The Vital Spirit Podcast with Dr. Kelly Livingston

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.

56 Part 1. Healing at Home: How to Work With Your Body Every Day

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Your body already knows how to heal. The problem is how often we interrupt it.

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I walk you through what it actually means to start healing at home—not just understanding your body, but knowing how to respond to it in real time.

I break down how healing doesn’t happen in theory—it happens in your daily life. From how you eat, sleep, and move, to how you respond to your symptoms, your home becomes the place where healing either happens…or gets interrupted.

In this episode, we cover:

● 01:03 Why healing doesn’t just happen in a doctor’s office

● 05:08 How working on the gut-brain axis helps you recognize patterns in your body

● 10:14 Herbs as signals

● 10:49 The homeopathy mindset

● 12:17 Cell salts basics

● 15:08 Building your home medicine cabinet

● 15:37 Herbal categories guide

● 19:29 Homeopathy examples

● 23:37 Walking you through how to use this approach day-to-day so your symptoms feel less confusing

● 24:22 What’s coming next on Part 2

Links and resources:

● 30. Why Hydration Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Hydrotherapy: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/30-why-hydration-alone-isnt-enough-the-power/id1790365046?i=1000725855973

● FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

● FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

55. The Healing Power of Nature: Understanding Vis Medicatrix Naturae

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Your body already knows how to heal. The problem is how often we interrupt it.

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I bring together everything we’ve been exploring in the awakening series and take it one step further into what actually drives healing.

This is where we move beyond awareness and into relationship. Specifically, your relationship with your body’s healing intelligence.

I introduce the concept of vis medicatrix naturae—the healing power of nature—and explain why your body is constantly working to restore balance, even when it doesn’t feel like it. We talk about why healing has an order, why symptoms are not the enemy, and why so many people feel stuck even after “trying everything.” Because more often than not, it’s not that your body isn’t healing. It’s that the sequence is being interrupted.

If you’ve been jumping from protocol to protocol, trying to fix symptoms without real progress, this episode will help you understand what might be missing, and how to start working with your body in a completely different way.

In this episode, we cover:

● 01:08 Why awakening alone doesn’t actually create healing

● 03:25 What is Vis Medicatrix Naturae?

● 04:06 Feeling the energy field

● 05:56 Why healing has an order

● 08:09 Wound healing analogy

● 09:57 How constantly interrupting the healing process can turn acute issues into chronic ones

● 11:38 Nature cure lineage

● 13:50 The therapeutic order as science

● 16:54 Assessing vitality signals

18:10 Belief and the meaning response

● 19:12 State-based healing systems

● 21:29 Seeds of health foundations

● 23:18 Energy medicine and why kids respond quickly

● 24:41 Biohacking vs nature cure

● 28:24 Hands-on relational care

● 30:29 I walk through a real case to show how removing obstacles and restoring safety allows the body to reorganize

● 36:51 A simple breath practice

● 38:14 Resources and next steps

Links and resources:

● Episode 02. The Blueprint for Healing: Naturopathic Principles and the Therapeutic Order: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/02-the-blueprint-for-healing-naturopathic-principles/id1790365046?i=1000684966344

● Episode 53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-1-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000755916907

● Episode 53 Part 2. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-2-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000757225580

● FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

● The Vital Spirit Method Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

54. Know Thyself, Heal Thyself: Patterns, Nervous System, and the Path to Integration

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if the reason you keep dealing with the same symptoms… is because the same patterns are still running in the background?

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I shift the conversation from awakening to integration—what actually happens after you realize your symptoms aren’t random. This is where healing becomes more than protocols, labs, or supplements. It becomes about self-knowledge.

If you’ve been trying to “fix” your health but keep ending up in the same cycle, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do differently.

In this episode, we cover:

● 01:18 Why healing doesn’t stop at awareness

● 02:14 The “know thyself” framework

● 03:24 Safety and self-awareness

● 05:24 Perimenopause and stress physiology

● 07:42 Living in your mind vs your body

● 09:28 Nervous system check-in

● 12:15 Five energy-draining patterns

● 16:15 How your relationship with emotions shapes your nervous system

● 19:37 The empath stress pattern

● 20:10 When symptoms speak for you

● 20:50 Simple tool to help you recognize your patterns in real time

● 22:24 Regulation tools menu

● 23:00 Neuroplasticity through repetition

● 24:33 How regulating your nervous system directly impacts sleep, mood, digestion, and hormone balance

● 25:38 Self-acceptance over fixing

● 27:44 External mirrors for patterns

● 31:52 Internal mirrors and practices

● 34:25 Guided support and therapy

● 35:49 A simple starter framework

● 39:05 Closing grounding exercise

Links and resources:

● Episode 11 Part 1. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/11-part-1-which-labs-actually-matter-for-women-in-perimenopause/id1790365046?i=1000704570884

● Episode 11 Part 2. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/11-part-2-which-labs-actually-matter-for-women-in-perimenopause/id1790365046?i=1000705254063

● FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

● Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

53 Part 2. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if the biggest obstacle to your healing isn’t your symptoms but the way you’ve been taught to think about them?

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I go deeper into the concept of a health awakening—this time focusing on the part that often gets missed: deprogramming. This is where healing shifts from just protocols and supplements into something much deeper. It’s about unlearning the belief that your body is broken, that symptoms are the enemy, and that someone else has to fix you.

If Part 1 helped you recognize the awakening, this episode helps you understand how to move through it.

In this episode, we cover:

01:23 Why so much of healing isn’t about adding more
04:08 What awakening really means
05:15 What it actually looks like when you stop trying to “fix” symptoms
08:02 Why symptoms are not the problem
09:42 Anxiety, thoughts, and emotions
12:19 Why nervous system regulation and physical healing create the foundation for emotional resilience and awareness
14:42 The therapeutic order as a map
17:09 Universal awakening stages
19:44 Psychedelics vs embodiment
22:23 Practical entry points
26:07 How the brain becomes wired to seek problems and urgency
28:30 Different approaches to healing the nervous system and subconscious patterns
31:31 Inner guidance and discernment
34:43 Guided self-worth practice

Links and resources:

Episode 53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/53-part-1-health-awakening-the-health-crisis-that/id1790365046?i=1000755916907
Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547
Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942
Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767
Episode 01. Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/01-midlife-as-a-gateway-to-your-health-awakening/id1790365046?i=1000684965783

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

53 Part 1. Health Awakening: The Health Crisis That Wakes You Up and Why Midlife Is the Portal

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if your symptoms aren’t a problem to fix…but a message trying to wake you up?

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m opening up a deeper conversation about what I call a health awakening—the moment you start realizing that everything you’ve been taught about your body, your symptoms, and your healing might be incomplete.

