Wholesome Fertility Podcast

Michelle | Fertility Wellness - Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Lifestyle

The Wholesome Fertility Podcast is your trusted resource for empowering insights on the path to parenthood. Hosted by fertility acupuncturist and author Michelle Oravitz, this show blends modern science, holistic medicine, and ancient wisdom to help women optimize their fertility and reproductive health. Each week, Michelle shares solo episodes and interviews with leading fertility experts from around the world. From improving egg quality and balancing hormones to navigating IVF, PCOS, and endometriosis, you'll gain practical tools, research-backed strategies, and mind-body approaches to support your journey. Episodes explore topics like menstrual cycle optimization, Chinese medicine, functional medicine, naturopathic care, nutrition, meditation, and spirituality - offering multiple perspectives to help you reclaim your fertility and overall wellness. If you're ready to feel informed, supported, and inspired on your fertility journey, The Wholesome Fertility Podcast will give you the guidance you need to move forward with clarity and confidence.

  1. 5D AGO

    Ep 386 New Research Proves It's Not Just About Your Eggs

    What if the key to improving egg quality has less to do with the egg itself, and more to do with the environment it lives in? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz breaks down a landmark study out of UCSF that used cutting-edge 3D imaging to map entire human and mouse ovaries at the cellular level, and what the researchers found is reshaping everything we thought we knew about ovarian health. The study revealed that eggs are not scattered randomly throughout the ovary. They live inside communities made up of blood vessels, nerves, and support cells, and that surrounding environment actively shapes how eggs mature and how long they last. Even more striking, the researchers discovered that sympathetic (fight-or-flight) nerves are woven throughout the ovary and play a direct role in regulating which eggs receive the signal to grow. Michelle also explores how Traditional Chinese Medicine has been describing this exact system for thousands of years through the framework of Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Qi flow, and how these ancient concepts map with remarkable precision onto what modern science is now confirming. This episode will shift the way you think about fertility. Your ovarian ecosystem is not fixed. It is alive, responsive, and shaped by how you live every day. Key Takeaways:  Egg quality is shaped not just by the egg itself, but by the entire microenvironment surrounding it, including blood vessels, nerves, and support cells. Fight-or-flight nerves inside the ovary directly regulate which eggs receive the signal to mature. Ovarian blood vessel health is one of the first things to decline with age, reducing the nutrients and signals follicles need even when eggs are still present. The ovarian environment is dynamic and responds to what you eat, how you sleep, how you move, and the state of your nervous system. Traditional Chinese Medicine has described this system for thousands of years through Kidney Jing, Liver Blood, and Liver Qi stagnation, concepts that map directly onto what modern science is now finding. Practical support focuses on improving circulation, nourishing Kidney Jing, regulating the nervous system, and reducing inflammation Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    16 min
  2. MAY 5

    Ep 385 Your Nervous System Is Running Your Fertility (And You Don't Even Know It)

    Could the missing piece in your fertility journey have nothing to do with hormones, and everything to do with your nervous system? In this episode, Michelle Oravitz explores the powerful overlap between polyvagal theory (modern neuroscience) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), revealing why both systems point to the same root cause: a body that doesn't feel safe enough to create life. Michelle breaks down how the three states of the nervous system, ventral vagal (safety), sympathetic (fight-or-flight), and dorsal vagal (shutdown), map directly onto foundational TCM concepts like smooth Qi flow, liver Qi stagnation, and kidney deficiency. She also explores the profound heart-uterus connection, known in TCM as the Bao Mai, and how a settled heart and regulated nervous system create the internal environment most supportive of conception. This isn't about relaxing more. It's about active, body-based regulation, and Michelle shares practical tools including acupuncture, herbal medicine, breathwork, and movement to help you get there. Key Takeaways: Your body will not prioritize reproduction when it feels unsafe, and safety is a biological requirement for conception. Polyvagal theory and Traditional Chinese Medicine map the same nervous system states, just in different languages separated by thousands of years. Both modern science and TCM confirm a direct heart-uterus connection, meaning a settled heart creates a more receptive environment for conception. Regulation is an active, body-based process and not simply relaxation or telling yourself to calm down. A slow, extended exhale is one of the fastest ways to activate the ventral vagal pathway and shift your nervous system state. Your nervous system filters the present through every past experience, including old stories about your body being broken or not enough. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Visit Rejoova here: https://getrejoova.com Use my code "WHOLESOME" to get 10% off For the Be-Calmm Protocol, click here: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/be-calmm Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    15 min
  3. APR 28

