#151: Órla O'Flaherty: How Stress, Hormones & Gut Health Are Really Connected (And What Women Can Do About It)

January 19
56 mins

Episode Description

If you’ve ever felt like your hormones are “off”, your digestion isn’t great, and stress is constantly bubbling under the surface - this episode will help you make sense of why.

In this episode of the Kate Hamilton Health Podcast, I am joined by Orla O’Flaherty, a herbalist, naturopath, and somatic therapist specialising in women’s health. Together, we explore how chronic stress shows up in the body, why gut health plays such a key role in hormonal balance, and how working with the nervous system can support real, lasting change. Rather than just managing symptoms, Orla explains the importance of understanding root causes - and shares practical, realistic ways women can support their health without adding more pressure or overwhelm.

This is a gentle, honest conversation for anyone who wants to feel more connected to their body and better equipped to support their health in everyday life.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How chronic stress affects hormones, digestion, and overall wellbeing
  • Why so many women feel “tired but wired”
  • What somatic therapy actually is - and how it helps regulate the nervous system
  • The link between gut health, stress, and emotional wellbeing
  • Simple, realistic ways to support your body without extremes or perfection

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

00:00: Introduction to the episode and Orla’s work

02:46: Orla’s personal journey into women’s health

05:57: Chronic stress and how it impacts the body

11:44: Hormonal changes and stress management

16:28: Burnout and nervous system regulation

23:22: Somatic therapy and emotional healing

30:52: The role of relationships and emotional safety

32:05: Understanding somatic healing

32:34: Movement, emotions, and dispersing stress

45:19: Gut health and overall wellbeing

53:56: Quickfire round

55:44: Final thoughts and takeaways

Links & Resources:

  • Connect with me on Instagram here
  • Learn more about KHH coaching here
  • Connect with Órla on Instagram here

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who might benefit. For more health and fitness tips, follow me on Instagram and TikTok @katehamiltonhealth.

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