The Joyous Health Podcast

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy McCarthy sits down with Amber Romaniuk, an emotional eating, digestive, and hormone expert. Amber shares her personal journey of overcoming binge eating from gaining and losing over 1000lbs and spending over $50,000 on binge foods. She offers valuable strategies for breaking the cycle.    From addressing emotional triggers to implementing self-care practices, this conversation provides valuable insights for those struggling with binge eating. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the connection between hormones, emotions, and food, and discover how to cultivate body confidence and optimal health.    Episode Highlights: [00:00:37] Emotional eating and hormones. [00:10:09] Triggers for binge eating. [00:14:37] Emotional healing and sugar addiction. [00:24:35] Binge eating and overeating. [00:27:53] Signs of triggering binge eating. [00:31:08] Breaking certain unhealthy habits with children. [00:33:19] Setting good eating habits. [00:37:38] Hormones and binge eating. [00:40:10] Overcoming guilt and self-awareness. [00:43:31] Body awareness and healing. [00:46:41] Digestive aids and emotional triggers.   Resources:  Find Amber on Instagram Amber's Website Amber's Podcast   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok  

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy McCarthy interviews Natalie von Teichman, the creator of the first meditation stuffie for kids. Natalie shares her expertise in children's mental health and discusses the importance of mindfulness for children. She also opens up about her own experience with COVID-19 and the impact it had on her mental health.  As a mom of four boys and an entrepreneur, Natalie understands the challenges of balancing a busy schedule with self-care. She offers valuable insights and holistic-minded practical tips on how to incorporate mindfulness practices into our hectic lives, helping us find moments of calm and joy amidst the chaos. She emphasizes the need to treat mental fitness with the same level of importance as physical fitness. Just as we prioritize our physical health through exercise and self-care, we should also prioritize our mental well-being by practicing strategies and exercises to strengthen it. Don't miss this insightful conversation about supporting children's well-being through mindfulness.   Episode Highlights: [00:01:48] Importance of mindfulness for children. [00:04:14] Times of isolation and lockdown. [00:07:53] Mental health and COVID symptoms. [00:11:09] Children's mental health. [00:19:34] Meditation and overcoming anxiety. [00:23:01] Conscious breathing and meditation. [00:27:33] Mindfulness for kids. [00:30:23] Transitioning to parasympathetic state. [00:34:08] Sensory stimulation for kids. [00:37:35] Mesh toys for mental health. [00:41:09] Creating a meaningful business. [00:44:36] Box breathing and race car driving.   Resources: Learn more about Miindfully Find Miindfully Meditate on Instagram Use code JOYOUS15 to save on a MediTate stuffie   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok

This week Joy chats with Kena Perenjapai, the founder of All You Are. The conversation with Kena was truly inspiring and motivating. Joy was deeply moved by Kena's journey and her remarkable ability to overcome challenging situations and find her purpose. She shares the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, even through difficult situations, finding purpose and connecting with your inner spark.   Tune in to be inspired and motivated to discover your own passions and empower yourself.   Episode Highlights: [00:01:29] Maintaining a positive mindset. [00:03:43] Transitioning in career paths. [00:08:05] Following nudges and taking action. [00:12:25] Finding positivity through adversity. [00:15:42] Advice for difficult situations. [00:19:22] Wearing a dress at the hospital. [00:23:02] Purpose and fulfillment in life. [00:30:37] Finding your inner spark. [00:34:05] Shifting energy and mindset. [00:37:59] Journey back to happiness. [00:41:32] Finding gratitude in tough times. [00:45:43] Meditation with young children.   Resources: Kena on Instagram Her coaching business: All You Are.  More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy welcomes Jill, a registered nurse and certified functional medicine practitioner, who is on a mission to change the way we approach menopause and aging. Jill believes that it is possible for midlife women to feel vibrant, happy, healthy, balanced, sexy, and strong. She guides women to greater well-being by addressing the root cause of their symptoms and educating them about their bodies. Join Joy and Jill as they discuss the importance of taking small steps towards better health and embracing the notion that aging doesn't have to mean decline.   Episode Highlights: [00:00:39] Embracing Aging and Menopause. [00:03:34] Hormones and perimenopause. [00:07:38] The journey of menopause. [00:11:33] Lifestyle habits for menopause. [00:16:18] Sleep and menopause. [00:18:41] Hormones and sleep issues. [00:20:44] Hormone replacement and progesterone cream. [00:25:13] Drawbacks of taking oral progesterone. [00:28:30] Hormone replacement therapy benefits. [00:32:23] Symptoms of estrogen plummeting. [00:36:48] Vaginal dryness and micro tears. [00:39:22] When should I start? [00:43:22] Testosterone and healthy aging. [00:44:39] Hormone support and body function. [00:48:05] The more people we can help.   Resources: Estrogen Matters Book Find Jill on Instagram Find Jill's website    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

This week Joy chats with Dr. Kwado Kyeremanteng, the department head of critical care at the Ottawa Hospital. He shares his insights on the importance of finding the leader within oneself and the courage to be authentic, even if you're not in a leadership role. He discusses his new book, "Unapologetic Leadership," and inspires listeners with his stories and energy.  Dr. K also talks about his work in caring for the sickest patients in the ICU and his research on improving ICU resources and access to palliative care. Don't miss this empowering conversation on finding courage and making a positive impact.   Episode Highlights: [00:02:25] Authentic leadership and courage. [00:04:51] Making decisions from our values. [00:09:32] People's unwavering belief systems. [00:12:30] Speaking up in challenging environments. [00:18:37] Authenticity and its impact. [00:28:16] Using rejection as fuel. [00:30:09] Developing a stomach for difficult decisions. [00:36:59] Managing stress and relaxation. [00:38:56] Leaning on your partner. [00:42:49] Improving healthcare and avoiding ICU.   Resources: Dr. K's new book: Unapologetic Leadership: Finding The Moral Courage To Do The Right Thing Dr. K on Instagram Dr. K on Tiktok Solving Healthcare Website Solving Healthcare Podcast   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

This week Joy chats with Dr. Rachel Schwartzman, a board certified and licensed naturopathic doctor, about perimenopause. They discuss the lack of information available on this topic and the various symptoms women experience during this time of transition. Dr. Rachel provides actionable steps for managing these symptoms and offers valuable insights into women's health and hormonal imbalances. Tune in to gain knowledge and take control of your health during perimenopause. This is definitely an episode where you'll want to take some notes, so settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready! Episode Highlights: [00:01:11] Lack of information on menopause.  [00:05:00] Common symptoms in perimenopause.  [00:09:37] Heavy periods and alarming symptoms.  [00:11:23] Body changes and societal pressure.  [00:15:19] Supporting testosterone with weight-bearing exercises.  [00:19:17] The Toxic 10 ingredients.  [00:23:09] The power of healthy fats.  [00:26:17] Clean estrogen and cruciferous vegetables.  [00:29:09] Fermented foods and vegan chili.  [00:33:14] Toxic cleaning products vs. natural alternatives.  [00:36:34] Natural health products.  [00:40:17] Herbs for nervous system support.  [00:45:11] Magnesium and its benefits.  [00:48:08] Conscious breathing and meditation.  Resources: Rachel's Website Rachels's Instagram  Rachel's Facebook   Dupont Family Clinic Website  JHP: Raising healthy eaters with Dr. Rachel Schwartzman    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  

This week Joy chats with Dr. Eric Korem, who has always been driven by a relentless pursuit of high performance as he's coached athletes from football players to Olympic athletes. As time progressed, that drive became a purpose — to improve the lives of others in ways they didn't know were possible. He did his PhD on sleep so he knows a thing or two about how to get better quality shut-eye and he's super passionate about helping others truly thrive.  If you want to learn more about how to get the best sleep of your life and boost your resilience to stress then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready–you'll want to make notes of his amazing advice! Episode Highlights:  Accuracy of wearable tech devices for sleep Breakdown of sleep stages and what hormones are involved  The power of sleep for immune health Testosterone and sleep The ideal number of hours of sleep 3 key sleep behaviours everyone needs to focus on Importance of having a consistent sleep schedule  How sunlight impacts hormones, mood and sleep How to get a better sleep  Tips to manage a racing mind aka monkey brain Dr. Korem's fave app to help you relax, focus and sleep How to make stress your friend How to boost your stress resiliency  The power of strength training  Optic flow: What happens when you're walking Dr. Korem's app AIM 7   Resources: Dr. Korem on Instagram Dr. Korem's website  Dr. Korem on LinkedIn  Dr. Korem on Facebook Dr. Korem's podcast  Round up of accuracy of wearable devices  Endel: App to help you focus, relax and sleep  The Joy of Movement Book Aim 7   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  

This week, Joy chats with Matt Maruca who is the founder and CEO of Ra Optics, a company that teaches people about the essential role that light plays in health and develops advanced light therapy-based products. He founded Ra Optics after a decade-long personal health journey that ultimately led him to light. The discovery that we are ultimately beings of light has led him to a profound interest in the nature of consciousness and existence itself. In this episode Matt shares how he cultivates his inner light everyday and how you can take steps to begin letting your inner light shine. You'll love hearing about his perspective on walking and why he's decided to do the Camino de Santiago. Matt is such a joy to speak with, so we know you're going to love this episode! If you want to learn more about what it means to have an internal light and how to cultivate it daily, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired by Matt's incredible outlook on life!   Episode Highlights: How Matt's health issues inspired him to explore the healing power of light.  His process of believing his issues were genetic to things he could change. Why the internal aspect of light is as important as external light.  The damaging effects of functioning from a place of fear.  Actionable suggestions to begin cultivating your inner light.  The importance of meal timing to promote sleep and circadian rhythm.  How changing our thoughts can change how we live our life.  Why how we start our morning sets the foundation for our energy for the rest of the day.  The importance of catching when you slip into problem consciousness so you can shift to opportunity consciousness.  Why we need to embrace the energy of hope.  What the “cult of speed” is and why we need to reject it.  Hope requires willful action in order to create a new reality.  The book that inspired Matt to slow down, step outside of his comfort zone and explore the world.  The rejuvenating power of walking.  Why Matt decided to walk the Camino de Santiago.  The importance of being honest in all of your actions.  What Matt hopes to get out of his pilgrimage.    Resources: Ra Optics Website–use code Joyoushealth to save! Matt on Instagram Ra Optics on Instagram The Light Diet Podcast JHP: Using Light to Optimize Your Health with Matt Maruca   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Allison Tannis, a practicing Registered Holistic Nutritionist with a masters degree in Nutritional Sciences. She is the founder of Enthusiastic Nutrition Inc., a company specializing in witty Nutritional Communications Content. Allison has also written five nutrition books on topics ranging from probiotics to healthy aging and healthy foods for pregnancy. Passionate about making healthy eating easy, she's known for adding a dash of humour to her meticulous research, making it easy to swallow.   In this episode Allison shares her vast knowledge on the most amazing foods, supplements, and lifestyle tips to help you nourish your skin from within. You'll love her vibrant energy and ability to break down complex information into easily digestible tidbits that you can incorporate into your life right away.   If you want to learn more about how to feed your skin for a healthy glow no matter your age,  then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready–you'll want to make notes of her amazing advice!   Episode Highlights: What inspired Allison to pursue a career in holistic nutrition.  How she navigates contradictory scientific findings to find the truth in nutrition research. The importance of bio-individuality when it comes to choosing health habits that work for you.  What inspired her to explore the connection between the foods we eat and the health of our skin.  The danger of following health trends versus creating a sustainable lifestyle.  The connection between inflammation and aging skin.  Why we should cherish how we look every single day.  How a healthy glow reflects inner health and joy.  An interesting discussion of Botox and collagen injections. The role of internal and external hydration in skin health and wrinkles.  Why hyaluronic acid is a great skincare ingredient.  Her top supplement recommendations for skin health.  What to look for in omega-3 supplements. Why some ingredients are better when taken internally versus topically. Allison's favourite foods for skin health. Simple lifestyle habits that can promote healthy skin.  The nourishing power of plants.    Resources:   Allison on Instagram   Allison's Website   Allison on Facebook   Allison on Twitter   Shop Allison's Books    Allison's Tahini Salad Dressing   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Kate Taylor Martin, founder of nutbar, the world's first superfood cafe. While studying nutrition at the institute of holistic nutrition, Kate began to dream up a concept for a healthy cafe in Toronto–one which would replace the typical coffee shop fare of muffins, donuts and croissants with alternatives that were still delicious but also good for you. She built nutbar around a holistic approach to health and the basic foundation of focusing on real, whole food.   In this episode Kate shares how she was inspired to create a community space that served nourishing, whole foods to busy people on-the-go so they can truly thrive. She gets vulnerable about what it's like being a full-time entrepreneur and mom to three small children and the challenges of both. You'll love her practical tips for developing non-negotiable healthy living routines!   If you want to learn more about building your life's vision and living a life you're proud of, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cozy cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to follow your dreams!   Episode Highlights: Kate's wellness journey and how Joy inspired her to apply to IHN! How she found her wellness community through school. Her inspirational transition from studying nutrition to opening her first nutbar cafe. How being a little naive helped her take the leap into entrepreneurship.  Taste and health benefits of homemade nut milks vs. boxed nut milks How Kate built a brand as opposed to just working in her business.  The cost of maintaining quality and commitment to organic products.  Her guide to eating well without restrictive labels.  What life looks like being a mom of three young kids and running her business. The things she needs to do to find equilibrium.  Kate's routines and the non-negotiables that changed her life.  The physical and psychological benefits of cold exposure and how to do it.  The impacts of modern day life on stress and health.  The foundation she builds at home to keep her kids healthy.  Why it's important to help kids build connections between what they eat and how they feel, without shame or restriction. What's next for nutbar. The one thing you must try when you go to nutbar.    Resources:   nutbar's Website    nutbar on Instagram     nutbar TikTok   nutbar Locations    barmilk luxurious nutmilk    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Brandi Garden, the co-founder of Eversio Wellness, a family-owned and operated, Canadian mushroom wellness company. Together with her husband, her hope is to foster a world that seeks natural options to help treat the root cause of health problems and to upgrade everyday moments. She loves mushrooms because they can change natural ecosystems and people's lives in so many meaningful ways. She looks forward to a day when our education systems will include the importance of fungi as a part of the curriculum.  