Healing Chronic Illness with Marly

SummaryIn this episode of the Healing Chronic Illness podcast, Marly Jones dives deep into the often-overlooked role of testosterone in men's health, particularly during midlife. She emphasizes that low testosterone is not merely a matter of libido but can significantly impact mental health, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, and brain fog. Marly clarifies that these issues are not personal failures but rather biological factors that can be addressed through informed medical care. She advocates for a more nuanced understanding of testosterone levels, urging listeners to seek individualized care rather than relying solely on standard lab results that may not reflect their true hormonal health.Marly discusses the importance of understanding both total testosterone and free testosterone levels, as well as the role of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in hormone availability. She encourages men to seek out functional and integrative medicine practitioners who can provide a comprehensive evaluation of their hormonal health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to prioritize their well-being and consider testosterone optimization as a pathway to improved mental and physical health.Keywords:testosterone, men's health, mental health, hormone therapy, anxiety, depression, midlife, functional medicine, testosterone optimization, SHBGTakeawaysLow testosterone affects more than just libido.Symptoms of low testosterone include anxiety, depression, and fatigue.Normal testosterone levels can still lead to deficiency symptoms.Seek individualized care for hormone optimization.Testosterone is crucial for motivation and emotional stability.Sound Bites"This isn't a personal failure.""Testosterone is also neuroactive and neuroprotective.""You deserve to feel well."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Testosterone and Men's Health02:35 Understanding Low Testosterone Symptoms04:36 The Importance of Proper Testing08:31 Case Study: Real-Life Implications of Testosterone Levels11:30 Testing for Optimal Hormone Levels13:38 Conclusion: Seeking Help and Optimizing HealthFor more info please contact:marly.jones@neuroptimal.comsupport@detoxstress.com

SummaryIn this episode of "Healing Chronic Illness with Marley," Marly Jones delves into the heavy topics of resentment and unforgiveness, emphasizing their detrimental effects on our mental and physical health. She introduces the concept of 'Name It to Tame It,' which encourages listeners to recognize and validate their feelings rather than suppress them. By contextualizing experiences and emotions, individuals can shift their brain's processing, allowing for healing and emotional regulation. Marly also discusses the physiological impacts of unresolved emotions, highlighting how they can keep the nervous system in a state of stress and hinder recovery from chronic illness.Marly shares practical techniques, such as expressive writing, to help listeners process their emotions and reduce the biological costs associated with holding onto resentment. She emphasizes the importance of feeling emotions fully until they no longer serve us, allowing for a healthier emotional state. The episode concludes with a reminder that healing does not require complete forgiveness or fixing others, but rather achieving emotional clarity to redirect energy towards repair and well-being.Keywords:resentment, unforgiveness, emotional healing, chronic illness, stress resilience, Name It to Tame It, expressive writing, emotional regulation, neuroscience, healingTakeaways"Resentment is a burden that can keep us stuck.""Name It to Tame It helps the brain process emotions effectively.""Forgiveness is the decision to stop paying the stress tax.""Feel the feeling until it no longer serves you.""Healing requires emotional clarity, not endless digging into the past."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Resentment and Healing02:59 The Physiological Impact of Resentment04:46 Neuroscience of Emotional Regulation08:17 Breaking the Chronic Stress Loop09:26 The Power of Language in Healing09:29 Understanding Emotional Processing11:25 The Role of Expressive Writing13:04 Forgiveness as a Path to Healing15:04 Normalizing Emotions and Needs18:15 Processing Emotions Effectively19:51 Moving Towards Healing and Clarity

