Modern Sacred: Women's Work

Chelsea Henderson and Abby Payne
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Self-Improvement

For women seeking to reconnect with their body, intuition, and feminine power, the Modern Sacred Podcast explores a slower, more intentional, sacred life outside of hustle culture for those interested in embodiment, spirituality, and supportive community. The Modern Sacred Podcast is devoted to the reclamation of feminine power — the quiet, fierce, and divine essence that lives within every woman. Hosted by Chelsea Henderson and Abby Payne, this is a space for women ready to slow down, reconnect with their bodies, and reclaim their feminine power through deep connection with other women. Through soulful conversations, storytelling, and heart-centered dialogue, we explore what it means to embody the sacred in a modern world shaped by hustle, hierarchy, and the lingering echoes of patriarchy. Each episode invites you to return to your body, your intuition, and your truth — offering reflection, inspiration, humor and practical guidance for women seeking a slower, more intentional rhythm, authentic self-expression, and supportive community. We dive into topics like sacred feminine practices, conscious living, embodiment rituals, reclaiming sexuality and creativity, nervous system regulation, and the art of being witnessed. Beyond the podcast, Modern Sacred offers ways to gather with other women virtually and in person through the Modern Sacred Membership. Learn more about Modern Sacred at www.ModernSacred.com

  1. Sep 24

    1 Year of Alignment: Celebrating Women's Empowerment, Divine Feminine & Purposeful Growth

    Welcome to our 1-year anniversary special! Co-founders Abby and Chelsea celebrate a full year of women's empowerment podcasting, reflecting on our journey building a community rooted in rebalancing the masculine and feminine energies, divine feminine leadership, and authentic feminine energy. In this intimate reflection episode, we share the real milestones—both big and small—from creating meaningful connections, providing tools for personal growth, dismantling patriarchy through collaboration, and building a sustainable business aligned with our values. We talk about embodying change, the power of humility in learning, balancing work-life with passion projects, and why celebrating achievements matters for long-term success. Whether you're new to the show or been here from day one, this conversation honors the growth, unity, and human connection at the heart of everything we do. 💬 CONNECT WITH US Get weekly insights on women's empowerment, divine feminine wisdom, and feminist leadership by following us on social media or joining our newsletter to get news delivered to your inbox: SUBSCRIBE: https://modernsacred.substack.com/ Instagram: @ModernSacred Website: www.ModernSacred.com Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration on their growth journey and could use a celebration! CHAPTERS 00:00 The Power of Collaboration and Unity21:33 Empowering Listeners with Real Tools and Resources22:48 Embodying Change and Humility in Learning and Growth26:00 Balancing Work, Life, and Passion Projects31:31 The Significance of Human Connection in a Technology-Driven World53:03 Building a Sustainable Business IN THIS EPISODE: How to align actions with values in feminine leadershipWhy celebration fuels women's empowerment and personal growthReal tools and resources for listeners navigating their own journeysStrategies for collaborative entrepreneurship without burnoutBuilding sustainable communities rooted in humility and purposeCreating meaningful human connection in a tech-driven world

