The Vital Veda Podcast: Ayurveda | Vedic Wisdom | Holistic Health & Natural Healing

Dylan Smith: Ayurvedic Practitioner, Holistic Health Educator, Conscious Entrepreneur
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The Vital Veda Podcast dives deep into Ayurveda, Vedic wisdom, holistic health, and the ancient sciences of natural healing. Hosted by Dylan Smith - Ayurvedic practitioner and holistic health educator - each episode explores practical and profound wisdom to help you live at your highest potential. Topics include Ayurvedic medicine, Jyotish (Vedic astrology), yoga, meditation, mantra, herbal medicine, holistic nutrition, women's health, fertility, EMF, detoxification, consciousness, and the Ayurveda daily routine (dinacharya). Guests include world-leading Ayurvedic vaidyas and physicians, Vedic astrologers, yoga masters, integrative medicine doctors, herbalists, and spiritual teachers from around the world. Whether you're new to Ayurveda or deepening your Vedic practice, this podcast gives you the tools to understand your constitution (dosha), balance body and mind, and live in harmony with nature's rhythms. Learn more and work with Dylan at www.vitalveda.com.au

  1. Jyotish Gemstones: Choosing the Right Planetary Stone for Your Chart and What to Avoid | Tiffany April Raines #154

    29 APR

    Jyotish Gemstones: Choosing the Right Planetary Stone for Your Chart and What to Avoid | Tiffany April Raines #154

    Gemstones are not just decorative. In Jyotiṣa (Vedic Astrology), they are used as precise tools to amplify planetary influences and shift the trajectory of karma. In this episode, Dylan Smith sits down with Vedic Gemologist and Jyotiṣī Tiffany April Raines to explore how astrological gemstones actually work, why quality is everything, and the level of responsibility required when using them. Tiffany is the co-owner of Astrological Gem International and has spent nearly two decades studying, testing, and tracking the real-world effects of gemstones. Her approach is grounded in precise chart-based prescriptions, high-quality sourcing, and direct experience. This conversation goes beyond surface-level understanding. It explores gemstones as amplifiers of karma, why they can sometimes create intensity or discomfort, and how to work with them consciously and safely. If you’ve ever been curious about wearing gemstones for healing, abundance, relationships, or spiritual growth, this episode brings clarity, nuance, and grounded insight. In This Episode, We Cover:  What makes a gemstone “astrological” vs decorative  Why flawlessness and untreated stones are essential  How gemstones interact with light, colour, and planetary energy  Why gemstones can accelerate karma and life events  When gemstones can create discomfort or intensity  Whether gemstones should be a primary remedy (upāya)  The importance of correct prescription and intention  Real-life stories of fertility, wealth, and life shifts  Primary vs secondary gemstones (ratnas vs uparatnas)  Why quality matters more than size  Natural pearls vs cultured pearls and what actually works  How to work with common stones like amethyst  Emerging gemstones beyond classical Jyotiṣa (aquamarine, rubellite)  Red flags when buying gemstones and issues with certification  The ethics and responsibility of selling gemstones About Tiffany April Raines Tiffany April Raines is a Vedic Gemologist and Jyotiṣī with nearly 20 years of experience. She is co-owner of Astrological Gem International, a company specialising in rare, untreated, highly flawless gemstones for astrological use. Tiffany’s work combines classical Vedic knowledge with hands-on experimentation. She personally tests gemstones, tracks client results over time, and continues to expand the understanding of gemstone therapy beyond traditional frameworks. Resources & Links Astrological Gem International  https://www.astrologicalgem.com Astrological Gem Blog  https://www.astrologicalgemblog.com 7 Dhatus and 9 Planets – Online Course  https://www.vitalveda.com.au/self-pulse-course/ Related Episodes Astrological Gems with Jay Boyle {Podcast #028} Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    1hr 12min
  2. EMF and Cellular Health: A Telecom Engineer Explains What's Actually Happening to Your Body | Daniel DeBaun

    25 MAR

    EMF and Cellular Health: A Telecom Engineer Explains What's Actually Happening to Your Body | Daniel DeBaun

