The Vital Spirit Podcast with Dr. Kelly Livingston

Your body already knows how to heal. The problem is how often we interrupt it.In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I bring together everything we’ve been exploring in the awakening series and take it one step further into what actually drives healing.This is where we move beyond awareness and into relationship. Specifically, your relationship with your body’s healing intelligence.I introduce the concept of vis medicatrix naturae—the healing power of nature—and explain why your body is constantly working to restore balance, even when it doesn’t feel like it. We talk about why healing has an order, why symptoms are not the enemy, and why so many people feel stuck even after “trying everything.” Because more often than not, it’s not that your body isn’t healing. It’s that the sequence is being interrupted.If you’ve been jumping from protocol to protocol, trying to fix symptoms without real progress, this episode will help you understand what might be missing, and how to start working with your body in a completely different way.In this episode, we cover:● 01:08 Why awakening alone doesn’t actually create healing● 03:25 What is Vis Medicatrix Naturae?● 04:06 Feeling the energy field● 05:56 Why healing has an order● 08:09 Wound healing analogy● 09:57 How constantly interrupting the healing process can turn acute issues into chronic ones● 11:38 Nature cure lineage● 13:50 The therapeutic order as science● 16:54 Assessing vitality signals18:10 Belief and the meaning response● 19:12 State-based healing systems● 21:29 Seeds of health foundations● 23:18 Energy medicine and why kids respond quickly● 24:41 Biohacking vs nature cure● 28:24 Hands-on relational care● 30:29 I walk through a real case to show how removing obstacles and restoring safety allows the body to reorganize● 36:51 A simple breath practice● 38:14 Resources and next stepsLinks and resources:● Episode 02. The Blueprint for Healing: Naturopathic Principles and the Therapeutic Order: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/02-the-blueprint-for-healing-naturopathic-principles/id1790365046?i=1000684966344● Episode 53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-1-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000755916907● Episode 53 Part 2. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-2-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000757225580● FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup● The Vital Spirit Method Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signupConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if the reason you keep dealing with the same symptoms… is because the same patterns are still running in the background?In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I shift the conversation from awakening to integration—what actually happens after you realize your symptoms aren’t random. This is where healing becomes more than protocols, labs, or supplements. It becomes about self-knowledge.If you’ve been trying to “fix” your health but keep ending up in the same cycle, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do differently.In this episode, we cover:● 01:18 Why healing doesn’t stop at awareness● 02:14 The “know thyself” framework● 03:24 Safety and self-awareness● 05:24 Perimenopause and stress physiology● 07:42 Living in your mind vs your body● 09:28 Nervous system check-in● 12:15 Five energy-draining patterns● 16:15 How your relationship with emotions shapes your nervous system● 19:37 The empath stress pattern● 20:10 When symptoms speak for you● 20:50 Simple tool to help you recognize your patterns in real time● 22:24 Regulation tools menu● 23:00 Neuroplasticity through repetition● 24:33 How regulating your nervous system directly impacts sleep, mood, digestion, and hormone balance● 25:38 Self-acceptance over fixing● 27:44 External mirrors for patterns● 31:52 Internal mirrors and practices● 34:25 Guided support and therapy● 35:49 A simple starter framework● 39:05 Closing grounding exerciseLinks and resources:● Episode 53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-1-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000755916907● Episode 53 Part 2. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-2-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000757225580● Episode 11 Part 1. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/11-part-1-which-labs-actually-matter-for-women-in-perimenopause/id1790365046?i=1000704570884● Episode 11 Part 2. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/11-part-2-which-labs-actually-matter-for-women-in-perimenopause/id1790365046?i=1000705254063● FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup● Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnewConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if the biggest obstacle to your healing isn’t your symptoms but the way you’ve been taught to think about them?In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I go deeper into the concept of a health awakening—this time focusing on the part that often gets missed: deprogramming. This is where healing shifts from just protocols and supplements into something much deeper. It’s about unlearning the belief that your body is broken, that symptoms are the enemy, and that someone else has to fix you.If Part 1 helped you recognize the awakening, this episode helps you understand how to move through