
Hosted by Anita Goa · EN
Welcome to the Phases Podcast with your host, Anita Goa. This podcast is your guide to evolving through the unique phases of life after 40.
Tune in for solo reflections, and thought-provoking conversations with guests as we dive into yoga, fitness and what it means to grow and thrive after 40.
Each episode blends timeless Eastern wisdom with modern Western science to uncover the secrets to lifelong vitality and personal growth. Join us on the Phases Podcast, where every phase of life is an opportunity to evolve into your best self.

What if deeper intimacy, connection, and confidence come from within—through your own capacity for pleasure?In this episode, I’m joined by Elana Auerbach, author of The Sure Thing, to explore pleasure as a practice and the power of taking 100% responsibility for your own pleasure in transforming your relationship with your body, your partner, and yourself.Whether in partnership or solo, this conversation offers practical tools to feel more alive, confident, and connected. We also explore how embodiment, sensuality, and pleasure can expand into your voice, creativity, and societal impact.Time stamps:0:00 - 1:29: Introduction 2:07 - 3:35: Discussion on pleasure, shame, and personal responsibility.4:03 - 5:46: Addressing societal shame and its impact.6:55 - 18:19 Elana's personal journey and the concept of pleasure as a practice.18:19 - 19:11: Benefits of regular pleasure practices and personal transformation.25:11 - 27:18: Advice for those with partners not open to pleasure practices.30:08 - 32:18: Sensuality as nourishment and its health benefits.33:35 - 34:53: Love as a positive force and yoga practice.35:20 - 37:09: Historical perspectives and starting new practices.45:08 - 49:15: Elana's awakening, discussion on white privilege and societal change.52:08 - 55:15: Closing thoughts Stay In Touch With Elana + resourcesWebsite - https://www.surethingexperiment.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/elanauerbachFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/elanauerbachThis Sure Thing Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXYZ1234Free Gift - https://www.surethingexperiment.com Stay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingpleasure, self-love, intimacy, personal growth, cultural conditioning, weekly practice, empowerment, sexuality, emotional health, societal change

In this insightful conversation, Deb Benfield discusses aging unapologetically, challenging societal norms around body image, ageism, and wellness culture. She shares her journey as a dietitian, the importance of relational self-awareness, and practical practices for embracing body changes with confidence and compassion.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction to the Phases Podcast and the question: What if nothing was wrong with your body at midlife?2:00 Deb Benfield shares her journey, experiences with body image, diet culture, and wellness culture.10:00 Exploring societal pressures, body hierarchy, whiteness, and the impact on midlife self-perception.20:00 Discussion on ageism, internalized beliefs, neuroplasticity, and expanding perceptions of beauty.30:00 Practices for self-awareness, body acceptance, and recognizing internal biases.40:00 Midlife self-care, movement, strength training, and cultivating confidence and compassion.50:00 Closing thoughts, reflections on unapologetic aging, and where to find Deb Benfield.Stay In Touch With Deb Benfield + resources mentioned in episodeDeborah Benfield website https://www.debrabenfield.com/Deborah Benfield on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/agingbodyliberation/Deborah Benfield on Substack - https://debrabenfield.substack.comImplicit Bias Test (Harvard) - https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/Unapologetic Aging (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXYZ1234Stay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingkeywordsaging, body image, ageism, wellness culture, self-acceptance, body positivity, menopause, internalized bias, health, empowerment