This isn’t about “love and light” or bypassing what you’re feeling. It’s about understanding why midlife—especially perimenopause and menopause—can feel like everything is falling apart… when in reality, something deeper is coming online.

If you’ve been feeling off, questioning everything, or like you’re not the same person anymore, this episode will help you make sense of it.

In this episode, we cover:

01:41 What a health awakening actually is and why it often starts with a health crisis
04:32 How we’ve been conditioned to see health (and why that programming keeps you stuck)
07:51 The therapeutic order as a roadmap
09:46 Why menopause is more than a hormonal shift
12:30 Subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs you’re going through a health awakening
14:06 How awakening happens through the body
17:08 A real-life case study: Sarah’s journey from burnout to awareness
23:56 The “cocoon phase”—why you start pulling back and setting boundaries
29:21 The truth about disillusionment, healing crises, and why things can feel worse before they feel better
32:25 Why you cannot wake other people up (and what to do instead)
33:27 Where psychology meets awakening—Maslow, Jung, and the deeper layers of healing
36:53 The responsibility that comes with awareness—and what integration really looks like
37:45 A grounding closing blessing to anchor your journey

Links and resources:

Episode 01. Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/01-midlife-as-a-gateway-to-your-health-awakening/id1790365046?i=1000684965783
Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547
Episode 44. Why Healing Requires Learning to Feel with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/44-why-healing-requires-learning-to-feel-with-dr-jenn/id1790365046?i=1000743291781
Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

52. Vitamin D Is Not a Vitamin: Light, Immunity, Mood, and Why Supplements Often Fail

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Did you know that vitamin D isn’t really a vitamin at all; and the real issue isn’t how much you supplement, but how much light your body receives?

In this episode of the Vital Spirit Podcast, I explore the deeper physiology of vitamin D and why thinking of it as just another nutrient misses the bigger picture. Vitamin D functions as a hormone that communicates information about light, safety, season, and rhythm to the body. That means when levels stay low despite supplementation, the real question often isn’t “How much should I take?” but rather “What upstream signal is missing?”

If your vitamin D levels have ever stayed stubbornly low or you’ve wondered whether supplements are really enough, this episode will help you understand the bigger biological story.

In this episode, we cover:

03:32 Why vitamin D is technically not a vitamin
04:54 Vitamin D’s role in gene regulation and nutrigenomics
06:17 I explore the connection between vitamin D and immune regulation
09:08 How the skin functions as an immune and endocrine organ
10:03 The relationship between vitamin D, mood, circadian rhythm, and serotonin production, including how low levels can contribute to depression
12:58 Why vitamin D becomes even more important in midlife
13:49 The common reasons vitamin D levels remain low even with supplementation
15:37 Which labs actually matter when evaluating vitamin D status
17:12 Practical strategies for raising vitamin D
25:28 I share my frustration about insurance companies increasingly refusing to cover vitamin D testing and why this matters for preventive medicine

Links and resources:

FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Rupa Health Lab Shop: https://labs.rupahealth.com/store/storefront_6G8Rzpn
Episode 51. Sunlight as Medicine: Restoring Rhythm, Mood, and Vitality Through Light: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/51-sunlight-as-medicine-restoring-rhythm-mood-and/id1790365046?i=1000753018736
Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942
Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

51. Sunlight as Medicine: Restoring Rhythm, Mood, and Vitality Through Light

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Morning sunlight is not optional.

In this episode, I break down why sunlight is one of the most powerful upstream regulators of human physiology we have. This isn’t biohacking nor a trend. It’s remembering something ancient and foundational to how we’re built.

We talk circadian rhythm, cortisol, serotonin, appetite, metabolism, mitochondria, mood, and nervous system safety—and why so many modern health struggles are actually rhythm problems.

If you’re struggling with sleep, burnout, hormonal chaos, low mood, anxiety, food noise, or stubborn weight changes…light is not a small thing. It’s the foundation.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why I talk about light before supplements, labs, and almost anything else.
02:12 Awareness check-in
03:26 How sunlight was prescribed intentionally in nature cure sanitariums
04:21 Circadian clock basics
06:07 Eyes as timekeepers
07:16 Morning light benefits
08:59 Chronotypes and social jet lag
11:08 Light, appetite, and metabolism
14:49 Movement and timing
16:24 Light and mood pathways
20:10 Mitochondria and energy
22:50 Why we feel better on vacation
25:47 Dark nights matter
27:51 Light boxes and devices
28:46 Morning grounding practice
31:16 Final takeaways

Links and resources:

Fullscript Link for Light Therapy: https://us.fullscript.com/plans/klivingston-light-therapy
Episode 30. Why Hydration Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Hydrotherapy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uO8wB8AOvY
Episode 46. Movement as Medicine: Restoring Flow, Safety, and Vitality in Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/46-movement-as-medicine-restoring-flow-safety-and/id1790365046?i=1000745111800
Episode 33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 1): Why It Comes Before Hormones: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/33-the-hpa-axis-deep-dive-part-1-why-it-comes-before-hormones/id1790365046?i=1000729491418
Episode 33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 2): Why It Comes Before Hormones: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/33-the-hpa-axis-deep-dive-part-2-why-it-comes-before-hormones/id1790365046?i=1000730776671
Episode 35. Sleep Masterclass: The Forgotten Medicine of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/35-sleep-masterclass-the-forgotten-medicine-of-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000732944682
Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942
Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-2-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000740607767
Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew
Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

50. IBD Master Series Part 2: The Healing Order — Regulation, Repair & Immune Modulation

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

IBD is not just a diagnosis. It’s a pattern. And if we don’t understand the order in which healing needs to happen, we can unintentionally make things worse.

In this second part of the IBD Master Series, I step into the clinical side of care. We talk about labs, but we don’t reduce healing to numbers. I walk you through how I actually approach inflammatory bowel disease in practice—the sequence, the nuance, and why both extremes (food doesn’t matter vs. food is everything) miss the mark.

IBD healing requires regulation, precision, and a respect for the terrain. This episode is about how to move forward without fear, force, or rigid dogma.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 IBD series recap
03:01 IBD types explained
04:26 How to use labs
05:44 Core bloodwork basics
06:20 Why low ferritin is common in IBD
07:24 Fats, micronutrients, and why you cannot rebuild an inflamed gut in a depleted body.
08:37 Thyroid and celiac testing
10:37 Stool markers to track
13:23 Why rigid, one-size-fits-all diets fail
15:08 Histamine and mast cells
16:20 Infections and immune memory
17:24 How I use glutamine, butyrate, and mucosal support to heal and seal the gut lining
19:18 Healing order of operations
21:36 Herbs and plant medicine
23:12 RID and drainage sequencing
24:54 Micronutrient rebuilding, tissue repair, and why remission stabilizes when we reinhabit the body and restore safety

Links and resources:

Episode 50. IBD Master Series Part 1: Inflammatory Bowel Disease Beyond the Diagnosis — A Terrain-Based Approach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/50-ibd-master-series-part-1-inflammatory-bowel-disease/id1790365046?i=1000750306143
Episode 12. What Your Thyroid Is Trying to Tell You in Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/12-what-your-thyroid-is-trying-to-tell-you-in-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000706641159
Episode 32. What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/32-what-your-doctor-might-be-missing-about-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000728187600

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

50. IBD Master Series Part 1: Inflammatory Bowel Disease Beyond the Diagnosis — A Terrain-Based Approach

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is not rare. It’s not mysterious. And it’s not just “autoimmune.”

