The Practice That Changed Everything: How Yoga Nidra Became My Sanctuary

In my personal healing journey — through trauma, betrayal, motherhood, and ultimately, profound transformation — I’ve discovered that not all rest is created equal. There is rest that simply pauses the chaos, and then there is rest that repairs you on a cellular, emotional, and energetic level.

For me, that deeper form of rest revealed itself in Yoga Nidra — a practice that now lives at the heart of my personal rituals and my coaching work inside The Mindful Edit.

✦ What is Yoga Nidra?

Often called yogic sleep, Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation technique designed to bring the body into a state of deep physical relaxation while the mind remains gently aware. It’s not sleep, yet it invites the nervous system into the same healing brainwave states associated with deep, restorative rest.

During a session, you lie comfortably (often on your back, supported by cozy blankets and bolsters), while a facilitator guides you through breath awareness, body scans, visualizations, and intention-setting. The practice allows the conscious mind to gently recede while your subconscious opens — creating fertile ground for both deep rest and profound healing.

✦ Why Yoga Nidra is a Sanctuary for Trauma Survivors

As someone who has survived unimaginable trauma — from the years of abuse and gaslighting in my relationships to the well-publicized criminal case that thrust my private life into a media storm (Buzzfeed News) — I’ve lived with the lingering imprint that trauma leaves on the nervous system. The hypervigilance. The sleepless nights. The racing mind. The inability to fully exhale.

Trauma is not just a psychological experience — it lives in the body. The nervous system becomes stuck in states of chronic fight, flight, or freeze, long after the danger has passed. And this is where Yoga Nidra offers something uniquely powerful.

Research has begun to validate what many trauma survivors experience firsthand: Yoga Nidra offers measurable relief from the symptoms of PTSD and complex trauma.

• A 2011 study published in Military Medicine found that veterans with PTSD who practiced Yoga Nidra (iRest protocol) reported significant reductions in anxiety, depression, insomnia, and emotional reactivity.

• A 2018 review in Current Psychology noted that Yoga Nidra helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, reduces hyperarousal, and supports the integration of traumatic memories in a non-threatening, safe way.

• Neuroimaging studies have shown that Yoga Nidra may enhance activity in brain regions responsible for emotional regulation, while calming the amygdala — the part of the brain that perceives threat.

✦ How I Integrated Yoga Nidra Into My Rituals

When I first discovered Yoga Nidra, I was postpartum, exhausted, and still carrying layers of unprocessed trauma. Traditional meditation felt inaccessible — my mind too restless, my body too tense. But Yoga Nidra invited me to simply lie down and listen. No pressure. No perfection.

At first, I practiced guided recordings for just 20 minutes before bed. I noticed my sleep began to deepen. My anxiety softened. My breathing slowed.

Over time, Yoga Nidra became not just a relaxation tool, but a cornerstone of my nervous system regulation:

• In the morning, short 15-minute sessions grounded me before beginning my day.

• In the evening, longer 30-40 minute sessions signaled my body into deep parasympathetic restoration.

• During high-stress periods, Yoga Nidra offered a way to reset my internal state without numbing or dissociating — something trauma survivors deeply need.

✦ The Sweetest Gift: Reclaiming Safety in My Own Body

For survivors, the body can often feel like the scene of the crime — a place where pain was held, suppressed, or ignored. But Yoga Nidra gently helps to reclaim the body as a sanctuary once more. Without forcing anything, it invites the nervous system to release stored tension, retrain safety pathways, and restore trust in one’s own being.

Today, I not only practice Yoga Nidra personally — I also guide many of my coaching clients through this profound practice as part of their custom healing plans. The combination of mindfulness coaching, somatic practices, and Yoga Nidra has become one of the most effective, elegant, and nurturing ways I help other women reclaim themselves.

Because ultimately, healing isn’t about erasing the past. It’s about learning to live with grace, softness, and resilience in the aftermath.

And that, truly, is one of the sweetest things.

To learn more about how I integrate Yoga Nidra and mindfulness into my coaching programs, explore my private coaching offerings here.

My Experience with Superpower Health: A New Standard in Personalized Wellness

In a world overflowing with one-size-fits-all health advice, I recently discovered something refreshingly bespoke: Superpower Health — and it may just be my new not-so-secret weapon for elevated wellbeing.

As a busy single mother, trauma survivor, and founder of The Mindful Edit, my approach to wellness is deeply intentional. I know that true healing isn’t about quick fixes — it’s about addressing the body and mind with precision, care, and a touch of luxury. That’s exactly what Superpower Health delivered.