In this episode Brandi shares her vast knowledge on all things medicinal mushrooms and how you can incorporate them into your routine to improve everything from stress resilience to sleep quality to immunity. She also highlights what to look for when it comes to purchasing high quality supplements that actually work so you're not wasting your money. You'll finish this episode feeling educated and empowered to start incorporating these functional fungi into your life. If you want to understand how medicinal mushrooms can support lasting health, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to soak up Brandi's mushroom wisdom!    Episode Highlights: Brandi's health journey that led her to discover a passion for medicinal mushrooms.  How her psoriasis evolved into psoriatic arthritis.  Her experience with immuno-suppressant drugs.   Why she finally decided to stop taking pharmaceuticals.  How she made over her diet and lifestyle to get to the root cause of her health issues. The importance of gut health for autoimmune disease.  The empowerment of neurogenesis.  Scientific research on lion's mane for brain health.  The difference between mycelium and fruiting bodies.  How to grow potent mushrooms vs. cost cutting methods.  The importance of taking extracts for health benefits.  Health benefits of cordyceps mushrooms.  Why dual extraction is important for medicinal mushrooms.  The molecules that pass the blood-brain barrier for nerve growth. The rigorous testing process all Eversio products go through.  Everything you need to know about reishi.  What you need to know about cordyceps and fertility (learn more here). The importance of voting with your dollar and paying for quality.  What it's like working with her husband every day.  Why she wants to see fungi incorporated into school curriculums.  How much more there is to learn about the health benefits of mushrooms.   Resources: Eversio on Instagram Brandi on Instagram Eversio's Website–Use code JOYOUS to save 15%! Eversio on Facebook  Eversio on TikTok Eversio on YouTube   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Dr. Elisa Song, a Stanford-, NYU-, UCSF-trained holistic pediatrician. She integrates conventional pediatrics with functional medicine, holistic nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and essential oils. She founded Whole Family Wellness, an integrative pediatric practice in Belmont, CA – one of the first and most highly regarded holistic pediatric practices in the country. She has helped thousands of kids get to the root causes of their health concerns and helped their parents understand how to heal their children from the inside out using an integrative pediatric approach. In this episode Dr. Song shares tons of incredible tips and actionable steps that you can take to support the microbiome and overall health of your kids. But even if you don't have kiddos, this episode is still great to listen to since anyone can benefit from making the same dietary and lifestyle shifts, no matter their age. You'll walk away feeling empowered to make the changes you need for you and your family to thrive! If you want to learn about the connection between your child's gut health, immune system, and the development of chronic childhood disease, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa gut-nourishing tea and get ready to be inspired to heal your child's gut, naturally.    Episode Highlights: What being a holistic, integrative pediatrician means to Dr. Song. How she became interested in a holistic approach to pediatrics.  Why she's moving away from the term “chronic” in her practice.  The roadmaps she's found to help children recover from illness.  The shocking stats around persistent childhood illnesses and mental health.  Why our children are expected to have a shorter life expectancy than us.  The power of epigenetics for changing our future health.  Markers that can predict risk of autoimmune disease.  The importance of the microbiome in the development of autoimmunity.  How kid's microbiomes develop from birth to teenage years. Dr. Song's process for examining gut health in kids. How to support the microbiome after antibiotic or medication exposures.  The gut-brain connection and the vagus nerve.  How to strengthen the resilience of the microbiome through the vagus nerve.  The power of breath & mindfulness for vagus nerve health.  Tips for fun mindful moments to practice with your child.  How the gut and immune system are connected.  Why babies get reflux & why antacids are not the best treatment.  How mom's stress can impact baby's reflux.  Dietary tips to support kid's microbiomes and keep them happy and healthy.  Lifestyle changes that can support a healthy microbiome.   Resources: Dr. Song on Instagram Healthy Kids, Happy Kids Website Dr. Song on Facebook Tiny Health: At Home Gut Test Colbie Caillat, Common, & Elmo Breathing Video   Free Guides: The 5 Rs to Heal Your Child's Leaky Gut Choosing Your Child's Probiotic Food as Medicine for Immune Resilience   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Samantha Gladish, a Hormone Nutritionist, with a speciality in metabolic and thyroid health. She is author of the Amazon bestseller, The 30-Day Hormone Solution and the host of one of Canada's top-rated podcasts, The Wellness Witch. She is the founder of HolisticWellness.ca; a website dedicated to helping women optimize their health and hormones. In her spare time, you can find her baking up delicious healthy treats in her kitchen and getting woo-woo with tarot cards, plant medicine and diving into spiritual growth. In this episode Samantha dives deep into plant medicines such as ayahuasca and psilocybin and how they can be used to access your intuition and spirituality. She shares her experiences in ceremony with these plant medicines and the amazing lessons she has learned along the way. You'll love how Samantha weaves the scientific with the experiential in this episode!  If you have ever been curious about plant medicines and whether they might be right for you, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with your favourite cuppa tea and get ready to dive into the mystical world of plant medicines.    Episode Highlights: Why Samantha evolved her focus from solely hormonal health to embodying the woo woo of the Wellness Witch.  Her relationship with spirituality and astrology.  How slowing down and blocking out the noise helped her connect with spirit.  The power of nature for soothing the nervous system. An explanation of ayahuasca, DMT, and spiritual experiences.  How ayahuasca can physically support the body as well as spirit.   Samantha's experiences in ayahuasca ceremony. Why each ceremonial experience is unique to the individual. The connection between DMT and plant medicine healing.  How ayahuasca allowed her to access parts of herself to deeply heal.  Why integrating what comes up in ceremony is crucial for healing. The biggest lesson she learned from ceremony.  Plant medicine safety.  Why ayahuasca medicine needs to be passed down through a lineage.  What is psilocybin and how it's used as plant medicine.  How psilocybin is prepared in ceremony & Samantha's experiences with it.  How psilocybin & ayahuasca affect the body differently.  The difference between taking psilocybin in ceremony or as a microdose.  Her experience in ceremony with her husband.  The importance of finding a safe person to guide your ceremonies.  How her experiences with plant medicine have allowed her to connect to her intuition more deeply.  Who shouldn't take plant medicines.    Resources: Samanatha on Instagram Samantha's Website The 30 Day Hormone Solution Book Sign up for her Newsletter Wellness Witch Podcast Hormone Healing Programs Samantha on Facebook Samantha on YouTube   More about Joyous Health: ·   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health ·   Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks ·   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter ·   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram ·   Find Joyous Health on Facebook ·   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program ·   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. ·   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Mike Feldstein, CEO of Jaspr and a seasoned air quality expert and entrepreneur. He leveraged his experience in wildfire restoration and air quality consulting to found Jaspr, a premium air purifier company, to innovate in air science and technology. His purpose is to protect air quality and boost human health using the latest in air quality science and tech.  In this episode Mike shares his vast knowledge on all things indoor and outdoor air quality. He provides tons of actionable steps you can take to improve the air in your home, which can have big impacts on your sleep quality and overall health. We breathe roughly 17 000 litres of air per day and Mike's information will help you improve every breath If you want to learn how to improve the air quality in your home, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a gently detoxifying cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to improve the air that you breathe for long lasting health!   Episode Highlights: How outdoor air impacts indoor air quality long-term.  Mike's journey to becoming an air quality expert.  His experience cleaning homes after the Fort McMurray fire.  How long the air can stay contaminated after a wildfire. What inspired him to create a high quality at home air purifier.  How nose blindness can trick you into thinking your indoor air is clean.   The top things to be concerned about when it comes to indoor air quality.  How outdoor pollution varies from region to region.  How pets can impact air quality & how to improve it.  The relationship between mold and air quality.  Why cooking decreases air quality.  Why home energy efficiency is at odds with air quality. How to optimize your home to promote health.  How using an air purifier can improve sleep & health issues. Why we're unable to recover during sleep if air quality is poor.  The impact of clean bedroom air on seasonal allergy symptoms.  How to clean your air without an air purifier.  Why size does matter when it comes to air purifiers.  How often to clean your car filter annually.  When you should open your windows to optimize air quality.  How to lower CO2 levels in your home.   Resources: Jaspr on Instagram Jaspr Website Use code JOYOUS to save $200!  Jaspr on Facebook Mike on Instagram IQ Air Quality App   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on FacebookLearn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Bianca Osbourne, a trained chef and holistic nutritionist. She has come through the world of catering to her role as a resident chef and food expert on the popular Marilyn Denis show. She is also a blogger and podcaster. A child of Caribbean immigrants, the Edmonton, Canada native calls Toronto home where she teaches Food Media and Business at Centennial College.  In this episode Bianca shares her journey with eczema and healing her body from the itch and inflammation. She talks about the importance of emotions and how they affect your gut health can't be overlooked when healing. She also talks about the important connection between blood sugar balance and healthy skin. This is a very conversational, enjoyable chat; you're going to love listening to Bianca share her wisdom! If you want to learn how to get to the root cause of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-loving cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to take control of your health and healing!   Episode Highlights: How she developed eczema on her whole body & its link to stress.  The effects of using steroid cream on her skin.  Her decision to take her skin healing into her own hands.  The link between trauma and emotions and skin conditions like eczema.  How antibiotics impact skin health.  Why you need to manage stress in order to fully heal.  The power of breathwork for healing.  How stress influences gut health & the microbiome.  The link between blood glucose, sleep, and skin health.  How she intuitively shifted her diet to heal her skin.  The importance of becoming your own health advocate and being the expert of your own body.  How she manages flare ups and maintains her skin health.  The importance of healing your gut to support your skin.  The routine she follows for daily maintenance.  The link between blood sugar balance, menstrual health and skin health.  Signs that your blood sugar is not balanced.  How to use a glucose monitor to help manage your blood sugar balance.  Her supplement recommendations for skin health.    Resources: Bianca on Instagram Bianca's Website Bianca on YouTube Glow Up for the Gurls Podcast Glucose for the Gurls on TikTok The Glucose Glow Up Community Breathwork with MJ Renshaw   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Laura Di Lorenzo, the founder of Sunshine Mattress Co. - an online organic mattress experience that focuses on solving individual needs, concerns, and preferences. Sunshine products are handcrafted locally in Canada at a family-run facility that specializes in manufacturing organic mattresses and other textiles. Her mission is to educate on the importance of high-quality and clean products that you can feel good about getting into every night. After all, we sleep one third of our lives! In this episode Laura shares her wealth of knowledge on all things organic, clean mattresses and bedding. She gets into why you want to avoid polyurethane mattresses and the amazing natural alternatives that last ages and are great for you and the planet. You will walk away with all the tools you need to create the non-toxic, cozy bedroom of your dreams.  If you want to learn how to start replacing your bedding with nontoxic, earth-loving alternatives then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to turn your bedroom into a healing sanctuary!   Episode Highlights: How Laura became interested in clean beauty and reducing toxins in her life.  How she ended up starting Sunshine Mattress Co. during covid.  Her passion for educating people on the importance of a clean mattress and bedding.  What we're being exposed to when we're sleeping.  Issues with the mass produced mattress market.  The link between skin and health issues and petrochemicals in mattresses. The chemicals used in mattress and bedding production.  What to look for in a clean foam mattress.  The certifications and standards to look for when shopping for your bedding. Which certification is a sign of greenwashing.  Different types of eco-friendly ingredients for natural pillows. Misconceptions about wool and rubber bedding.  The perfect pillows for kids. How to take care of your mattress so it lasts longer.  Why it can be confusing to understand the different types of certifications.  Customer stories of health improvements after purchasing clean mattresses.  How you can customize your organic mattress for your unique needs. Laura's top tips for creating a peaceful, cozy bedroom sanctuary.    Resources: Sunshine Mattress Co. on Instagram Sunshine Mattress Co. on Facebook Sunshine Mattress Co. Website Sunshine Mattress Co. Blog   More about Joyous Health: ·   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health ·   Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks ·   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter ·   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram ·   Find Joyous Health on Facebook ·   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program ·   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. ·   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with James McCrae, author, poet, meme artist, and creative strategist based in Austin, Texas. In his writing and art, he applies the principles of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy to modern life with humor and candor. As the founder of Re-Creation Studio, James offers coaching and consultation services and teaches classes on conscious creativity. He also hosts Sunflower Club, a podcast that explores the intersection of creativity, consciousness, and culture.  In this episode James shares his unique take on the relationship between creativity and spirituality. He discusses the difference between your ego and higher self and how ego-death, or breakdowns, can lead to some of our biggest breakthroughs. You will love his unique take on creativity, meme creation, communication, and art!  If you want to tap into your intuition to figure out how to cultivate curiosity, intuition, and creativity in your life then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to tap into your own creative intuition!   Episode Highlights: How he built his community around meme creation.  The importance of staying a student of life to cultivate wisdom.  His creative process for making memes and his connection to the muse.  The different forms his creativity has taken over the years.  How spirituality and creativity are interconnected.  The artists, poets, and creators who inspire his work.  The difference between the ego and the higher self.  How to tap into higher self and quiet the ego.  How he navigates the political landscape online.  Why breakdowns can sometimes lead to breakthroughs.  The important role of pain and grief in opening up our capacity to feel.  Why we as a society are so afraid of sadness and pain.  Our place in the universal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.  The power of embracing your cringe in everyday life.  Why you should accept the great unknown to connect to the magic of life.  His most popular meme and how he created it.  Why triggering responses in people can sometimes be good for growth.  How the themes of his work evolve over time to help him make sense of the universe.  What he hopes others gain from his work.  Why he believes memes are a relevant form of art and communication.    Resources: James on Instagram Re-Creation Studio Website Work With James Sunflower Club Podcast  Sh#t Your Ego Says Book  How to Laugh in Ironic Amusement During Your Existential Crisis Book  Embrace Your Cringe Post When I Remember Post   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Shanna H. Swan, Ph.D., one of the world's leading environmental and reproductive epidemiologists. She is a Professor of Environmental Medicine and Public Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City where she is also a member of the Transdisciplinary Center on Early Environmental Exposures. For over twenty years, Dr. Swan and her colleagues have been studying the dramatic decline in sperm count around the world and the impact of environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals on reproductive tract development and neurodevelopment. In this episode Dr. Swan shares her first hand research results on the impact of phthalate exposure during pregnancy on reproductive health. She is a wealth of knowledge on this topic and shares her top suggestions for avoiding exposure to these chemicals in everything from your food and drink to the air we breathe. You will be blown away by her extensive knowledge and clear communication.  If you want to learn how common everyday chemicals can impact fertility and reproductive health you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa delicious, liver-loving detox tea and get ready to be empowered to take simple steps to improve your health.    Episode Highlights: The varied path Dr. Swan took from child actress to world-renowned epidemiologist.  An explanation of what reproductive & environmental epidemiology is.  A breakdown of her current epidemiological study on phthalates & pregnancy.  The suggestive conclusions found on the impacts of Tylenol and pregnancy.  What phthalates are and how they're used across various industries.  The definition of non-persistent chemicals.  How phthalates consistently enter the body.  How phthalates leach out of plastics and into the environment.  The impact of phthalate ingestion during pregnancy.  What is phthalate syndrome?  The impact of phthalates on male reproductive organs.  The relationship between phthalates and fertility.  How phthalate exposure impacts sperm counts.  The connection between perineum length and reproductive function in males.  How phthalates may impact libido and sexual satisfaction.  Her top tips for avoiding phthalate exposure.  Other chemicals in plastics to avoid for optimal health. How to avoid phthalates in food shopping, storage, and cooking. The way Dr. Swan treats her water to remove chemicals.    Resources: Dr. Swan's Website Dr. Swan's Instagram Dr. Swan's Twitter Count Down Book Helpful Resources Million Marker Test Kits   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Andrea Nakayama, a Functional Medicine Nutritionist and educator. After losing her young husband to a brain tumor in 2002, she discovered a passion for using food as personalized medicine and is now regularly consulted as the nutrition expert for the toughest clinical cases in the practices of many world-renowned doctors. Since then she has led thousands of clients, and now teaches even more coaches and clinicians around the world in a revolution reclaiming ownership of both their own and their clients' health. This episode is packed with vulnerability as Andrea shares how her husband's life, illness, and death has inspired her work and passion for nutrition. She also outlines the three root causes of autoimmunity that she sees in her practice and how to differentiate between signs and symptoms so you can make the best decisions for your health. You will love her raw honesty and personalized approach to healing.  If you want to learn how genes, gut health, and blood sugar balance are connected to autoimmune conditions, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite radiant tea and enjoy soaking in Andrea's hard won wisdom.    Episode Highlights: How her young husband's brain tumour diagnosis kickstarted her health journey. The long medical journey to her diagnosis with autoimmune Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.  How autoimmune conditions can manifest with different symptoms.  The importance of individualizing diet based on specific conditions.  How the medical system isn't necessarily set up to investigate early stages of chronic illness.  The differences between a sign and a symptom.  Her breakdown of the triggers of autoimmunity–the three roots, many branches systems.  How immune cell memory impacts the management of autoimmune diseases. What is functional nutrition vs. other types of nutrition.  The importance of a systems-based approach to managing autoimmunity.  Her non-negotiables for addressing any health condition.  Some helpful dietary recommendations for supporting gut health & managing autoimmunity. How Andrea helps her patients fall in love with whole foods through education.  Why we need to leave the sympathetic nervous system state to heal.  Developing your yes, no, maybe list of foods to connect with your body's needs. How pregnancy can trigger autoimmunity.  How managing autoimmunity changes depending on the decade of your life.  Her advice for single parents trying to juggle their health and parenting needs.  How her late husband's life, illness, and death inspires her work to this day.  The importance of finding the spaces where you feel accepted.    Resources: Andrea's Website Andrea's Instagram  Andrea's Twitter Sign up for Andrea's Substack 15 Minute Matrix Podcast  Functional Nutrition Alliance Website Functional Nutrition Alliance Instagram   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Julia Edgely, an internationally practicing and licensed homeopath. She believes education and knowledge are the keys to helping her patients embrace their wellness journey, which she does through her practice and dynamic social media presence. She focuses her practice on helping her clients avoid and recover from antibiotic misuse while supporting natural immune function. In order to help her patients regain their natural immunity and health, she developed her signature ABC Method, which has helped hundreds of individuals and families eliminate unnecessary antibiotics. In this episode Julia shares her wealth of knowledge on what constitutes antibiotic misuse and the common signs to look out for. Her knowledge of the innate and adaptive immune system and its interconnection with the microbiome will empower you with the knowledge to trust your intuition when it comes to healing. She also outlines tons of simple, actionable tips to help support natural immune function that you can incorporate right away. You'll love her practical tips and vibrant energy! If you want to learn how to recover from antibiotic overuse or misuse to naturally support your immune system, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite restorative tea and get ready to be inspired to take control of your health!   Episode Highlights: How Julia became interested in homeopathy at a young age.  The importance of food for healing & improving immunity. How homeopathic treatment is based on unique symptoms to find your perfect remedy. The difference between acute and constitutional homeopathy. The link between antibiotic misuse/overuse & immune dysfunction.  The definition of antibiotic overuse and misuse.  How knowledge can empower you to make the right decisions for your health.  Consequences of overuse and misuse of antibiotics.  How antibiotic use in the first few years of life can impact your microbiome.  What is the difference between innate and adaptive immunity? How do antibiotics impact the immune system and microbiome? The function of a fever for healing + red flag symptoms to watch for.  Suggestions for parents to make children more comfortable during a fever.  Concerns with overuse of OTC medications.  Tools she uses to help her clients resolve their health conditions & support immunity.  How to use the ABC method to support acute illness.  Lifestyle habits that can help support the immune system.  The power of bone broth!  Some unknown side-effects of antibiotics.    Resources: Julia's Website Julia's Instagram Julia's Twitter Julia's Facebook The ABC Method Book an Appointment FREE Immune Remedies EBook FREE Immunity Toolkit Video Sign Up for Julia's Newsletter   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Colette Baron-Reid bestselling author, internationally acclaimed Oracle expert, spiritual intuitive, personal transformation thought leader, educator, speaker and host of “INSIDE THE WOONIVERSE,” a weekly podcast series that uncovers personal stories of spiritual awakening and transformation. With her infectious laugh and warm personality, Colette's conversations are inviting, hilarious and always thought-provoking.   In this episode Colette gets vulnerable while sharing her life's journey to become a spiritual intuitive. Her raw honesty about her trauma, including rape, may not be for everyone, so if this is something you don't want to hear, just skip ahead to the 22 minute mark. Colette shares tons of simple, actionable tips to help you connect with your own intuition and spirit. She also discusses the incredible process she undertakes when creating her oracle decks. You'll love her honesty and exuberant energy!   If you want to connect with your intuition and develop a personalized spiritual practice for 2023, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite uplifting tea and get ready to be inspired to connect to the Wooniverse!   Episode Highlights: How Colette connected with spirit and intuition from a very young age.  Her incredible life story and how her vivid dreams helped her know herself & her family history.  How she first became interested in reading cards.  Her connection to animism and what that means.  The story of her addictions and how she healed.  The process of transitioning from an aromatherapist to doing spiritual readings. The difference between tarot and oracle cards.  How to use oracle cards as a tool to connect with spirit. An incredible reading done by Colette for the Joyous community.  A close look at Colette's supportive spiritual community.   Colette's reading for 2023. The importance of showing up as yourself in the world to create change. What Colette is most excited about for the coming year.  The spiritual meaning of the number 44 and why she chose it for her new oracle deck.  The process that Colette goes through to create an oracle deck & her artwork. How painting encourages vulnerability.  The way we should be stepping into the new year.    Resources:   Colette's Website   Colette on Instagram   Colette on Facebook   Colette on TikTok   INSIDE THE WOONIVERSE Podcast   Oracle Circle Membership   Free Vision Board Challenge   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Dr. Aliya Visram a chiropractor, acupuncturist, and co-founder of wellbe family wellness clinic in Toronto. She is also the co-founder of bloom balance, a collection of wellness products rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She combines her background in pre and postnatal care and pediatric wellness with a passion for Eastern Medicine techniques and practices for a deeper understanding of the way the body functions. As a mother herself, Dr Aliya is on a mission to create accessible wellness options for families to help them grow and thrive. In this episode Dr. Aliya shares simple, actionable steps you can take to start your own self-care practice to increase energy and vitality. She also discusses the most common issues she sees in her practice along with tips for you and the family to incorporate for joyous health. You'll love her vibrant energy and holistic approach to wellness! If you're looking for simple advice you can incorporate into your routine to increase energy flow and balance in your body then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a soothing cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to boost your chi, naturally!   Episode Highlights: How Dr. Aliya became interested in chiropractic, acupuncture, and self-care practices rooted in Eastern medicine. Her work with women during pregnancy and post-partum. The importance of having a community to support you after childbirth.  What TCM is and how she practices it.  A description of chi, energy flow, & meridians. How stuck chi can cause imbalances in the body.  Issues that can cause chi to become stuck.  At home suggestions to increase the flow of chi. The benefits of facial acupuncture.  The most common health concerns she sees in her practice.  How acupuncture can be a great part of a self-care routine.  Dr. Aliya's favourite simple health hacks for balance.  The importance of incorporating activities that increase blood flow in the body.  Why you want to change how you support your body at different times of year. Individualized approaches to balancing your energy.  Dr. Aliya's journey through the hormonal shifts of perimenopause. Why she loves using gua sha at the end of the day to release tension.  What to look for when shopping for gua sha.  The top health issues she sees in kids in her practice. Her top recommendations for raising healthy kids.    Resources: Dr. Aliya on Instagram  bloom balance on TikTok bloom balance on Instagram bloom balance on Facebook wellbe family wellness on Instagram Dr. Aliya's Website  bloom balance Website wellbe family wellness Website   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Neil Pasricha, the best-selling author of nine books and journals including: The Book of Awesome, a spinning rolodex of simple pleasures based on his 100-million-hit, award-winning blog 1000 Awesome Things. He  thinks, writes, and speaks about intentional living and all his current work focuses under themes of gratitude, happiness, failure, resilience, connection, and trust. His books are New York Times and #1 international bestsellers, have spent over 200 weeks on bestseller lists, and have sold over 2,000,000 copies across dozens of languages. In this episode Neil shares simple, actionable steps you can take to start your own therapeutic journaling and gratitude practice. He also highlights how cell phone addiction can impact our physical and mental health. You'll love his vibrant, upbeat energy and interesting takes on everything from loneliness to the power of browsing at a bookstore.  If you want simple, actionable advice to invite more gratitude and intention into your daily life then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite cozy tea and get ready to be inspired to live intentionally!   Episode Highlights: How personal loss inspired Neil's career as a writer & best-selling author.  The therapeutic benefits of writing & journaling.  The impact of keeping your cell phone in your bedroom.  Simple tips to start a journaling & gratitude practice.  The signs of toxicity in our culture.  What is the loneliness epidemic? Why he's returning to his focus on resilience, happiness, and gratitude.  How our amygdala & social media impacts our thoughts.  The way smart phones & automatic scrolling suck up our time & impact our health.  The big three “P” problems with cell phones.  Easy tips to reduce your cell phone use.  The positive power of reading fiction, memoirs, and biographies. Why single tasking is the new multitasking, especially when reading. The importance of supporting your local bookstores.  The power of browsing bookstores.  A deep dive into Joy's favourite parts of Neil's new book: Our Book of Awesome.  Why Neil invited the community into the creation of his newest book.  The comfort of re-reading books and rewatching movies.  Some of the powerful, small moments of joy that bring gratitude to Neil's life.  Neil's current favourite book recommendations.  Why he reads non-fiction in the morning and fiction at night.    Resources: Neil's Website  3 Books Podcast Neil on Instagram Neil on Twitter Neil on Facebook Sign up for Neil's Newsletters Ahh Life Daily Emails Forest Cell Phone App Neil's Author Page- Get all the AWESOME Books!   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Brian Keane, a Reps qualified Level 3 Personal Trainer, certified Strength and Conditioning Coach and Sports Nutritionist. He also hosts one of Ireland and the UK's top health podcast which is regularly featured #1 on the iTunes Health Charts. Over the past seven years, he has gone from working full time as primary school teacher to one of Ireland's leading thought leaders on all things health, fitness and nutrition. This episode is packed with wisdom designed to help you find your personalized approach to optimal health and wellness! In this episode Brian shares his evidence-based suggestions for creating an individualized approach to fitness and wellness. He shares loads of inspiring and actionable tips that you can start incorporating into your life straight away. You'll love his honesty and fresh take on how to approach fitness and strength training.  