Stressed Life to Best Life

Jonny Rydquist

Join neurodivergent energy and wellbeing coach Jonny Rydquist as he explores the journey from living a stressed life to living your best life. Blending his knowledge of the Eastern Energy and Wellbeing arts with Western sciences of physiology and psychology, Jonny shares honest stories, insights, and practical ideas through a uniquely “neurospecial” perspective. This podcast invites you to rethink stress, understand your energetic nature, and discover new ways to move from survival mode to a more aligned, energised, and fulfilling life by living a philosophy he calls "The Energised Way"

  1. 3h ago

    2.5 How I lost 5 stone in 7 months and went from a stressed body to my best body by eating the energised way

    Episode Summary  Jonny Rydquist shares how he lost 5 stone, which is 31.7 kilos or 70 pounds in under seven months in 2025 using keto and intermittent fasting, and reflects on how he had a head start, what he learned about food, energy, and his own body. He explains how metabolic typing and yin-yang ideas informed his personal food choices,He also reflects on changes he noticed in his weight, energy, and sleep, and connects eating with his qigong and meditation practices. SEO  keywords weight loss, keto, intermittent fasting, metabolic typing, nutrition, yin and yang, blood sugar, food awareness, qigong,meditation  key  topics Jonny describes losing weight from 126 kg to 94.3 kg between May and December 2025, after previously reaching 130 kg.He explains yin-yang food qualities and the idea that climate, environment, and individual constitution may influence dietary needs.He recounts how metabolic typing helped him make sense of his energy crashes after carbohydrate-heavy meals.His routine included eliminating sugar, bread, and grains, eating meat, eggs, and vegetables, and using an eight-hour eating window.He says stopping alcohol helped him lose around four kilos before beginning keto and intermittent fasting.He reports changes in weight, body-fat estimates, sleep, daytime energy, concentration, hunger, and perceived immunity.He discusses early, limited research on keto and the nervous system, and distinguishes his personal experience from established evidence.He describes reflexology and qigong concepts connected to the hands and digestion, while noting reflexology has not been shown to treat medical conditions.He advises listeners with medical conditions or taking medication, especially for diabetes or blood pressure, to speak with a GP before major diet changes.  Key  frameworks Yin-yang food polaritiesMetabolic typing: protein, carb, and mixed typesLower Dantien and middle Dantien  Action  items Track how different foods affect your energy and how you feel.If you have a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP before making major dietary changes. Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) Jonny’s weight-loss story and the search for balanced eating (02:13) How climate and constitution shape food choices (04:19) Metabolic typing and Jonny’s response to carbohydrates (06:09) Why he tried keto with intermittent fasting (08:15) What Jonny ate during his keto experiment (10:12) Weight, sleep, energy, and body-scan changes (12:21) Keto, the nervous system, and Jonny’s caveats (13:19) The microcosm in the macrocosm Reflexology, the hands, and digestive traditions (15:32) Who should seek medical advice before changing diets (16:00) Food-awareness tools and the next energy-centre series Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- https://tinyurl.com/ew-ep5-spotify Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Find me on socials Here: https://tinyurl.com/ew-ig-from-spotify  Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  2. Oct 31