In this first part of the IBD Master Series, I expand the lens beyond conventional conversations and walk you through how I understand IBD as a whole-terrain condition—one that involves the gut, immune system, nervous system, hormones, microbiome, and life context.

This episode lays the groundwork. In Part 2, we’ll move into labs, sequencing, herbs, and clinical treatment. But first, we have to understand what we’re actually looking at.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why this IBD series matters
02:05 The bigger picture: IBD and the terrain
06:54 What IBD actually is (and isn’t)
08:50 Ulcerative colitis explained
10:36 Crohn’s disease explained
12:27 IBS vs. IBD (and the gray zone)
15:21 Root drivers of inflammation
19:12 The microbiome and butyrate
22:19 Midlife amplification + The Vital Spirit Method
26:13 What’s coming in Part 2

Links and resources:

Episode 47 Part 1. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-1-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746015163
Episode 47 Part 2. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-2-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746987885
Episode 48. Why IBS Gets Worse in Midlife: A Gut–Brain Perspective: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/48-why-ibs-gets-worse-in-midlife-a-gut-brain-perspective/id1790365046?i=1000748001710
Episode 49. IBS vs. IBD: Understanding Gut Inflammation Through Clinical Cases: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/49-ibs-vs-ibd-understanding-gut-inflammation-through/id1790365046?i=1000749212470

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

49. IBS vs. IBD: Understanding Gut Inflammation Through Clinical Cases

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if your gut symptoms aren’t random, confusing, or “all in your head” but a story your body has been trying to tell for years?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I take you inside my clinical thinking as a naturopathic physician and walk you through how I differentiate IBS and IBD in real life, not just on paper. This is a case-based, detective-style episode where we look at gut inflammation through the lens of the gut–brain axis, nervous system regulation, immune signaling, and lived experience.

This conversation is for patients who feel misheard or misunderstood—and for practitioners who want to think more clearly, compassionately, and effectively about gut healing.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why I’m walking you through my actual clinical reasoning
03:19 IBS vs. IBD: what really separates them
05:26 How I approach gut cases in practice
16:33 Real patient cases and what they reveal
23:37 The healing order that actually works

Links and resources:

Episode 47 Part 1. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-1-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746015163
Episode 47 Part 2. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/47-part-2-the-gut-brain-axis-how-your-body-shapes/id1790365046?i=1000746987885
Episode 48. Why IBS Gets Worse in Midlife: A Gut–Brain Perspective: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/48-why-ibs-gets-worse-in-midlife-a-gut-brain-perspective/id1790365046?i=1000748001710
FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Calm Gut, Clear Mind: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

48. Why IBS Gets Worse in Midlife: A Gut–Brain Perspective

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

When people hear IBS, they’re often told it’s “just stress,” “just food,” or worse—all in their head. In this episode, I slow things down and walk you through IBS as what it truly is: a gut–brain axis pattern, rooted in nervous system regulation, physiology, lived experience, and meaning.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Understanding IBS through the gut–brain axis
02:28 Why a holistic approach actually matters for IBS
05:22 How IBS symptoms reflect the nervous system
09:24 Top-down and bottom-up healing explained simply
14:55 The Vital Spirit Method for IBS
18:34 The mechanical and energetic layers most people miss
24:10 Labs, testing, and real patient stories
33:34 What IBS is really asking for—and what to do next

Links and resources mentioned:

Calm Gut, Clear Mind: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

47 Part 2. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if your mood, digestion, stress response, and inflammation aren’t separate problems but expressions of the same conversation happening inside your body?

In Part 2 of the Gut–Brain Axis series on The Vital Spirit Podcast, I move out of theory and into real clinical life. We talk about what the gut–brain axis actually looks like in practice—especially for women navigating IBS, IBD, and the amplification that happens in midlife.

This episode is about understanding why symptoms get louder, why so many people feel stuck despite “doing all the right things,” and how to work with the body in the right order so healing becomes sustainable instead of exhausting.

In this episode, we cover:

Join Calm Gut, Clear Mind: A 21-Day Journey to Restore Your Gut, Balance Your Hormones & Soothe Your Nervous System: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Listen to Episode 47 Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/961dcff4-9948-4a9e-a0e7-d385e12c410d/

Links and resources:

01:03 The gut–brain axis in real life
01:56 Why IBS isn’t “just stress” or “just food”
04:40 How inflammatory bowel disease reflects immune dysregulation, depletion, and loss of tolerance
08:09 How perimenopause changes motility, permeability, inflammation, and stress resilience
09:59 The healing order that actually works
17:03 Why safety, meaning, co-regulation, and rest aren’t “extras”

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

#depression #midlifehealth #midlifewomen

47 Part 1. The Gut–Brain Axis: How Your Body Shapes Mood, Stress, and Inflammation

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

The gut–brain axis explains something most mental health models miss.

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I begin a two-part essential series on the gut–brain axis — the communication network between the gut, brain, immune system, hormones, and metabolism that shapes mood, stress resilience, and inflammation.

In Part 1, we explore why mood symptoms — including depression — often emerge during periods of chronic stress, immune activation, hormonal shifts, or gut dysfunction, even when life looks “fine” on the outside. This episode lays the biological foundation for understanding how the body enters survival states, and why healing requires working with physiology, not against it.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why mood symptoms need a new biological framework

01:34 What the gut–brain axis is and why it’s foundational to healing

02:22 How the gut and brain communicate through neural, immune, endocrine, and microbial pathways

08:10 The vagus nerve and why your gut sends emotional signals upstream

10:54 Immune signaling, inflammation, and “sickness behavior”

13:15 Hormones, blood sugar, cortisol, and metabolic pathways

15:08 Microbial metabolites, short-chain fatty acids, and neurotransmitter terrain

19:52 Clinical examples that show why mood and gut symptoms are inseparable

21:30 Why this matters — and what’s coming in Part 2

Links and resources:

Join Calm Gut, Clear Mind: A 21-Day Journey to Restore Your Gut, Balance Your Hormones & Soothe Your Nervous System: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Listen to Episode 4. Why Healing Your Gut Is the First Step to Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/47733e90-298c-4bfb-bd76-46b443dd26a4/
Listen to Episode 6. What Happens in Vagus: The Missing Link to Resilience, Digestion & Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b278c36f-eb4e-4004-9cea-44bd78a8db8e/
Listen to Episode 15. Inflammatory Depression: What’s Really Behind Low Mood in Perimenopause: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5abc8dca-592f-45c9-8c79-9d31e3327c62/
Listen to Episode 43. What Depression Really Is and What It Isn’t: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/448f31be-d209-41f3-a5f5-9a33be355b34/
Listen to Episode 45. How Depression Heals: The Therapeutic Order for Mind, Body, and Spirit: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b16d549c-c78e-47b1-b6dd-17ae3f631d3f/
Listen to Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/eef0556d-c3cf-41e5-b944-ef8a3b8a3c8a/
Listen to Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/21b28c90-b987-4658-8429-87e06d3cc1ba/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

46. Movement as Medicine: Restoring Flow, Safety, and Vitality in Midlife

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Movement is one of the most powerful tools we have to support our health—especially in midlife—but only when we stop forcing it and start using it intentionally.