If you want simple, actionable advice to help you get started on your personal fitness journey, then you won't want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite cozy tea and get ready to be inspired to take your health and your life into your own hands!   Episode Highlights: How he transitioned from working full time as a teacher to running a successful fitness business. How his personal health issues inspired him to learn more about nutrition. How he faced his fears and embraced life as a fitness entrepreneur. The important question he asks himself before making a life decision.  What the fitness industry gets wrong about weight loss. The difference between weight loss and fat loss. Why calories aren't the only thing that matter for health. The importance of nutrient density when it comes to a healthy diet.  Why sleep, strength training, and recovery are so important for achieving health goals.  Why dropping calories too low can have the opposite of the intended effect.  The importance of strength-training for balancing women's hormones.  How he takes an individualized approach with every client he works with. The three principles he works off of when it comes to nutrition.  The importance of using different metrics for success instead of just the scale.  Why he believes it's important to remove the morals from foods.  His thoughts on the body positivity movement.  How to start on your personal fitness journey.  The importance of filtering who you learn from.  Tips to improve your sleep quality for optimal health.    Resources: Brian on Instagram Brian on TikTok Brian Keane Fitness Podcast Brian Keane Fitness Website Sign up for Brian's Newsletter! Brian on YouTube Brian on Facebook The Keane Edge Book Rewire Your Mindset Book The Fitness Mindset Book   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Jill Heinerth, one of the world's premier underwater explorers and the first person to dive inside iceberg caves. Jill leads expeditions into extreme environments to advance scientific and geographic knowledge. She is an acclaimed polar explorer, cave diver, author, speaker, filmmaker, and climate advocate. Joy fell in love with her best-selling book, Into The Planet: My Life as a Cave Diver which details her journey into the extreme world of underwater cave exploration where she has had to overcome fear in order to go where no one has gone before. You will LOVE this chat!  In this episode Jill shares her experiences exploring some of the most beautiful and dangerous ecosystems in the world. She talks about the importance of using her fear to help her assess the risks of any dive to keep her and her team safe. You'll also love her simple tips to help you live a life that supports the health of the planet. After listening to this episode you will feel inspired to follow your passion to create a life of adventure and joy.  If you want to learn all about the incredible world of cave diving and the animals and ecosystems below the surface, you won't want to miss this episode. So brew up a cup of ultra-soothing tea, settle in, and get ready to be amazed by Jill's incredible life story!   Episode Highlights: How Jill's love of water and innate curiosity inspired her career as an underwater explorer.  The important role fear plays in keeping her safe as she explores.  How she prepares mentally for her dives to remain fully present. What she feels and experiences as she explores underwater caves.   How she overcomes the “chattering monkeys” of her mind while she dives. Some frightening moments she experienced during her dives.  How she follows her intuition & pragmatism to choose or reject expeditions.  Why aging and getting married changed the way she approaches her dives & risk-taking. Why she has no regrets in her life.  The incredible story of how she was the first person to dive into an iceberg cave. The types of marine life she will see when ice diving.  The work she does with biologists to help understand the life that is found in caves.  How she made her childhood dreams come true & turned the story into a children's book. How she uses the power of deep breathing to stay calm and present.  The privilege she feels at getting to see rare sea life in their natural habitats.  The differences between a cold and a warm water dive.  The importance of learning skills and risks for success in any endeavour.  Why you need to guard yourself against complacency.  Some of Jill's favourite dives out of the 8000+ she's done over her career.  The experience she had diving 300 feet under a popular restaurant.  How major storm systems impact cave diving conditions.  Details about her most recent cave diving project in the Ottawa River.  Her favourite dives in Ontario cave systems and why she loves exploring shipwrecks.  Why she feels she has a responsibility to share what she observes.  The one place in the world she would love to dive. How the work she does has impacted her motivation to be a climate activist.  Simple tips to incorporate into your daily life to help fight climate change.  What she learned from biking across Canada from Vancouver to St. John's, NFLD.  Her new documentary series: Great Lakes Untamed Her professional insight into the incredible Thai Cave Rescue documentary and film.    Resources: Jill on Instagram Into the Planet Book The Aquanaut Kid's Book Into the Planet Website  Into the Planet Podcast Jill on Twitter Jill on Facebook Great Lakes Untamed Documentary   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge  Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng, the department head of critical care at The Ottawa Hospital. As a researcher, he is interested in using ICU resources more efficiently and improving access to palliative care in the ICU. He also created ‘Solving Wellness' a virtual health & wellness platform for health care professionals. The goal of ‘Solving Wellness' is to help address health care burnout and provide health, fitness and self care for its members. In this episode Dr. Kyeremanteng shares his experiences working in the fast-paced environment of the ICU and how he takes steps every day to increase his resilience to prevent burnout. He also highlights the importance of investing in prevention and mental health support for achieving overall wellness. After listening to this episode you will feel empowered to take small steps every day to support your health and prevent illness. This chat will stick with you because it's so inspiring! If you want to learn how to take simple steps to support your physical and mental well-being then you won't want to miss this episode! So brew up a cup of detoxifying tea, settle in, and get ready to be inspired to support your health, naturally!    Episode Highlights: How Dr. Kyeremanteng was inspired to become a doctor from a young age.  Why he was attracted to practice intensive care medicine–communication and community! How he stays calm and balanced amidst the chaos of the ICU to bring compassion and care to his patients.  The different wellness and lifestyle hacks that Dr. Kyeremanteng uses to build his resilience.  Why knowledge of wellness and self-care is so important to support healthcare practitioners and prevent burnout.  His experiences working in the ICU during the pandemic and how that inspired him to create Solving Wellness for healthcare workers.  His tips for eating well as a shift worker. Suggestions for supporting good quality sleep as a shift worker. The importance of managing other pillars of health if you're lacking your sleep.  How to develop your own 80/20 rule for maximum health impacts.  Why swapping sugary drinks for water is an easy first step to take to improve health. The importance of setting up your environment for success–keep the good stuff around! Why he prioritizes good food to support energy and mental health. What is decision fatigue and how to limit your decisions for optimal health.  Simple hacks to help save time and energy to support your wellness. The importance of productivity and time efficiency. What is pandemic recovery and how does it relate to mental health? Why he doesn't think Canada invests enough in mental health support and counselling. The importance of mental health for overall physical wellness.  Where he thinks the hospital system fails patients in supporting mental health concerns.  The importance of being innovative to promote true, lasting, and deep rooted healing. How little things can make a big difference to the experience of being in the hospital. How to get involved in your own community to support people. Inspiring stories of his patients' resilience and healing.  Why staying physically fit can improve your long term health. The power of positive, contagious energy.  Why investing in prevention is so important. Dr. Kyeremanteng's best tips for preventing illness and maintaining health.  Why everyone's health and fitness activities will be unique to their needs.  The importance of muscle mass and protein for longevity.    Resources: Dr. Kwadwo on TikTok Dr. Kwadwo on Instagram Solving Healthcare Website Solving Healthcare Podcast  Solving Wellness Website   More about Joyous Health: ·   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health ·   Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks ·   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter ·   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram ·   Find Joyous Health on Facebook ·   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program ·   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. ·   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Melanie Cruikshank, the founder of Toronto-based clean beauty brand dalish Cosmetics whose mother said she was born to wear lipstick and heels. After attending Cosmetology & Aromatology school - the study of Plant & Botanical based Chemistry, she knew she wanted to create nontoxic cosmetics so her customers could feel confident and fabulous. Her mission is to create clean, luxurious beauty products that you feel good about using, that are vegan, easy to apply, feel amazing on, are long lasting, sustainably sourced and come in killer shades.  In this episode Melanie shares her struggles growing up with acne and how she was inspired to create a line of cosmetics that are as accessible as they are clean. She also goes into detail about the foods, habits, and lifestyle tips she follows to support glowing health from the inside out. After listening to this episode you will feel empowered to ditch the toxic cosmetic chemicals and get ready to enhance your beauty, naturally!  If you want to learn more about holistic approaches to skin health, the cosmetics industry, and how to choose the best products for yourself and the planet, then you won't want to miss this episode! So steep your favourite cup of beauty-boosting tea, settle in, and get ready to be inspired to live a clean beauty lifestyle.    Episode Highlights: How her childhood anxiety and learning disability impacted her overall health & confidence. Melanie's struggles with acne and the bullying she encountered. Her magical first experience with makeup and how it became a tool to help her survive her teenage years. Her experience with intense medications to get rid of her acne and how they impacted her body.  The opportunity she received to go back to school for plant-based chemistry.  How that education gave her the ability to recreate her favourite products.  The importance of a holistic approach to whole body health.  How drying products designed for acne can actually make it worse.  Helpful tips to move past skin obsession after a severe skin condition.  Foods that Melanie avoids to support her skin health.  The focus she places on whole, organic foods to nourish her skin from the inside out.  The importance of adapting your routine depending on the phase of your life. How balance in your diet and lifestyle can impact your skin health. How she stops the binge/restrict cycle when it comes to food. Why meal prep is the foundation of her healthy eating plan.  The supplements that Melanie takes for healthy skin.  Why she loves taking mushroom supplements for gut health.  Melanie's lifestyle approaches to skin health.  The importance of sleep for skin health.  How she manages her stress levels as an entrepreneur.  The importance of strength training for hormonal balance and feeling strong in your life.  The creation of da lish cosmetics.  Why she wanted to create clean cosmetics that were beautiful and functional. Her focus on creating makeup basics rather than chasing all the new trends.  Why dalish tests their products on different skin tones and textures.  Why she had to create products that were better than conventional ones so people would switch. How certain ingredients in conventional cosmetics can trigger skin issues.  The importance of accessibility in the clean cosmetics industry.  The number one cosmetic she can't live without.    Resources: Melanie on Instagram Use code JOYOUS20 to save 20% at Dalish Cosmetics dalish on Instagram dalish on Facebook dalish Website dalish on Pinterest   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge    Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Josh Gitalis, a Clinical Nutritionist who is a recognized expert in the fields of clinical detoxification and therapeutic supplementation. He runs a Toronto-based, private practice, with a worldwide client base. As a leader in his field, Josh teaches Clinical Nutrition for several natural health colleges and is the first Canadian nutritionist to become an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP).   In this episode Josh shares his wealth of knowledge on all things vitamin D from what it is and how it functions in the body to the best ways to incorporate it into your life. You'll be amazed to learn how this humble nutrient impacts everything from immune function to gut health to bone density! After listening to this episode you'll have all the knowledge you need to start incorporating safe vitamin D supplementation into your routine. If you've been looking to learn more about vitamin D and why we need it for vibrant, happy,  joyous health then you won't want to miss this episode! So brew a cup of your favourite tea, grab a pen and paper, and get ready for a deep dive on this super nutrient!   Episode Highlights: What vitamin D is and how it functions in the body.  How our sex hormones are derived from cholesterol.  Every cell in our body has a receptor for vitamin D. How vitamin D tells our cells how to function. Why vitamin D is still classified as a vitamin instead of a hormone.  The top health benefits of vitamin D.  The role of vitamin D in modulating the immune system. How the digestive tract is impacted by vitamin D deficiency.  What is intestinal permeability (or leaky gut) and how it impacts overall health. The impact of vitamin D on bone and tooth health.  The important relationship between vitamin D and calcium. The connection between vitamin D deficiency and mental health.  All about the blood brain barrier and mental health.  How sun exposure creates vitamin D in the body.  How your body multiplies the effectiveness of vitamin D over time. Other major health benefits of sun exposure. A breakdown of the solar spectrum and how it impacts the circadian rhythm. How sunscreen impacts the production of vitamin D.  The best sunscreens to use.  The importance of maintaining appropriate blood levels of vitamin D to prevent certain illnesses.  How to practice safe sun exposure.  Other great sources of vitamin D to use throughout the year.  Why you typically can't get enough vitamin D from food.  The importance of testing your vitamin D levels, even if you get a lot of sun.  What range you should look for in your blood tests.  The lag time between scientific proof and public policy.  How to test your vitamin D levels in Canada.  How vitamin D status can influence health costs.  Josh and Meghan's informative website The Vitamin D Hub.  The best form of vitamin D to take for optimal absorption.  Why not everyone needs to supplement with vitamin K. The importance of taking vitamin D with food for absorption.    Resources: Josh Gitalis on Instagram Josh's Website Work With Josh  The Vitamin D Hub The Impact of Nutrition & Lifestyle on Mental Health with Josh Gitalis Today is the Day Podcast with his wife and nutritionist, Meghan Telpner   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Desiree Nielsen, ​​a registered dietitian who takes an evidence-based, integrative approach to her dietetics work, with a focus on anti-inflammatory, plant-centred nutrition and digestive health. ​​She is the author of multiple books, including one on anti-inflammatory nutrition called Un-Junk Your Diet, a plant-based cookbook called Eat More Plants: 100 Anti-inflammatory Plant-centred Recipes for Vibrant Living, which became a #1 National Bestseller, and her new cookbook on gut health, Good For Your Gut: A Plant-based Digestive Health Guide and Nourishing Recipes for Living Well. She also hosts the evidence-informed wellness podcast, The Allsorts Podcast, where she interviews leading experts on topics such as gut health, plant-based nutrition, and more. In this episode Desiree shares actionable steps to help reduce bloating and train your digestive tract to enjoy more plant-based foods. Desiree is a wealth of knowledge and the simple, but powerful information she shares will change your gut and your life forever! After listening to this episode you will feel empowered to make small, sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle in order to support lasting health.  