What if midlife isn’t a breakdown… but a breakthrough?In this episode, Dr. Chetna Kang shares a powerful reframe of aging — one rooted in self-awareness, identity and spiritual growth.This isn’t about “getting older.”It’s about becoming more you than ever before.If you’ve been questioning who you are or where you’re going… this conversation is for you.About Dr. Chetna KangDr Chetna Kang is a consultant psychiatrist, bhakti yogi and spiritual teacher whose integrative approach weaves modern medicine, psychotherapy, and ancient wisdom. She has regularly presented Thought for the Day on Radio 4's Today programme and is known for making complex ideas about the mind, identity, and spiritual wellbeing deeply human and accessible.Timestamps:00:00 – Is Midlife Really a Crisis… or a Wake-Up Call?03:11 – The Truth About Midlife No One Talks About06:21 – Why You Feel Disconnected (and What to Do)10:49 – How to Feel Safe When Everything Is Changing15:01 – The Hidden Damage of Social Media in Midlife18:27 – Why Feeling Invisible Might Be Your Superpower22:11 – The Secret to Starting Over (Without Guilt)26:28 – What Actually Helps When You Feel Lost30:38 – The Ego Trap Keeping You Stuck32:12 – How to Avoid (or Get Through) a Midlife Crisis34:51 – The 5 Things Your Mind Is Missing38:20 – The Real Reason Aging Feels So Hard44:54 – What Legacy Really Means (It’s Not What You Think)45:39 – Why Thinking About Death Changes Everything47:31 – The One Practice That Grounds You Daily49:36 – Science vs. Spirituality… or Both?Stay In Touch With Dr. Chetna KangWebsite - https://chetna-kang.comChetna's Instagram: https://instagram.com/drchetnakangLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/chetna-kangResourcesBBC Radio 4 - Dr. Chetna Kang Talks - https://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4Spiritual Warrior Series by Bhakti Devote Swami - https://www.example.com/spiritual-warrior-seriesStay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeing

In this episode of the Phases podcast, host Anita Goa speaks with Gaby Cabrera-Kimchi, a functional medicine practitioner, about the importance of thriving in life, especially for women. They discuss the five pillars of thriving health: nutrition, stress awareness, movement, rest, and connection. Gabby emphasises the need for proactive health care for women, the difference between lifespan and health span, and the importance of understanding one's biology. The conversation highlights the significance of community and purpose in enhancing health and longevity, encouraging listeners to reconnect with their values and prioritise self-care.About Gaby Cabrera-Kimchi (MSc, INHC, AFMCP, RHC-UKIHCA)Gaby is a certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, committed to revolutionising women’s health.She supports women 1:1, at all stages of life, helping them reclaim their energy, balance their hormones, and live in alignment with their biology. Through the use of advanced functional testing and wearables, she helps women uncover the root causes within their own physiology and delivers highly tailored, personalised health plans for lasting results.She also delivers specialised women’s health workshops for companies and organisations.Stay In Touch With Gaby:Website: https://www.wellnesswithgaby.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnesswithgabyChapters00:00 Introduction to Thriving in Life03:44 The Importance of Pausing and Self-Care06:07 Alignment with Values for Thriving08:23 Understanding Women's Health and Longevity09:41 The Need for Proactive Health Approaches12:34 Myths About Aging and Health15:12 The Five Pillars of Thriving Health18:03 Nutrition and Functional Eating20:35 Hydration and Its Impact on Health34:30 The Pillars of Wellness: Water and Stress Awareness42:11 Understanding Stress: Awareness Over Management45:51 Movement vs. Exercise: Embracing Natural Movement52:20 Rest and Rejuvenation: The Importance of Sleep01:00:05 Connection and Purpose: The Blue Zone PrinciplesStay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingKeywordsthriving, women's health, health span, lifespan, proactive care, nutrition, stress awareness, movement, sleep, connection, purpose, functional medicine,