    Ep 384 Movement, Energy & Fertility: Why Belly Dancing Is More Than Just Dance

    On today's episode I am joined by Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial), a professional belly dance instructor and creator of The Belly Dance Solution, to explore how movement can deeply support fertility, pelvic health, and overall well-being. With over 20 years of experience and a background in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer brings a unique perspective on how dance can be both healing and empowering. In this episode, we dive into how belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor, improves circulation, and supports reproductive health. We also explore the powerful mind-body connection, the role of awareness in healing, and how playful, feminine movement can regulate the nervous system and bring energy back into the body. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't always have to feel like work, it can feel like joy, expression, and connection.  Key takeaways: Belly dancing strengthens the pelvic floor while promoting both contraction and relaxation Movement increases blood flow and energy (Qi) to the reproductive organs Awareness and intentional movement can shift both physical and emotional health Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility and overall well-being Playful, feminine movement can be a powerful and healing modality Guest bio: Jennifer Sobel (@femininefireofficial)  is a professional belly dance instructor with over 21 years of experience. She's the creator of The Belly Dance Solution - a research-backed program that's been featured in Women's World magazine (twice!) and First for Women. Over 30,000 women have joined the program to address bladder leaking through targeted belly dance movements. With a Master's in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jennifer combines ancient movement wisdom with modern pelvic floor science to help women find relief in a way that's actually fun and boosts their confidence. Connect with Jennifer: Visit her website  Follow her on Facebook and Instagram Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026 For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    33 min
  4. APR 21

    Ep 383 A New Way to Freeze Your Eggs: Retreats, Community, and Holistic Care

    On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving), founder of The Fertility Co-Living, to explore a completely new approach to egg freezing that combines medical care, holistic wellness, and community. Aliza shares her personal journey through egg freezing, including the emotional challenges, high financial costs, and lack of support she experienced. After spending thousands of dollars on a cycle that resulted in only a few eggs, she knew there had to be a better way, which led her to create a retreat-style experience where women can go through egg freezing together while receiving both clinical and holistic support. In this episode, we discuss the true cost of egg freezing in North America, why more women are choosing to go abroad, and how integrating nervous system regulation, nutrition, and community can improve both the experience and outcomes. This is a powerful conversation that brings a more human, supported, and intentional approach to fertility care. Key Takeaways: Egg freezing in North America can cost up to $20,000 per cycle. Many women feel isolated and unsupported during the process. Going abroad can significantly reduce costs and improve access. Holistic practices may support egg quality and overall outcomes. Nervous system regulation plays a key role in fertility health. Community support can transform the emotional experience. Guest Bio: Aliza Virani (@thefertilitycoliving) is the founder of The Fertility Co-Living, a retreat-style experience that merges medical care, holistic wellness, and community for women freezing their eggs abroad. Inspired by her own difficult and costly egg-freezing journey in Canada, Aliza created a new model of fertility care that supports women emotionally, physically, and financially. With a background as a luxury events producer for brands like Prada and Harper's Bazaar, she brings a unique perspective to designing meaningful, elevated experiences. Her work is redefining how women approach egg freezing by combining science, holistic health, and connection. SOCIAL MEDIA / ADDITIONAL LINKS Website: www.thefertilitycoliving.com Instagram: @thefertilitycoliving Email: aliza@thefertilitycoliving.com Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026  Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    34 min
  5. APR 14

    Ep 382 The Spiritual Side of Fertility with Ariane de Bonvoisin

    On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I'm joined by Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin), author of Spirit Mama, to explore the deeper connection between the mind, body, and spirit in the fertility journey. Ariane shares her personal story from corporate success to navigating fertility challenges including miscarriage and IVF, and how it led her to redefine what it means to become a mother. We discuss the hidden emotional patterns like control, perfection, and self-judgment, and how awareness of these can create powerful shifts. We also dive into reconnecting with the body, trusting your inner voice, and cultivating a relationship with something greater than yourself. This conversation offers a more compassionate, holistic perspective for anyone feeling like something is missing from the conventional fertility approach. Key Takeaways:  Fertility is not just physical; emotional and spiritual factors matter. Control, perfection, and self-judgment can block natural flow. Reconnecting with your body is essential for conception. Awareness and self-compassion create powerful internal shifts. Your relationship with life influences your fertility journey. There are many ways to "mother" beyond physical birth. Guest Bio:  Ariane de Bonvoisin (@arianedebonvoisin) is an author, elite coach, and speaker who lives globally between New York, Switzerland, and Cape Town with her partner Alfie and their 12-year-old son Everest. She specializes in helping people navigate major life transitions and is now bringing that expertise to the fertility and motherhood journey through her Spirit Mama book series. She has spoken and coached at companies such as Google, Twitter, Morgan Stanley, Investec, The IDB, KPMG, L'Oreal, Amazon, Nestle, and Redbull amongst others, and has been a keynote at events including Oprah's Conference and Maria Shriver's Women's Conference. Beyond the corporate world, Ariane works with schools and teachers in the US and worldwide, doing readings and fun workshops with kids and educators, speaking for the ASBO (Association of School Business Officials), and keynoting at Board of Education events. Her TED talk, "The Skills We Need to Teach Our Kids," has resonated with audiences worldwide. Ariane has appeared on dozens of TV and radio shows, including NBC's Today Show, the CBS Early Show, CNN, and ABC News Now. Connect with Ariane: Website: https://www.arianedebonvoisin.com/ Spirit Mama: https://spiritmamabook.com/ Instagram (Spirit Mama): https://www.instagram.com/spiritmamaofficial/ Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/arianedebonvoisin/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianed1/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ariane-de-Bonvoisin/100063747638605/   Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Join the Fertility Summit on April 21st - https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-fertility-shift-summit-2026 Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    1h 2m
  6. APR 7

