Chronic Illness Moms | Feel Better, Stress Relief, Fatigue, Inflammation, Brain Fog, Better Sleep, Neurodivergent

Ashley Braden - Certified Health Coach, Sleep & Stress Management Coach

Simple Daily Habits To Feel Better As Moms With Neurodivergent Kids **TOP 2% Globally Ranked Podcast** Do you wake up already exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get? Does brain fog make it hard to think straight or keep up with your kids? Do you feel guilty for resting even though your body is worn out? Are you trying to take care of your health without adding more stress to an already full plate? Welcome to Chronic Illness Moms — a podcast for moms living with chronic illness while raising neurodivergent kids. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, inflammation, and overwhelm, this is your place to find support that actually fits real life. Here we focus on simple, healthy habits that help you get better sleep, reduce stress, and feel better in your body — without complicated routines or pressure to do more. These are small, doable shifts that work with your energy instead of against it. I’m Ashley — a wife, mom, and health coach who’s spent years navigating chronic symptoms, burnout, and a body that wouldn’t keep up. I tried the strict plans, the supplements, and the “just push through” approach — and all it did was leave me more exhausted. What finally helped was learning how to support my nervous system and build tiny habits that actually worked in real mom life. Now I help other moms do the same so they can have more energy, think more clearly, and show up for their families without falling apart. If you’re ready for natural, realistic ways to feel better — even in the middle of neurodivergent family life — you’re in the right place. So grab your herbal tea, hide in the laundry room if you have to, let’s start building habits that help you feel better again. Connect with me: Email: hello@ashleybraden.com Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronicillnessmoms

  1. 1D AGO

    201. When Chronic Illness Interrupts Your Exercise Plan Here’s How to Move Forward Without Guilt

    Hey friend,  Have you finally started exercising — only to lose consistency when life got hard? Do flare-ups, fatigue, or sickness derail your movement routine? Do you feel discouraged every time you lose momentum with exercise? You started exercising consistently. Then a flare hit. Or sickness hit your house. Or sleep disruption wrecked your energy. And suddenly your movement routine disappeared. This episode is about what to do when life interrupts your exercise consistency. Inside, we talk about: Why losing consistency is often a capacity shift — not a discipline issue How stress and poor sleep increase fatigue and make exercise feel harder Why pushing harder after a break often backfires How to restart smaller so exercise becomes repeatable What counts as movement on fatigue and flare days How to create a simple “movement plan” based on energy levels If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I stay consistent with exercise in real life?” This episode will give you a realistic framework that actually fits chronic illness and neurodivergent parenting. I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodiverse family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals 199. Want to Exercise but Keep Failing? Why Doing It "Right" Doesn’t Work With Chronic Illness 150. Sick of Feeling Too Tired to Work Out? Try These Gentle Movement Hacks Instead Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session

    18 min
  2. 5D AGO

    200. Why Meal Plans Fail With Chronic Fatigue — and What Makes Creating Healthy Meals Easier

    Hey friend,  Why does meal planning fall apart so quickly when your energy changes day to day? Are meal plans actually helping you eat at home — or creating more pressure and guilt? What if eating healthy didn’t require deciding what to cook for every single day? In this episode, I’m breaking down why traditional meal planning often doesn’t work when you’re dealing with chronic fatigue, brain fog, or unpredictable energy. I introduce the Default Meals system — a simple, flexible way to eat at home without locking yourself into a rigid plan. Instead of deciding what you’ll cook on specific days, we focus on building a short list of go-to meals you can rely on when your brain is tired and your capacity is low. I walk through how default meals reduce decision fatigue, support healthier eating at home, and give you more freedom to choose what works for today — not what you planned for days ago. This episode builds on last week’s conversation about pantry staples and sets the foundation for creating food systems that support you even on hard days. I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodiverse family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals 183. Holiday Cravings & Fatigue: Why Protein Helps You Feel Better 136. Healthy Meals on a Budget: Easy Tips for Busy Moms Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session

