Share

cover art for Shona Vertue Speaks On A Healthy Body And A Positive Mind: Enhancing Self-Image through Optimal Health Habits

It Aint Weak to Speak with Sam Webb

Shona Vertue Speaks On A Healthy Body And A Positive Mind: Enhancing Self-Image through Optimal Health Habits

Season 1, Ep. 100

My guest, Shona Vertue, is a personal trainer and yoga teacher. Shona has left an indelible mark in the fitness world with a massive following of over 400k on Instagram and one of the most popular yoga channels in the UK on YouTube. Over her decade of teaching, she has developed the Vertue Method, a unique blend of weighted resistance training, cardio, yoga, and meditation, emphasizing the significance of rest and recovery alongside intense workouts. Her innovative approach has garnered a global following, with practitioners in over 65 countries. Notable clients like David Beckham have been inspired by Shona's teachings, encouraging individuals to cultivate new skills while prioritizing their fitness journey.


In this episode, Shona shares how you can be better at feeling as opposed to feeling better from training. She talks about the origin of her motivation and inspiration in the fitness industry as a woman, how she incorporates her psychology background in her training, why relationships are important in our mental health, and how we can be better at feeling. She also explains the parasympathetic and sympathetic states, how she keeps clients returning to her programs when they are struggling, and what she does to look after her mental health. Tune in to learn more!


Topics we cover and where to find them:


  • [00:00] Intro
  • [06:00] The origin of Shona’s motivation and inspiration in the fitness industry as a woman
  • [09:37] How Shona incorporates her psychology background in her training
  • [13:58] Why relationships are important in our mental health
  • [15:23] Being better at feeling as opposed to feeling better from training
  • [20:18] How Shona keeps clients coming back to her programs when they are struggling
  • [28:30] The impacts of exercise on the existing stress
  • [32:56] The parasympathetic state and sympathetic state
  • [37:13] What Shona does to look after her mental health 
  • [46:06] When do health and fitness become too much and dysfunctional?
  • [48:03] About The Vertue Method


Like this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag@livinorg@samwebb so we can thank you personally.


Episode resources:


Website: https://shonavertue.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shona_vertue/


Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.


More episodes

View all episodes

  • 106. Mastering the Art of Tough Talks: Simple Strategies for Success in Hard Conversations

    19:30||Season 1, Ep. 106
    In the complex landscape of interpersonal communication, mastering the art of tough talks is an indispensable skill that can pave the way for stronger relationships and effective problem-solving. Navigating difficult conversations with finesse requires more than just courage; it demands a set of simple yet powerful strategies to ensure success.In this episode, I explore practical tips to empower you in facing tough conversations head-on, transforming them from potential minefields into opportunities for growth and connection. By embracing these simple yet powerful approaches, you can cultivate the skills necessary to engage in challenging dialogues, fostering understanding, resolution, and constructive outcomes. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[02:58] Highlights of LIVIN Heath Movement in Australia[08:00] Examples of the hard conversations you can have[09:00] Tools and strategies to navigate the hard conversations effectively[09:39] #1 Define your goals from the conversations[10:00] #2 Gather information on the conversation[10:12] #3 Anticipate reactions and prepare[10:46] #4 Manage your own emotions[11:19] #5 Listen actively[12:21] #6 Ask open-ended questions[13:00] #7 Use a non-blaming communication style[14:36] #8 Acknowledge your own mistakesLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag @livinorg@samwebb so we can thank you personally.Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and to connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and to learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.Big luv,Sam
  • 105. Andrew Shaw Speaks On How To Harness Gratitude and Good Energy for Success

    53:26||Season 1, Ep. 105
    My guest today, a mate, Andrew Shaw, is a seasoned creative producer and a strong storyteller with over 12 years of experience in the broadcast and digital space. He started his career as an assistant director on the world-famous Australian soap Home & Away, directing background extras in scenes and keeping the set running smoothly and on time. The most transformative years of his early career were at Nickelodeon, where he produced and directed local scripted and reality television series and promos. In 2016, he immigrated to the USA and worked on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and Red Table Talk. He is now the Supervising Digital Producer for the Kelly Clarkson Show.In this episode, Andrew shares his transformational journey into the entertainment industry as a producer, how he made the move to the USA and landed his dream job at the Ellen DeGeneres Show, and what helped him grow quickly in his career. He also talks about the power of working hard, providing solutions and good relations in your career growth, and practicing gratitude in your life. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[03:02] The power of being a great human who gets along with people[05:58] The things that made Andrew to get into the entertainment industry as a producer[09:35] How Andrew started his career in the entertainment industry[11:20] The things that helped Andrew grow quickly in his career[16:53] The power of working hard, providing solutions, and great relations in your career growth[19:28] The importance of practicing gratitude in your life[22:20] How Andrew got into the Ellen DeGeneres Show[29:14] The role that Andrew played as a producer of the Ellen DeGeneres Show[33:00] How Andrew landed his role in the Red Table Talk[39:29] The secret to life that I got from a mentor[42:13] Setting up your success in life[46:58] The best thing about working with Kelly ClarksonLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag@livinorg@samwebb so we can thank you personally.Episode resources:Website: https://www.getandrewshaw.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andyshawpants/?img_index=1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewshawsyd/Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.
  • 104. De-stressing Stress: The Power of Mindsets and the Art of Stressing Mindfully- Health-Enhancing Effects Of Stress