If you've been struggling with digestive health and overwhelmed with conflicting information on how to heal then you won't want to miss this episode! So grab your favourite cup of tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to heal your gut, naturally.    Episode Highlights: How Desire's love of food led her to a career in dietetics.  Desiree's aha moment of learning how food can impact health. The decision she made to switch from pursuing a medical degree to becoming a dietician.  What plant-based nutrition means to Desiree.   Her focus as a dietician: digestive health, plant-based nutrition, and chronic inflammatory disorders. Why she thinks dieticians can be more specific in their recommendations to empower clients.  Why you should eat 30 different plants a week to nourish your microbiome.  How to incorporate this many plants into your diet. Hint: herbs, spices, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains all count as plants! The role of a healthy microbiome, especially in the ascending colon, for overall health. What are short chain fatty acids and why should you care?  The interaction between gut health, immune health, and nervous system function.  The power of butyrate in improving the inflammatory response.  Why inflammation is a critical immune response.  How short chain fatty acids impact the nervous system.  Why IBS is considered a disorder of gut-brain communication.  How changes in the enteric nervous system may impact our mental wellbeing. Different causes of bloating and what to do about them. The role of psychological stress in altering the function of the digestive system.  How dysregulation in the abdominal wall can impact digestive function.  Why tight pants can cause bloating.  The importance of chewing your food thoroughly.  Desiree's perspective on digestive bitters and other quick & easy fixes for bloating. Why she suggests everyone incorporate more bitter veggies into their lives.  Why she thinks coffee can be a beneficial addition to a healthy diet, based on context. The importance of understanding your body's unique needs to create your healthiest diet. Why you don't need to adhere to strict dietary guidelines for optimal health. The role of the migrating motor complex in maintaining gut health. How Desiree's eating habits have evolved over the years.  How much time you should leave between when you eat your last meal and when you go to bed. The importance of consistency for digestive health.  What food intolerances can say about your gut health.  How training the gut can improve your capacity to digest a variety of foods. How cooking and blending high fibre foods can start training the gut. Desiree's goal in writing her new book Good For Your Gut.  The role of supplementation, stress management, and lifestyle changes for gut health.   Resources: Desiree on Instagram Desiree's Website Sign up for Desiree's Newsletter Good for Your Gut Cookbook Join Desiree's Free Nutrition Community The Allsorts Podcast on Instagram Listen to the Allsorts Podcast   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Kristi Soomer, ​​the founder and CEO of Encircled, a Canadian-made line of versatile, sustainable clothing that helps women streamline their wardrobes. Encircled was born out of her love of travel and dislike of checking a bag–her first dress was created on the floor of her condo in 2012! Since then she has grown Encircled into a seven-figure business that was named a certified B-corp in 2018. She is committed to meeting high ethical standards in all aspects of her company, from using fabrics that honour the environment to providing good working environments and fair wages to all her employees.    In this episode Kristi discusses how she got into creating comfy, ethical clothing, her journey as an entrepreneur, and the differences between fast and slow fashion. She shares some of the most sustainable fabrics to look for when shopping and which ones should be avoided when possible. After listening to this episode you will feel ready to start asking questions about where your clothes come from so that you can make the healthiest possible choices. If you've been looking to learn more about the fashion industry and its impact on your health and the health of the planet then you won't want to miss this episode! So grab your favourite cup of tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to be inspired to start building your sustainable wardrobe!   Episode Highlights: How Kristi was inspired to start her slow fashion brand by traveling 100 000km/year! Her transition from a career in consulting to running a slow fashion line, with no previous fashion experience! The importance of testing things, making mistakes, and learning as she went.  How she faced her fear and quit her job to start her own business. Where she found the strength to face her doubts and keep going! The difference between slow fashion and fast fashion brands. What azo dyes are and why we should be concerned about them in fast fashion clothes.  How to tell if your clothes contain these dyes by using Blue Sign or OEKO-Tex certifications. Why certain clothes are sprayed with chemicals prior to shipping overseas. How companies use many chemicals that aren't regulated and can be disruptive to hormonal health.  The impact of these chemicals on hormonal health.  How to look for ethically produced garments from around the world.  The exploitation of women in the garment supply chain.  How to shop ethically on a budget.  The best way to sustainably shop for kid's clothing.  Why perfect shouldn't be the goal and what you should aim for instead.  Documentaries Kristi recommends to learn more about fast fashion & denim.  The importance of learning more to make better choices for clothing.  The most sustainable fabrics Kristi recommends looking for when shopping. Fabrics Kristi recommends avoiding if possible for the health of the planet. Why shopping ethically is a continuum.  The best way to dispose of clothing you no longer wear.  Kristi's can't live without clothing item from her Encircled line. Her customers' all-time favourite product!  Why focusing on timeless pieces that don't go out of style is a sustainable way to shop. Kristi's opinion on big brands' “conscious” or “ethical” clothing lines.  The connection between microplastics and recycled polyester clothing. Kristi's hopes for the future of the fashion industry.    Resources: Encircled Website Get 15% off Your Order with Code JOYOUS15 until Nov. 30th, 2022 Sign up for the Encircled Newsletter Kristi on Instagram Encircled on Instagram Kristi on TikTok Encircled on TikTok Kristi on Twitter  Encircled on Twitter Kristi on Facebook Encircled on Facebook Brave and Boss Podcast True Cost Documentary River Blue Movie OEKO-TEX 100 GOTS Certified  BlueSign Certified BCI Cotton    More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Hannah Sunderani, ​​the creator of the popular blog Two Spoons. Since she was last on the podcast she's become a mum and authored The Two Spoons Cookbook: More Than 100 French-Inspired Vegan Recipes. She is an editor at the feedfeed, a contributor to Best of Vegan, and a recipe contributor to THRIVE and One Green Planet. Her recipes have also been featured in numerous magazines including Better Homes and Gardens, Simply Gluten-Free, VegNews, House & Home, and Hello! Fashion UK. To say she knows good food is the understatement of the year! In this episode Hannah discusses her journey with infertility and what life is like with a ten month old as she runs her own business. She also dives deep into the creation process behind her new cookbook and shares her passion for simple, delicious food and sharing it with friends and family. After listening to this episode you will feel inspired to get in the kitchen to create meals the whole family will love.   If you've been looking for an honest representation of infertility, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and the pure joy of delicious food then you won't want to miss this episode! So grab your favourite cup of iced tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to be inspired to take your plant-based cooking to new culinary heights!   Episode Highlights: Why she and her husband decided to move back to Canada to start their family.  The mental health struggles that accompanied Hannah's fertility journey. The creative, healing process of writing her cookbook… and then finding out she was pregnant! The community connection that comes from sharing your truth.  Her experience with IVF and how her husband supported her journey.  Hannah's suggestions for supporting the body during fertility treatments.  How trying so hard to get pregnant can be counterproductive.  The importance of focusing on mental health so the health of the body can follow. Why she loves nature walks.  How she juggles raising an infant while launching a cookbook. The importance of having a village to help raise your family.  The importance of asking for help when you need it.  Why new moms need time to themselves for their mental health. How Hannah researched her cookbook while living in France. Hannah's experience watching the vegan scene blow up in France during the 4 years she lived there.  How her food memories inspired the recipes in the Two Spoons Cookbook.  How she learned from her local vendors at farmer's markets to diversify her cooking. The weave of traditional and modern French cooking in the recipes Hannah created. Hannah's favourite recipes from her cookbook.  Her 10-month old son, Oliver's, favourite recipes from her cookbook. Her experience with baby led weaning and why it wasn't the best method for her family. The importance of not placing expectations on what your baby's food journey looks like.  Why you don't have to create separate meals for your baby. The power of having mealtime together as a family.  The importance of setting a foundation and then allowing your children their own agency.    Resources: Hannah on Instagram Check out the Two Spoons Blog  Hannah on YouTube Hannah on Facebook Buy The Two Spoons Cookbook! Try the Two Spoons App Two Spoons Recipe Index Hannah's First Joyous Health Podcast Episode Hannah's Chocolate Almond Butter Truffles   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker chat with Stewart Brown, founder of the amazing, research-backed supplement company Genuine Health. He has been in the natural health and supplement industry since he was 16 years old and cannot imagine anything more important that he could have dedicated his life's work to. He knows his company has the opportunity to change people's lives every day, and he takes that responsibility very seriously. He is passionate about looking at the latest research in nutritional science to drive innovation in their products so that you can live a life of vibrancy and vitality! In this episode Stewart discusses how he got started working in the natural health field and how that led him to open his own health food store in the mid 80s in the heart of the LGBT community in Toronto. Shortly after, the HIV crisis hit and his store, Supplements Plus, was in the heart of the epidemic. You'll learn how this experience eventually led to the creation of Genuine Health and his passion for educating people on the simple pillars of wellness that create a foundation for lasting health. After listening to this episode you will feel inspired to make small, lasting changes so you can live your healthiest and happiest life! If you've been looking to kickstart your own healthy habits and incorporate more nutrient density into your diet, you won't want to miss this episode! So grab your favourite cup of iced tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to learn how to thrive!   Episode Highlights: Stewart's introduction to natural health and how he got interested in this field as a teen.  How the industry has evolved in the last 40 years.  The issues he had navigating the traditional healthcare system as a teenager.  How the world of natural health helped him discover the root cause of his health issues.  The importance of treating the root cause of your issues and not the symptoms to achieve optimal health. Stewart's experience running a health food store in the LGBT community in the 80s during the midst of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.  How his store became a refuge for the community at this time.  His experience working with the AIDS Committee of Toronto. The importance of being educated on the supplements and products you use to get the results you are looking for.   What inspired him to create a line of products that make a difference in people's health.  Stewart's absolute favourite part of the natural health industry.  The interesting history and development of greens+ How sugar can impact mood.  Why we need to build a strong foundation of nutrition, movement, and love for health.  The importance of simplifying, not complicating, our approach to health.  How Stewart transitioned from health food store owner to developing and selling supplements.  The research done at U of T behind why greens+ makes people feel so amazing.  How the polyphenols in greens+ help with bone growth.  The importance of eating the rainbow.  Health hacks to help balance blood sugar.  How exercise, yoga, and meditation help Stewart stay calm while running a highly successful company, Genuine Health.  Why some doctors are starting to recommend nature therapy to their patients.  How Genuine Health grew from 2 superpowered products to over 80!  The power of polyphenols, long chain fatty acids, and probiotics for health and vitality.  Why quality and human connection are the drivers of all Stewart's business decisions.  How he creates products to fill gaps within the market.  The way a nutrient rich diet + probiotics impact children's health and wellbeing. How soil microbes are great for human health.    Resources: Stewart Brown on Instagram Genuine Health on Instagram Genuine Health on Facebook Genuine Health Website–use code GHJoyous20 to save 20% sitewide! Genuine Healthy Kids with Joyous Health–use code GHJoyous20 to save 20% sitewide! Town Hall Medicine Summit Becoming Sugar Free by Julie Daniluk Your Brain on Nature by Dr. Alan Logan & Eva M. Selhub, M.D.   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Abby Lai, who became a Registered Holistic Nutritionist after suffering from eczema that was so severe her doctors said it was the worst that they had ever seen. Since she discovered a holistic approach to health, she has become passionate about helping people overcome eczema, naturally. She is the host of The Eczema Podcast, which has helped eczema sufferers around the world with over 100,000 listens and 500,000 views on YouTube. She is also the founder of Conqueror Skincare, which is an all natural product line to help eczema and dry skin. In this episode Abby discusses her experience with conventional eczema treatments and how she came to discover a more natural, whole body approach to overcoming her condition. She is a wealth of knowledge on all things eczema and shares how our environment, thoughts, diet, lifestyle, gut health, and digestion can all impact the health of our skin. After listening to her speak, you will be filled with hope for an eczema-free future! If you've been struggling with dry, inflamed, or eczema-prone skin, you won't want to miss this episode! Abby shares tons of actionable tips on everything from food triggers to lifestyle shifts that you can start exploring today. So grab your favourite anti-inflammatory tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to learn to support your skin health from the inside out!   Episode Highlights: Abby's journey with eczema from infancy.  The toll that being 90-95% covered in rashes took on her mental health and self-esteem.  The frustration she felt by being told her skin would never heal.  How the environment or emotions can impact your skin health.  What inspired her to explore a more natural treatment program for her skin.  The connection between eczema & mental health issues such as depression. What is topical steroid withdrawal?  The connection between the microbiome, mental health, and skin health.  How severe eczema can impact your social and personal life.  Her experience with allopathic eczema and allergy treatments.  Some of the side effects she still experiences from her steroid medications.  The turning point that sent her down the path to a more holistic approach to eczema care. How she discovered the connection between diet and skin health.  The triggering foods she eliminated to start seeing skin healing results.  How she balanced her body to experience more food freedom, without causing an eczema flare.  The power of healing the gut and balancing the microbiome to support skin health.  The top food triggers people with eczema should avoid as they're healing.  How poor fat digestion can cause skin flares. The importance of liver health when it comes to eczema healing.  How getting to the root cause helps clients with multiple skin issues.  Other less well-known triggers for eczema!  The surprising link between dental infections and eczema.  How antibiotics can impact skin health and what you can do to prevent side effects.  How supporting the skin can improve other health issues as well. The skin has a circadian rhythm- what that means and how it impacts eczema symptoms. How to use lab and other tests to get to your unique root cause. Postpartum hormones and the connection between inflammatory skin conditions.  