    15 min
  3. FEB 9

    199. Want to Exercise but Keep Failing? Why Doing It "Right" Doesn’t Work With Chronic Illness

    Hey friend,  Why does exercise feel so hard — even when you want to move your body? Are you failing at movement, or are your expectations unrealistic for this season? What if small amounts of movement actually support your fatigue instead of making it worse? In this episode, I’m talking about why movement feels so hard for chronic illness moms — even when we genuinely want to exercise. I share how long workouts often don’t fit busy caregiving seasons, how unrealistic expectations quietly turn into shame, and why that keeps us stuck. I walk through a simple reset using a 5-minute movement goal, practical ways to stack movement into everyday life, and how choosing movement you enjoy helps reduce resistance and support your nervous system. I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodiverse family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals 150. Sick of Feeling Too Tired to Work Out? Try These Gentle Movement Hacks Instead 140. Fitness Without the Fuss: Easy & Enjoyable Ways to Move as a Family Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session

    16 min
  4. FEB 4

    198. Why Healthy Eating Breaks Down at Dinner When Fatigue Hits (and What to Do Instead)

    Hey friend, Why does cooking healthy dinners feel hardest at the end of the day? Why do food decisions feel overwhelming even when healthy eating matters? What actually helps when fatigue and brain fog make dinnertime decisions harder? If healthy eating breaks down at dinner time, it’s usually not because you don’t care or don’t know what to cook. It’s because by the end of the day, your decision-making capacity is gone. In this episode, I talk about why dinnertime often becomes the breaking point for moms dealing with chronic symptoms, stress, and exhaustion — and why trying to “try harder” usually backfires. When your brain has already spent the day managing kids, emotions, and your own body, even simple food decisions can feel like too much. I explain why a stocked, supportive pantry can make eating at home feel easier — not by adding rules or strict meal plans, but by reducing how much your brain has to work when energy is low. What I cover in this episode: Why healthy eating breaks down at dinner when fatigue hits How a stocked pantry reduces stress and decision fatigue Why consistency matters more than perfect meal plans One small habit to start building a supportive pantry this week The key takeaway: A stocked pantry doesn’t give you more willpower — it gives you fewer decisions. I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodiverse family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session

    11 min
  5. FEB 1

    197. The Missing Step That Keeps Natural Remedies from Getting Used on Sick Days

    Hey friend,  Why is it so hard to use natural remedies once I actually feel sick? What helps when brain fog and fatigue make decision-making feel impossible? How can I make sick days easier without adding more to my plate? I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. When sickness hits, energy and mental clarity are often the first things to go. In this episode, I talk about why natural remedies often go unused on sick days — not because you don’t care or don’t know what helps, but because brain fog and fatigue make decision-making harder in the moment. I share why having a few familiar supports ready before sickness hits is what actually makes natural remedies usable when you feel bad. I also walk through how I think about sick-day support in my own home, in a simple, realistic way that doesn’t add pressure or require perfection. Natural remedies I mention in this episode: Oscillococcinum (early flu-like symptoms) Magnesium cream (achy, restless bodies) Elderberry Raw honey Cod liver oil Lymphatic cream (congestion, heaviness, “stuck” feeling) Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session

    14 min
  6. JAN 29

    196. Why Emotional Stress Turns Into Pain and Inflammation and How to Feel Better

    Hey friend,  Have you noticed emotions turning into pain, fatigue, or brain fog? Could emotional stress be making chronic illness symptoms worse? What actually helps when the nervous system feels overwhelmed? I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. In this episode, I explain how emotional overload can turn into physical symptoms like pain, fatigue, and brain fog — especially when you’re living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent home. You’ll learn what’s happening in your nervous system and how to use simple, nervous-system-friendly tools to support your body and help it begin to recover. Resources and Links:  Book a 1:1 Coaching Call HERE Lymphatic Support Cream HERE Why Complaining Feels Good—But Wires You for Emotional Burnout Why Emotional Exhaustion Triggers Inflammation And What to Do About It Have questions or want support? Let’s connect: Contact: hello@ashleybraden.com Listen to the Podcast: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: HERE Next Steps: Join the Chronic Health Moms Facebook Group for support, conversations, and simple health tips Listen to this episode and try one habit we talked about today Book a $47 coaching session at https://ashleybraden.com/coaching if you want personalized support for your symptoms and season

