The Body Nerd Show

Alexandra Ellis

If you're ready to break up with all the things you're doing that only give you temporary relief and learn how to get on the fast track to feeling amazing every single day (without it being overly complicated or unsustainable) - this show is for you. Whether it's low back pain, sciatica, knee pain, arthritis, neck pain, TMJ, rotator cuff issues or shoulder pain - life without pain is 100% possible (no matter how old you are). Alexandra Ellis from AE Wellness teaches you how to use self-care and movement to stronger, more flexible and out of pain, ASAP.

  1. How LED Light Therapy Works for Skin Health

    07/24/2025

    How LED Light Therapy Works for Skin Health

    LED face masks are all over my social media feed, but do they actually work? Or is just another expensive skincare gimmick? In this episode, we're diving into the science behind light therapy (aka photobiomodulation) and exploring whether red light therapy can truly improve your skin's texture, tone, and collagen production. From NASA's accidental discovery to clinical trials showing wrinkle reduction and collagen boosts, we'll break down how different wavelengths (and colors) of light affect your skin and what you should look for before buying one of those glowing masks. So if you've ever wanted to add an LED face mask to your cart but aren't sure if it's hype or real? This episode is for you! You'll learn: The science behind LED and light therapy How red light and infrared masks work Why all light is not created equal And what studies say about real results for wrinkles, skin texture and more All the links: Get 10% off your purchase of any Omnilux LED device when you use my link or click here [affiliate] Russell BA, Kellett N, Reilly LR. A study to determine the efficacy of combination LED light therapy (633 nm and 830 nm) in facial skin rejuvenation. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2005 Dec Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomed Laser Surg. 2014 Feb Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what you should be doing)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    21 min
  2. What the Lymphatic System Does (and how to keep it moving)

    07/10/2025

    What the Lymphatic System Does (and how to keep it moving)

    You've probably heard of gua sha, facial massage, or even therapy ball work for swelling and puffiness, but did you know those are all forms of lymphatic drainage? The lymphatic system is responsible for waste removal (and a whole bunch of other processes) throughout your body. And in this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm breaking down what the lymphatic system does, how lymphatic massage works, and why it's way more than just a spa trend. You'll learn how gentle, intentional touch can help move lymph, reduce swelling, and support your immune system, especially after injury, illness, or chronic inflammation. So whether you're dealing with swelling, stiffness right now, or just curious how to feel better faster, this episode will show you how to get things moving again. You'll learn: The science behind lymph and why movement matters Why it's essential for healing, immunity, and recovery How to safely use lymphatic drainage massage for swollen joints, chronic conditions, and migraines All the links: Happe, Svenja, et al. "The efficacy of lymphatic drainage and traditional massage in the prophylaxis of migraine: a randomized, controlled parallel group study." Neurological Sciences 37 (2016): 1627-1632. How to Do Lymphatic Drainage Massage [Video] Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what you should be doing)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    20 min
  3. What's the minimum exercise amount for optimum health?

    06/26/2025

    What's the minimum exercise amount for optimum health?

    Do you need hours at the gym for it to count? Nope! In today's episode, I'm breaking down exactly how much movement it really takes to support your health… according to science, not social media. Whether you're struggling to stay consistent or just want to know what the bare minimum is (and why it's enough), I've got you covered with today's episode. You'll learn: How much you have to workout for it to "count" If weekend-only workouts can still improve your health What the CDC and NHS say about minimum activity (and how to make it work for you) Simple mindset shifts that make it easier to stay on track (even when life gets busy) All the links: Liao, Dan‐Qing, et al. "Association of Accelerometer‐Derived Physical Activity Pattern With the Risks of All‐Cause, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer Death." Journal of the American Heart Association 14.8 (2025): e039225. Sinatra, Stephen T., et al. "Grounding–The universal anti-inflammatory remedy." biomedical journal 46.1 (2023): 11-16. CDC Physical Activity Basics NHS - Physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64 Want to make movement a habit (without guessing what to do)? Get your first 2 months inside the Movement Mavens® Video Vault for only $9 with code PODNERD www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    26 min
  4. Why Pain Isn't Always the Problem with Dr. Tawny Kross, DPT