    19:22||Season 1, Ep. 104
    Today, I share the secrets of turning stress into a catalyst for your own growth and well-being.  Instead of viewing stress as a burden, we learn to embrace it as an opportunity for growth. By adopting a positive mindset and reshaping your relationship with stress, you can harness the health-enhancing effects of stress. Embrace stress as an opportunity for self-improvement, and watch as it becomes a stepping stone toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them: [00:00] Intro[03:21] The upside and downside of stress[04:53] The role that our mindset plays on how we look and perceive stress[05:02] Tips to reshape your relationship with stress[05:41] #1 Acknowledge stress[06:02] #2 Identify your emotional responses to stress[06:38] #3 Identify your behavioral responses to stress[07:12] #4 Identify your physiological responses to stress[08:24] #5 Reshape your mindset around stress[09:43] An example of a person whose stress propelled her forward and reshaped her focus[13:32] Embracing stress as an opportunity to learn[14:59] How stress can be detrimental to our lives[15:52] The two types of stress[16:20] Identifying the positive aspects of stressLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag @livinorg @samwebb so we can thank you personally.Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and to connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and to learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.Much luv,Sam
  • 102. Feeling Stuck? How To Start Finding Your Meaning And Purpose in Life

    23:03||Season 1, Ep. 102
    In this episode, I share tangible ways to navigate the feeling of being stuck and discover growth opportunities and fulfillment in your life. These include uncovering your core values and passions, mastering your skills, seeking inspiration and guidance, and exploring different paths and adjusting your course. I also share the things that make us stuck. Tune in to learn more!In life, we often encounter moments where we feel stuck, trapped in the confines of routine, or facing unforeseen obstacles. However, during these challenging times, the seeds of personal growth and new opportunities can take root. Navigating through being stuck requires resilience, introspection, and a willingness to embrace change. By exploring different perspectives, learning from setbacks, and seeking out fresh avenues, we can unearth hidden pathways to personal and professional development.Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[03:37] Examples of feeling stuck in life[07:09] What causes the feeling of being stuck [08:10] Ways to navigate through being stuck and discover growth opportunities [09:49] 1) Uncovering your core values and passions[13:59] 2) Learning and mastering your skills[14:37] 3) Setting meaningful challenges for yourself[15:39] 4) Surrounding yourself with new people[16:07] 5) Seeking inspiration and guidance from people that you look up to[17:14] 6) Practise self-reflection[20:15] 7) Always challenge yourself and be willing to learn[21:03] 8) Exploring different paths and adjusting your course[22:48] 9) Be patient with yourselfLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag @livinorg @samwebb so we can thank you personally.Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and to connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and to learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.Big luv,Sam
  • 102. Josh Dugan Speaks On Embracing Change and Finding Purpose after Retirement

    49:02||Season 1, Ep. 102
    My guest today is Josh Dugan, an Australian former professional rugby league footballer who last played as a fullback and centre for the Cronulla Sharks in the NRL and Australia at international level. He previously played for the Canberra Raiders and the St George Illawarra Dragons in the National Rugby League and has played at representative level for the Prime Minister's XIII, Country Origin, NRL All Stars, and New South Wales in the State of Origin series. In this episode, Josh shares his professional journey as a rugby player, the transition to retiring, and how that affected his identity. He talks about his current career helping kids, his biggest lessons from his current role, and the prevalence of mental health struggles in young people. He also discusses his stint in rehab, the lessons he learned from that, and the identity crisis after retiring. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[05:17] Josh’s current service to the community of helping kids[09:17] Josh’s biggest lesson from his current role of mentoring kids[14:46] The prevalence of mental health struggles among young people[17:21] The transition from being a professional rugby player to retiring[19:53] The identity crisis after retiring[21:33] How Josh got into drug abuse and rehab[25:00] The positive things that can result from hitting rock bottom[28:10] Josh’s best moments of his profession as a rugby player[36:51] Having the right mentality as an athlete[39:17] Developing self-belief in your career[41:51] The best advice to young people getting into sportLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag@livinorg@samwebb so we can thank you personally.Episode resources:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__duges13/Twitch.tv: https://www.twitch.tv/duges_6Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.
  • 100. How To Break Free From Perfectionism While Still Doing Your Best