    In this eye-opening conversation, Dylan sits with telecommunications engineer Daniel DeBaun to explore how modern electromagnetic fields (EMFs) interact with human biology and what we can do to maintain strong cellular energy in an increasingly wireless world. Our bodies are fundamentally electrical. Every nerve impulse, heartbeat, and cellular signal depends on delicate electrical gradients. Yet today we are constantly surrounded by artificial electromagnetic signals from mobile phones, WiFi routers, laptops, Bluetooth devices, and expanding wireless infrastructure. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience inside the telecommunications industry, Daniel explains what electromagnetic fields actually are, the difference between ionising and non-ionising radiation, and how radiofrequency signals interact with biological systems. The discussion explores emerging research around voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs), oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function, offering insight into how environmental electromagnetic exposure may influence cellular signalling and energy metabolism. Rather than approaching the topic from a place of fear, this episode focuses on awareness and resilience. Dylan and Daniel share practical strategies to reduce EMF exposure in everyday life, helping listeners navigate modern technology while supporting long-term health. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 📡 What electromagnetic fields (EMFs) actually are  📡 Ionising vs non-ionising radiation explained  📡 Radiofrequency radiation from phones, WiFi and wireless devices  📡 The electrical nature of human physiology  📡 Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) and cellular signalling  📡 Oxidative stress and mitochondrial energy production  📡 Mobile phones, wireless technology and the 5G conversation  📡 Why some individuals experience EMF sensitivity  📡 Simple ways to reduce daily EMF exposure  📡 Practical strategies for building resilience in a high-EMF world ABOUT OUR GUEST: Daniel DeBaun Daniel T. DeBaun is a telecommunications engineer with more than 30 years of experience designing and testing wireless technologies. During his career he worked inside the infrastructure that powers modern telecommunications, including overseeing electromagnetic interference testing laboratories and helping establish technical standards for wireless systems. Over time his focus shifted toward understanding the biological effects of electromagnetic radiation from everyday devices such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets. Daniel went on to found DefenderShield, a company dedicated to developing technologies that help reduce personal EMF exposure. He is also co-author of Radiation Nation: The Fallout of Modern Technology, a book focused on EMF awareness and practical protection strategies. RESOURCES: DefenderShield Website (10% discount with code VITALVEDA) Self-Abhyanga (Self Oil Massage) Guide Introduction to Ayurveda Self-Pulse Technique Course Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    1hr 20min
  3. Solar and Lunar Eclipses: What Ayurveda, Jyotish and Mantra Say You Should (and Shouldn't) Do | #152

    23 FEB

    Solar and Lunar Eclipses: What Ayurveda, Jyotish and Mantra Say You Should (and Shouldn't) Do | #152

    When an eclipse happens, something shifts. The light changes. The atmosphere feels different. Traditionally, these moments were never treated as ordinary. In this episode, Dylan is joined by Jyotishi and Ayurvedic practitioner Laura Plumb, Vaidya Dr Krishna Raju, Vaidya and medical astrologer Dr Harsha Raju, and mantra teacher Purnesh. Together they explore eclipses through the lenses of Ayurveda, Jyotish and mantra śāstra. They speak about Rahu and Ketu, the difference between solar and lunar eclipses, why digestion and prāṇa are considered more sensitive during these periods, and why eclipses have long been used as powerful windows for mantra and inner practice. Specific mantras and simple ritual guidelines are shared, along with practical recommendations around food, rest, meditation and how to orient the mind during these heightened times. The conversation moves between astronomy, subtle physiology and lived experience, offering a steady and grounded way to approach eclipse events. Rather than sensationalising eclipses, this episode invites a composed perspective. A reminder that moments of shadow can also be moments of alignment. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 🌒 The Vedic understanding of eclipses 🌒 Rahu and Ketu in Vedic mythology 🌒 Solar vs lunar eclipses and their different impacts on mind, prāṇa and physiology 🌒 Agni, digestion and subtle sensitivity during eclipse periods 🌒 Practical Ayurvedic guidance for food, fasting and daily routine 🌒 Mantra practices and specific chants recommended during eclipses 🌒 Moving beyond fear toward steadiness and alignment in times of shadow RESOURCES: Show Notes for this episode (with full resources & mantra spellings)Seven Dhatus and Nine Planets - Online Course with Dylan & Vaidya Harsha RajuVital Veda’s Abhanga Courses (2026) in Byron Bay, Australia & London, UKAll of Vital Veda's online & in-person courses and trainingsAyurveda x Astrology: The Cosmic Blueprint For Health - Masterclass with Vaidya Harsha RajuBook a Jyotish session with Laura Plumb - Discount Code: LAURA10 for 10% discount Book a Jyotish session with Vaidya Harsha RajuFriends of Vital VedaSupport the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    1hr 28min
  4. The Role of Fear in Disease: How Prana, Pulse Diagnosis and Ayurveda Address the Root | Dr A.V. Raju