In this enlightening episode of the Phases Podcast, host Anita Goa welcomes the incredibly knowledgable and inspiring Jill Miller, creator of Yoga Tune Up and Tune Up Fitness. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of fascia, delve into the art of down-regulating the nervous system, and learn how to effectively use Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls.Discover how Jill's journey and innovative techniques can help you unlock your body's true potential. Plus, hear Jill's personal insights on parenting and resilience, and find out what life is teaching her at the moment. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to enrich your wellness journey.Chapters00:00 The Evolution of Yoga and Personal Growth02:11 The Birth of Yoga Tune Up04:45 The Role of Fascia in Movement06:51 Integrating Breath and Movement09:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery through Yoga11:31 Building Resilience and Community13:54 The Science of Self-Care16:31 The Impact of Technology on Wellness18:52 Personal Definitions of Yoga25:40 Understanding Fascia: The Body's Seam System28:27 Fascia Health: Techniques for Longevity and Mobility32:37 Integrating Therapy Balls: Timing and Techniques38:52 The Vagus Nerve: Connection to Relaxation and Recovery46:31 Longevity: Movement, Love, and Community49:21 Timeless Principles of Yoga and MovementStay In Touch With Jill Miller:Website: https://www.tuneupfitness.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejillmiller/?hl=enStay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingKeywordsYoga Tune Up, fascia, nervous system, Jill Miller, wellness, fitness, therapy balls

In this episode, Anita Goa host of The Phases Podcast talks with Dr. Nibodhi Haas to explore the profound teachings of Ayurveda and yoga, emphasising the importance of moment-to-moment awareness and the lessons life offers. They discuss the significance of embracing imperfection, the journey of conscious aging, and the role of Ayurveda as a blueprint for healthy living. The conversation highlights personal experiences with Ayurveda, the importance of humour, connection in life, practical steps for incorporating Ayurvedic principles into daily routines. Ultimately, they stress the transformative power of love and gratitude in leading a radiant and thriving life.TakeawaysLife teaches us lessons moment-to-moment.Ayurveda and yoga provide essential frameworks for awareness.We can experience bliss in the present, not just in the afterlife.Embracing imperfection is key to personal growth.Aging should be viewed as a conscious journey, not a decline.Life is about phases, and each phase offers unique lessons.Ayurveda serves as a personalized blueprint for health.Self-discovery is a continuous journey influenced by our experiences.Service to others enriches our own lives and consciousness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ayurveda and Radiant Living02:24 Life Lessons and Awareness04:49 The Nature of Divine Consciousness06:54 Aging and Consciousness09:35 Ayurveda: The Science of Life11:57 Understanding Doshas and Individuality14:50 Mindful Eating and Nutrition17:16 Resources for Learning Ayurveda28:03 The Joy of Relaxed Effort29:02 Finding Humor in Life's Challenges31:17 Acceptance and Non-Grasping32:33 The Importance of Nutrition and Protein40:50 Digestion and Hormonal Balance49:17 Living with Purpose and LoveStay In Touch With Dr. Nibodhi:Website: https://www.nibodhi.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.nibodhi/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nibodhi.haas.108Podcast Awakened Living with Nibodhi: https://www.nibodhi.com/podcasts/awakened-living-with-nibodhiStay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/Website: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)Anita's Instagram: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingPhases Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingAyurveda, yoga, conscious aging, self-awareness, personal growth, mindfulness, spirituality, health, wellness, life lessons

In this reflective solo episode, host Anita Goa wraps up Season 3 of the Phases podcast by sharing her favourite takeaways from each episode. Anita delves into the art of listening, the power of curiosity, and the profound insights gained from her conversations with guests like Manorama, Sue Hitzmann, Jillian Pransky, Anna Taylor and Laura Khoudari.From exploring the nervous system to understanding trauma and the beauty of aging, this episode is a heartfelt journey through the themes that have shaped the season.Join Anita as she celebrates growth, learning and the phases of life.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction and Season Overview[05:00] Reflections on Listening and Interviewing[10:00] Insights from Manorama on Phases and Sanskrit[20:00] Sue Hitzmann on Fascia and Self-Care[30:00] Jillian Pransky on Restorative Yoga[40:00] Anna Taylor on Mindfulness and Compassion[50:00] Laura Khoudari on Trauma and Strength Training[60:00] Closing Thoughts and GratitudeStay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/WEBSITE: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingCreative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos 👉 / @podcastbackgroundmusic#PhasesPodcast #SeasonFinale #LifePhases #Curiosity #Growth