    17 min
  7. JAN 26

    195. Brain Fog and Fatigue? How Simplifying Decisions Helps Boost Energy

    Hey friend,  Why do I feel mentally exhausted before I even start my day? Why does making decisions feel so hard with chronic illness and a neurodivergent home? Can simple routines really reduce decision fatigue? Hi friend, I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and find steadier footing — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. In this episode, I explain how decision fatigue drains your energy — especially when you’re living with chronic illness and parenting in a neurodivergent home — and why your nervous system needs fewer choices, not more willpower. You’ll learn how to create simple defaults, pre-decisions, and gentle routines that reduce mental load, support your nervous system, and make everyday life feel more manageable. Resources and Links:  Book a 1:1 Coaching Call HERE Lymphatic Support Cream HERE 171. Brain Fog and Fatigue? Why Vitamin D Might Be The Cause (Even If Your Levels Are “Normal”) 142. Feeling Overwhelmed? How To Overcome Decision Fatigue and Simplify Healthy Living Have questions or want support? Let’s connect: Contact: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: HERE Next Steps: Join the Chronic Health Moms Facebook Group for support, conversations, and simple health tips Listen to this episode and try one habit we talked about today Book a $47 coaching session at https://ashleybraden.com/coaching if you want personalized support for your symptoms and season

    15 min
  8. JAN 22

    194. Too Busy to Rest? 5 Mini Breaks To Try When You’re Feeling Fatigued

    Hey friend,  • Why do I feel exhausted even when I try to rest? • Is it possible to reset my nervous system without long breaks? • How do I get relief when I’m caring for a neurodivergent child? Hi friend, I’m Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you’re not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and find steadier footing — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. In this episode, I explain how small moments of rest can make a big difference when you’re living with chronic illness and high daily stress. You’ll learn why mini-rest breaks work, how they support your nervous system, and how to use them even in the middle of a busy, unpredictable day. Resources and Links:  Book a 1:1 Coaching Call HERE Lymphatic Support Cream HERE 180. Tired All the Time? The Coffee Timing Mistake Fueling Fatigue + Brain Fog 164. 4 Quick Stress Relief Tips To Reset Your Nervous System and Feel Better Have questions or want support? Let’s connect: Contact: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: HERE Next Steps: Join the Chronic Health Moms Facebook Group for support, conversations, and simple health tips Listen to this episode and try one habit we talked about today Book a $47 coaching session at https://ashleybraden.com/coaching if you want personalized support for your symptoms and season

    10 min
5
out of 5
71 Ratings

About

Simple Daily Habits To Feel Better As Moms With Neurodivergent Kids **TOP 2% Globally Ranked Podcast** Do you wake up already exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get? Does brain fog make it hard to think straight or keep up with your kids? Do you feel guilty for resting even though your body is worn out? Are you trying to take care of your health without adding more stress to an already full plate? Welcome to Chronic Illness Moms — a podcast for moms living with chronic illness while raising neurodivergent kids. If you’re dealing with constant fatigue, inflammation, and overwhelm, this is your place to find support that actually fits real life. Here we focus on simple, healthy habits that help you get better sleep, reduce stress, and feel better in your body — without complicated routines or pressure to do more. These are small, doable shifts that work with your energy instead of against it. I’m Ashley — a wife, mom, and health coach who’s spent years navigating chronic symptoms, burnout, and a body that wouldn’t keep up. I tried the strict plans, the supplements, and the “just push through” approach — and all it did was leave me more exhausted. What finally helped was learning how to support my nervous system and build tiny habits that actually worked in real mom life. Now I help other moms do the same so they can have more energy, think more clearly, and show up for their families without falling apart. If you’re ready for natural, realistic ways to feel better — even in the middle of neurodivergent family life — you’re in the right place. So grab your herbal tea, hide in the laundry room if you have to, let’s start building habits that help you feel better again. Connect with me: Email: hello@ashleybraden.com Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronicillnessmoms