In this episode, Dr. Avanti and Dr. Ramani discuss the complexities of narcissistic relationships, emphasizing the emotional and physiological toll on those involved. Dr. Ramani highlights the importance of recognizing patterns of narcissistic abuse and the significant impact on mental health. They explore why people stay in these relationships and provide insights into healing and rebuilding one's sense of self. Their conversation also touches on identifying early warning signs and maintaining boundaries in new relationships.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti and fashion designer Maria Pinto discuss the impact of clothing on well-being, highlighting how thoughtful choices can empower women. Maria shares insights from her career in fashion and explores the concepts of seductive, constructive, and destructive aspects of fashion. They emphasize self-awareness, intentionality, and sustainability in curating a wardrobe that supports health and confidence.
Hello, beautiful friends! This week, Dr. Avanti takes a break to celebrate the 4th of July holiday. Take this time to unwind, revel in the holiday spirit, and soak up those summer vibes with your friends and family. See you all next week!
Today, Madeline Reeves joins Dr. Avanti for another episode of the "Five Questions" series. They discuss the Ayurvedic approach to transitioning into summer, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature. The episode explores managing Pitta dosha through dietary adjustments, skin care routines, and mindful practices. Their conversation highlights the significance of cooling and hydrating foods, gentle exercises, and sun protection. Dr. Avanti also shares practical tips and DIY remedies for maintaining balance and well-being during the hot summer months.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti is joined by the co-founder and CEO of Whole30, Melissa Urban, to discuss the origins and evolution of the Whole30 program, emphasizing its focus on habit and behavior change rather than weight loss. Melissa shares insights into the program's growth, the importance of community support, and how Whole30 has adapted over the years to be more inclusive. They also explore the program's benefits for women in menopause and the significance of setting personal boundaries. Their conversation highlights the parallels between Whole30 and Ayurvedic principles in promoting holistic health and well-being.
Today, Dr. Tanmeet Sethi joins Dr. Avanti on another Ignite episode. They discuss the concept of transitions, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and navigating these liminal spaces in our lives and how they affect our health. They explore how transitions are marked by changes in seasons, life stages, and personal experiences, drawing from Ayurvedic principles to provide a holistic perspective. Their conversation highlights the need for self-compassion, intentional rituals, and community support to manage transitions effectively. They share personal anecdotes and practical advice, offering valuable insights into embracing change with grace and resilience.
Today, Dr. Avanti has a deep conversation with award winning stuntwoman, Kimberly Shannon Murphy, discussing her journey of healing from trauma through her career as a stuntwoman and the therapeutic use of psychedelics. Kimberly shares insights on the impact of intergenerational familial trauma and the importance of authenticity in the healing process. She also highlights the transformative power of storytelling and writing her memoir, "Glimmer," as a means of reclaiming her truth. Together, they explore how movement, and self-awareness can serve as powerful tools for emotional recovery.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti welcomes integrative pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song to discuss the mental health of children and teenagers. They explore the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among youth, emphasizing the critical role of the gut-brain connection. Dr. Elisa shares insights on the impact of the microbiome on mental well-being, the significance of resilience over static wellness, and practical tips for parents. Their conversation also highlights the importance of the vagus nerve and heart rate variability in maintaining mental health.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti and body positivity coach Kelsey Ellis discuss the evolution and deeper meaning of body positivity, emphasizing its roots in inclusivity for marginalized bodies. They explore the limitations of BMI as a health indicator and advocate for a holistic approach to health that includes nutrition, movement, mental health, and sleep. Kelsey shares practical steps for fostering body acceptance and self-compassion, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and connect with their inner selves. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and challenging societal beauty standards, promoting body liberation, and the interconnectedness of individual and collective healing.
Today, Dr. Avanti engages in a deep and revealing conversation with John Schu, discussing his journey through personal challenges and his transformative relationship with literature and storytelling. John shares poignant insights into his childhood struggles with an eating disorder and how these experiences were channeled into his writing, particularly in his New York Times bestselling book "Louder Than Hunger." They discuss the therapeutic role of narrative in both reading and writing, and how presenting his story in verse format aids emotional processing. John's reflections emphasize the healing power of storytelling and its impact on personal expression and recovery.
In another Ignite episode, Dr. Avanti and Dr. Tanmeet delve into managing stress and enhancing mental well-being amidst global challenges. They discuss the importance of recognizing and regulating emotional states through practices like mindful breathing and meditation. The conversation emphasizes establishing personal rituals for stability and making small, actionable steps to cope with stress. They also highlight the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritizing sleep as essential strategies for maintaining mental health.
