Kegals and Forest Walks May 2025

June is on its way- but I want to get one out to let you know about a great event that is happening right before the end of May and have some important changes to the practice that I just wanted to get out there.

I have found myself in this situation at least monthly since starting my own business….

When I meet someone in public or I am introduced as a pelvic floor physical therapist- someone will often say oh yes I do my kegals at stop signs or to the beat of songs, or whenever I see you post something.

Argh. I never gave that advice out. Honestly don't know how I feel being the reminder for people to perform harsh muscle contractions. -you guys I AM super chill 🤣

Kegals aren’t evil, but why the animosity?

1. Kegals are not the foundation of what I do with my “one precious life.” (Gosh I get bored thinking about it).2. Kegals are not the answer to keeping you continent or making you continent.3. Kegals can be awesome for some people, but they are not the answer for all your pelvic health problems (honestly it would be like squeezing your fist continuously to learn to play guitar, its not that helpful)4. Pelvic floor muscle contractions play a minor (important, but more minor) role in continence.5. Very often they reinforce what I call a permakegal, lots of people, especially those of us who run a little anxious at baseline are, accidentally kegaling all day

If you do feel like it is your moral duty to do them and they don’t hurt- you can do them. I do feel morally obligated to tell you there are more fun things to do with your time. As a nerd, I feel also inclined to tell you there are more productive uses of your time as well.

Another thing you could actually try which may give you a little more bang for your buck- stopping the flow of urine- yes. You have just one go- aim for 5 seconds (5 Mississippis) into the stream and hold. If it doesn’t work try next time at 3 mississippis and try again.

Don’t keep stopping and starting, but just one go- each time you go to the bathroom.

If it is hard for you- you have homework; you just keep trying (each time you go to the bathroom). That is your strength training program!

If it doesn’t build in several weeks, let’s chat- or call a pelvic PT.

Forest Therapy

One of my friends, Kelly Parochetti has launched her new business: Balance and Thrive.

I am a super fan of Kelly’s work. And I honestly highly recommend it to literally anyone on my email list. I cannot think of one of you that would not benefit.

Her walks are fun, inspiring, and beautiful.

I have done some in snow, some in rain (when it was almost cold enough to snow 🥶 ), some in the sun. I have laughed, I have cried, I have sat in awe. I had a snake follow me (then I followed it without screaming), I have watched hawks, have seen woodpeckers, and I have noticed sounds I haven’t listened to since I was a child.

The walks honestly are slowly changing my life. Every time I leave I feel like I discovered something, my pace slows down and my body feels less achy.

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