JUN 25

When Things are Changing

Summary: In this reflective and deeply personal episode, Françoise shares the real-time evolution of both her inner life and her work. After completing three years of trauma therapy and a nine-month mentorship in the Alchemy of Menopause, she unpacks what it means to grow, change, and release the old stories—especially around perimenopause. This episode is a soft turning point for The Way Home to Yourself, inviting listeners into a more spacious, holistic, and grounded perspective on midlife. Keywords: midlife transition, perimenopause, menopause, trauma healing, women's empowerment, nervous system, Cathy Skipper, Alchemy of Menopause, holistic self-care, midlife coaching, the divine feminine, beginner’s mind, personal growth Takeaways: ~True change in midlife is emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal—not just hormonal. ~It’s natural to feel lost, confused, or unfamiliar to yourself in your 40s and 50s—this is part of transformation. ~We must release old identities and pathologizing narratives to step fully into the next chapter. ~Grounding rituals, nervous system support, and spiritual practices create stability during times of upheaval. ~Midlife is not a decline; it’s a rich, fertile time of growth, if we allow it to be. Chapters | Timestamps: 00:00 – Opening shift: no intro, straight into change 02:10 – The origin of The Way Apothecary and early perimenopause 07:32 – Creating what didn’t exist: “chill menopause” 11:58 – A year in: new perspective on what midlife really asks of us 15:10 – Saying goodbye to therapy and mentorship 19:01 – Midlife beyond menopause: letting go of labels 22:48 – What’s next for The Way & the podcast 27:40 – Beginner’s mind and befriending the unknown 31:22 – Grounding and rhythm during transition 35:11 – When irritation is information: boundaries in midlife 40:50 – The forest fire metaphor: fertile ground after the burn 45:08 – Meditation: radiating from your center 49:42 – Closing thoughts and gentle next steps

28 min

MAY 28

From Freaking Out to Freedom

Summary In this deeply personal episode, Françoise shares her own journey through perimenopause and midlife, offering honest reflections on physical symptoms, emotional shifts, and the spiritual growth that came from it all. She speaks candidly about challenges with boundaries, anger, skin issues, and sensory overload—and how understanding perimenopause changed everything. This episode is a powerful reminder that this transition, while often difficult, can lead to profound transformation. Keywords Perimenopause, menopause, sensory overload, righteous anger, midlife, skin issues, nervous system, vagus nerve, aromatherapy, herbalism, boundaries, trauma healing, lifestyle medicine, emotional resilience, self-care, empowerment, women's health, natural wellness Resources & Links The Way Apothecary: https://thewayapothecary.com Search “vagal tone” on the site for blog posts and journal entries Learn more about Women’s Circle self-care products and protocols Takeaways ~Perimenopause can be a powerful time of emotional and spiritual awakening—not just a collection of symptoms. ~Righteous anger, shifting boundaries, and emotional sensitivity are valid signs of transformation. ~Skin changes and nervous system dysregulation are often overlooked parts of the perimenopausal experience. ~Healing from trauma often becomes unavoidable during this phase, and therapy can be life-changing. ~Holistic support—including aromatherapy, nervous system work, and lifestyle changes—can bring a sense of calm and clarity. ~You are not broken. You’re evolving.

32 min

MAY 14

PMS During Perimenopause: What It’s Really Trying to Tell You

Summary In this episode, Françoise dives into the intensification of PMS symptoms during perimenopause — why they occur, how they’re connected to nervous system regulation (not just hormones), and what they might be trying to teach us. From scientific explanations to lifestyle support tools, this conversation explores daily practices that ease the emotional and physical overwhelm of PMS, including vagal toning, essential oils, nutrition, cannabis, and even orgasm. It’s a powerful reframing of PMS as a monthly check-in — and an invitation to listen deeper. Keywords Perimenopause, PMS, nervous system, vagus nerve, estrogen dominance, vagal toning, hormone balance, essential oils, Clary Sage, magnesium, B6, cannabis, orgasm, midlife wellness, cycle awareness Resources & Links The Women’s Circle Collection – Explore here Book a private session with Françoise – Learn more Takeaways PMS during perimenopause is often more intense due to declining progesterone and heightened estrogen sensitivity. The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating emotional and physical symptoms of PMS. Daily vagal toning practices like gargling, cold exposure, and breath work can dramatically reduce PMS symptoms over time. Aromatherapy (e.g., Clary Sage, rose, geranium, grapefruit) can help regulate mood and hormones through inhalation. Supplements like magnesium, B6, and evening primrose oil can ease physical symptoms. Cannabis (where legal) and orgasm can serve as effective “reset” tools when symptoms peak. PMS is not just a hormonal event — it can reveal deeper emotional truths and highlight areas of life that need attention or change. Chapters | Timestamps 00:00 Understanding PMS in Perimenopause 05:57 Vagal Tone and Its Impact on PMS 12:07 Lifestyle Strategies for Managing PMS

