Are your words keeping you stuck? Are the compromises you’ve made with your body slowly stealing your freedom? And did you know your breath is the fastest way to take back control of your performance, recovery, and even your longevity? In this episode of The Athlete Mom Project, I break down the science and the strategy behind: ✅ Why the words you use literally rewire your brain through the Reticular Activating System (RAS) and shape your identity✅ How small compromises (like saying “I can’t” or skipping hikes with your kids) train your nervous system to shrink instead of expand✅ The role of breath as the ultimate reset button for stress, energy, and athletic performance✅ How nasal breathing, CO₂ tolerance, and breath mechanics directly impact VO₂max — the #1 predictor of longevity and independence✅ Simple, actionable ways to start training your VO₂max (Zone 2, intervals, tempo work, and breath training) so you can build energy and resilience for decades Whether you’re a mom training for the mountains, building strength after pregnancy, rolling on the mats, or just trying to feel strong and pain-free in your body again — this episode will give you the tools to shift your language, stop compromising, and use your breath to reclaim your power. 👉 Listen now and learn how to live more, hurt less, and reclaim your freedom — one breath at a time.