Kewords:chronic illness, neurofeedback, resilience, stress management, nervous system, healing, mental health, emotional regulation, Neuroptimal, brain trainingIn this episode of Healing Chronic Illness with Marly, the host discusses the challenges of life and how they affect our nervous system. Marly introduces Neuroptimal neurofeedback as a gentle approach to help the brain recover from stress and trauma. She explains how the nervous system responds to challenges and the importance of adaptability and resilience. The episode emphasizes the benefits of Neuroptimal in improving emotional regulation, sleep quality, and overall well-being. Marly also provides guidance on choosing the right neurofeedback system and the significance of healing through acceptance.Challenge isn't a sign of failure; it's a sign of life.The nervous system's response to stress is crucial for survival.Neuroptimal neurofeedback supports the brain's natural healing process.Real-time feedback helps the brain self-correct without forcing change.Emotional regulation improves with neurofeedback training.Resilience is about being present during hardship, not the absence of it.Choosing the right neurofeedback system is essential for effective healing.Healing involves acceptance and listening to the body's needs.The brain is adaptable and can learn new patterns.Support your nervous system without pushing or forcing change.00:00 Facing Life's Challenges02:40 Understanding the Nervous System's Response07:43 Neurofeedback: A Gentle Approach to Healing10:45 Finding the Right Neurofeedback System14:22 Embracing Healing and AdaptabilityTo begin your Brain Training with NeurOptimal, or to become a provider, please contact: marly.jones@neuroptimal.com

reas of interest: holistic health, autism, neurofeedback, keto diet, community support, natural medicine, family wellness, ingredient household, unique abilities, parentingSummaryIn this episode of Healing Chronic Illness, Marly Jones interviews Elizabeth Johnson, who shares her family's journey through autism diagnosis and the transformative power of holistic health practices. Elizabeth discusses her transition to an ingredient household, the challenges of navigating medical decisions, and the benefits of neurofeedback and the keto diet. She emphasizes the importance of community support and the unique abilities program in Florida, while also highlighting the need for parents to connect and support one another in their healing journeys.TakeawaysElizabeth's journey into natural health began with her son's autism diagnosis.Transitioning to an ingredient household improved the family's overall health.Navigating medical decisions regarding vaccinations was challenging for Elizabeth and her husband.Neurofeedback has shown significant benefits for Elizabeth's son, Jack.The keto diet was implemented to support Jack's health and well-being.Community support is crucial for families dealing with autism and other challenges.The Unique Abilities program in Florida provides financial support for families with special needs children.Building a holistic practice can integrate various healing modalities for better patient outcomes.Parents should prioritize human connection and support in their healing journeys.Acting out in faith and trusting the process is essential for navigating challenges. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Holistic Healing02:23 Elizabeth's Journey into Natural Health05:43 Recognizing Autism in Jack10:52 The Impact of Diet on Health16:05 Navigating Medical Decisions for Jack21:09 Exploring Neurofeedback as a Solution30:22 Navigating Decisions Through Prayer32:35 Financial Decisions and Emotional Well-being35:00 The Impact of Neurofeedback on Children38:27 Understanding Behavioral Changes in Autism43:41 Parenting with Awareness and Understanding47:56 Balancing Medical and Holistic Approaches51:56 Utilizing State Resources for Special Needs Education55:00 Navigating Educational Support for Children with Autism57:36 The Emotional Journey of Seeking Reimbursement01:03:26 Integrating Holistic Practices in Physical Therapy01:09:52 The Importance of Community and Human ConnectionResources from ElizabethFor access to Elizabeth’s comprehensive list of recommended resources, please emailmarly.jones@neuroptimal.comand include “Autism Resources” in the subject line.

Podcast Description:If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out which natural supplements for depression and anxiety are actually safe—and which ones might make things worse—this episode is for you.In this episode of Healing Chronic Illness, Marly Jones breaks down science-backed, nervous-system–friendly alternatives for depression and anxiety, with a special focus on supporting the brain without forcing chemistry or overstimulating an already overwhelmed system. Instead of chasing the outdated “chemical imbalance” narrative, Marly explains how mood challenges are often rooted in chronic stress, neuroinflammation, hormonal shifts, trauma, poor sleep, and blood sugar instability.You’ll learn:Why regulating the nervous system is often more effective than simply “boosting serotonin”The research behind saffron, one of the most studied natural mood supportsHow supplements like 5-HTP, tryptophan, magnesium, GABA, adaptogens, and omega-3s can support mood safely when used thoughtfullyWhich options are gentler for sensitive or reactive nervous systemsWhy starting low, going slow, and focusing on foundations mattersHow inflammation, diet, and stress physiology impact depression and anxietyMarly also shares practitioner-trusted supplement options, explains who they may (or may not) be right for, and emphasizes safety, personalization, and working with the brain—not against it.This episode is a compassionate, empowering guide for anyone looking for natural mood support that prioritizes regulation, resilience, and long-term healing.Key takeaway:Depression and anxiety aren’t signs that you’re broken—they’re signals that your nervous system needs support. Healing begins when the brain feels safe enough to regulate itself.RESOURCES:Numedica.com Practitioner Code: 20426Harmonyneurofeedback.com/Resources