Foods that are supportive and soothing to the skin and whole body.  Lifestyle habits Abby recommends to support healthy skin.  How to manage stress to prevent inflammation.  The best skin soothing ingredients for eczema flare ups and reducing itchiness.  How skin pH and eczema are connected and how to keep it balanced!   Resources: Abby Lai on Instagram  Eczema Podcast on Instagram Free 30-min Breakthrough Call Free E-Book: 6 Ways to Clear Eczema Free Webinar: 3 Mistakes Stopping Your Healing Personalized Eczema Coaching Listen to the Eczema Podcast Eczema Resources Shop Eczema Products   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker chat with Meghan Telpner, a Toronto-based author, speaker, nutritionist, and founder of the Academy of Culinary Nutrition. She's written two bestselling books: UnDiet: Eat Your Way to Vibrant Health and The UnDiet Cookbook. Meghan's success in cultivating a global community of UnDiet enthusiasts and Culinary Nutrition Experts has garnered her a feature in Forbes, and ranked her as one of the top 100 female entrepreneurs in Canada.  In this episode Meghan discusses the big changes she's recently made in her career and the new direction in which she's being called to serve. This exciting change includes sharing information on coherence practices, what they are, and how you can use them in your life to create more confidence, trust, and courage in making the best decisions for you and your family. After hearing Meghan speak you'll be ready to get still and reconnect with your truest sense of self.  If you're looking for actionable steps to help you find stillness, clear your mental clutter, and reconnect with your intuition, you won't want to miss a moment of this chat! Meghan clearly and simply explains exactly how to start your own coherence practice, today! So grab your favourite soothing tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to tap into your intuitive power!   Episode Highlights: Meghan's health journey and how it inspired her to learn about nutrition.  Her journey learning how to cook- from canned pasta sauce to the creation of her own cooking school, the Academy of Culinary Nutrition! How she continues to teach at the edge of her knowledge in order to create the change she wants to see in the world.  The importance of understanding that what we need today may not be what we need tomorrow and being open to growing and changing.  The big changes Meghan is making to her career and how she came to those decisions.  The role her intuition played in her decision making process. What intuition can look like for different people.  The difference between expansive and contractive thoughts.  Her advice for people struggling to find the courage to listen to their intuition.  The importance of removing distraction to move towards wholeness. The connection between connecting with who you are at your core and the courage to follow your intuition.  The power of finding stillness and quiet (and how to do it!) to connect with the truest version of yourself.  What is the flow state and how it relates to your sense of self.  How to clear the “clutter” in your life to find out who you really are. How to become a co-creator in the most magical life you can imagine.  How to facilitate becoming more intuitive in as little as 5 minutes a day.  Why finding the balance between pragmatism and intuition is key for finding harmony in your life.  Her new programs that include movement and coherence practices, designed to help people activate their creative mind.  How coherence practices can help create supportive communities.  How healthy conflict can help you learn more about yourself and the world around you. The power of going through your day looking for magic and how it impacts your brain. Why food, exercise, and supplements are not the only pillars that we need for optimal health. The importance of social connection, love, gratitude, and appreciation for one another to build the world we want to live in.  What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person and how does that connect with intuition?   Resources: Meghan Telpner on Instagram Meghan Telpner on Facebook Free Coherence Session  Meghan Telpner's Website Rise & Shine Intuition Masterclass 4-Week Wake Up  The Academy of Culinary Nutrition   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge  Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Meg De Jong, a holistic nutritionist whose areas of expertise include nutrition for anxiety and gut health. Her deepest desire is to support people in truly thriving in their bodies and minds. She teaches her clients to eat in a more self loving way that helps them feel grounded, calm, and nourished, while addressing underlying health imbalances that can worsen anxiety. Meg went through many of her own health challenges, which led to her work ensuring that fewer people are left confused and struggling like she once was.  In this episode she discusses factors that increase your risk of developing anxiety, how hormones impact mental health, and the foods and nutrients you can incorporate to support your body and mind. She highlights the importance of being gentle with yourself and pursuing a balanced approach to managing your anxiety that includes body-loving lifestyle tips. After hearing Meg speak you will be filled with hope and optimism for an anxiety-free future!  If you struggle with anxiety, you won't want to miss a moment of this chat. This episode is packed with gentle, but actionable tips that you can start incorporating straight away to nourish your body and feed your soul to support optimal mental health. Grab your favourite cup of nervous-system soothing tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to learn how to thrive!   Episode Highlights: Why learning nutritional tips to manage anxiety are more important than ever. Why it's important to approach managing anxiety in different ways.  Meg's health journey, which included an eating disorder, OCD, and anxiety.  Her experience with medication and the path she took to support her body.  How Cognitive Behaviour Therapy played a crucial role in her healing journey.  Why coffee can be a trigger for anxiety and why you shouldn't quit cold turkey. What factors can put you at an increased risk of developing anxiety.  The connection between IBS and anxiety.  How your hormones can contribute to anxiety.  Why women are twice as likely to develop anxiety over men.  The role of the gut/brain axis and why it matters.  Foods that can make anxiety symptoms worse. What the Standard American Diet is and why it doesn't support mental health.   How the microbiome can impact neurotransmitter production.  The connection between gut inflammation and brain inflammation in mental health.  The role of undiagnosed food allergies (such as gluten, dairy, etc.) in contributing to anxiety.  How removing alcohol when you're struggling with acute anxiety can improve your mood and gut health.  Why elimination diets are so helpful for determining food allergies.  How she encourages her clients to mindfully pay attention to labels and food additives to discover links between food and mood.  The power of intuition combined with working with a practitioner when figuring out triggers.  How nutrition school helped her make peace with food and her body.  How she balances food fear and education to empower her clients to make the best choices for themselves.  The importance of finding the balance between soul nourishment and foods that make us feel good.  Why you shouldn't get your health advice solely from instagram.  Meg's 4 Pillars of how to Eat to Ease Anxiety.  Foods and nutrients Meg recommends her clients take for anxiety.  Why fermented foods should be a part of any anxiety-reducing diet.  The importance of rebuilding our nutrient stores after stress to support brain health.  The connection between vitamin D deficiency and anxiety.  Meg's favourite herb to recommend for anxiety.  Her favourite before bed tea (hint- our TLC Tea contains Meg's fave sleepy time herb!) Which lifestyle habits can contribute to anxiety.  How getting into nature can calm the nervous system.  The importance of community and connection when supporting mental health.  Why you need to find the purpose that feeds your soul.  How pesticides such as glyphosate can contribute to anxiety.  The powerful benefits of growing your own herbs.    Resources: Meg De Jong on Instagram  Meg De Jong on TikTok Work with Meg De Jong Eat to Ease Anxiety Online Program FREE Eat to Ease Anxiety Guide Grounded and Glowing Retreat Deets Get Growing Food Online Course Delicious Recipes from the Blog!   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker chat with Bryce Wylde, one of Canada's leading alternative health experts, Bryce is a highly knowledgeable and respected natural healthcare practitioner whose specialty is homeopathy, clinical nutrition, supplementation, and botanical medicine and whose focus is rooted within functional medicine. He's been a guest expert on Cityline, The Marilyn Dennis Show, and Dr. Oz where he's shared his knowledge on genetics and immunity for optimal health.  In this episode Bryce discusses the importance of figuring out your unique genetic predispositions and supporting your optimal health with evidence-based supplements and lifestyle habits. He dives deep into the power we have to turn certain genes off or on in order to promote optimal health for a long lifespan. After listening to this episode you'll be empowered to take control of your health by balancing your immune function and lowering chronic inflammation through personalized health hacks.  If you're ready to nerd out on genetics, superfoods, powerful supplements, and other natural health hacks then you won't want to miss this episode. Grab your favourite cup of green tea, settle in with your notebook, and get ready to learn how to best support your personalized optimal health!    Episode Highlights: How Bryce got started in television and shared his natural health knowledge with the audience.  The importance of theanine for brain health and function and what form is best.  Why the form of ingredient in your supplement matters more than the brand name.  Why drinking green tea alone may not be enough to get you to the clinical dose for theanine's therapeutic effects.  How theanine counteracts the effects of caffeine to prevent the jitters.  The new meditation device that can help safely stimulate alpha waves in minutes.  Why we should be incorporating medicinal mushrooms into our diets.  How your genes impact your metabolism of compounds like caffeine.  Bryce's perspective on the pros and cons of genetic companies like 23 and Me. The difference between association and causation when it comes to how genes impact health.  How different gene variations can impact the way they're expressed in your life.  The importance of not considering genetic predisposition as the final say in whether you will or won't develop a certain disease or condition. The empowering knowledge that you can change the expression of your genes through diet and lifestyle habits.  The impact of estrogen dominance and the simple lifestyle change that helps manage symptoms.  The role of methylation in health and how you can support it with the right nutrients.   The most common health concern he sees in his practice.  How he uses herbs and nutraceuticals to support immune health in his clients.  The importance of regulating, not just boosting, immune function.  The role of inflammation in chronic health conditions.  The difference between the innate and adaptive immune system.  What defines a robust immune system.  Some of the most exciting new products at the Expo West. The power of quercetin and what form to look for.  Why personalized immune support can make a huge difference in health. The next hot superfood: graviola leaf! How the immune system develops throughout our lifetime.  The link between a healthy immune function and inflammation.  The power of the cruciferous vegetable family!  The role of fibre in supporting gut and immune health.  Why beets make a great pre-workout superfood.  The top things Bryce recommends to support your immunity.   Resources: Bryce Wylde on IG Wylde on Health Website Work With Bryce Wylde Wylde on Health DNA Clinic The DNA Company Personalized Immune Support- Mymmunity BrainSpanners Book NOW Foods Graviola Agravitae Graviola Infused Latte Bars   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker chat with Rachel Molenda, a Mindset and Life Coach who specializes in supporting women in transforming the limiting beliefs that are keeping them stuck so they can step into the life they desire. She used this work to radically transform her own life and is passionate about supporting women on their growth journey. Her process can help shift beliefs around money, readiness, your body, and beyond so you can step into the juicy life you deserve. She is also the host of the award-winning Fill Your Cup Podcast where people can get advice on how to live their most authentic lives.  In this episode Rachel discusses the importance of uncovering and addressing our subconscious beliefs and rewriting the “script” playing in the background so that you can find what's holding you back from stepping into your dream life. She explains that we live 95% of our lives from our subconscious mind and through cultivating awareness and action, we can change the beliefs that guide our thoughts, feelings, and actions for the better.  If you feel stuck in your current situation and are looking for guidance on how to take the next scary step forward, you won't want to miss this episode. Grab your favourite cup of tea, settle in with your notebook, and prepare to be inspired!    Episode Highlights: Rachel's shift from an intuitive eating focus to supporting her clients through mindset coaching. How mindset work has influenced her own life.  How she helps herself and others get over their own self-doubt.  Why readiness is a lie and you should learn to work with the fear you feel.  How to connect to your passion and let that drive your action.  How trusting and surrendering to your intuition is an antidote to perfectionism.  Why being an entrepreneur forces you to look at your “stuff” to move forward.  How Rachel stepped into her bravery to create the life she was meant for.  Tips to decipher between feelings and gut instincts to help you make decisions.  Why connecting with your higher self can help you connect with your intuition Why many of the limiting beliefs you may have aren't universally true.  The connection between childhood experiences and limiting beliefs as adults. The difference between little “t” trauma and big “T” Trauma.  Why it's important to do the work and explore where your beliefs come from to move forward.  How childhood experiences help form our subconscious mind.  The importance of challenging the beliefs that come up in our minds to see if they're serving us or not.  The tools Rachel uses to help her clients navigate those thoughts. Figuring out who you would be without certain thoughts driving your behaviour.  How creating your environment can make it easier to consciously choose new thoughts.  Why limiting beliefs don't always have to come from a negative experience.  How we live most of our lives from our subconscious mind.  How using our conscious mind 5% of the time connects us to our desires.  How to rewrite the subconscious mind to achieve our goals.  The interconnection between limiting beliefs, low self-esteem, and low confidence.  How your thoughts and feelings can create results- positive or negative! What scriptwriting is and how it can change your self-perception and your life.  The importance of being intentional about your thoughts and actions.  How resistance can invite you to dig deeper into your feelings.  Why stripping away our limiting beliefs brings our true self into the world.  How to challenge anxious thoughts by asking: What else could be true right now?   Resources: Rachel Molenda on IG Self-Identity Script Writing Workshop Rachel Molenda on Emotional Eating Work With Rachel Fill Your Cup Podcast on IG Fill Your Cup Podcast Intuitive Eating Podcast Episode Guide   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Dr. Ellen Vora, a holistic psychiatrist, acupuncturist, and yoga teacher. She takes a functional medicine approach to mental health by considering the whole person and addressing bodily imbalances at their root. Dr. Vora received a B.A. from Yale University, an M.D. from Columbia University, and is board-certified in psychiatry and integrative holistic medicine. She is the author of the new bestseller, The Anatomy of Anxiety and she's here to share her evidence-based approach to holistic mental health.  In this episode Dr. Vora discusses the root causes of anxiety and the variety of holistic tools she uses to support her patients. Her approach looks at the whole person and all the dietary and lifestyle tools they can use to not just alleviate symptoms, but truly heal on a deep level. She discusses the difference between “true” and “false” anxiety and the empowering knowledge that these “false” anxieties are relatively easy to correct based on her recommendations.  If you struggle with anxiety, you won't want to miss Dr. Vora's grounded and gentle approach to healing. This episode is packed with actionable steps you can start incorporating straight away to nourish your body and soothe your nervous system. So settle in with a pen and paper because you won't want to miss a single one of her powerful recommendations!   