  2. Sep 11

    Meditation for Modern Women: From Crisis Meditation to Deep Daily Practice

    What if meditation wasn't something you turned to only when you were overwhelmed, anxious, or at your breaking point? What if it became a simple, accessible daily practice for coming home to yourself? In this episode of Modern Sacred: Women's Work, we're joined by meditation teacher and health coach Nichole Adams for a conversation about making meditation and mindfulness accessible for modern women—and why we don't have to wait for a crisis to begin. Nichole shares her own journey of self-discovery, identity, self-worth, and learning to listen to what is true beneath the expectations and conditioning we absorb from society and culture. We explore what it means to move from constantly doing into a deeper experience of being, and how practices like meditation can help us develop greater self-awareness, self-compassion, inner peace, and connection to ourselves. We also talk about nervous system regulation, stress and anxiety, the labor of self-care, nurturing and “mothering” energy, and the ways small everyday rituals can create meaningful shifts in how we feel and move through the world. One of the central ideas of our conversation is the difference between being a “crisis meditator”—someone who only meditates when life feels unbearable—and developing meditation as a consistent practice. Nichole offers a refreshing perspective on how meditation can fit into real, modern life: it doesn't have to be complicated, uncomfortable, or time-consuming. We talk about simple ways to bring mindfulness into everyday moments, including the possibility of a short meditation or even a beverage blessing as a small sacred ritual. If you've ever thought, “I should meditate, but I don't know how to make it part of my life,” this conversation is for you. Connect with Nichole Adams Learn more about Nichole, her meditation offerings, and her work on Facebook or Instagram @nichole.simque.adams CLAIM THE WOMAN'S EMPOWERMENT SPOTIFY PLAYLIST Join the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women's Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → http://modernsacred.substack.com Join the Modern Sacred Membership for bonus podcast content, live events, and resources: → http://modernsacred.com/membership Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery 03:27 The Formation of Identity 06:20 The Pursuit of Authenticity 09:34 The Importance of Self-Awareness 25:57 Balancing Doing and Being 26:36 Crisis of Identity and Conditioning 27:33 Struggle with Self-Worth and Safety 28:02 Journey to Self-Nurturing and Compassion 37:03 The Impact of Societal Influences 50:33 The Quest for Self-Love and Acceptance 55:15 Resonance and Energetic Contribution 56:09 Nurturing and Mothering Energy 57:06 The Labor of Self-Care 59:03 Accessibility of Meditation as a Modern Sacred Practice 01:20:48 The Power of Simplicity and Comfort 01:21:30 Journey from Discomfort to Passion 01:22:01 Mindfulness and Nervous System Regulation 01:24:06 Everyday Rituals and Practices 01:24:56 Impact of Meditation on Self-Discovery 01:36:09 The Ripple Effect of Mindfulness Modern Sacred: Women's Work explores the practices, questions, and conversations that help women create more intentional, meaningful, and connected lives.

  3. Aug 27

    Ayurveda & Women’s Health: Nervous System Regulation, Hormones and Embodiment

    What can Ayurveda teach us about women’s health, nervous system regulation, hormones, and emotional well-being? In this episode, we sit down with Britt Vanderhoof, founder of The Ayurvedic Nurse, to explore the intersection of Ayurveda, mental health, women’s health, and holistic healing. Britt shares her journey from nursing into Ayurveda—and how Ayurvedic principles transformed the way she understands the body, mind, emotions, and nervous system. We explore how Ayurveda can support women through perimenopause, menopause, the menstrual cycle, stress, inflammation, sleep disruption, and emotional change. Britt breaks down the Ayurvedic doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and explains how understanding your unique constitution can inform nutrition, daily routines, seasonal living, sleep, movement, and self-care. We also explore nervous system regulation and weight, nutrition and inflammation, emotional balance, grief and healing, and the connection between physical and emotional health. At the heart of the conversation is an invitation into embodiment: learning to listen to your body, understand its signals, and develop a more conscious relationship with your health. Whether you're curious about Ayurveda, navigating perimenopause or menopause, interested in nervous system health, or seeking a more embodied and conscious approach to women’s wellness, this conversation offers practical wisdom for supporting your whole self. Learn more about Britt: Instagram: @the.ayurvedic.nurse Website: theayurvedicnurse.com In This EpisodeAyurveda and mental & emotional healthAyurvedic cleansing and healingThe doshas: Vata, Pitta & KaphaAyurveda, nutrition & seasonal livingNervous system regulation, stress & weightSleep, routine & daily rhythmsAyurveda for women’s health and hormonesPerimenopause, menopause & the menstrual cycleEmbodiment, gratitude, empowerment & conscious livingCLAIM THE WOMAN'S EMPOWERMENT SPOTIFY PLAYLISTJoin the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women's Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → modernsacred.substack.com Join the Modern Sacred Membership for bonus podcast content, live events, and resources: → modernsacred.com/membership Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Ayurvedic Nurse 02:16 From Nursing to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner 03:28 Mental & Emotional Health in Perimenopause 05:26 Britt’s Journey Into Ayurveda 14:34 Ayurvedic Cleanse & Healing 22:10 Understanding Your Ayurvedic Body Type 30:21 Understanding Ayurveda & the Doshas 30:48 Ayurveda, Diet & Seasonal Changes 32:29 Balancing the Doshas 36:08 The Nervous System & Health 37:28 The Nervous System & Weight 39:20 Sleep, Routine & Ayurvedic Rhythms 56:10 Ayurveda for Menopause & Perimenopause 01:02:25 Ayurveda & the Menstrual Cycle 01:04:50 What Is Ayurveda, Really? 01:05:05 Nutrition & Inflammation 01:06:06 Balancing Emotions & Energy 01:09:24 Grief, Healing & Emotional Processing 01:36:02 Gratitude & Empowerment