In this episode, Marly Jones discusses the benefits of PEA (palmitoylethylamide) in managing chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. She highlights the role of PEA in reducing pain and sensitivity by regulating mast cells and microglia. The conversation covers dosing recommendations, the multifaceted benefits of PEA, and practical advice for incorporating it into a health regimen. Marly emphasizes the importance of consulting with healthcare providers and encourages listeners to explore PEA as a potential tool for recovery.This article is provided by Jacob Teitelbaum, MD and you can learn more in his book, From Fatigued to Fantastic.For full article download please email: support@detoxstress.com and request: PEA

Detox Stress with Marlee: Understanding Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)In this episode of the Detox Stress Podcast, Marly shares insights from an article by her friend and former physician, Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, drawing from his book From Fatigue to Fantastic. The focus is on Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)—a compounded, micro-dosed form of the medication naltrexone that some practitioners use off-label to help manage chronic pain, autoimmune issues, and fibromyalgia.Marly explains that while standard naltrexone is used in addiction treatment at high doses, LDN works very differently and must not be taken with narcotics, as narcotics block its effects. Dr. Teitelbaum considers LDN a potentially helpful option for many people with chronic pain and fatigue, though it remains inexpensive, off-patent, and therefore seldom promoted by the pharmaceutical industry.She reviews Dr. Teitelbaum’s recommended approach:Start at very low doses and titrate slowly (often toward 3 mg, taken at bedtime).Avoid exceeding 4.5 mg, as higher doses may lose effectiveness.Expect possible temporary sleep disturbances or vivid dreams when starting.Sensitive individuals may benefit from micro-dosing or using a liquid form to inch upward gradually.Allow at least two months to evaluate LDN’s effect, as benefits can be slow to emerge.Marly also shares her personal experience titrating LDN, including practical tips to avoid throat irritation when working with powdered forms. She notes that some people report improvements in pain, fatigue, cognition, and overall wellbeing.Listeners interested in exploring LDN can consult Dr. Teitelbaum’s book or speak with their healthcare provider. Marlee invites anyone needing compounding pharmacy recommendations to email her support team.She closes the episode with gratitude, encouraging listeners to share the information with others who might benefit and to subscribe for future healing-focused content.00:00 Introduction to Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)02:47 Understanding the Benefits and Mechanism of LDN06:01 Dosage and Administration of LDN09:10 Long-term Effects and Conclusion

In this enlightening conversation, Marly Jones and Allison Beardsley explore the transformative journey of healing chronic illness through faith, community, and innovative wellness practices. Allison shares her personal story of overcoming chronic pain, the founding of Club Pilates, and her transition to the Red Light Method, a groundbreaking approach to wellness. The discussion emphasizes the importance of gratitude, peace, and resilience in navigating life's challenges, while also highlighting the role of faith in personal growth and healing.00:00 Introduction to Healing and Transformation03:45T he Journey from Pain to Purpose07:02 Founding Club Pilates: A Story of Resilience09:49 Navigating Business Challenges and Growth12:45The Decision to Sell Club Pilates15:50 Post-Traumatic Growth and Resilience 18:49 Chronic Pain and Emotional Healing21:59 Raising Kids in a Counter-Cultural Way24:45 Balancing Family Life and Passion Projects29:16 The Impact of Community and Faith on Well-being34:59 Healing Through Red Light Therapy40:00 Balancing Work, Family, and Spirituality42:48 Navigating Chronic Pain and Emotional Health49:58 The Power of Perspective and Gratitude53:47 Taking Action: Faith as a Verb

