In this episode, Anuradha Gupta (She/her) joins us for an insightful conversation as an active and passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights who is also a dedicated Ayurvedic Practitioner. We explore the intersection of holistic healthcare and LGBTQ+ advocacy by highlighting the significance of acceptance, support, and love for LGBTQ+ individuals. Discover how ancient wisdom and active advocacy in our modern times can amplify the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.

Anuradha Gupta, is not only a devoted practitioner of Ayurveda but a serene meditator and a staunch ally of the gender & sexually expansive community. Anuradha's unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is evident through her ongoing involvement with nonprofits like Free Mom Hugs and her invaluable service on the board of a local PFLAG Chapter. Her life's mission is to promote equality for all LGBTQ+ individuals by showcasing the harmonious blend between ancient Vedic wisdom and present day queer & trans existence. 

Show Highlights:

·    Ancient Wisdom for Modern Health: Anuradha Gupta shares her journey and how she drew inspiration from Ayurveda, deeply rooted in the Vedic tradition of India.

·    Holistic Approach of Ayurveda: Ayurveda emphasizes balance on all levels of mind, body, and spirit by recognizing each person's unique combination of physiological, psychological, and spiritual elements.

·    Ayurveda as Complementary Healthcare: These ancient practices complement conventional medicine by focusing on disease prevention, holistic wellness, and enhancing one’s vitality throughout their lifespan..

·    Mental Well-being in Ayurveda: Ayurveda prioritizes mental health, offering practices for stress management, emotional balance, and mental well-being.

·    Supporting LGBTQ+ Community: Anuradha Gupta underscores the importance of providing holistic and inclusive healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community with Ayurveda's integrative approach.

·    Overcoming Challenges: Addressing the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in healthcare and society, Anuradha Gupta emphasizes the need for safe spaces and acceptance.

·    Advocacy and Research: Anuradha Gupta discusses the significance of advocacy and research in holistic healthcare, aiming to make the profession of Ayurveda more LGBTQ+ friendly.

·    Empowering Parents: Advice for parents supporting LGBTQ+ children: love them for who they tell you they are, accept them, and be their advocates. Seek resources and affirming therapists for understanding, guidance, and support.

·    Addressing Discriminatory Laws: Condemnation of politicians promoting discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and the call for leadership to prioritize equity, inclusiveness, and the rights of marginalized communities globally.

·    Connecting with Self and the World: Anuradha Gupta shares her personal journey of connecting with herself and the world at large which is essential for creating positive and lasting change.

·    Future Goals: Aspirations to bring change to the Ministry of AYUSH in India and collaborate with organizations like the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) to make alternative healthcare more LGBTQ+-friendly.

Anuradha Gupta’s Articles: 

1. Happy Pride: How Meditation Helps Create an Inclusive World- https://www.artofliving.org/us-en/meditation/beginners-guide/gay-pride-month?fbclid=IwAR3Zd4ygmvzmzLSsy_vwQcahKmFGDeyaYMhdmAjVBaA5BmnK9oDDPC6NLsY 
2. 5 Tips to Create an LGBTQ+ Friendly Wellness Space- https://www.keralaayurveda.us/courses/5-tips-to-create-an-lgbtq-friendly-wellness-space/?fbclid=IwAR24CEZejfWUOcMnwAYd4O16JqJtnRO8txZ-xmqODS9IMzqYwXIn5rYUO6M 

Contact Anuradha Gupta via Instagram at @anew_gupta.

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