    22:53||Season 1, Ep. 100
    In this episode, I share the areas that perfectionism manifests in our lives and how it can impact our lives negatively. I also explain the strategies that can help break you free from a perfectionistic mindset. These include recognizing the difference between perfectionism and striving for excellence, setting realistic challenges, focusing on progress and not the end result, and embracing mistakes.In a world where perfection seems to be the ultimate pursuit, breaking free from the suffocating grip of perfectionism becomes an essential journey toward embracing our true selves and living our best lives. Perfectionism, often disguised as a noble aspiration, often hinders personal growth, fuels anxiety, and stifles creativity. By challenging the unrealistic standards we impose upon ourselves, embracing imperfections, and cultivating self-compassion, we can embark on a transformative path toward authenticity, fulfillment, and a life guided by genuine joy and meaningful connections.Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[01:47] The meaning of perfectionism[02:54] The areas that perfectionism manifest in our lives[07:04] How perfectionism is different from striving for excellence[10:31] Strategies to help break free from perfectionism[11:00] 1# Recognizing the difference between perfectionism and striving for excellence[11:42] 2# Setting realistic challenges[13:37] 3# Focusing on progress and not the end result[14:40] 4# Embracing mistakes[15:35] 5# Managing your own inner voiceLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag @livinorg @samwebb so we can thank you personally.Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and to connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and to learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.Big Luv,Sam
  • 99. Cooper Chapman Speaks On The Good Human Factory

    57:42||Season 1, Ep. 99
    My guest today, Cooper Chapman, was a professional surfer and is the founder of The Good Human Factory and makes waves in and out of the water. Witnessing the tragic loss of multiple friends to suicide during his final year of high school, Cooper was driven to create a lasting impact on mental health. In 2020, he established The Good Human Factory, a transformative initiative aimed at reshaping perceptions about mental well-being. With a message that mental health is not synonymous with mental illness, Cooper and his team have inspired the community to join the 1% club- being 1% better every day and how to stay consistent and accountable in the club.In this episode, Cooper shares strategies from within that anyone can achieve to fill the gap you may lacking around mental health. He talks about how traveling the world has influenced his perspective on people, the origin of his mindset of being grateful for what he has already achieved, and how fear from speaking out about your true mental health can sometimes help you in the self-exploration journey. He also explains the different ways you can meditate and improve your mental health through modalities. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[09:20] How traveling the world has influenced Cooper’s perspective on people[15:02] The origin of Cooper’s great mindset of being grateful for what he has already achieved[20:44] Ways from within that can fill the gap you may be feeling around mental health[22:49] The fear of speaking out about your true mental health[26:30] How Cooper got into the mental health space and the origin of the name, Good Human Factory[34:16] The gratitude group that Cooper has on his Instagram[37:44] Ways to meditate and improve your mental health[41:18] Does Cooper feel good making others feel good?[47:33] What Cooper is trying to do in the mental health space at the momentLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag@livinorg@samwebb so we can thank you personally.Episode resources:Website: https://www.thegoodhumanfactory.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoodhumanfactory/Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.
  • 98. 5 Ways To Stop Comparing Yourself To Others And Start Finding Your Worth

    18:23||Season 1, Ep. 98
    In this episode, I share the things we can do so that we can grow past the negative impacts of comparing ourselves to other people and start believing in our own capabilities and paths. This includes developing a deeper understanding of yourself, treating yourself with compassion, reminding yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes, and setting meaningful targets and challenges. This journey of self-discovery empowers individuals to embrace their individuality, appreciate their progress, and build the confidence needed to pursue their dreams with unwavering faith in themselves. Tune in to learn more!Topics we cover and where to find them:[00:00] Intro[02:46] What it means to compare yourself to other people[05:21] Positive and negative comparisons[06:04] The things you can do to grow past the negative impacts of comparing to others[07:33] 1) Develop a deeper understanding of yourself[09:22] 2) Treat yourself with compassion[09:40] 3) Remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes[10:22] 4) Set meaningful targets and goals[13:13] 5) Surround yourself with positive influencersLike this show? Please leave us a review here - All comments and reviews help us break the stigma of mental health so that we can save more lives. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag @livinorg @samwebb so we can thank you personally.Join us at our FaceBook Group to continue the conversation and to connect with our community to share stories, access mental health tools and strategies, and to learn more about positive mental health because #itaintweaktospeak.Big Luv,Sam