In this episode of Healing Chronic Illness, Marly Jones explores the critical role of mitochondrial health in energy and resilience. She discusses the importance of antioxidants, stress management, sleep, exercise, sunlight, and supplements in supporting mitochondrial function. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for improving energy levels and overall well-being, particularly for those dealing with chronic illnesses.TakeawaysMitochondria are essential for energy production in the body.Antioxidants help protect mitochondria from damage.Chronic stress can impair mitochondrial function.Sleep is crucial for mitochondrial repair and health.Exercise, especially strength training, supports mitochondrial health.Morning sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms and boosts mitochondrial function.A balanced diet rich in antioxidants is vital for energy.Stress management techniques can enhance mitochondrial production.Quality sleep is necessary for optimal mitochondrial function.Supplements can support mitochondrial health but should be taken wisely.Chapters00:00Understanding Energy and Resilience02:55The Role of Antioxidants in Mitochondrial Health07:33Stress Management and Mitochondrial Production09:23The Importance of Sleep for Mitochondria10:48Exercise: Building Strong Cells and Mitochondria13:11The Power of Morning Sunlight14:59Supplementing for Mitochondrial Health

In this episode, Marly sits down with Kelly Jean Pittman and her daughter, Jayna, for a deeply encouraging conversation about trauma, attachment, brain health, and the real hope that healing is possible—no matter how difficult the beginning of the story may be. Kelly shares the powerful journey of adopting Jayna from China and navigating heart surgery, medical crises, extreme behavioral challenges, and daily PTSD-level meltdowns. Their story highlights how understanding developmental trauma and the brain’s stress response transformed the way Kelly parented and advocated for her daughter.Listeners will hear how vision therapy, developmental movement, and especially NeurOptimal neurofeedback helped calm Jayna’s overactive nervous system, allowing her to form secure attachment, feel safe, and participate fully in relationships and everyday life. Kelly also breaks down the four pillars of brain health from her book Unleashing Happiness: nourishing food, decreasing toxin exposure, movement and sensory input, and restorative sleep. Together, Kelly and Jayna offer an honest look at living in a chronic stress response, what it feels like to “drop floors” back into calm, and why healing is a lifelong journey rather than a quick fix.The conversation also explores the impact of screens on developing and dysregulated brains, why delaying smartphones was a profound gift for Jayna, and how their new ministry, Faithfully Unapologetic, is equipping Christian moms raising children with emotional and behavioral challenges. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or someone seeking your own emotional and neurological healing, this episode offers practical tools, spiritual encouragement, and genuine hope for meaningful transformation.

Marly shares about the neuroscience behind the term, Manifestation.Daily Neural Warm-Up Protocol 1️⃣ Minute 1 — Set IntentionSay out loud what you’re building into your life: “Today I choose peace,” “I move my body for energy,” “I trust God with this healing process.”When you speak it, your brain’s language centers link to your emotional and motor systems.2️⃣ Minute 2 — Name the Old PatternBriefly acknowledge what you’re leaving behind: “I used to react in fear,” or “I used to skip self-care.”Awareness lights up the pre-frontal cortex — the part that allows change.3️⃣ Minutes 3–4 — State ChangeMove your body: stretch, breathe deeply, shake out your arms.Physical movement releases neurochemicals like dopamine and adrenaline that prime your brain for focus.You’re literally preparing your neural soil for new growth.4️⃣ Minute 5 — Micro-Action CommitmentChoose one tiny step you can do today. Maybe it’s “drink one glass of water before coffee,” or “pause for five slow breaths before checking email.”Small wins are what build neural momentum.5️⃣ Minute 6 — Visualize Success & RewardPicture yourself doing it and feeling proud. Your brain doesn’t differentiate much between real and vividly imagined action — you get a preview dose of dopamine.6️⃣ Minute 7 — Anchor & PrayEnd with a breath and a prayer:“Lord, thank You for renewing my mind and healing my body as I walk in Your peace.”Faith and gratitude activate the same pre-frontal regions that reinforce hope and resilience.That’s it. Seven minutes to prime your brain for growth and healing.