it.In this episode, we cover:01:23 Why so much of healing isn’t about adding more04:08 What awakening really means05:15 What it actually looks like when you stop trying to “fix” symptoms08:02 Why symptoms are not the problem09:42 Anxiety, thoughts, and emotions12:19 Why nervous system regulation and physical healing create the foundation for emotional resilience and awareness14:42 The therapeutic order as a map17:09 Universal awakening stages19:44 Psychedelics vs embodiment22:23 Practical entry points26:07 How the brain becomes wired to seek problems and urgency28:30 Different approaches to healing the nervous system and subconscious patterns31:31 Inner guidance and discernment34:43 Guided self-worth practiceLinks and resources:Episode 53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-1-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000755916907Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767Episode 01. Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/01-midlife-as-a-gateway-to-your-health-awakening/id1790365046?i=1000684965783Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if your symptoms aren’t a problem to fix…but a message trying to wake you up?In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m opening up a deeper conversation about what I call a health awakening—the moment you start realizing that everything you’ve been taught about your body, your symptoms, and your healing might be incomplete.This isn’t about “love and light” or bypassing what you’re feeling. It’s about understanding why midlife—especially perimenopause and menopause—can feel like everything is falling apart… when in reality, something deeper is coming online.If you’ve been feeling off, questioning everything, or like you’re not the same person anymore, this episode will help you make sense of it.In this episode, we cover:01:41 What a health awakening actually is and why it often starts with a health crisis04:32 How we’ve been conditioned to see health (and why that programming keeps you stuck)07:51 The therapeutic order as a roadmap09:46 Why menopause is more than a hormonal shift12:30 Subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs you’re going through a health awakening14:06 How awakening happens through the body17:08 A real-life case study: Sarah’s journey from burnout to awareness23:56 The “cocoon phase”—why you start pulling back and setting boundaries29:21 The truth about disillusionment, healing crises, and why things can feel worse before they feel better32:25 Why you cannot wake other people up (and what to do instead)33:27 Where psychology meets awakening—Maslow, Jung, and the deeper layers of healing36:53 The responsibility that comes with awareness—and what integration really looks like37:45 A grounding closing blessing to anchor your journeyLinks and resources:Episode 01. Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/01-midlife-as-a-gateway-to-your-health-awakening/id1790365046?i=1000684965783Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547Episode 44. Why Healing Requires Learning to Feel with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/44-why-healing-requires-learning-to-feel-with-dr-jenn/id1790365046?i=1000743291781Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnewConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Did you know that vitamin D isn’t really a vitamin at all; and the real issue isn’t how much you supplement, but how much light your body receives?In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I explore the deeper physiology of vitamin D and why thinking of it as just another nutrient misses the bigger picture. Vitamin D functions as a hormone that communicates information about light, safety, season, and rhythm to the body. That means when levels stay low despite supplementation, the real question often isn’t “How much should I take?” but rather “What upstream signal is missing?”If your vitamin D levels have ever stayed stubbornly low or you’ve wondered whether supplements are really enough, this episode will help you understand the bigger biological story.In this episode, we cover:03:32 Why vitamin D is technically not a vitamin04:54 Vitamin D’s role in gene regulation and nutrigenomics06:17 I explore the connection between vitamin D and immune regulation09:08 How the skin functions as an immune and endocrine organ10:03 The relationship between vitamin D, mood, circadian rhythm, and serotonin production, including how low levels can contribute to depression12:58 Why vitamin D becomes even more important in midlife13:49 The common reasons vitamin D levels remain low even with supplementation15:37 Which labs actually matter when evaluating vitamin D status17:12 Practical strategies for raising vitamin D25:28 I share my frustration about insurance companies increasingly refusing to cover vitamin D testing and why this matters for preventive medicineLinks and resources:FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signupFREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalRupa Health Lab Shop: https://labs.rupahealth.com/store/storefront_6G8RzpnEpisode 51. Sunlight as Medicine: Restoring Rhythm, Mood, and Vitality Through Light: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/51-sunlight-as-medicine-restoring-rhythm-mood-and/id1790365046?i=1000753018736Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Morning sunlight is not optional.In this episode, I break down why sunlight is one of the most powerful upstream regulators of human physiology we have. This isn’t biohacking nor a trend. It’s remembering something ancient and foundational to how we’re built.We talk circadian rhythm, cortisol, serotonin, appetite, metabolism, mitochondria, mood, and nervous system safety—and why so many modern health struggles are actually rhythm problems.If you’re struggling with sleep, burnout, hormonal chaos, low mood, anxiety, food noise, or stubborn weight changes…light is not a small thing. It’s the foundation.