    14 JAN

    The Role of Fear in Disease: How Prana, Pulse Diagnosis and Ayurveda Address the Root | Dr A.V. Raju

    In this profound wisdom session, Dylan sits with Dr Krishna Raju to explore how fear consciousness disrupts health, and how prāṇa, pulse awareness, and subtle Ayurvedic sciences restore balance at the deepest level. Rather than approaching disease as something external to fight, this conversation returns to a core Ayurvedic truth: health and illness arise first in consciousness. Through stories, clinical insights, and lineage-based knowledge, Dr Raju explains how fear weakens prāṇa, how confidence and understanding support healing, and why Ayurveda prioritises early imbalance long before disease manifests. This episode weaves together classical Ayurvedic philosophy, pulse wisdom, marma science, and lived experience from generations of Vaidyas, offering a rare glimpse into healing that begins within. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 🌿 Fear as a Root Cause of Disease 🌿 Doṣas, Consciousness & the Inner Churning 🌿 Prāṇa as the Foundation of Healing 🌿 Pulse Awareness as a Healing Practice 🌿 Agni, Ama & the Six Stages of Disease 🌿 Marma Therapy And The Power of Touch 🌿 Sound, Mantra & Subtle Prāṇic Healing 🌿 Seasonal Intelligence & Ritual Reset ABOUT OUR GUEST: Vaidya A.V. 'Krishna' Raju Vaidya Krishna Raju is the Director and Head Physician of The Raju Family clinic in Hyderabad, India, where thousands of patients travel from across the world for expert Ayurvedic care, ranging from preventative health to complex and chronic conditions often considered “incurable.” Renowned for his refined mastery of pulse diagnosis, Dr Raju brings decades of clinical experience and a deep, practical command of classical Ayurveda. He is a specialist in Pañcakarma (Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation), and is widely respected for his encyclopaedic recall of Ayurvedic knowledge and its precise application in real-world cases. In 2022, he received the Health Conclave Award in recognition of his service in successfully treating countless patients across Telangana during the 2020–2022 COVID pandemic. RESOURCES: Marma & Pulse Retreat with The Raju familyIntroductory Self-Pulse Course with The Raju FamilyEssence of Ayurvedic Nutrition Online CoursePodcast: "Navaratri: The 9 Nights of The Divine Mother | Acharya Shunya #093" Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    1hr 7min
  5. How to Heal a Hernia Naturally & Without Surgery | George Hirst #150

    20/11/2025

    How to Heal a Hernia Naturally & Without Surgery | George Hirst #150

    Ever been told surgery is your only option for a hernia—and felt deep down there must be another way? In this episode, Dylan sits down with George Hirst, founder of Comfort Truss, who healed his inguinal hernia naturally after being told it was impossible. George shares the physical, emotional, and practical steps that took him from a painful two-golf-ball bulge to living symptom-free—no mesh, no surgery. Together they unpack what a hernia really is, why it develops, and the five core factors that often drive it—poor digestion, weak deep-core muscles, pelvic misalignment, emotional tension, and lack of mobility. You’ll learn how to strengthen the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor safely, the role of proper digestion in reducing pressure, and why awareness and breath are key to true recovery. Whether you’re facing surgery, living with a hernia, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers grounded hope and actionable tools to help you rebuild strength from the inside out. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 💪 Understanding What a Hernia Really Is 💪 Root Causes of Hernia Development 💪 Strengthening the Core & Healing Naturally 💪 The Role of the Hernia Belt 💪 Diet & Digestion for Hernia Healing 💪 Emotional & Energetic Healing 💪 Practical Steps for Prevention & Recovery ABOUT OUR GUEST: George Hirst George Hirst is the founder of Comfort Truss, a company born from his own journey of healing an inguinal hernia naturally. When surgery was presented as his only option, George set out to find another way - developing methods to strengthen his body and support healing while documenting his process to help others do the same. Frustrated by the bulky, painful belts available, he designed a lightweight, low-profile truss that offered genuine comfort and confidence in daily life. What began as a personal solution has now supported tens of thousands of people worldwide - whether pre-surgery, post-surgery, or pursuing natural recovery. Through his videos, online program, and the Comfort Truss community, George continues to empower people to take an active, informed, and natural approach to hernia healing. RESOURCES: Comfort-Truss WebsiteA Proactive Approach to Hernia Intervention (Online Program)Use code VITALVEDA for a community discount on both the Comfort Truss and the online programGeorge Hirst on YouTubeBook: Healing Back Pain: The Mind–Body Connection by Dr. John SarnoBook: The Great Pain Deception by Steve OzanichVital Veda Online Course: The Essence of Ayurvedic Nutrition - Learn Ayurvedic principles to support digestion and healing (currently 50% off). Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    1hr 5min
  6. Samudra Manthana: The Vedic Story of the Churning of the Ocean and Its Hidden Meaning | Dylan Smith

