Can you actually "reset" your brain chemicals with a five-minute walk? Can a newborn really weigh as much as a standard toddler? And if you had a hysterectomy decades ago, why is your pelvis still throbbing in pain?

In this episode, we talk to Professor Simon Rosenbaum, a researcher and exercise psychologist at UNSW Sydney, to find out why "lifestyle change" is now considered a first-line treatment for depression in Australia. We unpack the science of the "brain reset", why the best workout for your mental health is simply the one you don’t hate, and how movement can be a secret superpower for your resilience.

Plus, in Med School, we take a deep dive into the world of "giant babies”. From the TikTok trend of "chonky bubbas" to the world record holder who gave birth to a nearly 10kg infant (yes, you read that right), we celebrate the incredible, superhero feats of the female body.

And, in our Quick Consult, Dr. Mariam helps Linda, a 70-year-old listener dealing with chronic pelvic pain 30 years post-hysterectomy. She explains the reality of internal scar tissue, why "zero" is the only normal amount of pain regardless of your age, and the team of experts you need to reclaim your quality of life.

EPISODE RESOURCES

If you want to learn more about the topics discussed in today’s show, check out these helpful links:

• MOVE by Mamamia

• Health Direct - Physical Activity Guidelines

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CREDITS

Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam

Guest: Professor Simon Rosenbaum

Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best

Audio Producer: Scott Stronach

Video Producer: Julian Rosario

Social Producer: Elly Moore

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.

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