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why I talk about light before supplements, labs, and almost anything else.02:12 Awareness check-in03:26 How sunlight was prescribed intentionally in nature cure sanitariums04:21 Circadian clock basics06:07 Eyes as timekeepers07:16 Morning light benefits08:59 Chronotypes and social jet lag11:08 Light, appetite, and metabolism14:49 Movement and timing16:24 Light and mood pathways20:10 Mitochondria and energy22:50 Why we feel better on vacation25:47 Dark nights matter27:51 Light boxes and devices28:46 Morning grounding practice31:16 Final takeawaysLinks and resources:Fullscript Link for Light Therapy: https://us.fullscript.com/plans/klivingston-light-therapyEpisode 30. Why Hydration Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Hydrotherapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uO8wB8AOvYEpisode 46. Movement as Medicine: Restoring Flow, Safety, and Vitality in Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/46-movement-as-medicine-restoring-flow-safety-and/id1790365046?i=1000745111800Episode 33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 1): Why It Comes Before Hormones: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/33-the-hpa-axis-deep-dive-part-1-why-it-comes-before-hormones/id1790365046?i=1000729491418Episode 33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 2): Why It Comes Before Hormones: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/33-the-hpa-axis-deep-dive-part-2-why-it-comes-before-hormones/id1790365046?i=1000730776671Episode 35. Sleep Masterclass: The Forgotten Medicine of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/35-sleep-masterclass-the-forgotten-medicine-of-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000732944682Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnewDownload the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

IBD is not just a diagnosis. It’s a pattern. And if we don’t understand the order in which healing needs to happen, we can unintentionally make things worse.In this second part of the IBD Master Series, I step into the clinical side of care. We talk about labs, but we don’t reduce healing to numbers. I walk you through how I actually approach inflammatory bowel disease in practice—the sequence, the nuance, and why both extremes (food doesn’t matter vs. food is everything) miss the mark.IBD healing requires regulation, precision, and a respect for the terrain. This episode is about how to move forward without fear, force, or rigid dogma.In this episode, we cover:01:03 IBD series recap03:01 IBD types explained04:26 How to use labs05:44 Core bloodwork basics06:20 Why low ferritin is common in IBD 07:24 Fats, micronutrients, and why you cannot rebuild an inflamed gut in a depleted body.08:37 Thyroid and celiac testing10:37 Stool markers to track13:23 Why rigid, one-size-fits-all diets fail 15:08 Histamine and mast cells16:20 Infections and immune memory17:24 How I use glutamine, butyrate, and mucosal support to heal and seal the gut lining19:18 Healing order of operations21:36 Herbs and plant medicine23:12 RID and drainage sequencing24:54 Micronutrient rebuilding, tissue repair, and why remission stabilizes when we reinhabit the body and restore safetyLinks and resources:Episode 50. IBD Master Series Part 1: Inflammatory Bowel Disease Beyond the Diagnosis — A Terrain-Based Approach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/50-ibd-master-series-part-1-inflammatory-bowel-disease/id1790365046?i=1000750306143Episode 12. What Your Thyroid Is Trying to Tell You in Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/12-what-your-thyroid-is-trying-to-tell-you-in-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000706641159Episode 32. What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/32-what-your-doctor-might-be-missing-about-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000728187600Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is not rare. It’s not mysterious. And it’s not just “autoimmune.”In this first part of the IBD Master Series, I expand the lens beyond conventional conversations and walk you through how I understand IBD as a whole-terrain condition—one that involves the gut, immune system, nervous system, hormones, microbiome, and life context.This episode lays the groundwork. In Part 2, we’ll move into labs, sequencing, herbs, and clinical treatment. But first, we have to understand what we’re actually looking at.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why this IBD series matters02:05 The bigger picture: IBD and the terrain06:54 What IBD actually is (and isn’t)08:50 Ulcerative colitis explained10:36 Crohn’s disease explained12:27 IBS vs. IBD (and the gray zone)15:21 Root drivers of inflammation19:12 The microbiome and butyrate22:19 Midlife amplification + The Vital Spirit Method26:13 What’s coming in Part 2Links and resources:Episode 47 Part 1. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-1-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746015163Episode 47 Part 2. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-2-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746987885Episode 48. Why IBS Gets Worse in Midlife: A Gut–Brain Perspective: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/48-why-ibs-gets-worse-in-midlife-a-gut-brain-perspective/id1790365046?i=1000748001710Episode 49. IBS vs. IBD: Understanding Gut Inflammation Through Clinical Cases: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/49-ibs-vs-ibd-understanding-gut-inflammation-through/id1790365046?i=1000749212470Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if your gut symptoms aren’t random, confusing, or “all in your head” but a story your body has been trying to tell for years?In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I take you inside my clinical thinking as a naturopathic physician and walk you through how I differentiate IBS and IBD in real life, not just on paper. This is a case-based, detective-style episode where we look at gut inflammation through the lens of the gut–brain axis, nervous system regulation, immune signaling, and lived experience.This conversation is for patients who feel misheard or misunderstood—and for practitioners who want to think more clearly, compassionately, and effectively about gut healing.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why I’m walking you through my actual clinical reasoning03:19 IBS vs. IBD: what really separates them05:26 How I approach gut cases in practice16:33 Real patient cases and what they reveal23:37 The healing order that actually worksLinks and resources:Episode 47 Part 1. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-1-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746015163Episode 47 Part 2. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-2-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746987885Episode 48. Why IBS Gets Worse in Midlife: A Gut–Brain Perspective: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/48-why-ibs-gets-worse-in-midlife-a-gut-brain-perspective/id1790365046?i=1000748001710FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signupCalm Gut, Clear Mind: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutresetConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

When people hear IBS, they’re often told it’s “just stress,” “just food,” or worse—all in their head. In this episode, I slow things down and walk you through IBS as what it truly is: a gut–brain axis pattern, rooted in nervous system regulation, physiology, lived experience, and meaning.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Understanding IBS through the gut–brain axis02:28 Why a holistic approach actually matters for IBS05:22 How IBS symptoms reflect the nervous system09:24 Top-down and bottom-up healing explained simply14:55 The Vital Spirit Method for IBS18:34 The mechanical and energetic layers most people miss24:10 Labs, testing, and real patient stories33:34 What IBS is really asking for—and what to do nextLinks and resources mentioned:Calm Gut, Clear Mind: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutresetConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if your mood, digestion, stress response, and inflammation aren’t separate problems but expressions of the same conversation happening inside your body?In Part 2 of the Gut–Brain Axis series on The Vital Spirit Podcast, I move out of theory and into real clinical life. We talk about what the gut–brain axis actually looks like in practice—especially for women navigating IBS, IBD, and the amplification that happens in midlife.This episode is about understanding why symptoms get louder, why so many people feel stuck despite “doing all the right things,” and how to work with the body in the right order so healing becomes sustainable instead of exhausting.In this episode, we cover:Join Calm Gut, Clear Mind: A 21-Day Journey to Restore Your Gut, Balance Your Hormones & Soothe Your Nervous System: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-startedListen to Episode 47 Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/961dcff4-9948-4a9e-a0e7-d385e12c410d/Links and resources:01:03 The gut–brain axis in real life01:56 Why IBS isn’t “just stress” or “just food”04:40 How inflammatory bowel disease reflects immune dysregulation, depletion, and loss of tolerance08:09 How perimenopause changes motility, permeability, inflammation, and stress resilience09:59 The healing order that actually works17:03 Why safety, meaning, co-regulation, and rest aren’t “extras”Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.#depression #midlifehealth #midlifewomen