    17/10/2025

    Samudra Manthana: The Vedic Story of the Churning of the Ocean and Its Hidden Meaning | Dylan Smith

    From the depths of the cosmic ocean, Dhanvantari arose - radiant and serene, carrying the pot of Amṛta, the nectar of immortality. This is the birth of Ayurveda, the birth of healing itself. In this special Dhanteras episode, Dylan retells the ancient Vedic story of the Samudra Manthana (the Churning of the Ocean of Milk) and reveals how this timeless myth mirrors the process of transformation within us all. As light and shadow churn together, both poison and nectar emerge, showing that healing is not about escape, but integration. A meditative and mythic journey through one of the Vedas’ most profound tales, this episode invites you to awaken the Dhanvantari within - the innate intelligence that restores balance, purifies what’s toxic, and reveals the radiant nectar of health and consciousness that lies beneath the surface of all experience. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 🌿 The Karmakāṇḍa Layer: the outer story of the Samudra Manthana 🌿 The Emergence of Dhanvantari 🌿 The Alchemy of Poison and Nectar 🌿 The Treasures of the Churning 🌿 The 'Inner' Samudra Manthana RESOURCES: • Mantra Śāstra Explained: The Ancient Science of Sound | Purnesh #148 • Diwali: Spark Radiance & Supersede Limitations | Acharya Shunya #071 • Marma & Pulse Diagnosis Retreat – Byron Bay, Australia (June 2026) • Abhyanga Massage Practitioner Training – Ayurvedic Massage Training in Byron Bay & London Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    29 min
  7. What Makes a Mantra Powerful? The Science of Sound, Initiation and Mantra Shastra | Purnesh

    27/08/2025

    What Makes a Mantra Powerful? The Science of Sound, Initiation and Mantra Shastra | Purnesh

    Ever wondered what makes a mantra truly powerful? Is it the precision of pronunciation, the ancient lineage it comes from, or the sincerity of the heart behind it? In this episode, Dylan speaks with Purnesh (formerly Swami Purnachaitanya), a teacher and practitioner who has spent over twenty years immersed in the Vedic tradition of mantra. Together they explore what mantra really is - not just words or sounds, but vibrations that carry & enliven consciousness itself. The conversation traces Purnesh’s own journey of initiation and study, the importance of authentic transmission, and how mantras can shape not only our spiritual practice but also our daily lives. This is a grounded, heartfelt exploration of a subject often clouded by mystery and misconception. Whether you’re curious about starting a mantra practice or seeking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers clarity, wisdom, and inspiration for engaging with sound as a profound tool for transformation. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: 🕉️ Purnesh’s personal journey with mantra — from childhood fascination to deep study and initiation in India. 🕉️ What makes a mantra effective 🕉️ The difference between universal (prasiddha) mantras and specialised mantras. 🕉️ Mantra Shastra as a systematic, scientific tradition — and its connection to other Vedic sciences like Jyotish and Ayurveda. 🕉️ The inner symbolism of the Samudra Mantana (Churning of the Ocean of Milk) and its link to mantra practice and the 108-bead mala. 🕉️ Why meditation and emptiness are essential foundations for effective mantra practice. 🕉️ How modern seekers can responsibly approach mantra, initiation, and daily practice in today’s world. ABOUT OUR GUEST: Purnesh Purnesh (formerly Swami Purnachaitanya) is an internationally respected teacher of Sanskrit mantras and Vedic wisdom, with over 20 years of dedicated practice. Trained under Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and later initiated into the Shaiva Agama tradition, he has mastered Vedic hymns, rituals, and the deeper science of mantra śāstra. As a former monk, he travelled for more than 15 years across 30+ countries, teaching meditation, yoga, and mantras to diverse audiences from heads of state to prison inmates. His bestselling book Looking Inward has been translated into over 10 languages and is a practical guide to meditation and inner peace. Now based in the Netherlands with his partner Rowena, Purnesh leads Just Be (justbe.org) and offers online courses on mantra practice, bridging authentic tradition with modern seekers eager to unlock the transformative power of sound and vibration. RESOURCES: - Mantra Mastery Level 1 program in English (20% OFF Discount Code: VITALVEDA) - Purnesh's Website - Purnesh's Youtube Channel - Japa, Mantra, Sound Energy, Rites of Passage & Expert Guidance | Swami Purnachaitanya #102 - Sanskrit & Vedic Chanting: Vibratory Sounds of Cosmic Intelligence | Samadhi Collective w/ Kamala & Jahnavi #066 Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    58 min