    05/22/2025

    Why Pain Isn't Always the Problem with Dr. Tawny Kross, DPT

    If you've ever dealt with chronic pain or injuries, you know the journey to healing doesn't always feel linear. Some days, it's one step forward… and others feel like you've taken four steps back. But what if the marker of progress isn't pain? What if progress looks more like rebuilding trust in your body... …creating a sense of safety in how you move... …and learning how to listen without fear or frustration? In this episode, I'm joined by chronic pain specialist and physical therapist Dr. Tawny Kross - and she shares why pain isn't always a sign of damage and why your body and brain need safety to heal. Whether you're deep in your healing journey or just trying to make sense of how your body feels, I know you're going to love this one. You'll learn: Why pain does not always mean something is broken How to build nervous system resilience and capacity to reduce pain Why progress isn't about less pain How to proceed with your movement when you're in a flare-up All the links: @dr.tawny.kross on Instagram Kross Centered Care Body Awareness Guide 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    35 min
  5. Is Pain Just Part of Aging? Busting Fitness Myths That Keep You Stuck with Dana Jones

    05/08/2025

    Is Pain Just Part of Aging? Busting Fitness Myths That Keep You Stuck with Dana Jones

    Does having an injury or pain mean you need to stop moving? In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by Dana Jones, host of The Pain Free Athlete Podcast, for a myth-busting conversation about pain, injury, and movement. Together, we debunk some of the most common and harmful fitness myths that keep you stuck. If you've ever wondered what to do when you're in pain, why rest isn't always the best solution, or how to stay active safely, this episode is for you. Dana and I also dive into the mindset shifts that help you navigate workouts and life — even when you're in pain. You'll learn: Why no pain, no gain is not true (especially if you're already in pain Why pain doesn't have to be a normal part of aging How to navigate your workouts when you're injured or in pain All the links: Pain Free Athlete Podcast @painfreeathletepodcast on Instagram Dana's journaling prompts for pain Boulder Back Pain Study - Effect of Pain Reprocessing Therapy vs Placebo and Usual Care for Patients With Chronic Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial Nicole Sachs - Break Awake 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode!   Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    48 min
  6. Effective Habits to Reduce Inflammation and Boost Energy with Dr. Amy Behimer

    04/24/2025

    Effective Habits to Reduce Inflammation and Boost Energy with Dr. Amy Behimer

    If you're living with an autoimmune condition or managing chronic inflammation, building sustainable habits can feel overwhelming. But what if you could feel better by doing less, not more? This week on The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by Dr. Amy Behimer, PharmD, NBC-HWC - a board-certified health and wellness coach, pharmacist, and the creator of The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Health™. Diagnosed with MS in 2012, Amy blends her personal journey with professional expertise to help others feel better through feel-good habits - without falling into the trap of perfectionism. Whether you're living with MS or another autoimmune diagnosis, I promise you this conversation is the breath of fresh air and permission you've been waiting for. You'll learn: The key habits for reducing inflammation Why rest is more effective than "stressing less" How to set perfectionism aside and make truly sustainable habits What inflammation really is and how to measure progress beyond just lab results All the links: The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Health Podcast Amy's Website [Amy Behimer Coaching] Your #1 Habit Quiz @amybehimercoaching on Instagram 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Instagram @hollaformala TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork Getting stuck? Drop me your question on the Body Nerd Hotline at 818-396-6501 and I'll cover it on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    47 min
  7. Living with Hypermobility with Dr. Melissa Koehl, PT, DPT