The gut–brain axis explains something most mental health models miss.In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I begin a two-part essential series on the gut–brain axis — the communication network between the gut, brain, immune system, hormones, and metabolism that shapes mood, stress resilience, and inflammation.In Part 1, we explore why mood symptoms — including depression — often emerge during periods of chronic stress, immune activation, hormonal shifts, or gut dysfunction, even when life looks “fine” on the outside. This episode lays the biological foundation for understanding how the body enters survival states, and why healing requires working with physiology, not against it.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why mood symptoms need a new biological framework01:34 What the gut–brain axis is and why it’s foundational to healing02:22 How the gut and brain communicate through neural, immune, endocrine, and microbial pathways08:10 The vagus nerve and why your gut sends emotional signals upstream10:54 Immune signaling, inflammation, and “sickness behavior”13:15 Hormones, blood sugar, cortisol, and metabolic pathways15:08 Microbial metabolites, short-chain fatty acids, and neurotransmitter terrain19:52 Clinical examples that show why mood and gut symptoms are inseparable21:30 Why this matters — and what’s coming in Part 2Links and resources:Join Calm Gut, Clear Mind: A 21-Day Journey to Restore Your Gut, Balance Your Hormones & Soothe Your Nervous System: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-startedListen to Episode 4. Why Healing Your Gut Is the First Step to Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/47733e90-298c-4bfb-bd76-46b443dd26a4/Listen to Episode 6. What Happens in Vagus: The Missing Link to Resilience, Digestion & Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b278c36f-eb4e-4004-9cea-44bd78a8db8e/Listen to Episode 15. Inflammatory Depression: What’s Really Behind Low Mood in Perimenopause: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5abc8dca-592f-45c9-8c79-9d31e3327c62/Listen to Episode 43. What Depression Really Is and What It Isn’t: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/448f31be-d209-41f3-a5f5-9a33be355b34/Listen to Episode 45. How Depression Heals: The Therapeutic Order for Mind, Body, and Spirit: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b16d549c-c78e-47b1-b6dd-17ae3f631d3f/Listen to Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/eef0556d-c3cf-41e5-b944-ef8a3b8a3c8a/Listen to Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/21b28c90-b987-4658-8429-87e06d3cc1ba/Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Movement is one of the most powerful tools we have to support our health—especially in midlife—but only when we stop forcing it and start using it intentionally.In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I unpack what I truly mean by movement as medicine. This isn’t about workouts, punishment, or doing more. It’s about understanding how movement supports your nervous system, mood, hormones, lymphatic flow, and overall vitality when it’s done in a way that’s attuned to your body.This episode is especially for you if exercise has ever felt overwhelming, confusing, or disconnected from how your body actually feels.In this episode, we cover:01:08 How I understand movement through the Seeds of Health03:14 Why movement is foundational for physical and nervous system health05:24 Why “movement as medicine” is different from “movement is medicine”09:13 How movement influences mood, stress, and depression11:38 The power of micro-movements throughout the day19:25 Why weight-bearing movement becomes essential in midlife23:54 The psoas as a key nervous system muscle28:08 Using yoga and stretching to support regulation and flexibility31:43 How movement supports lymphatic flow and detoxification34:22 Why rest and recovery are part of the medicine37:49 Walking and time in nature as underestimated healing tools42:59 Daily movement essentials that are realistic and sustainableLinks and resources:Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if depression isn’t something to silence but something asking to be understood?In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I continue our two-part conversation on depression in midlife by shifting from definition to healing. Instead of focusing on quick fixes or symptom suppression, I walk you through how depression actually heals when we work with the body, the nervous system, and the deeper transitions that often surface in midlife.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why depression often looks different in midlife02:28 Moving from symptom suppression to real pathways of healing04:28 How I use the therapeutic order to guide healing in layers07:05 Why safety and stabilization come first for the nervous system10:51 The foundational practices that quietly shape mood every day15:36 How the gut–brain axis and inflammation influence depression18:39 Hormonal shifts in perimenopause and menopause that affect mood22:47 Mitochondrial health, nutrients, and why emotional fatigue is often physical24:33 What depletion really looks like and how repletion restores capacity25:07 Food as medicine and nourishing mood without shame or perfection28:10 Psychotherapy, mindfulness, and working with the inner landscape31:04 Botanical medicine and homeopathy as gentle nervous system supports35:02 Medication and psychedelic therapies: when they help and how I think about them39:17 Why community, connection, and ritual matter for healingLinks and resources:Listen to Episode 43: What Depression Really Is and What It Isn’t: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/448f31be-d209-41f3-a5f5-9a33be355b34/The Psychobiotic Revolution: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35210457-the-psychobiotic-revolutionConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.#depression #mentalheath #midlifewomen