    Ep 381 The TTC Story You'll Want to Hear on a Hard Day

    In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with a former client to share her powerful trying-to-conceive journey, one that began with endometriosis, frustration, and the quiet fear that her body was "failing" her. For nearly two years, she did everything "right." She saw specialists, monitored cysts, adjusted her diet, optimized her lifestyle, and pushed herself to stay positive. But behind the structure and to-do lists was a nervous system under pressure and a heart carrying more than it should. In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional breaking point that changed everything, the moment she shifted from "What's wrong with me?" to "What do you need from me?" We talk about boundaries, reconnecting with joy, meditation, surrender, and the unexpected spiritual signs that preceded her pregnancy, including vivid dreams, intuitive moments, and a powerful final act of letting go. This episode is a reminder that fertility is not just physical. It is relational. It is emotional. It is deeply personal. And sometimes, the shift that changes everything isn't another supplement or protocol, it's a transformation in how we relate to ourselves. If you've ever felt ashamed, behind, exhausted, or like you're carrying this alone, this story will meet you exactly where you are. You are not broken. And you do not have to walk this journey alone. Key Takeaways: Fertility journeys often involve emotional highs and lows, and learning to shift from self-blame to self-compassion can be a powerful turning point. Nervous system support through practices like meditation, boundaries, and reconnecting with joy can play a meaningful role in supporting fertility. Lifestyle changes such as nutrition, stress reduction, sunlight, and movement can help create a more supportive environment for conception. Letting go of control and embracing surrender can open the door to deeper trust in the body and the fertility process. Many women experience intuitive or spiritual moments on their fertility journey, reminding them they are not alone in the process. Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    54 min
  7. MAR 31

    Ep 380 The Fertility Exercise That Supports Hormones, Blood Flow, and Ovulation with Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson

    On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson, founders of The Fertility Class @thefertilityclass and teachers of the Aviva Method, a pelvic centered movement practice designed to support hormonal balance and fertility. In this conversation, we explore how targeted rhythmic movement can improve circulation to the reproductive organs, support communication between the brain and ovaries, and help regulate the menstrual cycle. Marta shares her personal story of recovering from hypothalamic amenorrhea after years of overtraining and undernourishing her body, while Zsofia talks about overcoming PCOS symptoms and restoring her cycles through fertility focused movement. We also discuss how gentle, intentional movement can reduce pelvic stagnation, calm the nervous system, and create a sense of safety in the body, which is essential for ovulation and reproductive health. Marta and Zsofia explain how the Aviva Method works, why it is different from traditional workouts, and how many women notice improvements in ovulation, cervical mucus, PMS symptoms, and overall hormonal balance. If you are trying to conceive naturally, navigating irregular cycles, or simply looking for a supportive way to reconnect with your body and reproductive health, this episode offers a powerful perspective on movement as medicine for fertility. Key Takeaways: The Aviva Method uses rhythmic pelvic focused movement to improve blood flow to the uterus and ovaries and support reproductive health. Gentle and intentional movement can help regulate the nervous system and create the sense of safety the body needs for ovulation. Pelvic stagnation from long hours of sitting and chronic stress may impact fertility and hormonal balance. Movement that targets the pelvic region can support communication between the brain and reproductive organs. Many women report improvements in cycle regularity, ovulation timing, PMS symptoms, and cervical mucus after consistent practice. Guest Bio: Marta is a health coach, certified yoga teacher, and Aviva Method instructor. After navigating infertility and hormonal imbalance herself, she restored her health naturally through movement, nutrition, and holistic practices. With over a decade of experience and a background as a competitive ballroom dancer, Marta combines specialized knowledge with deep body awareness to help women restore hormonal balance and support fertility naturally. Zsofia is a certified Aviva Method teacher, entrepreneur, and former fashion executive. Diagnosed with severe PCOS as a teenager and told she might never conceive, she healed naturally through movement and nutrition. After leading global strategy for brands like Net-A-Porter, she introduced the Aviva Method from Hungary to the UK and US. Today, she dedicates her work to helping women worldwide reconnect with their bodies and reproductive health. Connect with Marta Han and Zsofia Jamieson: Visit their website: https://thefertilityclass.com  Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefertilityclass/ Fertility class: Use coupon code MICHELLE for a discount https://myclass.thefertilityclass.com/a/2148088258/B7vhx2Qo Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    46 min
  8. MAR 24

