Rebuilding Your Body and Mind After Trauma: A Conversation with Jewels

Rebuilding Your Body and Mind After Trauma: A Conversation with Jewels

In this episode of The Elevate Experience, hosts Angie Manson and Dallas Terrell sit down with Jewels, an inspiring figure in the realms of recovery and competitive bodybuilding. Jewels is a two-time award-winning author of 'The Making of a Woman', and has achieved remarkable success as a figure competitor, placing 3rd at the NPC North American Championships in 2021 at the age of 49.

Jewels' journey is one of resilience and empowerment, having overcome an abusive childhood and navigated the challenges of addiction and recovery. She shares her experiences of growing up in the Midwest during the 70s, where resources for dealing with trauma were scarce. Her struggle with authority and cookie-cutter approaches led her to carve her own path in recovery, emphasizing the importance of individuality and personal growth.

The conversation delves into the nuances of recovery, highlighting the significance of transparency and the need to build relationships that support sobriety. Jewels discusses the language used in recovery spaces and how she struggled with terms like 'surrender', emphasizing the importance of personal understanding and growth. Fitness played a crucial role in Jewels' recovery, helping her work through emotional and physical challenges.

She shares insights into her bodybuilding journey, including the highs and lows, and the discipline required to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The episode also touches on the dangers of substance abuse in fitness, such as the use of steroids, and the importance of aligning one's actions with personal values. Jewels emphasizes the need to look inward rather than outward for validation, a lesson learned through her recovery journey.

Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to transform struggles into strength. Listeners are encouraged to visit Jewels' website, 'The Making of a Woman', to learn more about her work, upcoming events, and speaking engagements. Jewels also actively engages with her audience through social media, offering support and encouragement to those on similar journeys.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of individualized recovery paths and the transformative power of sharing one's story. Jewels' journey inspires hope and empowerment, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of trauma and recovery.