The Experience: Concierge Wellness, Delivered to My Door

The process began with an experience that felt equal parts spa-like and medically sophisticated: a licensed phlebotomist arrived at my home for a professional blood draw. No crowded waiting rooms, no rushed appointments — just personalized, on-demand care in the comfort of my own space. For someone balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, this level of convenience felt like a gift.

Two days later, my comprehensive blood panel results arrived, revealing an intimate snapshot of my body’s current state: micronutrient levels, hormone balance, inflammation markers, metabolic health — all the information I need to optimize my wellbeing.

The Custom Action Plan: Precision Meets Practicality

Roughly five days after my labs came in, I received my fully customized action plan from Superpower’s concierge clinical team. This wasn’t another generic “eat healthy and exercise more” recommendation. It was a highly tailored roadmap that honored both my physiology and my lifestyle — and reflected the integrative, trauma-informed approach I hold dear.

Here’s a peek at some of the standout recommendations my clinician provided:

✦ Daily Nutrition Guidelines

• Balanced Meals: 3 beautifully composed meals a day, with optional snacks — no rigid intermittent fasting.

• Clean Proteins: Pasture-raised eggs, wild fish, organic chicken, tempeh, lentils.

• Colorful Non-Starchy Veggies: At least 2 cups per meal — vibrant, nourishing, anti-inflammatory.

• Smart Carbs: Think quinoa, wild rice, squash, berries — nutrient-rich, hormone-supportive.

• Liver-Supportive Foods: Cruciferous vegetables, beets, dandelion greens, lemon — for optimal detox pathways.

• Prebiotic & Fermented Foods: To nourish gut health and support my nervous system.

• Targeted Hydration: ½ my body weight in ounces of water daily, with trace minerals for cellular hydration.

✦ Lifestyle & Behavioral Foundations

• Sleep Rituals: Fixed wake-up times, morning light exposure, screen-free wind-down routines — all designed to regulate my circadian rhythm and restore my nervous system.

• Movement: While I’ve always loved cardio and walking, my plan introduced light resistance training to support muscle tone and metabolic health.

• Nervous System Regulation: Daily breathwork, Yoga Nidra (which I personally practice and teach), gratitude journaling — small rituals with profound impact.

• Environmental Detox: Dry brushing, Epsom salt baths, and a clean beauty overhaul to minimize endocrine-disrupting toxins.

Why This Approach Resonated

As a mindfulness coach, trauma survivor, and mother, I’ve learned that healing happens in layers. Superpower Health’s approach recognizes that true wellness is never simply physical. The mind-body connection, adrenal support, nervous system care, and environmental factors are all seamlessly woven into their protocols.

This experience felt like a deeply supportive conversation with my own body — one that honored my history, my hormones, my stress, and my season of life. Rather than guessing, I now have a clear, data-driven plan to continue my journey toward vibrant health.

The Sweetest Takeaway

If you're seeking elevated, concierge-level care that moves beyond superficial advice and into the realm of true personalization, Superpower Health offers a stunning new standard. For those of us who have walked through trauma, motherhood, or simply the complexities of modern life — this kind of holistic, data-driven care is not just helpful, it’s healing.

Because the truth is: the sweetest things happen when we finally listen to what our bodies are asking for — and answer with grace, precision, and intention.

If you’d like to explore more about my healing journey, mindfulness coaching, and rituals for elevated living, you can explore my offerings here at The Mindful Edit.

Terra Palm Springs: A Chic Desert Escape for the Ultimate Reset

If you’re looking for a place that blends effortless luxury with wellness and a touch of that understated sophistication, let me introduce you to Terra Palm Springs, the desert oasis you didn’t know you needed. Nestled in the heart of Palm Springs, this boutique resort is equal parts chic, serene, and restorative, making it the perfect getaway whether you’re craving a little self-care or a stylish escape.

Staying in the Terra House: Spacious, Stylish, and So Comfortable

For my stay, I checked into the Terra House, which felt like my own private desert retreat. The space was beautifully designed, with a large kitchenette (perfect for keeping my wellness drinks chilled) and a sprawling patio that became my go-to spot for slow mornings and golden hour lounging. The outdoor dining area and lounge chairs made it easy to enjoy the warm desert air without ever having to leave my room.

And let’s talk about the bed—heavenly doesn’t even begin to describe it. Think plush, cloud-like comfort that made it nearly impossible to get up in the morning. To top it all off, the bathroom was stocked with Le Labo Santal 33 toiletries, filling the space with that signature warm, woody scent. Every little detail at Terra is designed for relaxation, and trust me, it shows.

Elevated Hospitality: Thoughtful Touches & Wellness-Focused Vibes

From the moment I checked in, I knew this wasn’t your average resort experience. The staff at Terra were incredibly warm and welcoming, making sure every detail was just right. Upon arrival, I was greeted with a refreshing wellness beverage, which was exactly what I needed after the drive in.