  4. Aug 13

    Nervous System Regulation for Beginners: A Key Skill in the Embodied Woman's Journey

    What is Nervous System Regulation and why is everyone talking about it? Is there any real science behind the concept, or is this just another hype term marketed towards women to drive purchases of yet another tea, cream or app on the road to embodiment and inner peace? If nervous system regulation is legit, what role does it play for woman on the road to embodiment and conscious, soul-led living? In today's conversation, Abby and Chelsea delve into the topic of nervous system regulation and its impact on daily life. Abby brings her background as a nurse and nervous system educator to explore the understanding of the nervous system, the role of cortisol and the vagus nerve, and a body-first approach to healing and trauma processing. You'll learn about the main branches of the nervous system and the automatic responses in the background software of your body and how to begin rewiring your nervous system towards more peace and calm on the path to becoming a more embodied woman. Learn about the vagus nerve, and how to train it to become your master engage switch for peace and calm on command as we discuss the empowering nature of nervous system regulation, the balance of feminine and masculine energies, and the understanding of physiological aspects of well-being. CLAIM THE WOMAN'S EMPOWERMENT SPOTIFY PLAYLIST AND STAY CONNECTED Join the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women's Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → https://modernsacred.substack.com/ Join the Modern Sacred Membership: Get access to bonus podcast content, live events, an expansive resource library of meditations, PDF downloads, courses, and previously recorded workshops. → https://www.modernsacred.com/membership Takeaways Nervous system regulation for beginnersBody-based approach Trauma processingThe role of the vagus nerve in nervous system regulationBalancing feminine and masculine energiesUnderstanding the physiological aspects of well-being Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nervous System Regulation02:10 Understanding the Nervous System06:39 The Role of Cortisol and the Vagus Nerve26:11 The Body-First Approach and Trauma Processing29:36 Trauma Processing and Release48:02 The Vagus Nerve and Nervous System Regulation57:42 The Shift to a Life Worth Living58:46 The Magic of Nervous System Regulation01:05:08 Empowerment Through Understanding01:08:03 The Impact of Lifestyle Choices01:13:20 The Science of Nervous System Regulation

  5. Jul 30

    Forest Bathing for Embodiment and Conscious Living with Taylor Smith

    Forest Bathing for embodiment and nervous system regulation isn't something you have to drive or disappear to do—it can begin right inside your home. In this expansive conversation, we're joined by certified Forest Bathing Guide Taylor Smith as we explore how nature offers healing, regulation, and deep connection no matter where you live. Together we discuss how forest bathing supports nervous system regulation, embodiment, intuition, and spiritual wellbeing. From mysticism and astrology to animal wisdom, consciousness, healing, and reconnecting with the living ecosystem around us, this episode is an invitation to slow down, regulate your nervous system, and remember that nature is always available to support you. Whether you're new to forest bathing, curious about spirituality, or looking for grounded practices to cultivate inner peace, this conversation offers practical wisdom and profound insight. In this episode we explore:Forest bathing and why it's accessible to everyoneHow to practice forest bathing from home or in your neighborhoodNervous system regulation through natureEmbodiment and mindfulnessSpiritual awakening and intuitionMysticism, astrology, and ancient wisdomAnimals as mirrors, teachers, and healersReading nervous dogs through nervous system awarenessNonverbal communication and expanded perceptionConsciousness, self-acceptance, and reconnecting with natureThe living ecosystem and the energetic intelligence of the natural worldWho this episode is forIf you're an embodied woman seeking deeper connection with yourself, nature, and your intuition, this conversation offers gentle reminders that healing doesn't require perfection—it simply asks us to become present. Whether you're navigating stress, burnout, spiritual growth, or simply longing to reconnect with the Earth, you'll discover practical ways to invite nature into your everyday life. Chapters00:00 Exploring Mysticism and Astrology 03:03 Ancient Wisdom and DNA Evolution 08:01 Purpose and Human Experience 15:16 Animals as Mirrors and Healers 25:00 Balance and Nervous System Regulation 25:33 Understanding the Nervous System 27:47 Reading and Calming Nervous Dogs 31:03 Nonverbal Communication and Intuition 38:09 Expanding Senses and Detachment 50:02 Material Conditioning and Self-Acceptance 51:53 Forest Bathing: A New Perspective 52:37 The Practice of Forest Bathing 55:03 Reconnecting with Nature 56:07 The Living Ecosystem 1:00:31 The Energy of Nature 1:09:11 The Inclusivity of Nature Connect with Taylor SmithWebsite: https://www.liminalcommunication.com Instagram: @liminal_communication_  Claim your Free Gift and Stay ConnectedJoin the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women's Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → https://modernsacred.substack.com/ Join the Modern Sacred Membership: For just $10/month, get access to bonus podcast content, live events, an expansive resource library of meditations, PDF downloads, courses, and previously recorded workshops. → https://www.modernsacred.com/membership-sign-up