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I unpack what I truly mean by movement as medicine. This isn’t about workouts, punishment, or doing more. It’s about understanding how movement supports your nervous system, mood, hormones, lymphatic flow, and overall vitality when it’s done in a way that’s attuned to your body.

This episode is especially for you if exercise has ever felt overwhelming, confusing, or disconnected from how your body actually feels.

In this episode, we cover:

01:08 How I understand movement through the Seeds of Health
03:14 Why movement is foundational for physical and nervous system health
05:24 Why “movement as medicine” is different from “movement is medicine”
09:13 How movement influences mood, stress, and depression
11:38 The power of micro-movements throughout the day
19:25 Why weight-bearing movement becomes essential in midlife
23:54 The psoas as a key nervous system muscle
28:08 Using yoga and stretching to support regulation and flexibility
31:43 How movement supports lymphatic flow and detoxification
34:22 Why rest and recovery are part of the medicine
37:49 Walking and time in nature as underestimated healing tools
42:59 Daily movement essentials that are realistic and sustainable

Links and resources:

Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

45. How Depression Heals: The Therapeutic Order for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0400

What if depression isn’t something to silence but something asking to be understood?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I continue our two-part conversation on depression in midlife by shifting from definition to healing. Instead of focusing on quick fixes or symptom suppression, I walk you through how depression actually heals when we work with the body, the nervous system, and the deeper transitions that often surface in midlife.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why depression often looks different in midlife
02:28 Moving from symptom suppression to real pathways of healing
04:28 How I use the therapeutic order to guide healing in layers
07:05 Why safety and stabilization come first for the nervous system
10:51 The foundational practices that quietly shape mood every day
15:36 How the gut–brain axis and inflammation influence depression
18:39 Hormonal shifts in perimenopause and menopause that affect mood
22:47 Mitochondrial health, nutrients, and why emotional fatigue is often physical
24:33 What depletion really looks like and how repletion restores capacity
25:07 Food as medicine and nourishing mood without shame or perfection
28:10 Psychotherapy, mindfulness, and working with the inner landscape
31:04 Botanical medicine and homeopathy as gentle nervous system supports
35:02 Medication and psychedelic therapies: when they help and how I think about them
39:17 Why community, connection, and ritual matter for healing

Links and resources:

Listen to Episode 43: What Depression Really Is and What It Isn’t: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/448f31be-d209-41f3-a5f5-9a33be355b34/
The Psychobiotic Revolution: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35210457-the-psychobiotic-revolution

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

#depression #mentalheath #midlifewomen

44. Why Healing Requires Learning to Feel with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Today, we explore what it really means to feel emotions—not analyze them, suppress them, or power through them—but experience them safely in the body with Jenn Rapkin, a naturopathic physician, body worker, and author of The Feeling Muscle.

This is a deep, grounded conversation about felt emotion, nervous system regulation, and why so many of us were never taught how to sit with hard feelings. We talk about emotional waves, co-regulation, body-based healing, and why midlife can be such a powerful (and overwhelming) invitation to reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.

If you’ve ever been told you’re “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” or that your feelings are something to manage or minimize, this episode offers a completely different way forward.

In this episode, we cover:

01:09 What felt emotion actually means (and why it’s different from thinking about feelings)
02:11 Dr. Jenn Rapkin’s path into naturopathic medicine and body-centered healing
05:33 What it means to be a “frequent feeler”
08:32 Why naming emotions in the body is so empowering
14:10 Cultural messages that teach us to suppress hard feelings
19:05 The many ways we avoid emotion without realizing it
22:00 How body work helps unlock emotional healing
27:16 Learning to ride emotional waves instead of fearing them
29:41 Why co-regulation matters when feelings feel overwhelming
31:12 A personal story of grief, lockdown, and emotional overflow
33:43 Breathwork as a gentle bridge between mind and body
38:53 Navigating anxiety and panic through felt experience
46:45 What it really means to strengthen your “feeling muscle”
49:51 Midlife overwhelm, resilience, and emotional capacity
59:01 Why mindfulness is foundational in naturopathic medicine

Links and resources:

The Feeling Muscle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FZDW1R2M

Connect with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND:

Website: https://drjennrapkin.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennrapkin/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

#emotionalhealing #mentalhealthawareness #menopausejourney

43. What Depression Really Is and What It Isn’t

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if depression isn’t a personal failure—or even a single diagnosis—but a message from the body, the nervous system, and the life you’re living?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I share one of the most personal and important conversations of my career. Drawing from my clinical work, my background in psychology and naturopathic medicine, and my own lived experience with depression—especially through perimenopause—this episode is about redefining what depression actually is…and what it isn’t.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why this episode matters to me, both personally and professionally
01:58 Redefining depression: what it truly is (and what it’s not)
02:49 An important safety note and how to think about suicidal thoughts with clarity and care
06:33 What depression can actually feel like in the body, especially in midlife
16:17 The clinical lens: diagnoses, labels, and where they fall short
22:45 Why depression is almost always multifactorial (body, mind, and environment)
32:21 Real patient examples that show how different root causes can look the same on the surface

Links and resources:

Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/36-the-dark-night-of-the-soul-descent/id1790365046?i=1000734013547
Listen to Episode 03. Midlife and the Nervous System: Building Resilience Step by Step: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/03-midlife-and-the-nervous-system-building/id1790365046?i=1000684966973
Listen to Episode 32. What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/32-what-your-doctor-might-be-missing-about-midlife/id1790365046?i=1000728187600
Listen to Episode 41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/41-part-1-ssris-serotonin-and-the-truth-about/id1790365046?i=1000739475942
Listen to Episode 41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/42-the-cortisol-cure-healing-hormones-by-working/id1790365046?i=1000741654413

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

42. The Cortisol Cure: Healing Hormones by Working With Stress, Not Against It With Dr. Erin Kinney

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if stress isn’t the problem—but the way we’ve been taught to override our bodies instead of listening to them?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m joined by my friend and colleague Dr. Erin Kinney, a licensed naturopathic doctor, stress-reset expert, and author of the upcoming book The Cortisol Cure. Together, we unpack one of the most misunderstood hormones in women’s health: cortisol.

