keywordsmidlife health, self-worth, weight scales, hormonal changes, wellbeing, nutrition, confidence, body positivity, health markers, sustainable living

summaryIn this episode of the Serenity Health and Wellbeing podcast, Sarah Cassels discusses the impact of weight scales on self-perception, particularly for women in midlife. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on holistic health markers rather than numbers, advocating for a shift in mindset towards nourishment and self-acceptance. Sarah shares insights on hormonal changes,

the concept of weight set point, and practical steps to foster a healthier relationship with food and body image. The episode concludes with a call to embrace strength and confidence in midlife, moving away from the pressures of weight loss.

takeaways

• The number on the scales tells you little about your health.
• In midlife, focusing on weight can be unhelpful.
• Hormonal changes affect weight and self-perception.
• Scales can create frustration and encourage unhealthy habits.
• It's important to focus on how you feel, not just weight.
• Dieting can raise your body's natural weight set point.
• Nourishment should take precedence over restriction.
• Managing stress positively impacts weight and health.
• A month without scales can change your relationship with food.
• Health in midlife is about strength, confidence, and peace.

Sound Bites

• "The scales are a very blunt, outdated tool."
• "Dieting itself can be counterproductive."
• "Put the scales away for January."

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Midlife Health and Wellbeing

00:54The Impact of Scales on Self-Perception

03:50Reframing Health Beyond the Scales

06:47Understanding Hormonal Changes and Weight Set Point

09:33Practical Steps for a Healthier Relationship with Food

10:30Conclusion: Embracing Strength and Confidence in Midlife

Dr. Andrew Jenkinson (2020) - Why We Eat (Too Much)

Dr.Andrew Jenkinson (2024) - How To Eat (and Still Lose Weight)

This podcast is for women who want to feel healthier, happier and more at ease in their lives especially in midlife without chasing perfection, rigid rules or constant self-criticism.

Making 2026 Your Happiest and Healthiest Yet isn’t about dramatic transformations or quick fixes. It’s about taking a gentler, more realistic approach to wellbeing — one that fits into real life and supports you through the changes that midlife brings.

In this podcast we look at 7 tips to set you on the road for a happy and healthy 2026.

By the end of this podcast you will have 7 Tips for a Healthy and Happy 2026 These are:

• New Years Resolutions and reframing rather than unrealistic goals that set us up to fail
• Choosing a Word of the Year that will give you a steady compass, rather than a long list of things you want to fix or achieve.
• Encouraging you to start journalling and practising gratitude
• Encouraging to protect one or more daily rituals
• Adjusting your pace with the Year
• Shifting you mind away from a number on the scales
• Encouraging you to find your 'Why?'

This is a space for honest conversations, evidence-based guidance, and quiet encouragement.

This is a place to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters to you. So whether you’re listening while out walking, driving, or simply taking a few moments for yourself. I am so glad you’re here.

Do get in contact - I would love to hear from you

Productivity Planners https://www.papier.com

Website: serenityhw.co.uk

https://linktr.ee/serenityhealthwellbeing

Hello and welcome to the Serenity Health & Wellbeing Podcast with me Sarah Cassels, where we explore simple, sustainable ways to take care of your mind, your body and sense of self through all the seasons of life.

With today’s Five Festive Tips, I wanted to share something gentle and practical as we head into the busiest few weeks of the year.

So, make yourself a cuppa, get comfy, and let’s dive in.

https://linktr.ee/serenityhealthwellbeing