  8. 26/06/2025

    The Real History of Chai: Ancient Ayurvedic Spices, Colonial Trade and How to Make It Properly | Mira Manek

    Step into the aromatic world of Indian chai with Mira Manek, author of The Book of Chai and founder of Chai by Mira. In this episode, we trace the surprising history of how tea became India’s most beloved beverage - through colonial trade routes, opium, and clever British marketing. Mira shares chai-making secrets passed down through generations: from the Ayurvedic ritual of boiling milk three times, to unlocking spice potency with proper preparation (spoiler: whole ginger slices won’t cut it). You’ll learn why different Indian regions brew chai in unique ways, and how spices like cardamom and saffron offer profound medicinal benefits. This is more than a conversation about tea, it’s a journey through heritage, healing, and the unseen wisdom in everyday rituals. Whether you're a lifelong chai lover or simply curious about the deeper stories steeped in your cup, this episode will enrich your connection to this timeless tradition. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: ☕️ How British marketing and the opium trade shaped Indian chai culture ☕️ Family chai rituals and spice secrets passed down through generations ☕️ The Ayurvedic approach to chai ☕️ Medicinal benefits of chai spices like cardamom, ginger, clove, and saffron ☕️ Regional chai variations across India and the logic behind them (yes, even salty Kashmiri chai) ☕️ How to make chai a deeper, more mindful ritual in your day ABOUT OUR GUEST: Mira Manek Mira Manek is an author, wellness coach and expert, and has her own chai brand. Her third book, The Book of Chai, follows on from the success of her first two books, bestselling cookbook Saffron Soul and a book on Ayurveda and happiness called Prajna. Mira was born and raised in London, where she grew up in a large joint family with her grandparents, strongly rooted in their Indian heritage. She grew up speaking Gujarati, learned Sanskrit at school and has travelled extensively in India, inspiring her passion for Indian philosophy and spirituality, chai and chaiwalas, Indian food and spices, and especially Ayurveda. RESOURCES: Mira Manek’s Website: miramanek.com Chai by Mira (chai blends & products): chaibymira.com Books by Mira Manek: The Book of ChaiSaffron SoulPrajna: Ayurvedic Rituals for HappinessMira Manek’s Instagram: @miramanek Vital Veda Podcast Episode: "The Ancient and Stimulating Spice Industry" with Ian 'Herbie' Hemphill Support the show 🌿 Follow us on Instagram (@vitalveda) 🌿 Our Courses 🌿 Our Treatments 🌿 Our Online Shop 🌿 Vital Veda Website

    55 min
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About

The Vital Veda Podcast dives deep into Ayurveda, Vedic wisdom, holistic health, and the ancient sciences of natural healing. Hosted by Dylan Smith - Ayurvedic practitioner and holistic health educator - each episode explores practical and profound wisdom to help you live at your highest potential. Topics include Ayurvedic medicine, Jyotish (Vedic astrology), yoga, meditation, mantra, herbal medicine, holistic nutrition, women's health, fertility, EMF, detoxification, consciousness, and the Ayurveda daily routine (dinacharya). Guests include world-leading Ayurvedic vaidyas and physicians, Vedic astrologers, yoga masters, integrative medicine doctors, herbalists, and spiritual teachers from around the world. Whether you're new to Ayurveda or deepening your Vedic practice, this podcast gives you the tools to understand your constitution (dosha), balance body and mind, and live in harmony with nature's rhythms. Learn more and work with Dylan at www.vitalveda.com.au

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