In this episode, we cover:

01:50 Meeting Dr. Erin Kinney and how her own burnout shaped her work
03:17 Her path into naturopathic medicine and stress-based healing
07:58 Why cortisol isn’t “bad” and what it actually does for your body
10:15 What inspired The Cortisol Cure and why the timing matters now
14:24 Understanding the stress response in real-life terms
20:06 The difference between spending energy and earning it back
25:28 Why true rest is essential (and why scrolling doesn’t count)
26:32 Small daily habits that rebuild healthy cortisol rhythms
30:28 How blood sugar, meals, and nutrition affect stress hormones
32:46 Supplements and adaptogens that can support adrenal health
35:00 Personal stories of burnout, recovery, and nervous system healing
37:07 Reconnecting with joy, creativity, and what truly restores you
42:29 Final reflections and where to learn more from Dr. Kinney

Connect with Dr. Erin Kinney:

Website: www.thekinneyclinic.com

Instagram: @drkinney

The Cortisol Cure VIP list link: https://www.thekinneyclinic.com/book

Podcast: https://www.thekinneyclinic.com/podcast

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

41 Part 2. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if depression isn’t a flaw or a chemical imbalance but a doorway into understanding your physiology, your history, and your deepest unmet needs?

In Part 2 of this powerful two-episode series, I turn inward and share my personal journey with depression, including the moments that brought me to my knees and the practices that helped me rise again.

If you’ve ever felt numb, disconnected, misunderstood by the medical system, or overwhelmed by your own healing process, this episode will help you understand your experience with more compassion, context, and hope.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 A personal story of depression and what it taught me
05:09 The daily habits that began to bring me back to myself
09:07 How gratitude and coherence shift the nervous system toward healing
11:42 What emotional blunting from SSRIs really feels like
15:10 What the research reveals about alternative treatments for depression
18:15 How to approach mental health through gut, hormones, trauma & spirit
25:23 Closing reflections, next steps, and where to find support

Links and resources:

Listen to Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/eef0556d-c3cf-41e5-b944-ef8a3b8a3c8a/
Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5eab1c4-7d69-4b30-ae72-a8aa8eefb242/
Listen to Episode 15. Inflammatory Depression: What’s Really Behind Low Mood in Perimenopause: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5abc8dca-592f-45c9-8c79-9d31e3327c62/
Listen to Episode 16. The Gut-Brain Anxiety Loop: Healing Anxiety from the Inside Out: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/67758b78-8cb3-4870-abfa-1aff7e7fd91b/
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
The Work by Byron Katie: https://thework.com/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

41 Part 1. SSRIs, Serotonin, and the Truth About Depression: What Women Aren’t Being Told

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if everything you’ve been told about serotonin and depression was incomplete or entirely wrong?

In this two-part episode, I open a deep, necessary conversation about SSRIs, the serotonin theory, and what depression actually is on a physiological level. So many women are handed antidepressants without any exploration of hormones, inflammation, trauma physiology, gut health, nutrient status, or nervous system state—leaving them confused when the medication doesn’t work, stops working, or creates new symptoms they weren’t warned about.

This episode is not anti-medication—it is pro–informed consent, pro-truth, and pro-root-cause healing. If you’ve ever wondered why you don’t feel better on an SSRI, why you feel numb instead of stable, why withdrawal feels impossible, or whether you were given the full truth—this episode will be deeply validating.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 What if everything we’ve been told about serotonin is wrong?
03:01 Depression: the full-body condition no one explained to you
08:40 SSRIs: what they actually do—and what they don’t
17:55 Withdrawal or relapse? The part women are never warned about
28:02 Why this matters: A personal story I’ve never shared before

Links and resources:

Listen to Episode 36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f5eab1c4-7d69-4b30-ae72-a8aa8eefb242/
Listen to Episode 39. SIBO Isn’t the Problem: Healing the Terrain, Not the Germ (Bloating & Weight Gain in Midlife): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ce8800d2-f90a-41b8-9fc5-b0e531dd9117/
Listen to Episode 3. Midlife and the Nervous System: Building Resilience Step by Step: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b9bd11d6-c86a-45ee-aa19-b7d7ab6685f1/
Listen to Episode 28. Burnout Isn’t Just in Your Head (It’s in Your Hormones, Nervous System, and Soul): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/2547475f-7323-4fca-955f-b370a0b62b37/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

40. The Deep Medicine of Drainage: Healing Chronic Illness from the Inside Out with Ginger Nash, ND

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if healing chronic illness isn’t about chasing symptoms but understanding the deeper terrain of your body, your nervous system, and even your story?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I sit down with my long-time mentor and colleague, Dr. Ginger Nash, whose work has shaped so much of how I practice today. We explore the complexity of chronic illness, the layered wisdom of homeopathy, and why so many women in perimenopause and menopause experience a powerful awakening—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

If you’ve been craving a deeper, more nuanced understanding of healing, this conversation will feel like coming home to something you’ve always known but haven’t yet put into words.

In this episode, we cover:

04:23 Dr. Nash’s personal journey into naturopathic medicine
09:30 Why chronic illness is never one-dimensional
15:40 Homeopathy explained in a grounded, practical way
25:02 Low Dose Immunotherapy and when it actually helps
30:03 Perimenopause, sensitivity, and the “overflowing bucket”
30:57 Trauma, nervous system patterns, and subconscious beliefs
32:22 How perimenopause becomes a catalyst for powerful change
33:14 Breath work, bilateral stimulation, and deeper healing tools
34:39 Why your body needs stability before doing deeper work
35:19 How naturopathic practice evolves as practitioners evolve
38:08 The real differences between functional medicine and naturopathy
42:56 Professional training, complex homeopathy, and advanced tools
47:38 The wisdom that emerges during life’s biggest transitions

Connect with Dr. Ginger Nash:

Website: https://www.gingernash.com/

Improved Outcomes in Complex Chronic Illness: Training for Professionals: https://www.gingernash.com/training

Substack: https://substack.com/@gingernash

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc9BAXcWddAc8IlYL5Df5lA

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

39. SIBO Isn’t the Problem: Healing the Terrain, Not the Germ (Bloating & Weight Gain in Midlife)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered why your bloating, gut issues, or “SIBO flare-ups” keep coming back no matter how many protocols you try? This episode will change the way you think about SIBO—and your gut—forever.