Episode Highlights:  Dr. Vora's transition from strictly allopathic medicine to a more holistic approach.  How her health journey led her down this path to integrative medicine.  Dr. Vora'shealth struggles with low mood, anxiety, migraines, PCOS, rashes, and digestive issues.  The importance of our environment on our health. Why mental health is never just the physical OR the psychologica, but bothl.  How changing your physical inputs can impact your mental health. How Dr. Vora incorporates TCM, Ayurveda, acupuncture & yoga in her treatment of anxiety.  The power of being heard by your practitioner on your healing journey. The role of intuition in Dr. Vora's practice and the journey she took to trust herself.  Dr. Vora's top tip to help you tap into your intuition.  The important difference between intuition, fear, and future-tripping.  What Dr. Vora means when she describes “false” anxiety.  How the stress response impacts the brain.  The physical causes of false anxiety, including blood sugar imbalance. How to tell the difference between true and false anxiety.  Why it's important to connect with, and act on, our true anxiety.  How Dr. Vora differentiates between true and false anxiety in her practice.  How dealing with false anxiety provides a grounded foundation to deal with true anxiety. The importance of a softer approach to nutrition and mental health.  Actionable steps for dealing with false anxiety.  The importance of sleep when starting your mental health healing journey.  How to get a better night's sleep by supporting the circadian rhythm.  What happens when we don't get a good night's sleep. What the glymph system does to support mental health.  The important link between gut health and mental health.  Why it's hard to be adequately nourished in the modern food landscape.  Some foods that can exacerbate mental health like gluten, dairy, sugar, and vegetable oils. Why we need to maintain a sense of ease around food and nourishment.  How chronic inflammation impacts the part of the brain that deals with threat detection.  Why cultivating a supportive community is so important for mental health.  How you can support your children's mental resilience as a parent.   Resources: Ellen Vora, MD on Instagram  The Anatomy of Anxiety Book Ellen Vora, MD's Website Ellen Vora, MD on Facebook Ellen Vora, MD on TikTok Ellen Vora, MD on YouTube How to Control Anxiety Online Program Managing Depression Online Program   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Sisley, Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Acne Coach and Health & Wellness Blogger. She is based in Vancouver, Canada and takes advantage of all the city has to offer to support wellness. Sisley helps women clear their acne naturally through holistic nutrition, skincare, supplementation, lifestyle and mindset. She is the founder of the health and wellness blog, The Pure Life, and has organized and hosted workshops, retreats and group programs for women from around the world. In this episode Sisley discusses the root cause of acne including the role of digestive health and environmental triggers and even healthy foods that can trigger a breakout! Joy and Sisley share so much wisdom about how to prevent breakouts, treat acute flare ups, and live a balanced life free of the food fear that so many people with acne experience.  If you've been struggling with breakouts or acne and are looking for clear, actionable steps you can take to support healthy skin, you won't want to miss this episode. Sisley's approach to nutrition and skin health is realistic and grounded in research and experience. So settle in with a glass of this gut-loving Golden Elixir and your pen and paper because you won't want to miss a single skin-loving tip!   Episode Highlights: The health journey that inspired her to become an acne-focused nutritionist.  How she followed her intuition when all her test results came back inconclusive.  How her life changed forever after going to nutrition school.  The steps she took to heal her digestive issues.  What androgen hormones are and how they can impact acne development. What role a healthy gut plays in the prevention of acne.  Why most people struggle with gut health. The power of the microbiome in managing acne and mental health. The role of the microbiome in estrogen metabolism. The importance of hormonal detoxification after taking the birth control pill. Why having a BM 1-3 times a day is key to optimal health.  What your breakout locations can tell you about your acne triggers.  Her best tips to support digestive health. Why it's important to think about HOW we're eating, not just what we're eating.  The changes you can make to your diet after you heal your gut.  Why patience is important when healing your digestion.  The different types of casein found in dairy and why that matters. Better alternatives to cow dairy if you have acne.  The top 3 most common food triggers for acne How sugar impacts the gut microbiome and cravings.  The connection between blood sugar balance and acne.  Sisley's recommendations for banishing sugar cravings. Why a protein-rich breakfast is the key to blood sugar balance.  What to look for in an acne-friendly protein powder.  Why maca may not be the best superfood for acne-prone skin. What healthy foods can trigger acne breakouts. The psychological impact of acne.  The #1 thing she suggests you start TODAY for healthy skin.  What happens when you pick your skin.  Sisley's recommendations for treating an acute breakout.  The lifestyle factors that can impact gut and skin health.  Why she's a fan of the 80/20 approach to food.  The importance of whole foods in the diet. What foods and supplements are best for preventing acne.  What 2 supplements to be careful with if you are prone to acne.  Sisley's thoughts on the nutrient DIM.  Her favourite hormone balancing supplement- EstroSmart. Why it's helpful to switch up your probiotics.    Resources: The Pure Life Instagram The Pure Like TikTok Free Guide: 6 Steps to Clear Skin The Pure Life Website Sisley's Acne Protocol: The Complete Guide 1:1 Acne Coaching with Sisley Clear Skin Recipes Acne Tips on The Pure Life Blog    More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker chat with Tonya Papanikolov, Holistic Nutritionist, educator, founder and CEO of Rainbo, a Canadian medicinal mushroom company. She is a graduate of the Institute of Holistic Nutrition, holds a Bachelor of Nutrition and Nutraceutical Sciences from the University of Guelph and is a certified Reiki and Kundalini practitioner. She believes that radiance starts on the inside by eating whole plant foods and learning to interpret and listen to the wisdom of your body.    In this episode Tonya discusses the connection she has with nourishing foods and her self-care rituals to inspire others so they can experience health and vitality. A major part of her healing journey included medicinal mushrooms and her passion for their healing power led her to create her own mushroom company in 2018. Her knowledge on the interconnection between fungi and health is sure to empower you! If you've been hearing a lot about “adaptogens” and “functional” or “medicinal” mushrooms, but aren't quite sure what that means or how they work, then you won't want to miss this episode. Tonya shares the history and magical healing powers of medicinal mushrooms in a fun, approachable, and inspiring way that will have you ready to discover your very own spirit mushroom!   Episode Highlights: Tonya's morning practice that helps her start the day feeling grounded and alert. How she transitioned from a night owl to an early bird! The power of ritual for creating lasting health changes.  The practices Tonya used to heal her illness from mold in her home. How she coped with living in an environment that was making her sick.  The importance of trusting your body's healing powers.  The magical encounter where Tonya first fell in love with mushrooms.   Her first hand experience with the miraculous healing magic of mushrooms. How she felt called to create her mushroom company, Rainbo. The beautiful benefits of reishi mushrooms. The history of magical, medicinal mushrooms in human civilization.  Why Tonya wants to educate and change the narrative around the power of mushrooms.  The unique, combustible mushroom you've never heard of! Tonya breaks down adaptogens and how they work in the body. The connection between mushrooms and adaptogens. Best mushrooms to support the nervous system: cordyceps and reishi  Tonya's favourite spirit mushroom! The immune modulating powers of medicinal mushrooms.  Lion's Mane and the compounds it contains for neuroprotection & focus! The importance of using mushrooms long term for optimal benefits.  What inspired Tonya to start her own mushroom company.  Her advice to entrepreneurs just getting started.  The story of her entrepreneurial journey.  Her best-selling functional mushroom products. The best process to access the nutrients inside mushrooms.  How to choose the right medicinal mushroom for your needs. The king and queen of medicinal mushrooms.  The unique difference between fungi and mushrooms. What to look for when choosing a clean mushroom product.  Bioaccumulation: what is it and how do mushrooms fit in?    Resources: Tonya Papanikolov's Instagram Rainbo Mushrooms' Instagram The Well Woman Co. Website Join The Well Woman Community Rainbo Mushrooms' Website Get 11% off Your First Rainbo Order!   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Jessie Inchauspé, the founder of the wildly popular Instagram account Glucose Goddess and author of the book Glucose Revolution. She holds a bachelor of science degree in mathematics from King's College London and a master of science degree in biochemistry from Georgetown University. Her mission is to translate cutting-edge science into easy advice to help people improve their physical and mental health, especially when it comes to balancing your blood sugar.  Whether you struggle with acne, PCOS, chronic inflammation, uncontrollable food cravings, or hormonal imbalance, the information in this episode will help you take control of your health, today! This episode is packed with practical tips you can start applying at your very next meal to balance your blood sugar, without having to go on a sugar detox or give up your favourite foods.  If you feel overwhelmed with all the advice and information about how and when to eat for lasting health and wellness, especially when it comes to controlling glucose spikes then this episode is for you. Jessie keeps things simple and offers a wide range of suggestions and tips that you can test to discover what works best for you and your lifestyle.    Episode Highlights:  Jessie's personal journey from Silicon Valley startup to health educator. How learning about glucose helped Jessie heal her broken back & mental health. Why food habits beat genetics when it comes to health. What are glucose spikes? How she discovered that these spikes could trigger acute mental health episodes.  Why 90% of people without diabetes experience glucose spikes every day. Common symptoms of glucose spikes everyone experiences. How balancing blood sugar impacts overall health and wellness.  How blood sugar spikes impact cravings and hormones. A breakdown of the scientific research behind cravings and blood sugar.  The first thing that disappears once your blood sugar stabilizes. How to avoid massive glucose fluctuations even when eating your favourite foods. Health Hack: Put clothing on your carbs- what it means and how to do it. The best order to eat your food to reduce glucose spikes by 70%. Why sweets that contain fructose are worse for our sugar spikes than savoury carbs. Why Jessie is against diets that say any food is off limits.  Individual factors that can impact your sensitivity to blood sugar spikes.  What happens to your small intestine when you eat fibre & how it impacts blood sugar spikes. The most powerful fibre-rich food to incorporate into your meals for blood sugar balance. Why 3 meals a day is better for blood sugar than 6 meals.  How a sweet versus savoury breakfast dictates your cravings for the rest of the day. Jessie's favourite savoury breakfast! Why small, dense LDL cholesterol is bad for heart health and why you shouldn't fear eggs! How to plan your meals to balance your blood sugar How sugar impacts the production of small, dense LDL cholesterol in the body.  The power of having vinegar before a meal: it can cut your blood sugar spike by up to 30%! The simplest lifestyle hack to try after meals to help reduce glucose spikes. Should you try a continuous glucose monitor even if you don't have diabetes? Why symptoms are your body's way of trying to get your attention that something needs attention.  How simple hacks and habits can have a profound impact on your health.    Resources: Glucose Goddess Instagram Glucose Revolution Book Free Steady Glucose Meal Plan Glucose Tracking App   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy is joined by Lindsay Taylor, a pre- and post-natal nutrition expert, health researcher and doula who supports women to get confidently nourished before, during, and after pregnancy. Lindsay is also the author of the best-selling book, The Food Doula Cookbook, a cookbook that offers easy, delicious recipes for preconception, each of the 3 trimesters, and postpartum, as well as down-to-earth nutrition guidance that works for real life.   She is a beaming ray of sunshine in the food world who believes that we still deserve to feel good and eat food we love at every step of our pregnancy journey. Nourishing good foods shouldn't taste bland and boring otherwise, what's the point? Her philosophy is founded on the belief that we can make healthy taste good to support your body from preconception to postpartum.   In this episode Joy and Lindsay discuss: Lindsay's journey to becoming a doula.  The hole she feels doulas fill in the modern health care approach to birthing.  Why preconception nutrition should be part of pregnancy planning.  Lindsay's favourite prenatal vitamin brands.  Breaking down top pregnancy and nutrition myths.  The process behind how Lindsay wrote The Food Doula Cookbook. Lindsay's favourite recipe: The Glowing Mama Healing Stew!    This episode will give you the foundation you need to lovingly nourish your body whether you're planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or in that 4th trimester postpartum period. Lindsay is a wealth of knowledge who will inspire you to eat a wide range of pregnancy superfoods so that you and baby are as happy and healthy as possible.    Episode Highlights: How Lindsay's pregnancy experiences led to becoming a doula.  Why she believes adults deserve more support during the transition to parenthood. How doulas help fill the missing role of the “village” in supporting new parents.  The way her doula training impacted the recipes she created for her cookbook.  Why practicality needs to be balanced with nutrition and deliciousness in postpartum cooking.  How nutrient intake impacts the way the body recovers postpartum. The importance of caring for mom during the birth process, not just baby. How doulas offer options for care during pregnancy and the birthing process.  Lindsay's nutrition recommendations for the preconception phase.  How nutrition can support the production of healthy eggs and how that impacts pregnancy outcomes.  Tips to add rich sources of folate to your meals and snacks.  The best time to start a prenatal multivitamin and how to choose the best one for your needs. The importance of antioxidants and fat in the preconception diet.  Lindsay's favourite fat-loving preconception foods!  How what you eat during pregnancy impacts the health of your baby.  Why multivitamins are a supplement to a whole foods diet.  Lindsay's top foods to support the body during pregnancy, trimester by trimester.  The importance of listening to your own intuition around hunger and nutrition.  The role of choline in baby's brain development. Why DHA is one of the most important nutrients for pregnancy. The connection between low levels of DHA and postpartum depression.  Lindsay's top tips for postpartum nutrition for mom and baby.  Why you should stay on your prenatal vitamin after birth.  How planning ahead can set you up for nutrition success postpartum.  Why you shouldn't forget to prep some one-handed snacks! Why getting comfortable asking for help is critical for healing postpartum. Demystifying the top pregnancy nutrition myths.  How bacteria impacts a baby's microbiome during birth.  How Lindsay wrote The Food Doula Cookbook and how it's designed to support the pregnancy journey.    Resources: Find Lindsay Taylor on Instagram Sign Up For The Food Doula Newsletter Order The Food Doula Cookbook! Take Lindsay's Postpartum Prep Cooking Class Get One-on-One Nutrition Coaching Fullwell Prenatal Multivitamins Seeking Health Prenatal Multivitamins   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy's bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker are joined by Yogi Shambu in a wide ranging, engaging discussion. Shambu starts by sharing the role of ritual, meditation, and mindfulness practices to create a balanced life of optimal potential. From there, he shares his experiences as a member of the Rainforest Flying Squad, who are on the ground daily fighting to protect the last of BC's old growth forests.  