And then there’s the pool. A serene, sun-drenched escape with comfortable loungers, calming desert views, and an atmosphere that made me want to spend all day basking in the stillness. The pool bar’s wellness cocktails were next level—some infused with marine collagen for that added beauty boost. Sipping one of these while soaking up the sun? Absolute perfection.

Spa Rituals & Relaxation Spaces Worth Staying In For

One of the highlights of my stay was experiencing Terra’s immersive rain shower room and Himalayan salt sauna—a total reset for the mind and body. I could have spent hours here, just letting the steam and soothing ambiance work their magic.

But the real standout? The Dry Herbal Powder Lymphatic Detox treatment at the spa. This treatment was deeply relaxing and rejuvenating, combining herbal powders and gentle massage to detoxify and exfoliate my skin. I left feeling lighter, glowing, and completely reset.

Why Terra Palm Springs Is the Ultimate Desert Retreat

Terra Palm Springs is where wellness meets effortless luxury, all wrapped up in a stunning, minimalist desert aesthetic. From the thoughtful hospitality to the rejuvenating spa experiences and dreamy accommodations, every detail is designed to make you feel refreshed and inspired. Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a romantic weekend, or a wellness retreat with friends, this is the spot.

Now excuse me while I start planning my next visit—because once you experience Terra, you’ll never want to stay anywhere else in Palm Springs.

Fall in Love with These Page-Turners: My Top Picks for Your Fall Reading List

Autumn is just around the corner, and you know what that means—sweater weather, pumpkin-spiced everything, and the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book. Whether you’re stealing a few quiet moments while the kids are napping or enjoying a glass of wine after bedtime, these fall reads from Book of the Month are sure to keep you entertained. So grab your coziest blanket, a hot cup of tea (or something stronger), and let’s dive into these literary gems!

1. Hera by Sojourner Kincaid Rolle

If Greek mythology had a modern-day makeover, Hera would be its runway model. Sojourner Kincaid Rolle brings the queen of the gods into the 21st century with style and sass. Follow Hera as she navigates the complexities of divine politics and mortal affairs, all while maintaining her regal poise. This book is a delightful blend of ancient lore and contemporary drama—think "Real Housewives of Olympus." Perfect for when you need a break from your own family squabbles.

2. Like Mother, Like Daughter by Maggie Shipstead

Prepare to be enthralled by this multi-generational saga that delves into the intricate bonds between mothers and daughters. Maggie Shipstead weaves a tapestry of secrets, sacrifices, and the inevitable tug-of-war between love and duty. This book is a reminder that even in the most tumultuous of relationships, there’s always room for growth and understanding. It's a heartwarming and sometimes heart-wrenching read that will make you appreciate your own family dynamics a little more.

3. The Seventh Veil of Salomé by Jennifer Wilde

Dive into the glitz and glamour of the roaring twenties with The Seventh Veil of Salomé. Jennifer Wilde takes us on a journey through the decadent world of jazz, flappers, and forbidden love. The mystery and intrigue surrounding Salomé's veils will keep you guessing until the very last page. This book is perfect for those who love a bit of historical fiction with a side of scandal. Trust me, it's the cat's pajamas!

4. A Sorceress Comes to Call by Eva Evergreen

For those who enjoy a touch of magic in their lives, A Sorceress Comes to Call is a spellbinding read. Eva Evergreen introduces us to a world where magic is real and danger lurks around every corner. Follow the young and determined sorceress as she battles dark forces to save her village. This enchanting tale is perfect for fans of fantasy and adventure, and it's sure to captivate your imagination from start to finish.

5. Leather & Lark by Marisa de los Santos

Finally, we have Leather & Lark, a spicy but charming story about unexpected friendships and second chances. Marisa de los Santos crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and humorous, with characters you'll wish were your own friends. Set against the backdrop of a quaint small town, this book is a reminder that sometimes, life’s greatest adventures come from the most unexpected places. It's the literary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day.

So there you have it, my fabulous fall reading list, Whether you're into mythology, family dramas, historical mysteries, magical adventures, or heartwarming tales, there's something here for everyone. Happy reading, and may your fall be as delightful as a pumpkin spice latte.

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*Michelle Hadley is a single mom, podcast host, and writer with a passion for empowering women and breaking stereotypes. She loves sharing her thoughts on beauty, fashion, and parenting with her audience.*

Superfood Sundays: Flaxseed

Great as a source of fiber, protein, and omega 3 fatty acids, flaxseeds deserve a place in our Superfood Sunday series. These nutty seeds have been touted for their health benefits - they might help lower risk of some cancers, maintain healthy weight, and reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.