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m breaking down why SIBO isn’t actually the root problem and why real, lasting healing starts with restoring your body’s terrain, rhythms, and nervous system—not just killing bacteria. After 13 years of treating complex gut-brain cases, I’ve seen the same patterns over and over, and I’m sharing the full inside look at why SIBO keeps returning for so many women in midlife.

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of bloating, constipation or diarrhea, food fear, or failed protocols, this conversation will help you finally understand what your gut has been trying to tell you.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Understanding SIBO from a totally different perspective
02:33 Why nervous system regulation is the missing link in stubborn gut cases
04:30 What SIBO actually is and how it shows up in the body
07:49 The most common symptoms (and why they don’t always match your test results)
13:34 The real root causes behind SIBO and why bacteria aren’t the enemy
18:57 The 5R Framework I use to treat SIBO and rebuild the gut
29:04 A powerful patient story that shows how healing actually unfolds

Links and resources:

21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset
Listen to Episode 19. Beyond the Germ: Why Your Terrain Holds the Real Healing Power: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a7bb01cb-6ee6-4c7c-93a4-9286d22f0eb7/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

38. How to Trust Your Inner Knowing in Midlife with Dr. Valerie Simonsen ND

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What does it really mean to trust yourself especially in midlife? In this rich and moving conversation, I’m joined by Dr. Valerie Simonsen, a deeply intuitive and experienced naturopathic physician who blends science, spirit, and storytelling in her healing work.

We talk about how your body’s symptoms can be messengers, the power of belief in your healing journey, and how tuning into your intuition can shift the trajectory of your health. We also explore Dr. Valerie’s remarkable life—from rescuing sea turtles to healing through art, honoring ceremony, and sitting with the questions that medicine alone can’t answer.

Whether you're navigating a diagnosis, wondering if there's more to your symptoms than lab work shows, or simply learning to trust yourself again, this episode is an invitation to come home to your knowing.

In this episode, we cover:

01:08 How to begin trusting your inner knowing in midlife
03:30 A story about rescuing sea turtles and what it taught Dr. Valerie Simonsen about purpose
08:14 Dr. Simonsen’s winding path into naturopathic medicine
15:11 Why healing means listening to both science and spirit
23:00 How belief and intention can affect your health
29:09 The moment Dr. Simonsen knew she wanted to help women reclaim their wisdom
42:36 How creativity and art can be part of the healing journey
44:29 A surprising connection between parasites and brain tumors
45:42 What fear can teach us and how to make empowered medical decisions
46:51 Why trauma work is a critical piece of real healing
48:38 Dr. Simonsen’s approach to investigating the root cause
59:31 How community, ritual, and ceremony play a role in healing
01:07:01 Finding restoration in nature
01:14:24 What it takes to build a supportive “healing tribe”

Connect with Dr Valerie Simonsen ND:

Website: https://www.drvaleriesimonsen.com

Website: https://www.youknowmore.org

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yesyouknowmore

FB: Valerie Simonsen

IG: yesyouknowmore

LinkedIN: Dr Valerie Simonsen ND

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

37. Guide to Navigating Food Allergies, Sensitivities & Intolerances

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever thought, “I eat clean but I still feel inflamed,” this episode is for you.

We’re breaking down the real differences between food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances—and why understanding them could be the game-changer in your gut and hormone healing journey. From testing myths to elimination diet tips to patient stories that show what’s possible, this is your go-to food reactivity masterclass.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 What’s the difference between allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances?
02:07 My take on food sensitivity testing and when it’s actually useful
06:32 Real patient stories that show how powerful food shifts can be
08:02 How food reactions start in the gut (and what your immune system has to do with it)
25:13 How to do elimination and reintroductions the right way
30:49 My gut-healing approach to help you tolerate more foods again

Links and resources:

Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

36. The Dark Night of the Soul: Descent, Healing, and the Alchemy of Midlife

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your hardest season isn’t a setback but an invitation?

In this episode, I’m sharing a deeper conversation about what so many of us go through in midlife—a chapter that’s often messy, uncomfortable, and hard to name. It might look like gut symptoms, burnout, anxiety, or the sense that your old routines and wellness tools just aren’t working anymore. But underneath all of that? There’s a sacred awakening happening.

I talk about what mystics have called the dark night of the soul—why it shows up, what it might be trying to teach us, and how I personally see it unfold in the lives of my patients (and my own). This isn’t just about hormones. It’s about identity, trust, and what it means to heal from the inside out. If you’ve been wondering, “Is this just me?”, I hope this episode brings you clarity and comfort.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why I believe the “dark night of the soul” often shows up in midlife
02:29 How I see the Sacred Descent as a rite of passage into your most authentic self
03:57 Biological and psychological signs I often see in this phase
06:38 How I help women navigate this health awakening with reverence, not panic
09:16 The daily rituals I recommend to help your body feel safe during big transitions
22:26 The Three Ps of Perimenopause: Patterns, Power, and Presence
27:27 Why I bring in quantum healing and mindset as part of the work
39:09 A reminder that you’re not broken—you’re becoming

Links and resources:

Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

35. Sleep Masterclass: The Forgotten Medicine of Midlife

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been waking up at 3 a.m. with your heart racing, or struggling to fall asleep even when you’re exhausted, this episode is for you.

In this Sleep Masterclass, I unpack why sleep is one of the most overlooked but essential forms of medicine, especially in midlife. You’ll learn how your circadian rhythm, hormones, blood sugar, and nervous system all impact sleep (and what to do about it). We’ll also explore practical rituals, herbs, nutrients, and even the role of joy and play in helping your body feel safe enough to truly rest.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why sleep issues in midlife are so common
06:25 How your circadian rhythm works and what disrupts it
11:15 The hormone-sleep connection: what happens during perimenopause.
14:22 Why you're waking up at 3am
16:42 How your morning and evening habits shape your sleep (and simple shifts to make)
22:23 My favorite tool for deep rest
24:32 Herbal, nutritional, and homeopathic support for better sleep
28:51 Why play, pleasure, and joy are often the missing pieces in sleep struggles

Links and resources:

Listen to The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 1): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8069f6e5-2e2e-457f-94c0-5ef4d1cda999/
Listen to The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 2): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/913cf84a-0e39-4754-b642-7e9ef017ac19/
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

34. Midlife Hair Loss Decoded: The Gut-Liver-Hormone Axis

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your hair loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue but a clue your body is asking for deeper support?

In this episode, I open up about my own journey with hair loss—what triggered it, how I healed it, and the protocols I use with patients going through the same thing. From low ferritin to blood sugar swings, thyroid patterns to stress responses, we walk through why midlife hair loss happens and what you can do to support regrowth (from the inside out).