Shambu is a fascinating guest. He was born into an artist and healer community and exposed to a revolving door of people who expected more from life and human potential. These early life experiences led him down his path as an energetic healer. He helps his clients release energetic residues of past experiences to allow their present reality to come into clarity. He does this work through his own combination of energy healing, spiritual counsel, and yogic teachings. In this episode they discuss  An easy way to bring mindfulness and ritual to your day. The importance of meditation and mindfulness for self-intimacy. How old growth forests are crucial for the environmental health of our planet. Why we need to take action now to protect the ecosystems in our own communities. Yogi Shambu shares actionable steps to create your own healing rituals throughout a busy day and valuable knowledge about the importance of old growth forests for ecological health. This episode is captivating and will inspire you to take action to balance your health so that you can share your energy with your great community.    Episode Highlights: How Shambu's early life influenced his passion for health, wellness, and spirituality. The importance of augmenting the powerful parts of yourself that you've been gifted. How meditation and mindfulness lead to intimacy with yourself and others.  Why you should know and accept the positive and not so loveable parts of yourself. His journey from a death facilitator to his work with the church and spiritual presences. How his experiences around death at a young age influenced his outlook on life and how he lives in the world.  The grounding practices he uses to protect his own energy when working with clients.  The influence of his uncle, who was a Swami, on his life and practices.  The daily rituals he practices to maintain balanced health.  The joy of doing breathing practices outside. How he transitions out of work at the end of the day. What he recommends for busy, stressed out folks to find help balance. The power of short bursts of activity for self-regulation and maintaining momentum. What is the Fairy Creek Blockade and why we should care about it.  How his love of superheroes inspired his environmental activism.  His experiences fighting for the environment in BC.  How clear-cutting old growth forests creates landslides, despite replanting efforts.  The lack of biodiversity in a replanted landscape.  The environmental impact of cutting down old growth forests.  Old growth forests sequester more CO2 per hectare than the Amazon.   The importance of species-at -risk laws to protect our ecosystem.  Finding the area in your community where you can help the environment.  How ecotourism can bring in more income    Resources: Yogi Shambu's Website Find Yogi Shambu on Facebook Fairy Creek Blockade Website Donate to the Fairy Creek Blockade   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy shares her own skin journey with rosacea and how it impacted her confidence. She dives deep into the research she did to find the best approach to manage her symptoms to give you a solid foundation to care for your skin. She knows rosacea is a multifactorial condition, so she shares her best tips to support your skin, inside and out.  In this episode she talks about:  Foods you should avoid to prevent flare ups  The best foods to eat to calm inflammation What supplements can be beneficial for skin health Her natural skincare routine The best natural makeup As a nutritionist, Joy shares that the health of your digestive system is directly reflected in the health of your skin. In this episode, she focuses on the importance of gut health and its role in not only rosacea, but also eczema, acne, and other skin disorders.  And don't forget the inside scoop on the best beauty products to care for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin! Joy shares her complete skin care routine so you can support your skin from the outside, too.    If you struggle with rosacea or red, inflamed skin you are going to love this episode! It's packed with actionable tips that you can start incorporating into your life right away to support your softest, smoothest skin ever!    Episode Highlights: Joy's journey with moderate to severe rosacea Common risk factors for and causes of rosacea Why depression and anxiety are so common in folks with rosacea What her dermatologist recommended and why she chose a different path  How weather can irritate the skin  What foods should you avoid if you have rosacea?  How vegetable oils are made and where they are found in the diet  What are high histamine foods? Why fermented foods may not be the best choice for folks with rosacea The difference between A1 and A2 casein and why it matters What role does a healthy gut play in achieving vibrant, healthy skin? Why going gluten free isn't just a trend The importance of learning your unique triggers- everyone is different! How a food journal can help you discover your triggers. What foods should you eat if you have rosacea?  The power of anti-inflammatory foods Why cooking cruciferous vegetables may be necessary for optimal digestion The best supplements for skin health What probiotics are best for healthy skin? Can supplements help lower histamine levels? The magic of omega-3s and borage oil for skin health Should you do the Dutch Test to check your hormone levels? How Joy cares for her skin, naturally.  The best all-natural makeups for people with rosacea.   Resources: Rosacea: How I Care For My Skin Naturally Rosacea: Best Foods To Eat Rosacea: Steer Clear of These Foods For Calm Skin Rosacea: Natural Health Supplements Rosacea: Best Natural Makeup Probiotics for Healthy Skin 5 Ingredients To Brighten, Balance, & Nourish Your Skin 6 Factors That Sabotage Healthy Skin + Solutions Our Organic Skincare Line Is Here! Shop Our Joyous Skincare Line! Shop Our Radiance Tea! Shop Our Detox Tea! $100 Coupon for the Dutch Test!   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy is joined by Dr. Laura Markham, a Clinical Psychologist at Columbia University and Founder of Aha! Parenting. She is also the author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids; Peaceful Parents, Happy Siblings; and Peaceful Parents, Happy Kids Workbook: Using Mindfulness and Connection to Raise Resilient, Joyful Children and Rediscover your Love of Parenting. Her approach to parenting is inspiring and supportive; she will make you believe in yourself and your ability to raise joyful, resilient children. Today's episode focuses on Dr. Laura's 3 big ideas that parents and caregivers can use so that they can embody peaceful parenting:  Regulating your own emotions. Connecting with your child.  Coaching your child.  This episode is filled with practical tips for managing parenting situations to create safety and connection between you and your child. You'll learn the importance of building that connection with your child so they feel understood and can take responsibility for their actions. Kids want to be their best selves and by learning how to connect and coach them, you can help them get there.  Dr. Laura also shares the best piece of advice she didn't learn in school about how to be an emotionally generous and supportive parent. Whether you're pregnant, have a toddler, or are raising a teen, her advice will help you become the best parent you can be. You're going to love this episode and walk away feeling inspired and confident in your ability to connect with your child as a peaceful parent.    Episode Highlights: What IS peaceful parenting? How your childhood can impact the way that you parent  The importance of dealing with your emotional baggage  How the hippocampus and dreamwork help process intense experiences 3 simple ideas to become a peaceful parent: Regulate your own emotions Connect with your child  Coach your child Parenting as a relationship, not a set of strategies  Creating an environment to help your child thrive Modeling behaviour: stay calm to calm your child How caregivers can nurture a resilient nervous system in children Staying out of fight mode  How to return your nervous system to a state of calmness The importance of breath for managing the stress response   How to invite communication with your child  How parent and child relationships set the foundation for future relationships Setting limits while helping your child feel understood  How connection and limits help kids develop self-discipline Clear examples of how to put Dr. Laura's advice into practice.  Developing a peaceful nighttime routine  The importance of keeping agreements- both parents and kids! How to be an emotionally generous parent by filling your own cup  The role of meditation to cultivate curiousity and compassion about your relationship   Resources: Dr. Laura's Website: Sign up for her amazing newsletter!  Dr. Laura's Peaceful Parenting Course Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids Book Dr. Laura's Instagram Dr. Laura's Facebook Dr. Laura's Twitter  Dr. Laura's Pinterest    More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week Joy is joined by ultramarathoner Colin Nanka who by defeating the average, shows that anyone can accomplish their dreams of participating in 10 races. Colin teaches us how it is so much more than just being physically fit. In this episode, Colin shows us how embracing difficulties and pain can lead to the greatest achievements in our lives.  Episode Highlights:   Feeling average and finding tribes and mentors   What is an Ultra-Marathon?   Learning from mistakes to improve   Leaning into discomfort, pain and suffering    The benefits of breathing and practicing breathing exercises    Breathing exercises & meditation apps with children   The limitless health benefits of simply walking   Leveraging past hardships to confront current difficulties with confidence   Prioritizing your own health & well-being over work   Shutting down at night to increase focus and energy   Resources: DEFEATING AVERAGE Documentary Colin Nanka's Website Colin's Instagram Check out Jeff Warren's episode on the Joyous Health Podcast    More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy leans in to discuss living a purposeful life with Renata, a Naturopathic Doctor turned Astrologer, Soul Alignment Coach and Spiritual Mentor. Renata has 10+ years experience in natural medicine, coaching, yoga, astrology, tarot and has helped hundreds of women create soulful success on their terms. In this episode, Renata inspires us to move past our hidden fears, reconnect with our higher selves, and start living a life aligned with our purpose.   Episode Highlights:    Renata's journey to becoming an astrologer, coach and naturopathic doctor    Infusing spiritual and energetic components into the logical side of healing    What are the cosmos? How do they affect us? How can we use them to better understand ourselves?   How each full moon affects us differently and why   Being open & curious about different opinions   How social media can make it seem like there is more negativity than there is in the world   Mercury in retrograde explained How to better use and connect with your intuition    Do certain drugs enhance or diminish your intuition?   Honouring and embracing the dualities we hold within ourselves   Resources: Renata's Content, Readings & More Free Alignment Starter Kit Renata's Official Website Renata's Instagram Page   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker are joined by sugar-free activist Julie Daniluk, a nutritionist, award-winning author, TV host and anti-inflammatory food & lifestyle expert. Julie returns to share with us how damaging sugar is for nearly every system in the body from our hormones, mental health to our skin and how it is at the root of many chronic diseases. She guides us on an approachable path instead, helping us say goodbye to sugar without feeling deprived and shares many sugar substitutes so you can still have your cake and eat it too! In this episode, Julie shares the tools to becoming sugar-free - which is also the title of her latest book.     Episode Highlights: What is a sugar addiction and why do people chase it? How depression, anxiety and more come with sugar addiction The amazing domino effect that comes from cutting sugar  Not going cold turkey with quitting sugar and which alternatives to use Sweeteners to avoid and why The connection between hormones, menopausal symptoms and high blood sugar The benefits of intermittent fasting Cutting off night-time binges & snacking to improve digestive health Understanding what's on your label: the hidden places you find sugar What is the first move to quit sugar if you want to start now? Julie's sugar quiz to help you find out how addicted you are to sugar   Resources: Julie Daniluk''s Website The ‘How Addicted to Sugar Are You' Quiz Julie's Free Webinar to Break Free from Sugar Cravings Julie's latest book: Becoming Sugar-free  Julie Daniluk on Instagram    More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy and Walker consider the immense possibilities opened by simply leading with intuition and compassion. They are joined by Xavier Dagba, a trauma informed transformational life coach, shadow work facilitator and intuitive healer. Xavier is a firm believer that personal freedom can only be achieved when we allow ourselves to welcome the wisdom hidden within every emotional state, good or “bad”.  In this episode, Xavier inspires us to see beyond the black and white, open our perspectives, and invite compassion into every part of our daily lives.  Episode Highlights:   Coming into your own intuition and leaning into it   Trusting the unseen   Xavier's journey to become someone who surrenders to fear and says yes     Nurturing intuitive behaviours in children   A person's shadow and how people navigate it in different ways     Building safety within oneself   How to handle emotional attacks with clarity and understanding the other person's goals   Perspective vs. Identity   Xavier's tools and practices to maintain present   The key difference between empathy and compassion   Protecting your own energy as a coach or an entrepreneur Resources: Xavier Dagba's Official Website Xavier's Inspirational Instagram Page Book a Coaching Call with Xavier More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy has an important subject to discuss: the presence of fluoride in our water and its effects on our health. She's joined by Michael Connett, lead attorney in the ongoing lawsuit against the EPA over the neurotoxicity of fluoride. Michael is a partner at Waters Kraus & Paul in LA, where he focuses on helping victims catastrophically injured by toxic substances and dangerous products. He's also a consultant for the Fluoride Action Network (FAN), which aims to broaden awareness of the toxicity of fluoride compounds. In this episode, Michael guides us through why we should be concerned about the presence of fluoride in our water supply, why governments have not updated their policies, and how he and FAN are hoping to change attitudes towards fluoridation.   Joy's interview with Michael opens with some information about why fluoridation of our water started in the first place and why new dental research has put the validity of this practice in doubt. Michael points out that while water fluoridation is widespread in North America, most Western countries have chosen not to follow in the US's footsteps, prioritizing informed consent and the possibility of long-term effects on health. These effects include potential harm to children's neurodevelopment, with many studies showing a link between exposure to elevated fluoride and lowered IQ and ADHD. Michael suggests that institutional inertia may play a part in the government's refusal to change its policies on fluoridation and discusses how FAN's lawsuit against the EPA aims to shake up attitudes toward fluoride. He highlights the prenatal effects of fluoride as one of the key concerns being researched right now, points out that bottle-feeding newborns increases their fluoride exposure massively, and explains some of the common ways you and your children can be exposed to fluoridated water—including the high levels present in green and black tea. Finally, Michael explains the significant impact FAN's lawsuit may have on the future of fluoridation policy and suggests some ways to support FAN and the campaign against fluoridation. Filled with vital information regarding this most critical of topics, today's interview marks yet another episode of Joyous Health that you absolutely cannot afford to miss.   Episode Highlights:     US fluoridation policy vs. other countries   The long-term effects of fluoride exposure   The link between fluoride and neurodevelopmental harm   Institutional inertia   Michael's petition to the EPA and subsequent federal court case   The effects of fluoride during the prenatal period   Bottle-feeding and fluoridated water   The CDC's attitude to fluoridation   Ways you can be exposed to fluoride   The implications of the lawsuit against the EPA   Ways you can help the campaign against fluoridation Resources: FAN Homepage The neurotoxic effects of fluoride 10 Facts about Fluoride 50 reasons to oppose fluoride   More about Joyous Health:   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health   Check out Joy's bestselling cookbooks   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram   Find Joyous Health on Facebook   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.   Join Joy's Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids