#68 The Warrior Within: Cheryl Ilov Martial Arts And Lasting Healing

Everything's Messy Podcast by Sarah Wilson

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In this empowering episode of Everything's Messy Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Cheryl Ilov, a true testament to the transformative power of resilience and reinvention. Cheryl shares her journey from a 20-year career as a respiratory therapist to becoming a physical therapist with her own practice, and eventually a martial artist, author, and speaker. Her story is nothing short of inspiring—showing us all that it’s never too late to embrace new passions and rewrite our narrative.

We dive into Cheryl’s discovery of the Feldenkrais Method, a practice rooted in neuroplasticity that helps retrain the body through movement and awareness. Cheryl explains how this approach helped her and so many others heal both physically and emotionally. She also opens up about her transformative journey into martial arts, beginning at age 47. Despite initial doubts, Cheryl embraced the challenge and eventually became the first female black belt in her dojo at the age of 57. Through Ninpo Taijutsu, a form of ninja martial arts, she found strength, healing, and a profound sense of empowerment.

Cheryl also shares practical advice for staying mobile and flexible at any age, emphasizing the importance of joint mobility and mindful movement. Her recommendations include exploring gentle practices like Tai Chi and Qigong, and she encourages us to listen to our bodies and honor their needs.

Cheryl’s story is a reminder that healing and growth are lifelong journeys, and that strength and courage often emerge from the most unexpected places. Tune in to hear her wisdom and insights, and let her inspire you to find the warrior within.

As always, you can catch more episodes of Everything's Messy Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Let’s keep finding strength through the mess!

Connect with Cheryl Ilove:

https://www.instagram.com/cherylilov/?hl=en

https://www.cherylilov.com/about/

https://thefemininjaproject.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYfzXW2MymeLiuQbObdBehLiDk7_zNX1v0z6brJI2C31XbFiIxpbNvVzXY_aem_2aUyDhgK3NHW7RVwZr70OQ

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