Let’s Normalize the Conversation

Let’s talk about something that makes a lot of people uncomfortable… poop.

Yep, I said it.

Most people are so grossed out by it that they don’t even look at their own bowel movements — let alone talk about them with their partners or family. But here’s the thing: understanding what a healthy bowel movement looks and feels like is one of the simplest clues to what’s going on in your gut.

And the best part?
This “test” is completely free.
Before you ever invest in a $500 stool test, start here.

What “Regular” Actually Means

If you’re not going daily, that’s definitely a sign that things are slowing down.

But even if you are going every day — if it’s just a small amount or pellet-like stools — that can still be a form of constipation.

Healthy elimination typically looks like:

• 1–2 bowel movements per day (sometimes 3)
• Easy to pass
• Well-formed, smooth, “snake-like” stools
• Feeling complete afterward

And yes… ideally you’re not wiping endlessly.

While it’s common for many women not to have this experience, common doesn’t always mean optimal.

If you’re a visual person, the Bristol Stool Chart (used by medical professionals) considers types 3–4 to be ideal.

Why Elimination Impacts the Whole Body

Your gut isn’t just about comfort.

About 70–80% of the immune system lives in the gut — making it one of the most influential systems in the body.

The gut also plays a key role in clearing excess hormones. When elimination slows, hormones can recirculate instead of being properly cleared. Sluggish motility (movement of waste out of the body) may also increase inflammation, which can affect stress signaling and nervous system regulation.

So if you notice:

• More severe bloating
• Heavier PMS
• Restless sleep
• Or just feeling “off”

Pause and ask: How have my bowel movements been this week?

Why Things Can Slow Down

Stress affects nearly every system in the body — and motility is no exception.

When the body perceives stress, it prioritizes survival over digestion. That means less time in a rest-and-digest (parasympathetic) state, and more time feeling “on guard.”

Other common contributors include:

• Eating in a rushed or distracted state
• Inadequate hydration
• Low mineral intake (a pinch of sea salt in water can help)
• Not enough fiber from whole foods
• Travel or changes in routine

Ever notice how things slow down when you travel? That’s incredibly common — and very fixable with a few simple supports.

Easy Places to Start

Start with the foundations — they’re free.

• Sit down to eat
• Take 3 deep breaths before meals
• Slow down and chew thoroughly
• Drink most of your water away from meals
• Eat fiber from a variety of whole foods
• Give yourself enough time in the morning to eliminate without rushing

These small shifts create the environment your body needs to function well.

Connecting the Dots

I hope this helps you connect a few dots — and maybe feel a little more comfortable talking about poop.

If you’re a parent, normalize this conversation with your kids early. It’s one of the easiest ways to catch gut issues before they become bigger problems.

Healthy elimination isn’t glamorous — but it’s foundational.

Whole body support can make all the difference.

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P.S. If you’re feeling unsure where to start, I offer free discovery calls. It’s simply a conversation to help you decide what support might make sense for you.

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This is not medical advice and not intended to treat or cure any disease or affliction. Please consult your medical professional before utilizing the techniques and tools listed above.

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