Whether you’re seeing more hair in the shower drain or feeling like your strands just don’t feel like “you” anymore, this episode will help you decode the deeper connections and start your healing path with clarity and compassion.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 My personal story with hair loss and how it shaped my healing approach
04:31 Why midlife hair loss is often a deeper health signal, not just cosmetic
10:51 The role of low iron (especially ferritin) and thyroid patterns in hair thinning
16:58 How gut health and nutrient absorption impact hair growth
19:21 The connection between stress, blood sugar, and hair loss
22:10 Autoimmune causes and what to consider with alopecia
28:45 My favorite daily tools and rituals to support regrowth from within

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 2): Why It Comes Before Hormones

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever wondered whether you really need hormone therapy—or if there’s more you should address first—this episode is for you. In Part 2 of our HPA Axis series, I take you inside my real-life clinical process, breaking down exactly what labs I run, how I interpret them, and why hormone symptoms aren’t always about hormones. We also explore the deeper spiritual and psychological aspects of healing your stress response through midlife transitions.

In this episode, we cover:

01:10 Understanding the role of the HPA Axis in hormone symptoms and fatigue
02:09 A real patient case study: what labs revealed and why it wasn’t “just hormones”
05:17 My full HPA Axis lab panel: what I test, why it matters, and what symptoms it's linked to
14:10 Nervous system regulation practices that support circadian rhythm and cortisol balance
16:16 Diet and lifestyle foundations
19:20 When hormone therapy makes sense and when it might do more harm than good
24:45 Depth psychology, shadow work, and the spiritual significance of midlife transitions
29:35 How your HPA Axis connects your environment, emotions, and endocrine system

Links and resources:

Listen to Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8069f6e5-2e2e-457f-94c0-5ef4d1cda999/
FREE Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

33. The HPA Axis Deep Dive (Part 1): Why It Comes Before Hormones

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Ever feel like you're doing all the right things—but you're still exhausted, foggy, or emotionally on edge? In this episode, I unpack what might really be going on: your HPA axis.

This system—your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis—regulates your stress response, hormones, energy, and even how well you sleep. And when it’s off? Everything else can feel off, too.

This conversation is about bridging science and self-awareness. I walk you through how your neuroendocrine system actually works, how chronic stress shows up in the body, and real-life tools to begin shifting your physiology.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 Why the HPA Axis is central to hormonal balance, energy, and how you respond to stress.
03:25 Breaking down the connection between your nervous system and hormones.
06:42 I share a real patient story to highlight how HPA dysregulation can manifest as fatigue, burnout, and hormone imbalances.
18:14 How your digestive health and detox pathways are linked to thyroid and hormonal function
24:20 Daily tools that go beyond bubble baths
28:40 Simple practices to help you regulate your nervous system and begin to heal your stress response from the inside out

Links and resources:

Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Listen to Episode 32: What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV): https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f9285d4b-4cfb-4dc6-8589-e75e7582d7f4/
Listen to Episode 4: Why Healing Your Gut Is the First Step to Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/47733e90-298c-4bfb-bd76-46b443dd26a4/
Molecules of Emotion by Dr. Candace Pert: https://www.amazon.com/Molecules-Emotion-Science-Mind-Body-Medicine/dp/0684846349

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

32. What Your Doctor Might Be Missing About Midlife Fatigue (Epstein-Barr Virus EBV)

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever felt deeply exhausted—like no amount of sleep, supplements, or self-care can touch it—this episode is for you.

I’m walking you through a real-life case of persistent fatigue and how Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) showed up in a way that looked a lot like burnout. You’ll hear how this virus works, why it often reactivates in midlife, and how to approach healing from a place of nervous system and terrain support without fear or overwhelm.

In this episode, we cover:

01:03 A real-life case of fatigue that kept coming back
02:37 What Epstein-Barr Virus actually is and why most of us have been exposed
05:19 The signs of EBV reactivation (hint: they often look like burnout or hormone issues)
09:54 What labs to ask for and how to understand the antibodies (like VCA IgG, EBNA, and more)
14:58 How I approach EBV holistically
25:04 Why supporting your terrain is more important than fighting the virus
28:19 Final thoughts if you suspect EBV is part of your story

Links and resources:

The Safe and Sound Protocol, Polyvagal Theory, and Naturopathic Terrain: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/dea1d59c-22a2-499f-9a7b-fdc5803c8c36/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

31. Detox Without Fear: Foundations for Midlife Health

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Detox isn’t a trend—it’s a built-in process your body is doing every single day. In this episode, I walk you through what detox really means, why it’s essential for midlife health (especially hormone balance), and how you can support it daily—without fear, fads, or overwhelm.

In this episode, we cover:

The real reason your detox bucket might be overflowing (and how to lighten the load)
Why hydration, fiber, and protein are non-negotiable for hormone health
Everyday practices that support your lymphatic system and liver—without fancy cleanses
How fear shuts down your body’s ability to detox (and what to do instead)
Why nervous system regulation comes before detox
The spiritual side of detox: clearing emotional and energetic stagnation

Links and resources:

Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Listen to Episode 2: The Blueprint for Healing: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6fae6042-8790-4cd9-add5-813f84132a22/
Listen to Episode 20. Why Drainage Comes Before Detox: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4a121c9b-37d6-4f36-abc6-267db75cdc7b/
Listen to Episode 29. Why Mindfulness Is Foundational to Healing: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/c9bd3f36-e2f1-4429-b8f4-f23a7b5f4213/
Listen to 30. Why Hydration Alone Isn’t Enough: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/e3644023-03e4-445a-aa4d-3e4311011bfd/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

30. Why Hydration Alone Isn’t Enough: The Power of Hydrotherapy

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’re feeling fatigued, foggy, inflamed—or even emotionally stagnant—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m diving into the second seed of health in the Seeds of Health series: hydration and hydrotherapy. And no, it’s not just about drinking more water. We explore hydration as a deeply holistic foundation—impacting everything from your detox pathways and lymph flow to nervous system regulation and emotional resilience.

In this episode, we cover:

Why 75% of adults are chronically dehydrated (and how to tell if you’re one of them)
The connection between hydration and your detox pathways, immune system, and mental clarity
The energetic and emotional properties of water
How hydrotherapy (internal and external) can support the nervous system and healing
Simple daily rituals that make staying hydrated easier and more aligned with your body’s needs
How dehydration might be showing up as overwhelm, anxiety, or fatigue

Links and resources:

Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

29. Why Mindfulness Is Foundational to Healing

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if the missing piece in your healing journey isn’t another supplement or lab test but simply learning how to pause?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m kicking off the Seeds of Health series by exploring why mindfulness is the very first foundation we build in the Vital Spirit Method. If you're someone who’s rolled your eyes at meditation or struggled to stick with a mindfulness practice, this episode is especially for you.