    2.4 How To Avoid burnout and regulate your nervous system through Hydration

    Episode Summary In this episode, Jonny discusses the critical role of hydration in maintaining a healthy nervous system and preventing burnout. He shares personal experiences with dehydration, explains the physiological effects of water on the body, and debunks common myths about hydration. The conversation emphasises the importance of being aware of one's hydration levels and how it impacts overall well-being, energy, and mood. SEO keywords hydration, dehydration, nervous system, burnout, water, health, wellness, energy, nutrition, fatigue Main Topics He recounts competing in Lanzarote after a week of heavy training, in high heat, with little water. He experienced chills and lapses in consciousness on the flight home.Jonny outlines how symptoms can worsen as fluid loss increases, from thirst and reduced concentration to dizziness, confusion, and medical emergencies. Loss of consciousness is a reason to seek medical help.He shares everyday hydration cues, including urine color, headaches, and cravings that might be mistaken for hunger. These can be useful clues, but they are not definitive measures.He challenges the idea that everyone needs exactly eight glasses of water a day. Fluid needs vary, and he cautions against treating dehydration as the hidden cause of chronic disease.Jonny discusses hara diagnosis, a traditional abdominal assessment, while noting that different lineages use different maps and its interpretations are not established measurements.He connects hydration and electrolytes with nerve signaling, and shares his personal experience of adjusting water and minerals while following a keto diet.The episode closes with a preview of next week's topic: nutrition, energy, and what Jonny learned from losing five stone.  Key Takeaways Dehydration can lead to burnout and affects the nervous system. The human body is composed of approximately 60% water. Hydration is essential for digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation. Mild dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and mood changes. Urine color is a simple indicator of hydration levels. Older adults may misinterpret thirst as hunger. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is a myth; hydration needs vary. Chronic mild dehydration can affect overall health and well-being. Water acts as a conductor for energy in the body. Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration.  Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) - Dehydration, burnout, and the nervous system (02:20) - Why water matters to everyday body functions (04:18) - Jonny's severe dehydration during a Lanzarote training camp (06:30) - Dehydration symptoms and when to seek medical help (07:55) - Everyday signs that may point to dehydration (09:39) - The eight-glasses myth and what the evidence supports (11:34) - Hara diagnosis and the traditional view of fluid (13:43) - Hydration, electrolytes, and nervous system signaling (15:38) - Water, energy, and the season's bigger theme (16:19) - A simple hydration tracker and next week's topic Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- https://tinyurl.com/ew-ep4-spotify  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Find me on socials Here: https://tinyurl.com/ew-ig-from-spotify  Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  3. Oct 14

    2.3 How to get better sleep (7 ways to go from stressed sleep to best sleep)

    Episode summary In this episode, Jonny shares his personal journey with sleep challenges, insights from traditional Chinese medicine, and practical strategies to improve sleep quality and manage stress. Discover how body awareness and simple daily habits can transform your sleep and overall well-being.  SEO keywords sleep, stress, Chinese medicine, body awareness, sleep hygiene, relaxation, hydration, self-care, health, wellness  Main  topics Jonny's personal sleep journey Impact of stress and fear on sleep Traditional Chinese medicine and meridians Body-mind connection in sleep health Practical morning routines for sleep recovery The importance of hydration and light Applied kinesiology and muscle-organ pairings Self-compassion and reducing shame around sleep  Key takeaways A bad night is not a failure, it's part of the process. Body tension from stress can quietly affect sleep. Simple morning routines can set the tone for better sleep. Self-talk and kindness are crucial after a poor night. Consistency in sleep habits supports circadian rhythm. Calming the nervous system is key to better sleep. Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) Jonny's personal sleep struggles and honesty (02:21) What to do the morning after a bad night (04:21) Shaping your day around your energy levels (07:03) Body holding stress and the impact on sleep (08:34) Creating a consistent daily routine for better sleep (09:00) Adjusting sleep habits for neurodivergent rhythms (10:23) Calming the nervous system beyond schedule adjustments (11:05) Resources for deeper sleep work and tracking patterns (11:36) Introducing a sleep micro-tracker and next steps (12:04) Upcoming episode on hydration and thirst signals Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- https://tinyurl.com/ew-ep3-spotify  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Find me on socials Here: https://tinyurl.com/ew-ig-from-spotify  Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  4. Oct 6

    2.2 How to avoid Burnout and Relax your nervous system by learning The Art of Doing Nothing

    Episode summary This episode explores the importance of relaxation as a foundation for energy, well-being, and flow. Jonny shares personal insights and practical techniques rooted in Qi Gong, Chinese medicine, and modern science to help listeners cultivate active relaxation and reconnect with their life force energy.  SEO keywords relaxation, energy, Qi Gong, Chinese medicine, stress management, mindfulness, active relaxation, Wu Wei, nervous system, self-care  Main key  topics The difference between passive collapse and active relaxation How relaxation influences the nervous system and hormones The concept of Wu Wei and natural flow in life Reflexology and the microcosm within the foot Practical steps for active relaxation: posture, mind, breath Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) Introduction: Why Relaxation Matters (02:21) The Personal Journey to Reconnection (05:07) Yin and Yang in Modern Life (07:20)The Lower Dan Tian and Energy Flow (10:11) The Microcosm of the Body in Chinese Medicine (12:11) The Path of Body, Mind, and Flow (15:14) The Power of Attention and Relaxation Points (15:42) Active Relaxation: Posture, Mind, Breath (17:36) Practical Steps for Daily Practice (18:34) Conclusion: The Art of Doing Nothing Helpful resources/Webinar masterclass link Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- https://tinyurl.com/ew-ep2-spotify  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Find me on socials Here: Instagram https://tinyurl.com/ew-ig-from-spotify Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  5. Sep 16

    2. 1 Why Your Running On Empty (and my personal road map to transformation)

    Episode summary In This first episode of series 2 Jonny shares his journey of understanding energy, the importance of fixing leaks in your energy system. He maps out the plan for this seasons content a step-by-step approach to rebuilding energy from the ground up over 14 weeks.  This episode introduces the foundational concepts of the energized body path coaching course, part of the energised way programme that he has developed, focusing on relaxation, sleep, hydration and nutrition to name only a few areas.  SEO keywords energy, relaxation, sleep, hydration, nutrition, mental clarity, Daoism, Taoism, energy leaks, self-care, health journey  Main topics The difference between tired and empty energy The 14-week process to rebuild energy from the ground up The three energy centers in Daoism: lower, middle, upper Dantian The importance of fixing energy leaks before chasing energy The role of relaxation, sleep, hydration, and nutrition in energy health The concept of energy leaks related to emotional and mental patterns The impact of mental clutter on energy levels The practical structure of the energised body path The importance of understanding your unique energy leaks The connection between energy, weight loss, and sleep quality  Key takeaways Effort speeds up energy drain if leaks are present Fixing energy leaks is more effective than more effort or discipline Understanding your energy system helps in targeted self-care The foundation of energy health starts with relaxation, sleep, hydration, and nutrition Mental clutter and emotional patterns can block energy flow The 14-week structure provides a practical roadmap for energy rebuilding Most people are not lazy or broken, just leaking energy Addressing energy leaks can lead to weight loss and better sleep The three energy centers map helps identify specific issues A holistic approach is essential for sustainable energy health Chapters & Timestamps  (00:00) Why 2026 Feels Like a Make or Break Year (02:06) My Personal Energy Transformation Journey (04:05) The Principle of Finding and Fixing Leaks (05:51) Effort and Discipline Can Speed Up Drain (06:14) Next Steps: Relaxation and Nervous System Reset (06:55) Join the Free Masterclass for Full Insights Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- ⁠https://tinyurl.com/ew-ep1-spotify  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  6. Aug 6

    15. The Best Life is Better (Not easier)

    Episode summary Jonny explores the journey from living a stressed life to embracing your best self, highlighting internal transformation, the importance of self-awareness, and practical steps to live more energetically. SEO keywords self-improvement, stress management, personal growth, internal energy, transformation, mindfulness, best self, hero's journey Main topics The second hero's journey and internal transformation The difference between stress self and best self The role of unconscious parts and programming How to connect with your true self through meditation and Qigong The importance of self-awareness and deliberate choice External challenges versus internal growth The power of decision in personal transformation key takeaways Living as your stress self is automatic and reactive, often rooted in childhood programming. Connecting with your true self through daily practices like meditation and Qigong is essential for lasting change. Most people don't live as their best selves because it requires deep self-awareness and ongoing effort. External challenges can be opportunities for internal growth when approached consciously. Deciding to change every day is a powerful act that can lead to a better life. Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to the journey from stress to best self (01:59) Good vs. bad customers and internal parts (04:05) Living as your stress self or your best self (05:05) The power of decision and internal change (05:36) Moving from subconscious ego to true self (06:10) Conclusion and upcoming practical content Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- ⁠https://stressedlifetobestlife.com/masterclass-registration⁠  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  7. Jul 31