I’ve often loved adding them to my morning smoothies. In my humble opinion, they add a richness and texture that takes each smoothie up a notch.

But there’s another wonderful use case for flaxseed: homemade granola. If you like cereal for breakfast or enjoy adding granola to a healthy bowl of Greek yogurt, you should be all ears. The beauty of homemade granola is its low sugar content - much lower, n fact, than store bought granola - and using honey (might we even suggest Ikarian honey?) makes it all the healthier. This might also be the easiest recipe for a homemade alternative ever.

Homemade Granola Recipe

Rolled Oats (such as Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Rolled Oats)

For every cup of oats, add:

• 1/4 cup of slivered almonds

• 1/4 cup of flaxseed (whole flaxseed)

• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

• 1 tablespoon of honey (add more if you need a little extra sugar…we’re not judging)

Lay parchment paper on a cookie sheet, spread granola mixture on it, and bake in the oven for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Once done, let cool and store in airtight container. You’ve just made enough to last for a few servings.

We recommend serving over Greek yogurt with blueberries and a drizzle of honey, but it’s your granola. Enjoy it how you’d like.

Superfood Sundays: Ikarian Honey

After having a baby, my body just wasn’t quite the same: I didn’t digest food the same way. I didn’t have the same level of energy I previously had. Before baby, it didn’t matter so much what I put in my body because I was a well-oiled machine.

Now, I was the 1986 model that had been taken on one-too-many long distance road trips and needed a good tune up. While I don’t think any one diet or lifestyle is the silver bullet to a longer, happier life - and I am certainly not an ideal candidate for an aggressive detox - I believe little tweaks can pay dividends in how we feel on a daily basis. So, drawing on Blue Zone research and a back-to-basics approach to healthy eating, I’m going to bring you a weekly series that explores foods I’m integrating into my diet in 2024 and how I’m doing it.

The Greek island of Ikaria has some of the longest living people in the world, many of whom reached 100 or older with few physical or cognitive impairments. This island produces our first superfood, Ikarian honey.

What makes Ikarian honey so special? If you ask me, it’s the rich flavor. I can eat spoonfuls of the stuff straight out of the jar.

But it’s more than a sweet face: its natural proteins and antibacterial enzymes support gut health and promote healing while antioxidants boost immunity and reduce inflammation. It also happens to be unheated, unprocessed, and unpasteurized, which some believe allows it to retain more vitamins and minerals than honey produced in the U.S.

Where to buy Ikarian honey

There are many online purveyors of Ikarian honey, but I tried (and loved) Klio’s single origin honey.

Klio Ikaria Honey Pine & Wildflower, $25.95

Herbal Tea for Holistic Health

One of my favorite ways to wind down in the evening is with a cup of herbal tea and a great book. I love this small Etsy shop for its hand-made, delicious blends - and I always add honey to my tea.

Bohemian Tea Peddler Flower Garden Herbal Tea, $10.75

Best Nonalcoholic Bubbly for Holiday Celebrations

Dom Pérignon, anyone?

Is it just us, or is alcohol becoming more and more passé? Maybe it’s a function of aging, but lately, I find myself gravitating towards nonalcoholic bubbly when I want to celebrate…minus the hangover. Here’s our roundup of the best nonalcoholic bubbly to enjoy this holiday season.

(P.S. - Read to the end for a holiday mocktail recipe.)

Prima Pavé Rose Brut, $26

Produced in Northern Italy from a blend of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc & Gewürztraminer, this is my top pick for its sophisticated, subtle palette. An easy and relatively affordable go-to for holiday entertaining, it’s a well-balanced crowd pleaser: not too sweet, not too acidic.

French Bloom Le Blanc, $39

We love this beautiful blend of delacoholized organic French Chardonnay wine - it opens with a minerality and accents of pear, the signature of French Bloom.

Oddbird Sparkling Rose, $24.99

A dry sparkling, this classic has notes of summer berries, green apples and citrus, a byproduct of its blend of Syrah and Chardonnay.

Prima Pavé Grand Cuvee, $29

If you love bubbles, this sparkling nonalcoholic wine is the closest to champagne I’ve had. Paired with oysters or a creamy risotto, it’s perfection.

How to Make a “Champagne” Cocktail

I call this one Mrs. Claus’ Night Off. Here’s an easy mocktail recipe for the holiday season. Throw the ingredients in a shaker, mix, and enjoy.

• 4 fluid oz of Prima Pavé Grand Cuvee

• 1 1/2 fluid oz of agave nectar

• 1 jigger of raspberry syrup