Less Stress In Life
Welcome to Less Stress in Life—the podcast dedicated to helping you navigate life with greater ease, energy, and balance. In our Empowered Wellness series, we share practical tools, expert insights, and meaningful conversations designed to support your journey toward feeling more in control and at peace in your everyday life.
Hosted by Deb Timmerman, a registered nurse and reflexologist; Susie Marsh, a social worker and professional organizer; and Lindsay Vertalka, a physical therapist, we bring a unique blend of perspectives to help you move through life—literally and figuratively—with more confidence, grace, and vitality.
Whether it’s finding calm in chaos, creating supportive spaces, or building strength and resilience, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Join us to discover how small shifts can lead to big changes, helping you live with less stress and greater ease.
Less Stress In Life
The Healing Rollercoaster is Not Linear
In today’s episode, we’re diving into a truth that many of us struggle with: healing isn’t linear. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or navigating emotional setbacks, the road to wellness is rarely a straight path—and that’s okay.
Hosts Deb Timmerman, Lindsay Bertulka, and Susie Marsh are here to remind you that progress isn’t about perfection. You’ll hear powerful stories from the clinic, tips for adjusting your mindset, and actionable ways to move forward—even when things feel like they’re going backward.
So if you’ve ever felt discouraged, stuck, or like you’re “doing everything right” but not getting the results you expected—this one is for you. Tune in and take a breath, you’re not alone on this journey.
Follow Us:
Website: LessStressinLife.com/podcast/
Stay tuned for more conversations with Deb, Susie, and Lindsay as they empower you to live well, manage stress, and build a thriving, healthy life!
Episode Title: Healing Isn’t Linear - Reframing Setbacks and Embracing Progress
Hosts:
Deb Timmerman, RN, Reflexologist, Natural Health Advocate
Lindsay Vertulka, Physical Therapist
Susie Marsh, Licensed Social Worker & Professional Organizer
Episode Overview
In this episode of the Empowered Wellness Series, the team dives deep into the truth behind the healing journey—it’s rarely a straight line. From post-surgery setbacks and physical rehab to emotional resilience and lifestyle shifts, Deb, Lindsay, and Susie offer relatable stories, practical insights, and supportive strategies to help you navigate the ups and downs of healing.
What You’ll Learn:
· Why healing isn’t linear – and how to reframe setbacks as part of the process.
· Real stories from the clinic – how patients overcome physical and emotional roadblocks.
· The importance of identity in recovery – especially after injury or lifestyle changes.
· Setting up supportive environments – tips from Susie on organizing for healing and independence.
· Nutrition’s role in healing – plus a look at the Yuka app for checking food quality.
· How stress impacts recovery – and how tools like HeartMath can help.
· Setting healthy boundaries – simple ways to say "no" without guilt.
· Why motion really is lotion – even small daily movements matter.
· Understanding the lymphatic system – how movement supports detox and reduces swelling.
Key Takeaways:
Healing takes time, patience, and adaptability.
Support systems—physical, emotional, and social—are essential.
Movement, even light activity, is critical to circulation and recovery.
Healthy food and hydration can significantly improve healing outcomes.
Stress management isn’t optional—it’s foundational.
You don’t have to be perfect. Just keep showing up.
Resources Mentioned:
HeartMath (biofeedback and stress reduction tools)
Yuka App – Nutrition scanner for food and cosmetic products
Local services like Meals on Wheels for seniors and those healing at home
Tai Chi and low-impact exercises for lymphatic movement and stress relief