  6. Jul 16

    Why We Hide — Processing the Fear of Criticism as a Highly Sensitive Person

    What happens when the desire to be seen and share your magic meets the fear of being judged? In this episode, Chelsea and Abby explore the emotional experience of being visible online as Highly Sensitive People. Rather than offering easy answers, they process the fear of criticism, the vulnerability of sharing your voice, and why so many of us choose to stay small to avoid being misunderstood in the comments section. Together, they reflect on social media, nervous system regulation, childhood conditioning, and the ways our sensitivity shapes how we experience visibility. The conversation also explores emotional boundaries, the endocannabinoid system, energy, and why learning to tolerate being seen may be an important part of healing and reaching our potential. This episode also explores: Why criticism and judgment can feel especially intense for Highly Sensitive PeopleThe hidden cost of avoiding visibility onlineHow childhood experiences shape our relationship with criticismThe difference between healthy emotional boundaries and absorbing other people's emotionsSocial media, nervous system regulation, and protecting your energy onlineThe connection between the endocannabinoid system, anxiety, and emotional resilienceWhy healing isn't about becoming less sensitive—but learning to honor your sensitivityIf you've been holding yourself back from sharing your work, your creativity, or your authentic self because you're afraid of what people might think, this conversation offers a compassionate space to explore why visibility can feel so vulnerable. ✨ Free Gift + Stay Connected Join the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women's Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → https://modernsacred.substack.com/ Join the Modern Sacred Membership: For just $10/month, get access to bonus podcast content, live events, an expansive resource library of meditations, PDF downloads, courses, and previously recorded workshops. → https://www.modernsacred.com/membership-sign-up Topics covered: Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), online visibility, fear of criticism, social media, emotional boundaries, nervous system regulation, endocannabinoid system, anxiety, childhood conditioning, energy healing, Reiki, emotional resilience, authenticity, self-expression, healing, vulnerability, online criticism Chapters: 00:00 The Cost of Hiding and Fear of Criticism 01:20 The Endocannabinoid System and Emotional Regulation 07:15 Navigating Sensitivity and Conflict 14:12 Social Media, Community, and Online Visibility 20:24 Setting Boundaries with Social Media 27:36 Childhood Conditioning and Coping Mechanisms 40:09 Emotional Boundaries and Self-Regulation 46:37 Energy, Anxiety, and Sensitive Nervous Systems 53:13 The Nervous System, Healing, and the Endocannabinoid System 58:02 Closing Reflections on Visibility and Healing

  7. Jul 2

    Empower Yourself Through Perimenopause: The Rituals of Strength, Sleep & Nourishment with Suzi Dia

    In this episode, Suzi Dia — Women's Health Coach and Personal Trainer — joins us to discuss how women can thrive through perimenopause by building strength, protecting bone health, improving sleep, and supporting their bodies through lifestyle habits that actually make a difference. We explore what really happens to our hormones during perimenopause and menopause, why strength training becomes one of the most important tools for healthy aging, and how muscle mass, protein intake, recovery, and stress management all play a role in reducing symptoms and supporting long-term health. Suzi shares practical guidance on building sustainable fitness habits, meeting your protein needs, navigating common nutrition myths (including soy), improving sleep quality, understanding heart rate variability and recovery, and why self-care isn't selfish—it's essential. Whether you're navigating perimenopause now or simply want to age with strength and vitality, this conversation is packed with practical, evidence-based tools you can start using today. Connect with Suzi Dia: https://www.montclairhealthcoaching.com/ ✨ Join our newsletter: https://modernsacred.substack.com/ Stay up to date on new episodes, upcoming retreats, and receive our Women's Empowerment Playlist when you subscribe. TakeawaysWhy strength training is essential during perimenopause and menopauseHow protein supports muscle, metabolism, and bone healthThe connection between sleep, recovery, stress, and hormone healthCommon nutrition myths—including the truth about soyLifestyle habits that can help reduce perimenopause symptomsPractical ways to improve sleep, recovery, and overall wellnessWhy building muscle is one of the best investments for healthy agingThe value of individualized health coaching and learning to listen to your bodyChapters00:00 Introduction & Suzi's Journey into Women's Health 06:03 Empowerment Through Health Coaching 11:08 Prioritizing Self-Care as Women 16:17 Common Fitness & Health Misconceptions 22:42 How Lifestyle Impacts Perimenopause Symptoms 37:48 Hormones, Menopause & Healthy Aging 45:34 Strength Training, Bone Health & Nutrition 51:00 Protein Intake & Nutrition Tips 56:17 Soy, Protein & Nutrition Myths 01:04:21 Alcohol, Sleep & Recovery 01:12:22 Stress Management & Long-Term Health