In this enlightening conversation, Laura Khoudari shares her transformative journey from chronic pain and trauma to empowerment through strength training. They discuss the critical role of the nervous system in trauma recovery and how mindful strength training can foster healing. Laura also shares where yoga fell short.Laura emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma, the impact of cultural narratives, and the necessity of agency in the healing process. She also introduces her trauma-informed approach to strength training, highlighting the significance of listening to one's body and creating supportive conditions for effective practice. The discussion culminates in reflections on the intersection of yoga and strength training, and the evolving nature of Laura's work in the field.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Healing and Change08:41 Strength Training as a Path to Empowerment14:51 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact18:15 The Nervous System and Trauma Response26:49 Navigating Personal Trauma and Boundaries31:54 The Power of Personal Agency34:07 Understanding Conditions for Success36:19 Activation: The Heart of Movement42:14 The Importance of Recovery44:31 Embodied Strength Training: A Mindful Approach49:11 Navigating Anxiety and Breath51:31 Embracing Change and Personal GrowthStay In Touch With Laura:Website: https://www.laurakhoudari.com/Substack: https://www.laurakhoudari.substack.com/Stay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/WEBSITE: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingCreative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos 👉 / @podcastbackgroundmusictrauma recovery, strength training, empowerment, nervous system, healing, personal growth, agency, mindful movement, embodied strength, trauma-informed training

In this insightful episode of the Phases podcast, Anita Goa welcomes Anna Taylor, a renowned yoga teacher from London and author of Weaving Mindfulness and Compassion into Yoga Teaching to discuss the transformative power of mindfulness and compassion in yoga.Anna shares her personal journey of navigating change, the challenges of writing from the heart, and the profound impact of self-compassion on her practice and teaching.Together, they delve into the essence of mindfulness, the importance of being a kind visitor to oneself, and how these practices can lead to a more authentic and connected life. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for everyone.Chapters00:00Introduction and Personal Connection03:29Navigating Change and Uncertainty06:03The Essence of Mindfulness in Yoga08:14Understanding Mindfulness and Its Challenges10:40The Interconnection of Mindfulness and Yoga13:05Defining Mindfulness and Its Importance15:36Mindfulness as a Path to Wisdom16:46The Role of the Body in Mindfulness18:41Finding Connection and Belonging through Practice20:35The True Purpose of Yoga22:51Compassion as a Complement to Mindfulness26:13Understanding Pain and Suffering28:32The Power of Compassion31:05Self-Confidence Through Compassion34:46Creating Safe Spaces in Yoga36:30Navigating Difficult Phases in Practice39:47Embracing Non-Striving in Practice44:32Finding Balance in Movement and Stillness47:33The Journey of Self-Discovery Through YogaStay In Touch With Anna:Website: https://www.mindbodybalance.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna_mindfulyoga/#Stay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/WEBSITE: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingCreative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos 👉 / @podcastbackgroundmusic

Join Anita Goa as she reconnects with Jillian Pransky, a seasoned restorative yoga teacher, to explore the transformative power of restorative yoga and nervous system regulation.In this insightful conversation, they delve into Jillian's evolving understanding of restorative yoga as a portable practice that transcends traditional stillness.Discover how embracing the present and respecting our differences can lead to deeper self-compassion and resilience. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate life's challenges with grace and mindfulness.Chapters:Introduction and What Life Is Teaching Jillian Now (0:00)The Essence of Restorative Yoga (5:12)Evolving Practices and Personal Growth (12:45)Embracing Diversity and Oneness (20:30)The Art of Slowing Down (28:15)Practical Applications and Everyday Integration (35:50)Closing Thoughts and Future Insights (42:30)Stay In Touch With Jillian:Website: https://www.jillianpransky.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillianpransky/#Stay In Touch With Anita Goa:Newsletter: http://anitagoa.com/anita/newsletter/WEBSITE: http://www.anitagoa.com http://www.anitagoastudio.com (membership)INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/anitagoawellbeingINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/thephasespodcastFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/anitagoawellbeingCreative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0 Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos 👉 / @podcastbackgroundmusic