Today, we explore what it really means to feel emotions—not analyze them, suppress them, or power through them—but experience them safely in the body with Jenn Rapkin, a naturopathic physician, body worker, and author of The Feeling Muscle.This is a deep, grounded conversation about felt emotion, nervous system regulation, and why so many of us were never taught how to sit with hard feelings. We talk about emotional waves, co-regulation, body-based healing, and why midlife can be such a powerful (and overwhelming) invitation to reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.If you’ve ever been told you’re “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” or that your feelings are something to manage or minimize, this episode offers a completely different way forward.In this episode, we cover:01:09 What felt emotion actually means (and why it’s different from thinking about feelings)02:11 Dr. Jenn Rapkin’s path into naturopathic medicine and body-centered healing05:33 What it means to be a “frequent feeler”08:32 Why naming emotions in the body is so empowering14:10 Cultural messages that teach us to suppress hard feelings19:05 The many ways we avoid emotion without realizing it22:00 How body work helps unlock emotional healing27:16 Learning to ride emotional waves instead of fearing them29:41 Why co-regulation matters when feelings feel overwhelming31:12 A personal story of grief, lockdown, and emotional overflow33:43 Breathwork as a gentle bridge between mind and body38:53 Navigating anxiety and panic through felt experience46:45 What it really means to strengthen your “feeling muscle”49:51 Midlife overwhelm, resilience, and emotional capacity59:01 Why mindfulness is foundational in naturopathic medicineLinks and resources:The Feeling Muscle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FZDW1R2MConnect with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND:Website: https://drjennrapkin.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennrapkin/Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.#emotionalhealing #mentalhealthawareness #menopausejourney

What if depression isn’t a personal failure—or even a single diagnosis—but a message from the body, the nervous system, and the life you’re living?In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I share one of the most personal and important conversations of my career. Drawing from my clinical work, my background in psychology and naturopathic medicine, and my own lived experience with depression—especially through perimenopause—this episode is about redefining what depression actually is…and what it isn’t.In this episode, we cover:01:03 Why this episode matters to me, both personally and professionally01:58 Redefining depression: what it truly is (and what it’s not)02:49 An important safety note and how to think about suicidal thoughts with clarity and care06:33 What depression can actually feel like in the body, especially in midlife16:17 The clinical lens: diagnoses, labels, and where they fall short22:45 Why depression is almost always multifactorial (body, mind, and environment)32:21 Real patient examples that show how different root causes can look the same on the surfaceLinks and resources:Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547Listen to Episode 03. Midlife and the Nervous System: Building Resilience Step by Step: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/03-midlife-and-the-nervous-system-building/id1790365046?i=1000684966973 Listen to Episode 32. What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/32-what-your-doctor-might-be-missing-about-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000728187600Listen to Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942Listen to Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/42-the-cortisol-cure-healing-hormones-by-working/id1790365046?i=1000741654413Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if stress isn’t the problem—but the way we’ve been taught to override our bodies instead of listening to them?In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and colleague Dr. Erin Kinney, a licensed naturopathic doctor, stress-reset expert, and author of the upcoming book The Cortisol Cure. Together, we unpack one of the most misunderstood hormones in women’s health: cortisol.In this episode, we cover:01:50 Meeting Dr. Erin Kinney and how her own burnout shaped her work03:17 Her path into naturopathic medicine and stress-based healing07:58 Why cortisol isn’t “bad” and what it actually does for your body10:15 What inspired The Cortisol Cure and why the timing matters now14:24 Understanding the stress response in real-life terms20:06 The difference between spending energy and earning it back25:28 Why true rest is essential (and why scrolling doesn’t count)26:32 Small daily habits that rebuild healthy cortisol rhythms30:28 How blood sugar, meals, and nutrition affect stress hormones32:46 Supplements and adaptogens that can support adrenal health35:00 Personal stories of burnout, recovery, and nervous system healing37:07 Reconnecting with joy, creativity, and what truly restores you42:29 Final reflections and where to learn more from Dr. KinneyConnect with Dr. Erin Kinney:Website: www.thekinneyclinic.comInstagram: @drkinney The Cortisol Cure VIP list link: https://www.thekinneyclinic.com/bookPodcast: https://www.thekinneyclinic.com/podcastConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if depression isn’t a flaw or a chemical imbalance but a doorway into understanding your physiology, your history, and your deepest unmet needs?In Part 2 of this powerful two-episode series, I