The Healing Catalyst Dr. Avanti Kumar Singh

In this episode, Dr. Avanti welcomes integrative pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song to discuss the mental health of children and teenagers. They explore the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among youth, emphasizing the critical role of the gut-brain connection. Dr. Elisa shares insights on the impact of the microbiome on mental well-being, the significance of resilience over static wellness, and practical tips for parents. Their conversation also highlights the importance of the vagus nerve and heart rate variability in maintaining mental health.

In this episode, Dr. Avanti and body positivity coach Kelsey Ellis discuss the evolution and deeper meaning of body positivity, emphasizing its roots in inclusivity for marginalized bodies. They explore the limitations of BMI as a health indicator and advocate for a holistic approach to health that includes nutrition, movement, mental health, and sleep. Kelsey shares practical steps for fostering body acceptance and self-compassion, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and connect with their inner selves. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and challenging societal beauty standards, promoting body liberation, and the interconnectedness of individual and collective healing.

Today, Dr. Avanti engages in a deep and revealing conversation with John Schu, discussing his journey through personal challenges and his transformative relationship with literature and storytelling. John shares poignant insights into his childhood struggles with an eating disorder and how these experiences were channeled into his writing, particularly in his New York Times bestselling book "Louder Than Hunger." They discuss the therapeutic role of narrative in both reading and writing, and how presenting his story in verse format aids emotional processing. John's reflections emphasize the healing power of storytelling and its impact on personal expression and recovery.

In another Ignite episode, Dr. Avanti and Dr. Tanmeet delve into managing stress and enhancing mental well-being amidst global challenges. They discuss the importance of recognizing and regulating emotional states through practices like mindful breathing and meditation. The conversation emphasizes establishing personal rituals for stability and making small, actionable steps to cope with stress. They also highlight the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritizing sleep as essential strategies for maintaining mental health.

Dr. Avanti is hosting a special giveaway! Don't miss out—tune in to learn how you can win one of ten books from the incredible integrative medicine and wellness experts who have been guests on the podcast.

In this episode, Dr. Avanti engages Dr. Claudia Welch in an insightful discussion about menopause from an Ayurvedic perspective. Dr. Welch elaborates on menopause as a significant life transition, comparing it to the four stages of life, emphasizing its spiritual, emotional, and physical dimensions. She critically examines hormone therapy, advocating for a personalized and cautious approach and shares Ayurvedic practices and herbal remedies that soothe and balance the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness, joint pain and weight gain. Their conversation highlights the importance of community support and the role of Ayurveda in navigating menopause effectively.