conversation dives deep into: ✔️ What is the Superwoman Complex, and why do so many women struggle with it? ✔️ The dangers of chronic stress and burnout ✔️ Practical strategies to prioritize self-care without guilt ✔️ How IV hydration therapy supports overall well-being ✔️ The importance of setting boundaries and balancing work, family, and personal health Dr. Swiner is a Senior Advisor for Black Girl Vitamins, a brand dedicated to supporting Black women’s health with high-quality supplements. Listeners can use the exclusive code DOCSWINER20 for 20% off vitamins and supplements at Black Girl Vitamins. 🌟 Instagram: @realdocswiner 🌟 YouTube: DocSwiner 🌟 Website: www.docswiner.com 🌟 Swiner Publishing Company: swinerpublishing.com 🌟 Serenity Hydration & Wellness: serenityhydration.com 🔔 Join the Conversation! How do you prioritize self-care in your daily life? Connect with us on social media and share your thoughts!

In this thought-provoking episode of Aligned Expressions, Sherry Steine sits down with Frauke Galia, a passionate smell coach, aromatherapist, author, and podcaster, to explore the often-overlooked power of our sense of smell. Frauke, widely known as “the smell lady”, believes that smelling is a privilege—one that many of us take for granted. She sheds light on the vital role scent plays in our emotional well-being, memory, and overall health. Together, they discuss:🌿 Why the sense of smell is essential to our daily experiences and how it connects to emotions, memory, and mental wellness.🌿 The cultural undervaluing of smell and how we can become more mindful of our olfactory world.🌿 The link between smell and well-being, including its impact on stress, relaxation, and even healing.🌿 Practical ways to reignite your connection with scent, whether through aromatherapy, nature, or daily rituals.🌿 The importance of supporting those with smell and taste disorders—something Frauke actively champions through her work as an ambassador for the UK non-profit Fifth Sense. Frauke’s work is a gentle reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and fully engage with the world through our noses. She also shares insights from her podcast, An Aromatic Life, where she continues to educate and inspire people to embrace their sense of smell with curiosity and gratitude. ✨ Tune in and rediscover your forgotten sense of smell! ✨ 🔗 Connect with Frauke Galia: Website / Substack: www.anaromaticlife.com Podcast: An Aromatic Life Instagram: @an_aromatic_life The Scent*Tattoo Project – A project honoring scent memories and their deep emotional ties🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!

In this inspiring episode of Aligned Expressions, your host, Sherry Steine, reveals how your intentions and actions directly shape the energy of your home. Through thoughtful tips and timeless rituals, Sherry empowers you to create a harmonious space that nurtures your well-being. Discover how simple practices, like smudging, can clear stagnant energy and invite positivity into your environment. Plus, learn about Sherry’s handcrafted Smudge Ritual Spray—a modern, smoke-free alternative to traditional smudging. Perfect for anyone seeking a quick and effective way to refresh their space and elevate the vibe. Transform your home into a sanctuary of peace and balance! Visit Sherry’s Apothecary Shop to purchase the Smudge Ritual Spray and discover other tools designed to support your journey to energetic wellness. 👉 Click here to shop now Don’t miss this powerful conversation—your home deserves to feel as amazing as you do! 🌟 Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Your Favorite Podcast Platform 4o

Aligned Expressions Podcast: Episode Liner Notes Episode Title: Overcoming Misconceptions About Yoga Episode Description: Yoga is often misunderstood as being just about physical flexibility, exotic poses, or a "perfect" lifestyle. In this episode, host Sherry Steine dives deep into the common misconceptions that keep people from stepping onto the mat and embracing yoga as a transformative practice. Whether you’ve ever thought, “I’m not flexible enough for yoga,” or felt intimidated by social media portrayals of yoga, this episode is for you. Sherry shares her personal journey of overcoming her own doubts, breaks down what yoga really is (hint: it’s much more than physical postures), and offers encouragement for anyone curious about starting or re-engaging with a yoga practice. Join us as we explore how yoga meets you exactly where you are, no matter your age, size, or level of experience. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why yoga is about connection, not perfection. The difference between yoga as a practice and yoga as portrayed in mainstream culture. How yoga can support emotional well-being, especially for midlife women. Simple tips to overcome fear or hesitation and try yoga for yourself. Connect with Sherry: Website: www.sbwaligned.com Instagram: @wellnesssbw Email: [email protected] Want to dive deeper? Check out Sherry’s private therapeutic yoga sessions or her upcoming Soulful Stillness workshop, where she blends yoga with emotional renewal techniques. Don’t forget to subscribe! If you loved this episode, leave a review and share it with someone who might need a little encouragement to step onto their mat. Let’s grow this community of aligned living together! Tune in, and remember: Yoga is for every body—and that includes YOU!