27 min

APR 30

Heightened Intuition During Perimenopause & Beyond - Part 2 of 2

Summary In this second part of Episode 4, Francoise explores how to work with the heightened intuition many women experience during perimenopause and beyond. She offers guidance on cultivating this inner wisdom through meditation, breathwork, aromatherapy, and dreamwork. With a grounded, spiritual lens, Francoise encourages listeners to honor their inner knowing and embrace this phase of life as a deep return to self. Keywords Perimenopause, menopause, intuition, dreamwork, spirit guides, meditation, clary sage, aromatherapy, midlife transition, women's wellness, sacred space, nervous system regulation Resources & Links Website: thewayapothecary.com Submit a question: Use the subject line "The Way Home to Yourself Question" via the website's contact form Essential oil allies mentioned: Clary Sage, Frankincense, Spanish Sage Crystal allies: Amethyst, Labradorite, Selenite Tools: Tuning forks, singing bowls, oracle/tarot decks Takeaways Intuition during perimenopause is not random—it’s part of a deeper turning inward. Creating a daily meditation and breathwork ritual can anchor intuitive clarity. Clary Sage is a botanical ally with unique properties that support hormonal balance and intuitive connection. Developing relationships with spirit guides and using dreamwork are powerful tools for self-discovery. A sacred physical space—no matter how small—reinforces the sacredness of your inner work. Listening to the body through somatic scanning allows women to access insight beyond thought. Chapters | Timestamps 00:15 – Introduction and purpose of the podcast 01:31 – Recap of the last episode and science of intuition 03:00 – Harnessing intuitive power in midlife 05:15 – Creating a sacred meditation practice 10:00 – Essential oils to deepen intuition (spotlight on Clary Sage) 15:30 – Guided intention-setting and breathwork ritual 19:30 – Listening to the body and scanning for messages 21:00 – Working with spirit guides 23:00 – The role of dreams and dream journaling 24:30 – Other allies: cards, nature, and crystals 25:32 – Closing reflection and invitation to connect

27 min

APR 17

Heightened Intuition During Perimenopause & Beyond - Part 1 of 2

In this episode of The Way Home to Yourself, we explore a powerful and often overlooked aspect of perimenopause and menopause: intuition. As estrogen and other hormones shift, many women experience a heightened sense of awareness, sensitivity, and inner knowing. We begin by looking at the neuroscience behind these changes—how the brain recalibrates, how right-brain activity increases, and how the gut-brain connection deepens during this time. From there, we explore how indigenous cultures and spiritual traditions have long honored menopause as a time of awakening and transformation. Together, we reflect on how intuition may be showing up in your life—through stronger gut instincts, vivid dreams, ancestral connection, or a growing desire for solitude and authenticity. This episode is an invitation to view menopause not as a loss, but as a return—to your voice, your wisdom, and your truth.

27 min

APR 2 · BONUS

Allow Yourself to Be Held

This episode explores the power of receiving support during perimenopause and menopause, and the importance of letting go of control to allow ourselves to be held—whether by people, nature, pets, or healing practices. Françoise shares personal insights on rest, surrender, and the quiet nourishment that comes from softening into care. Takeaways from this episode: ~Allowing yourself to be held is a form of deep self-care, especially during perimenopause and menopause. ~Support can come from many sources—partners, nature, pets, or healing practices like Reiki and aromatherapy. ~Letting go of control creates space for nourishment, restoration, and unexpected gifts. ~Receiving without needing to give back is both healing and necessary at this stage of life. ~Beauty and presence in simple moments can offer profound emotional support. Timestamps: 00:14 – Introduction: Françoise welcomes listeners and sets the tone for the episode. 01:20 – A Change in Plans: She explains the change from the originally planned topic due to being ill. 02:05 – What It Means to Be Held: Introduction of the core theme—allowing ourselves to be nurtured. 03:40 – Personal Reflection: Françoise shares how being sick reminded her to surrender and receive. 06:10 – Everyday Examples: Discusses being held by nature, pets, aromatherapy, and more. 08:20 – Why It’s Hard to Receive: Reflects on control and independence in midlife. 09:55 – Energetic Exercise: A simple guided practice using hands to demonstrate energetic ease. 10:50 – Guided Check-In: A short body awareness and intention-setting moment. 12:00 – Closing Reflections: Encouragement to soften and receive support in the coming week.