  8. Jun 18

    Cannabis for Nervous System Regulation: A Resource for Embodiment

    Most women have never heard of the Endocannabinoid System—despite the important role it plays in helping the body maintain balance, immunity and wellbeing. In this episode, we explore the fascinating science of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a regulatory network involved in mood, stress response, sleep, pain perception, inflammation, immune function, and overall well-being. Many experts consider the ECS one of the most important systems in the human body—yet it's rarely discussed or taught in mainstream health education. Abby shares her journey from burned-out ICU nurse to Canny Nurse Certified RN and cannabis educator, while Chelsea reflects on how grief, healing, and life experience shaped her relationship with cannabis and wellness. Together, we bridge personal stories with evidence-based education to help women better understand their bodies and expand their options for supporting health and healing. In this episode, we discuss: What the Endocannabinoid System is and how it worksWhy most people have never been taught about the ECSHow cannabis interacts with the bodyThe discovery and history of the Endocannabinoid SystemThe politics and stigma surrounding cannabisEndocannabinoid deficiency and emerging researchNatural ways to support the ECS beyond cannabisStress, burnout, resilience, and nervous system healthDosage, tolerance, and intentional cannabis useWhy education creates more choice, agency, and body literacy Whether you're curious about cannabis, interested in women's health, or simply want to better understand the incredible systems already at work within your body, this conversation offers a thoughtful introduction to one of the most overlooked areas of modern health education. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System 06:07 Abby's Personal Journey with Cannabis 16:36 Cannabis 101: The Endocannabinoid System 25:11 Personal Insights on Cannabis 30:11 The Endocannabinoid System 36:15 Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome 53:30 The Harmonious Nature of Cannabis 59:55 Understanding the Endocannabinoid System 01:07:59 Dosage and Tolerance with Cannabis 01:13:36 Cannabis, Self-Care, and Culture 01:19:20 Holistic Approach to Cannabis Use ---------------------------------------- ✨ Free Gift + Stay Connected Join the Modern Sacred newsletter and receive our Women’s Empowerment Spotify Playlist for free: → https://modernsacred.substack.com/

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

For women seeking to reconnect with their body, intuition, and feminine power, the Modern Sacred Podcast explores a slower, more intentional, sacred life outside of hustle culture for those interested in embodiment, spirituality, and supportive community. The Modern Sacred Podcast is devoted to the reclamation of feminine power — the quiet, fierce, and divine essence that lives within every woman. Hosted by Chelsea Henderson and Abby Payne, this is a space for women ready to slow down, reconnect with their bodies, and reclaim their feminine power through deep connection with other women. Through soulful conversations, storytelling, and heart-centered dialogue, we explore what it means to embody the sacred in a modern world shaped by hustle, hierarchy, and the lingering echoes of patriarchy. Each episode invites you to return to your body, your intuition, and your truth — offering reflection, inspiration, humor and practical guidance for women seeking a slower, more intentional rhythm, authentic self-expression, and supportive community. We dive into topics like sacred feminine practices, conscious living, embodiment rituals, reclaiming sexuality and creativity, nervous system regulation, and the art of being witnessed. Beyond the podcast, Modern Sacred offers ways to gather with other women virtually and in person through the Modern Sacred Membership. Learn more about Modern Sacred at www.ModernSacred.com

Information

  • Creator
    Chelsea Henderson and Abby Payne
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chelsea Henderson and Abby Payne

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