In this illuminating episode of Healing Chronic Illness with Marly, naturopath and neurotrainer Marly Jones dives into the healing power of light — from red and blue light therapies to ultraviolet medical treatments like PUVA. Learn how light interacts with your cells’ “solar panels,” the mitochondria, to recharge your energy, calm inflammation, and restore balance to your immune and nervous systems. Marly also shares her personal journey with vitiligo, how early light-based treatments shaped her healing path, and why gentle, consistent exposure to natural and therapeutic light can help your body remember how to self-heal.Whether you’re curious about home red light devices, managing chronic inflammation, or simply seeking natural ways to detox stress and boost your mood — this episode will help you see light as one of the body’s most powerful and God-given healing tools.

Many brain retraining programs like DNRS, Gupta, and Primal Trust rely on focus and motivation—but when your brain is stuck in survival mode, those systems aren’t online. In this episode, learn how neuroplasticity works, why effort-based retraining can backfire, and how NeurOptimal® aligns with your brain’s natural design—using gentle, real-time feedback to support self-regulation, healing, and lasting resilience.

What if stress isn’t the enemy, but your body’s built-in training system for strength, courage, and faith?In this solo episode, Marly explores the powerful difference between stress relief and stress resilience—and why trying to eliminate all stress can actually keep you from growing. You’ll learn how to view stress as helpful instead of harmful, how that mindset shift transforms your emotional and spiritual life, and what’s happening in your brain when you face challenges with courage.You’ll discover:Why anxiety and stress responses are God-given survival tools designed to help you adapt and thriveThe role of the mid-anterior cingulate cortex (mACC)—your brain’s “courage center”—and how doing hard things strengthens itHow to expand your window of tolerance without pushing yourself into overwhelmPractical ways to train your body’s cues to work for you, not against youHow to listen to your nervous system so it begins to trust you as its own gatekeeperThe connection between faith, neuroplasticity, and emotional resilience—how the renewing of your mind is both spiritual and biologicalScripture References:2 Timothy 1:7James 1:2–4Romans 12:2Psalm 46:10This episode will help you stop fighting stress and start partnering with it—using both neuroscience and faith to build a calmer, more confident, and resilient life.

SummaryIn this episode, Marly Jones discusses the powerful natural supplement N-acetylcysteine (NAC), highlighting its detoxifying properties and benefits for various organs, including the liver, kidneys, and lungs. She explains how NAC serves as a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant, and why it may be more effective than glutathione for individuals with chronic illnesses like Lyme disease and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). The episode also covers safe supplementation practices and food sources rich in cysteine, the amino acid from which NAC is derived. Marly emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.NAC is a powerful detox supplement that supports various organs.It is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant.NAC is often more effective than glutathione for chronic illnesses.It is used in emergency medicine to treat acetaminophen overdoses.NAC helps protect the kidneys from damage during medical procedures.It reduces inflammation in the lungs and is beneficial for respiratory issues.NAC can cross the blood-brain barrier and support mental health.It boosts the immune system and helps with chronic infections.Food sources rich in cysteine include poultry, eggs, and cruciferous vegetables.Consult a healthcare professional before starting NAC supplementation.

SummaryIn this episode, Marly Jones explores the intricate connection between the mind and body, focusing on how chronic stress and trauma manifest physically, particularly through the psoas muscle. She discusses the importance of understanding this connection for healing and introduces methods such as Trauma Release Exercises (TRE) and Foundation Training to help release stored tension and promote overall well-being. Marly emphasizes the necessity of feeling safe in one's body as a crucial aspect of mental health and healing.TakeawaysThe body stores stress in muscles, particularly the psoas.Chronic stress can lead to pain and dysfunction.The psoas connects the emotional brain to the physical body.TRE can help release built-up tension and trauma.Foundation Training teaches proper movement patterns.Feeling safe is essential for mental health.Trauma is a physical imprint stored in the body.Regular practice of TRE can reduce anxiety and improve sleep.Resilience is key to managing stress effectively.Healing is a non-linear journey, requiring patience and self-kindness.