13 min

MAR 26

Waking Up Mindfully: Part 2 of 2

In this second part of our mindful morning series, we explore what happens once your feet hit the floor. Francoise guides you through simple, nurturing rituals to support your nervous system, regulate hormones, and set the tone for your day. From breathwork and gentle movement to coffee alternatives and screen-free stillness, this episode offers grounded tools to help you approach your morning with calm, clarity, and care. Resources & Links Morning Playlist – A curated selection of soothing and uplifting songs for a mindful start to your day. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/62Il1UBEDUBRa85IONn9G2?si=ddccbfd0363c4685Aromatherapy & Essential Oils – My go-to brands for pure, high-quality essential oils. Use these for high quality rose water too: ⁠https://enfleurage.com/⁠ or ⁠https://pranarom.us/⁠Elixir Recipe – (Link)Natural Toothpaste Recommendation – Fluoride-free, endocrine-safe options. https://davids-usa.com/Recommended Gentle Workouts – Low-impact, strength-focused movement for energy and longevity. ⁠https://www.balletbeautiful.com/⁠ ,⁠ https://pilatesology.com/⁠ Starting your morning slowly supports your nervous system and sets the tone for your day. Natural light and fresh air help regulate your circadian rhythm. Rituals like aromatherapy, music, and face massage can create emotional grounding and connection. Coffee may be contributing to anxiety, disrupted sleep, and hormone imbalance—there are nourishing alternatives. Vagal toning practices like cold water gargling, chanting, and deep breathing help build stress resilience. Your morning movement doesn’t need to be intense—graceful, strength-based exercises support bone health and emotional ease. Avoiding digital overwhelm first thing in the morning protects your nervous system and preserves your mental clarity. Takeaways Starting your morning slowly supports your nervous system and sets the tone for your day. Natural light and fresh air help regulate your circadian rhythm. Rituals like aromatherapy, music, and face massage can create emotional grounding and connection. Coffee may be contributing to anxiety, disrupted sleep, and hormone imbalance—there are nourishing alternatives. Vagal toning practices like cold water gargling, chanting, and deep breathing help build stress resilience. Your morning movement doesn’t need to be intense—graceful, strength-based exercises support bone health and emotional ease. Avoiding digital overwhelm first thing in the morning protects your nervous system and preserves your mental clarity. Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/yasumu/blue-waters License code: WKPQ0MCPHVJYDZ0P

41 min

MAR 18

Waking Up Mindfully: Part 1 of 2

In this episode, Francoise Decatrel explores the significance of a mindful morning routine, especially during perimenopause and menopause. She discusses the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes women experience during this transition and how a mindful approach to waking up can ease these challenges. The episode includes practical exercises for mindfulness, grounding techniques, and energy work, emphasizing the importance of self-connection and emotional resilience. Francoise also introduces the concept of Reiki as a tool for balancing energy and promoting well-being. Takeaways Waking up mindfully is crucial during perimenopause and menopause. A mindful morning routine helps ease the transition from sleep to wakefulness. Mindfulness practices can regulate hormones and improve overall well-being. Starting the day mindfully fosters gratitude and emotional steadiness. Taking time for yourself in the morning can reduce fatigue and improve energy levels. Gentle movement and hydration in the morning support physical well-being. Creating a mindful morning routine encourages self-connection and awareness. Visualization techniques can help set a positive tone for the day. Shielding practices protect against negative energy from others. Reiki can be a beneficial practice for emotional and physical healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mindful Mornings 02:42 The Importance of a Mindful Morning Routine 08:26 Exercises for Mindfulness in the Morning 18:33 Grounding and Energy Protection Practices 28:14 Reiki and Energy Work for Well-being Keywords Mindfulness, morning routine, perimenopause, menopause, self-care, wellness, holistic health, emotional resilience, energy regulation, grounding practices Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/yasumu/blue-waters License code: ZJAQYEUL7BL35MWN

32 min

SEASON 1 TRAILER

Welcome to The Way Home to Yourself

Welcome to The Way Home to Yourself, a space for women seeking a more grounded, intuitive, and empowering approach to life’s transitions. In a world that often fuels insecurity around aging and menopause, this channel offers something different—a quiet refuge. Through a mind, body, and spirit perspective, we explore: ~Holistic self-care practices ~Nervous system regulation and breathwork ~The wisdom of menopause and transformation ~Aromatherapy, herbal insights, and rituals for balance ~A calming, natural approach to this chapter of life Rooted in the philosophy of The Way Apothecary, this channel is here to help you slow down, find clarity, and reconnect with yourself. Aging isn’t something to fight or fix—it’s a journey home to the most authentic version of you. Subscribe to join the conversation and embrace this time with peace, empowerment, and ease. ~~~~~ Music Credit:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠⁠Blue Waters - Yasumu⁠⁠License code: ZNDHJKITES4GVH0P

7 min

The Way Home to Yourself

Episodes

When Things are Changing

From Freaking Out to Freedom

PMS During Perimenopause: What It’s Really Trying to Tell You

Heightened Intuition During Perimenopause & Beyond - Part 2 of 2

Heightened Intuition During Perimenopause & Beyond - Part 1 of 2

Allow Yourself to Be Held

Waking Up Mindfully: Part 2 of 2

Waking Up Mindfully: Part 1 of 2

Welcome to The Way Home to Yourself

Trailer

Welcome to The Way Home to Yourself

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