    04/10/2025

    Living with Hypermobility with Dr. Melissa Koehl, PT, DPT

    What if your flexibility is actually causing your pain? Hypermobility is more than just being bendy - it's a connective tissue condition that can affect your joints, your gut, your nervous system, and more. I just thought it was totally normal to be able to hyperextended my knees 🙊 In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I'm joined by physical therapist and movement specialist Dr. Melissa Koehl, who shares her personal and professional experience with hypermobility. From a career-ending injury as a competitive gymnast to developing her own method for managing pain and building strength, Dr. Melissa is a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating life in a hypermobile body. We're digging into the real-life impact of hypermobility, including how it affects your gut, your nervous system, and your daily movement. You'll learn: Why hypermobility is more than just being bendy Why building strength is key for long-term pain relief and injury prevention The gut health and hypermobility connection How to navigate the healthcare system as a hypermobile person All the links: Ground Control Course with Dr. Melissa Chimera Health - Dr. Melissa's Website @dr.melissakoehl.pt on Instagram 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ TikTok @ aewellness Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    38 min
  8. Wellness on the Road with Hope Zvara

    03/27/2025

    Wellness on the Road with Hope Zvara

    Sitting too much is wrecking your body, but what if you could sneak in movement while stuck in the car? Whether you're commuting to work, driving the kids around, or just sitting at your desk, too much sitting can lead to stiff joints, back pain, and tight hips. But you don't need a full workout to feel better. Movement snacks (small, intentional movements throughout the day) can be more beneficial than a full length workout - especially if keeping it simple means you actually do it! In this episode of The Body Nerd Show, I sit down with Hope Zvara, founder of Mother Trucker Yoga®, to talk about simple ways to bring mobility into your long drives and improve your flexibility in just a few minutes a day. Hope's super practical tips will help you feel your best… even on your busiest days. 🙌 You'll learn: How movement snacks can be more beneficial than exercise How to bring mobility into your long drives How to improve your health and flexibility in just a few minutes every day All the links: @hopezvara on Instagram Mother Trucker Yoga Hope's Book - Trucking Yoga: Simple Fitness for the Long Haul Book Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual Therapists and Movement Professionals Exercise Snacks: A Novel Strategy to Improve Cardiometabolic Health. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2022 Jan 1. 30 days to more strength + flexibility with the Mobility Mastery Toolkit www.aewellness.com/podcast - Show notes, links and more. Come hang out with me on Instagram @hollaformala : https://instagram.com/hollaformala/ Bodywork Starter Guide - learn the 6 places you need to roll right now for quick relief, plus the reason why what you've tried so far has only given you a temporary fix. Download the guide for free now at www.aewellness.com/bodywork 818-396-6501 is the Body Nerd Hotline - how do you build consistency and/or where are you getting stuck? Drop me a line and let me know your body nerd hacks - you might just hear your voice on a future episode! Today's episode of The Body Nerd Show is brought to you by Movement Mavens™ Therapy Balls—the official mobility tool of the show and the best way to keep your body moving pain-free. Tight hips? Stiff back? Movement Mavens Therapy Balls are designed to mimic the feel of a massage therapist's hands, helping you release tension, improve flexibility, and move better—every single day. Because let's be real—foam rollers are meh, and tennis balls? Not even close. Get the best. Your body deserves it. And right now, you can save 25% on all therapy balls, kits, and workshops with code BODYNERD25. Shop now at www.aewellness.com/shop-now/

    43 min
4.9
out of 5
95 Ratings

About

If you're ready to break up with all the things you're doing that only give you temporary relief and learn how to get on the fast track to feeling amazing every single day (without it being overly complicated or unsustainable) - this show is for you. Whether it's low back pain, sciatica, knee pain, arthritis, neck pain, TMJ, rotator cuff issues or shoulder pain - life without pain is 100% possible (no matter how old you are). Alexandra Ellis from AE Wellness teaches you how to use self-care and movement to stronger, more flexible and out of pain, ASAP.