In this episode, Marly Jones explores the intersection of faith and science, particularly focusing on how prayer and neuroscience interact to promote healing. She discusses insights from experts like Dr. Lee Warren and Dr. Daniel Amen, emphasizing the transformative effects of prayer on the brain. The conversation delves into neurotheology, the study of how spiritual experiences affect brain function, and offers practical steps for incorporating prayer into daily life to enhance mental health and well-being. Marly encourages listeners to embrace gratitude and track their healing journeys, highlighting that prayer is not just a means of seeking help but a pathway to personal resurrection and transformation. Your brain actually changes when you pray.Prayer transforms the mind, rewires the brain.Neurotheology studies how our brains respond to spiritual experiences.Gratitude and worship light up brain regions associated with joy.Prayer is healing medicine for the brain.Science is confirming the promises of God for us.You are not hardwired; your brain can change.Gratitude activates the brain's happiness centers.Prayer isn't just for rescue, it's for resurrection.We are wired for connection with our creator.

In this episode, Marly Jones shares her personal journey with chronic illness and the challenges of healing. She emphasizes that healing is not a linear process and discusses the importance of understanding the body's innate ability to heal itself. Marly advocates for a nurturing approach to health, focusing on cultivating the right conditions for healing rather than forcing it. She provides practical takeaways for listeners, encouraging them to rest without guilt, choose nourishment over control, and practice small acts of peace. The episode concludes with a reminder to trust the healing process and honor one's body.takeawaysHealing is a dynamic process, often two steps forward and one step back.The body has an innate ability to heal itself.Forcing health can slow down healing and cause more damage.Cultivating health involves creating the right conditions for healing.Resting without guilt is essential for healing.Choosing nourishment over control can aid in recovery.Small acts of peace can shift your healing journey.Healing is not a test of strength, but an invitation to soften.Trust the process and honor your body's design to heal.Consistency and perseverance are key to seeing results in healing.The Healing Journey: Embracing the ProcessNurturing Health: A New Perspective on Healing"Healing is not linear.""Rest without guilt.""Practice small acts of peace.""I am healing. I am growing."

In this episode of Healing Chronic Illness, Marly Jones interviews Ray Howell, who shares his profound journey through trauma, grief, and healing. Ray recounts his childhood experiences, the impact of losing loved ones, and how he found purpose in his pain through his ministry, Kicking Bear. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support in healing and the necessity of addressing mental health challenges, especially for men. Ray's story serves as a testament to resilience and the transformative power of forgiveness and faith.For more information about Ray's story and his Foundation go to: Kicking Bear | Youth Ministry | Youth Camps

To access the Detox Stress Masterclass: Detox Stress MasterclassMarly's Mind Renewal Method:Mind Renewal MethodIn this episode of Healing Chronic Illness with Marly, host Marly Jones delves into the concept of leaky brain syndrome, exploring its causes, effects, and potential healing strategies. She discusses the importance of the blood-brain barrier, the role of neuroinflammation, and how neurotransmitters are affected. Marly emphasizes the connection between gut health and brain health, highlighting the impact of diet, environmental toxins, and lifestyle choices. The episode concludes with practical advice on natural remedies and lifestyle changes to support brain health and overall well-being.Takeaways:Leaky brain syndrome is linked to chronic fatigue and mood swings.The blood-brain barrier protects the brain from harmful substances.Neuroinflammation can lead to a cell danger response in the body.Glutamate can become toxic in an inflamed brain.Gut health is crucial for brain health; 90% of serotonin is made in the gut.Food sensitivities, especially gluten, can worsen leaky brain syndrome.Mold exposure can contribute to chronic brain issues.Neuroplasticity allows the brain to heal and rewire itself.Prioritizing sleep is essential for brain recovery.Connecting with nature can improve mental health.Timers:00:00 Introduction to Leaky Brain Syndrome04:06 Understanding the Blood-Brain Barrier07:02 Neuroinflammation and Its Effects09:58 The Role of Neurotransmitters12:46 Root Causes of Leaky Brain Syndrome16:08 Healing Strategies for the Brain19:02 Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes21:51 The Importance of Sleep and Stress Management