This one’s a vulnerable share. In today’s episode, I’m unpacking why this episode took so long to come out... spoiler alert: I overdid it, flared up, and had to pause completely.
However, what came to mind for me during that time was the guilt. The guilt of resting when I wasn’t in a flare, the guilt of not showing up, and the guilt of falling behind.

If you’ve ever pushed through on a “good” pain day, crammed your to-do list into a tiny window of energy, or felt like rest had to be earned… This one’s for you.

Inside, I chat about:

• Why we overdo it when we feel well (with some juicy nervous system & pain science)

• How survival mode, trauma patterns & dopamine influence this cycle

• The boom–bust loop and how to slowly break it

• My recent flare and what it taught me about pacing and self-worth

• And how we can reframe rest as a healing tool, not a punishment or a setback

Let’s talk about the messy, human side of healing because this is Pain Alchemy, and we’re not doing perfection here.

Come say hi over on Instagram @bethleenaturopath or follow the podcast page @painalchemypodcast to keep the convo going.

In the first episode of Pain Alchemy, Beth shares her personal journey with chronic pain, reflecting on her experiences and the lessons learned as she transitions into her 30s. She emphasises the importance of understanding pain not just as something to endure, but as a transformative experience that can lead to personal growth and empowerment. The podcast aims to create a safe space for open discussions about the complexities of living with chronic pain, including emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects. Beth invites listeners to join her on this journey of healing and self-discovery, encouraging them to explore their own pain narratives and find strength in vulnerability.

Welcome to Pain Alchemy

Hosted by student Naturopath Beth Lee, Pain Alchemy is a podcast for those living with chronic pain who are ready to reclaim their body, reconnect with their spirit, and rewrite the story they've been told about their symptoms.

This is not your typical health podcast. Here, we blend science with soul, truth with tenderness, and raw storytelling with real education. Think nervous system chats, taboo topics, emotional honesty, and the kind of insights that make you feel seen.

What you’ll hear:

1. ​Chronic pain through a personal, practical, and holistic lens
2. ​Honest conversations about grief, identity & intimacy
3. ​Bite-sized science—pain perception, neuroplasticity, hormones & more
4. ​Tools, rituals, & mindset shifts that support healing

Come as you are. This space is for you.

@bethleenaturopath