Why swopping perfectionism for self-compassion is the path to vitality artwork
Midlife Illuminated

Why swopping perfectionism for self-compassion is the path to vitality

  • S5E109
  • 34:30
  • June 4th 2025

In this moving and inspiring episode, I chat to a wise, gentle mid-lifer called Karen Villet. Karen is a cancer survivor, mother and (since we recorded this conversation) now a functional medicine health coach.

You'll hear about:

  • The importance of releasing self-criticism to make space for self-compassion and growth.
  • The difference between surviving and thriving.
  • Chronic disease as a teacher (and then inviting it to leave).
  • Why health information (and even a life-threatening illness) isn’t always enough to help us stick to healthy habits

Please note: this conversation is in NO WAY intended as medical advice or expert advice on cancer treatment.

48-year-old Karen lives in Cape Town, South Africa, and started out as an occupational therapist. Following her own health journey, she's now beginning her next chapter as a functional medicine health coach - inspiring others to live their healthiest, most thriving selves. She's also a busy mum of one teen, one tween and two lively hounds.

My website:

https://peppermintwellness.co.uk/

The Wellness Unwrapped Self-Paced Programme:

https://peppermintwellness.co.uk/the-wellness-unwrapped-self-paced-programme/

Contact me at: [email protected]

Follow me on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzyglaskie/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeppermintWellness

Midlife Illuminated

Welcome to Midlife Illuminated!

I’m Suzy Glaskie, Functional Medicine Health Coach and founder of Peppermint Wellness.

I've learnt the hard way how to thrive in midlife. And now I'm looking forward to sharing what I've learnt with you.

I hope that this podcast helps you to rediscover your own light - and start to shine.