    14. Regulating your nervous system (with the 5 elements)

    Episode summary In this episode, Jonny discusses the practical application of the five elements in daily life, focusing on energy exercises, dietary principles, and lifestyle habits that support each element. He emphasizes the importance of starting small and building from there to achieve balance and well-being. keywords Nervous system regulation, Five Elements, Energy Exercises, Nutrition, Lifestyle, Balance, Health, Wellness, Coaching, Mindfulness, Stress Management, Main Key Takeaways This episode turns theory into practical application. The kidneys are essential for energy conservation. Movement is crucial for liver health. Heart health relies on warmth and connection. Grounding practices support the spleen. Breath and space are vital for lung function. Start with one practice for your element. Small steps lead to significant changes over time. Mindful eating benefits the spleen and digestion. Emotional release is important for lung health. Chapters and Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to the Five Elements (01:00) Water Element: Nourishing the Kidneys (03:04) Wood Element: Supporting the Liver (04:27) Fire Element: Energizing the Heart (06:22) Earth Element: Grounding with the Spleen (08:28) Metal Element: Breathing with the Lungs (10:42) Practical Toolkit for Balance Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- ⁠https://stressedlifetobestlife.com/masterclass-registration⁠  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,Psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

  8. Jul 17

    13. Which element are you ? Unlocking Energy Balance Through The 5 elements

    Episode Summary In this episode, I share insights into how understanding the five elements of Chinese medicine can transform your energy and emotional wellbeing. Discover how to identify imbalances in your life and learn practical ways to restore harmony for your best life. Key topics covered: The core principles of the five elements: Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and MetalHow each element's imbalance manifests physically, emotionally, and energeticallySelf-awareness exercises to recognize your dominant elemental patternSeasonal and lifestyle influences on your energetic balanceThe importance of gentle, accessible practices to rebalance your energyClarification: this episode is for awareness, not clinical diagnosisHow to tune into your body's signals and patterns for ongoing wellbeing Key Timestamps: (00:00) - Introduction to the five elements and their role in energy health (00:28) - Recap of the nourishing, emotional, and controlling cycles of Chinese medicine (00:57) - Self-awareness: identifying out-of-balance elements in your life (01:25) - Water element insights: exhaustion, fear, and anxiety signs (01:55) - Physical and emotional symptoms of Liver imbalance (Wood element) (02:30) - Recognizing Heart imbalance (Fire element): restlessness versus flatness (03:14) - Signs of Earth imbalance: digestion issues and overthinking (04:08) - Lung imbalance: respiratory issues and grief (04:52) - The pattern of multiple elements and shifting balances over time (05:21) - The importance of recognizing your primary element and seasonal shifts (05:41) - Practical next steps: reflecting on your dominant element and balancing practices (06:10) - Preview of upcoming episodes with practical energy balancing tips (06:35) - Call to action: supporting the podcast and community Helpful resources Click Here to Access The Free webinar masterclass:- ⁠https://stressedlifetobestlife.com/masterclass-registration⁠  Click Here to Access my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRjdykum2KqExGi7HE-yQBA Disclaimer The lifestyle advice on Energy and Well-being practices, psychology and mindset, nutrition, sleep and activity discussed in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your lifestyle, diet, sleep or exercise routine.  If you are struggling with mental health and life challenges that feel overwhelming please seek professional psychological help from trained mental health professionals such as,psychologists, psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

About

Join neurodivergent energy and wellbeing coach Jonny Rydquist as he explores the journey from living a stressed life to living your best life. Blending his knowledge of the Eastern Energy and Wellbeing arts with Western sciences of physiology and psychology, Jonny shares honest stories, insights, and practical ideas through a uniquely “neurospecial” perspective. This podcast invites you to rethink stress, understand your energetic nature, and discover new ways to move from survival mode to a more aligned, energised, and fulfilling life by living a philosophy he calls "The Energised Way"