Dr. Avanti is hosting a special giveaway! Don't miss out—tune in to learn how you can win one of ten books from the incredible integrative medicine and wellness experts who have been guests on the podcast.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti engages Dr. Claudia Welch in an insightful discussion about menopause from an Ayurvedic perspective. Dr. Welch elaborates on menopause as a significant life transition, comparing it to the four stages of life, emphasizing its spiritual, emotional, and physical dimensions. She critically examines hormone therapy, advocating for a personalized and cautious approach and shares Ayurvedic practices and herbal remedies that soothe and balance the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness, joint pain and weight gain. Their conversation highlights the importance of community support and the role of Ayurveda in navigating menopause effectively.
Today, Dr. Avanti and well-being expert Tara Stiles engage in a profound conversation about the transformative power of softness in both yoga and everyday life. They challenge the societal norms that glorify strength and rigidity, highlighting how softness fosters deeper connections with the self and others, and enhances resilience and well-being. Tara shares personal experiences and her insights from working with thousands of students on integrating softness into practice, revealing its potential to empower and bring ease amidst life's challenges.
In this episode, Dr. Avanti and Feng Shui Master, Dana Claudat, explore the profound impact of spring cleaning and decluttering through a Feng Shui lens, emphasizing its benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. They discuss the significance of aligning with the energy of spring to rejuvenate and clear spaces, utilizing natural elements and intentional rearrangements to enhance life's flow and vitality. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they reveal how such practices can lead to joy, discovery of lost items, and a refreshing sense of renewal.
Dr. Avanti and Dr. Tanmeet delve into the crucial topic of sleep, discussing its mechanics, the impact of light and hormones, and practical strategies for improving sleep quality. They emphasize the importance of syncing with natural light cycles, establishing a consistent bedtime routine, and managing caffeine and alcohol intake. The conversation also highlights the significance of addressing both the mind and heart before sleep, suggesting techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, yoga nidra, and emotional check-ins to facilitate a restful state. They advocate for viewing sleep not as a passive state but as an active process of repair and rejuvenation, emphasizing it as an act of self-care and love.
Today, Dr. Avanti is joined by Kaamna Bhojwani to discuss the often-taboo subject of sexual health, particularly from the perspective of South Asian women. Growing up in a progressive family in Bombay, Kaamna was encouraged to embrace her experiences as normal and safe, a stark contrast to the conservative upbringing common among South Asian immigrants. Kamna discusses the universal challenges and cultural nuances of addressing sexual health, highlighting the importance of education, open communication, and self-exploration. Her work aims to dismantle misconceptions and empower individuals to reclaim their sexual well-being, advocating for a more informed and liberated approach to sexuality across cultures.
Today launches the "Five Questions" Series, addressing spring-related listener queries with Dr. Avanti and Madeline Reeves. They delve into the transformative power of spring, discussing the significance of aligning lifestyle and dietary habits with the season's energetic shift. They emphasize the importance of lightening the diet, incorporating warm, cooked foods, and engaging in invigorating exercises to shake off winter's heaviness. The conversation also highlights the benefits of morning journaling for setting intentions and fostering self-awareness, alongside practical tips for managing seasonal allergies through Ayurvedic practices. Their conversation highlights the holistic approach to wellness, blending mindful consumption with routines that honor the body's natural rhythms.
In today’s conversation, Dr. Avanti and Ashley Carter, a Registered Dietician, delve into the profound impact of cultural nutrition, food stories, and access to healthy food options on the health of Black communities. Ashley shares her personal journey from growing up in a food desert with family health challenges to becoming a registered dietitian committed to culturally sensitive health education. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and preserving cultural food traditions because they hold our stories and memories. Ashley also discusses how food culture and story affect healthier eating, highlighting the work of Eat Well Exchange in providing nutrition education, culinary classes, and food access programs tailored to community needs.
Dr. Avanti is joined by return guest, Dr. Tanmeet Sethi to delve into the complexities of habit formation and the common pitfalls of New Year's resolutions. They explore the neuroscience behind habits, emphasizing the role of self-compassion over self-criticism in fostering sustainable change. Their conversation highlights the importance of aligning habit formation with natural rhythms and seasons. For example, although winter is often seen as a time for new beginnings, it may be better suited for reflection and rest. They explore practical strategies for habit change, such as making the desired action easy and enjoyable, and reframe "failure" as a valuable part of the learning process.