Episode 27: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Cycle: Nervous System Secrets & the Truth About Menopause

Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcast | YouTube | iHeart Radio | Listen Notes

Did you know your menstrual cycle is deeply connected to your nervous system—and can even influence your healing?

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Leslie Draffen, and wow—what a powerful conversation. Leslie brings such a unique perspective, blending her deep knowledge of the nervous system with the wisdom of the menstrual cycle. We dove into her personal story—how she went from a career in TV journalism, filled with anxiety and shame, to becoming a women’s somatic coach who helps others reconnect with their bodies and feel truly safe again.

Leslie opened up about her experience with adoption, health struggles, and the healing journey she’s been on through somatic work and microdosing. One of the most eye-opening parts of our conversation was how deeply the menstrual cycle is connected to the female nervous system. And the best part? Her insights aren’t just for people who still get a period—she also shares powerful tools for those in perimenopause or menopause.

We also explored how aligning your daily habits and even your business with your cycle can completely transform the way you show up in life. Plus, Leslie shares how sensuality—defined not as sexuality but as a gentle, body-based practice—can help heal trauma and rebuild trust with your body.

This is a conversation that’s close to my heart, and I know it’ll resonate with anyone on a healing journey.

Topics Covered:

  • From News Anchor to Somatic Coach: A Journey of Healing
  • Understanding and Syncing with the Female Menstrual Cycle
  • The Power of Simplicity and Permission to Slow Down
  • Embracing Perimenopause and Menopause as Empowering Life Phases
  • Healing Through Sensuality: Reconnecting With the Body Safely
  • Healing Shame Through Sensual Embodiment and Body Posture
  • Listening to Your Body and Distinguishing Intuition from Fear
  • Exploring Somatic Practices and Cyclical Living with Leslie Draffen

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right—eating well, exercising, pushing yourself—but your body just won’t let go of fat, there’s a reason.

Your nervous system is either in Protection Mode (fight-or-flight) or Safety Mode (rest-and-digest)—and fat release only happens in Safety Mode. But if your body feels unsafe? It clings to fat, slows metabolism, and even triggers binge eating and self-sabotage.

Think about it. You go through stress, and suddenly you’re reaching for food you swore you wouldn’t touch. You’re not weak—it’s biology. When your body is in survival mode, it’s wired to conserve energy and seek quick fuel. That’s why unwanted eating behaviors feel so out of control sometimes.

But here’s the kicker: fat loss isn’t just about burning calories—it’s about making your body feel safe enough to let go.

So the real question is—are you pushing your body into Protection Mode without even realizing it? Because if you are, no amount of dieting or exercise is going to override survival mode.

It’s time to stop fighting your body and start working with it.

So if you’re ready to Break Free from Emotional and Binge Eating, download my FREE eBook: Calm the Craving: 7 Steps to Break the Emotional and Binge Eating Battle.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to regulate your nervous system to eliminate cravings, make peace with food, and allow the weight to naturally release itself.

Download your free copy here: ⁠www.sherryshaban.com/calm⁠

You deserve to experience food freedom, I can’t wait to see you inside!