    Ep 379 Pregnant at 46 and Mother at 47 with Ch-a Mosley

    On today's episode of The Wholesome Fertility Podcast, I am joined by Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty), the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40. Cha shares her incredible story of naturally conceiving at 46 and welcoming her daughter at 47 after being told that motherhood later in life was unlikely. In this conversation, we talk about the realities of fertility after 40, the mindset shifts that can support a fertility journey, and how lifestyle factors such as nutrition, movement, emotional health, and reducing environmental toxins can influence reproductive health. Cha opens up about her experience with miscarriage, finding hope again, and why she believes women deserve more empowering messages about fertility and age. We also explore holistic fertility support, including how acupuncture can improve blood flow, regulate the nervous system, and support overall reproductive health. This episode is a powerful reminder that statistics do not define your fertility journey and that there are many factors that can influence fertility and natural conception.  Key Takeaways:  Pregnancy after 40 is possible and fertility statistics do not define your personal fertility journey. Mindset, hope, and emotional resilience can play an important role in supporting fertility. Lifestyle choices such as whole foods, regular movement, and reducing toxins may support egg quality and hormonal health. Acupuncture may improve circulation to the uterus and ovaries which can support reproductive health. Creating a supportive emotional and physical environment may help support conception and pregnancy Guest Bio:  Ch-a Mosley (@pregnancyoverforty)  is the inspiring voice behind Pregnancy Over 40, a platform she created after naturally conceiving at 46 and giving birth at 47. Her journey challenges societal norms around age and motherhood, offering hope to women who are being told it's too late. Through her empowering content on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Ch-a shares personal insights on fertility, hormonal health, miscarriage, and motherhood over 40. She speaks candidly about her lived experience, including managing stress, nutrition, and healing after loss—and emphasizes a holistic, hope-filled approach to wellness and conception. Her mission is to uplift, inform, and empower women to trust their bodies, embrace their timing, and know that motherhood later in life is possible and beautiful. Connect with Ch-a: Visit Ch-a website www.pregnancyoverforty.com  Follow her on Instagram @pregnancyoverforty (IG, TT, YT) Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health or fertility care. Ready to discover what your body needs most on your fertility journey? Take the personalized quiz inside The Wholesome Fertility Journey and get tailored resources to meet you exactly where you are:  https://www.michelleoravitz.com/the-wholesome-fertility-journey For more about my work and offerings, visit: www.michelleoravitz.com Curious about ancient wisdom for fertility? Grab my book The Way of Fertility: https://www.michelleoravitz.com/thewayoffertility Join the Wholesome Fertility Facebook Group for free resources & community support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2149554308396504/ Connect with me on social: Instagram: @thewholesomelotusfertility Facebook: The Wholesome Lotus

    58 min
4.8
out of 5
134 Ratings

About

The Wholesome Fertility Podcast is your trusted resource for empowering insights on the path to parenthood. Hosted by fertility acupuncturist and author Michelle Oravitz, this show blends modern science, holistic medicine, and ancient wisdom to help women optimize their fertility and reproductive health. Each week, Michelle shares solo episodes and interviews with leading fertility experts from around the world. From improving egg quality and balancing hormones to navigating IVF, PCOS, and endometriosis, you'll gain practical tools, research-backed strategies, and mind-body approaches to support your journey. Episodes explore topics like menstrual cycle optimization, Chinese medicine, functional medicine, naturopathic care, nutrition, meditation, and spirituality - offering multiple perspectives to help you reclaim your fertility and overall wellness. If you're ready to feel informed, supported, and inspired on your fertility journey, The Wholesome Fertility Podcast will give you the guidance you need to move forward with clarity and confidence.

You Might Also Like