turn inward and share my personal journey with depression, including the moments that brought me to my knees and the practices that helped me rise again. If you’ve ever felt numb, disconnected, misunderstood by the medical system, or overwhelmed by your own healing process, this episode will help you understand your experience with more compassion, context, and hope.In this episode, we cover:01:03 A personal story of depression and what it taught me05:09 The daily habits that began to bring me back to myself09:07 How gratitude and coherence shift the nervous system toward healing11:42 What emotional blunting from SSRIs really feels like15:10 What the research reveals about alternative treatments for depression18:15 How to approach mental health through gut, hormones, trauma & spirit25:23 Closing reflections, next steps, and where to find supportLinks and resources:Listen to Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/eef0556d-c3cf-41e5-b944-ef8a3b8a3c8a/Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5eab1c4-7d69-4b30-ae72-a8aa8eefb242/Listen to Episode 15. Inflammatory Depression: What’s Really Behind Low Mood in Perimenopause: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5abc8dca-592f-45c9-8c79-9d31e3327c62/Listen to Episode 16. The Gut-Brain Anxiety Loop: Healing Anxiety from the Inside Out: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/67758b78-8cb3-4870-abfa-1aff7e7fd91b/Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signupSeeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalThe Work by Byron Katie: https://thework.com/Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if everything you’ve been told about serotonin and depression was incomplete or entirely wrong?In this two-part episode, I open a deep, necessary conversation about SSRIs, the serotonin theory, and what depression actually is on a physiological level. So many women are handed antidepressants without any exploration of hormones, inflammation, trauma physiology, gut health, nutrient status, or nervous system state—leaving them confused when the medication doesn’t work, stops working, or creates new symptoms they weren’t warned about.This episode is not anti-medication—it is pro–informed consent, pro-truth, and pro-root-cause healing. If you’ve ever wondered why you don’t feel better on an SSRI, why you feel numb instead of stable, why withdrawal feels impossible, or whether you were given the full truth—this episode will be deeply validating.In this episode, we cover:01:03 What if everything we’ve been told about serotonin is wrong?03:01 Depression: the full-body condition no one explained to you08:40 SSRIs: what they actually do—and what they don’t17:55 Withdrawal or relapse? The part women are never warned about28:02 Why this matters: A personal story I’ve never shared beforeLinks and resources:Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5eab1c4-7d69-4b30-ae72-a8aa8eefb242/Listen to Episode 39. SIBO Isn’t the Problem: Healing the Terrain, Not the Germ (Bloating & Weight Gain in Midlife): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ce8800d2-f90a-41b8-9fc5-b0e531dd9117/Listen to Episode 3. Midlife and the Nervous System: Building Resilience Step by Step: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b9bd11d6-c86a-45ee-aa19-b7d7ab6685f1/Listen to Episode 28. Burnout Isn’t Just in Your Head (It’s in Your Hormones, Nervous System, and Soul): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2547475f-7323-4fca-955f-b370a0b62b37/Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

What if healing chronic illness isn’t about chasing symptoms but understanding the deeper terrain of your body, your nervous system, and even your story?In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I sit down with my long-time mentor and colleague, Dr. Ginger Nash, whose work has shaped so much of how I practice today. We explore the complexity of chronic illness, the layered wisdom of homeopathy, and why so many women in perimenopause and menopause experience a powerful awakening—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.If you’ve been craving a deeper, more nuanced understanding of healing, this conversation will feel like coming home to something you’ve always known but haven’t yet put into words.In this episode, we cover:04:23 Dr. Nash’s personal journey into naturopathic medicine09:30 Why chronic illness is never one-dimensional15:40 Homeopathy explained in a grounded, practical way25:02 Low Dose Immunotherapy and when it actually helps30:03 Perimenopause, sensitivity, and the “overflowing bucket”30:57 Trauma, nervous system patterns, and subconscious beliefs32:22 How perimenopause becomes a catalyst for powerful change33:14 Breath work, bilateral stimulation, and deeper healing tools34:39 Why your body needs stability before doing deeper work35:19 How naturopathic practice evolves as practitioners evolve38:08 The real differences between functional medicine and naturopathy42:56 Professional training, complex homeopathy, and advanced tools47:38 The wisdom that emerges during life’s biggest transitionsConnect with Dr. Ginger Nash:Website: https://www.gingernash.com/ Improved Outcomes in Complex Chronic Illness: Training for Professionals: https://www.gingernash.com/trainingSubstack: https://substack.com/@gingernashYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc9BAXcWddAc8IlYL5Df5lAConnect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.