In this episode, we cover:

Why we begin with mindfulness inside the Vital Spirit Method
How stress and dysregulation sabotage healing and how mindfulness shifts this
The connection between your nervous system and your inner story
Simple ways to start mindfulness (even if meditation isn’t your thing)
How mindfulness literally rewires your brain and builds emotional resilience
“Mindful magic moments” and how to find them in your daily life

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Listen to Episode 13: The Safe and Sound Protocol: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/dea1d59c-22a2-499f-9a7b-fdc5803c8c36/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

28. Burnout Isn’t Just in Your Head (It’s in Your Hormones, Nervous System, and Soul)

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Burnout isn’t laziness—it’s your body’s cry for support. Today, I’m diving deep into what’s really going on beneath the surface of exhaustion, depletion, and dysregulation. I’ll walk you through the physiology of burnout (hello, HPA axis and pregnenolone), the nervous system patterns that keep us stuck, and the tools I use with my patients to support true healing and recovery.

If you're tired of being told to "just rest," this episode offers a grounded, whole-person path forward.

In this episode, we cover:

Why burnout is actually your body’s wisest response
The three physiological stages of burnout
What’s really going on with your hormones, adrenals, and thyroid
Key lab markers I look at with patients and how I interpret them
How the nervous system and vagus nerve are involved in burnout
Botanical and homeopathic remedies I use for each stage of burnout
A 2-week burnout reset plan with physical anchors and regulation rituals

Links and resources:

Join Burnout to Balance Waitlist: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew
Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/129603.You_Can_Heal_Your_Life

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

27. The Forgotten Art of Supporting Healing

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own healing story—from the high-functioning burnout I didn’t see coming, to the post-birth control chaos that forced me to stop overriding my body and finally tune in. It was this experience that reshaped everything I thought I knew about healing.

I’m sharing the philosophy that guides the way I practice as a naturopathic doctor, and why I believe true healing comes not from fighting our symptoms but by honoring the messages they carry—physical, emotional, and spiritual.

In this episode, we cover:

My personal health awakening after coming off birth control in my 20s
How burnout disguised as “high performance” led me to naturopathic medicine
What it really means to work with the body’s innate healing intelligence (the vis)
Why suppressing symptoms can lead to deeper issues down the road
How terrain-based healing differs from quick-fix, symptom-focused care
The importance of emotional, spiritual, and archetypal integration in true healing
What I teach inside the Vital Spirit Method and how it empowers women to heal
Concrete examples of how I approach complex symptoms like acne, fatigue, or migraines
The deeper symbolic meaning behind symptoms like rage, exhaustion, or skin flares

Links and resources mentioned:

You Can Heal Your Life by Louise L. Hay: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/129603.You_Can_Heal_Your_Life

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

26. What Sets Naturopathic Medicine Apart

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered what actually makes naturopathic medicine different from functional medicine, nutritionists, or homeopaths?

In this episode, I break down the core distinctions that shape how I—and other licensed naturopathic doctors—approach healing. If you’ve ever felt confused by the alphabet soup of holistic care or frustrated by protocol-based medicine that left you feeling unheard, this episode will reframe how you think about symptoms, healing, and the practitioner-patient relationship

In this episode, we cover:

What sets naturopathic medicine apart from functional medicine, nutritionists, and homeopaths
The seven steps of the Therapeutic Order (and why order matters!)
The risks of “green allopathy” and protocol-based care
Why not every root cause approach actually honors the body’s wisdom
What it means to walk with the vis medicatrix naturae—the healing power of nature
Two patient stories that show how slowing down and listening to the body can create real transformation

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
The Philosophy of Natural Therapeutics by Dr. Henry Lindlahr: https://www.amazon.com/Philosophy-Natural-Therapeutics-Classic-Healing/dp/0091906598
The Therapeutic Order by Drs. Jared Zeff & Pamela Snider: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7217399/
The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP): www.naturopathic.org

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

25. From Burnout to Balance: A New Medicine for the Women Holding Too Much

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your body’s burnout was never a personal failure—just a sign that it’s time for a new kind of medicine?

In this solo episode, I dive into the emotional, physical, and spiritual weight that midlife women often carry and why the conventional model of healthcare keeps missing the mark. I talk about what true healing really requires in this season of life, and why I believe women need a medicine that honors their wholeness, not just their symptoms.

If you’ve felt like you’re holding it all together for everyone but secretly falling apart, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

The patterns I see in women who are holding way too much
Why “hyperfunctioning” can disconnect us from the body’s wisdom
The root causes of midlife burnout (it’s not just your hormones)
What it means to move from force to flow in your healing
Why we need a deeper definition of vitality—beyond lab tests
The new medicine I believe women deserve in midlife

Links and resources:

Balance Your Body Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup
Mel Robbins podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overloaded-exhausted-and-ready-for-a-reset-3/id1646101002?i=1000716876862

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

24. Drain to Heal: The Forgotten Systems That Detox Your Body & Mind

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever noticed that your digestion slows, your breath shortens, or your skin flares during times of stress or emotional overwhelm?

In this episode, we dive into the world of emunctories—the body’s organs of elimination—and explore how physical stagnation often mirrors emotional and energetic stagnation.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, inflamed, or intuitively drawn to cleanse, this episode offers a gentle but powerful reframe: detox isn’t just about supplements—it’s about restoring flow.

You’ll learn:

How your gut, liver, skin, and lungs function as emunctories
The emotional signatures of stagnation (constipation, tension, shallow breath, etc.)
Why supporting elimination is foundational in perimenopause and burnout recovery
My personal gut check ritual and how to create one of your own
Daily tools to support both physical and emotional “drainage”

This is a must-listen if you’re craving clarity, lightness, and deeper connection with your body.

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

23. Why Blood Sugar is the Missing Link in Hormone, Mental, and Metabolic Health

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Blood sugar isn’t just about diabetes or dessert—it’s one of the most overlooked keys to hormone health, mental clarity, and energy stability. In this episode, I’m walking you through the vital role blood sugar regulation plays in your day-to-day well-being, especially if you're navigating perimenopause or menopause. You’ll hear what symptoms might be related to blood sugar swings, why a morning muffin (even gluten-free!) might be wrecking your energy, and what I recommend instead.

In this episode, we cover:

The foundational connection between blood sugar and hormone balance
How unstable blood sugar can fuel mood swings, anxiety, and burnout
What a "blood sugar rollercoaster" looks and feels like in real life
How I coach patients to rebuild safety and resilience through stabilizing glucose
Simple, sustainable practices to support your nervous system and metabolism
Why managing blood sugar isn’t about dieting

Links and resources:

Balance Your Body Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

22. The 21-Day Gut Reset: Reclaiming Clarity, Energy, and Trust in Your Body

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been feeling sluggish, bloated, inflamed, or disconnected from your body, you might want to tune in to today’s episode. I’m breaking down the philosophy, structure, and science behind my 21-Day Gut Reset. This isn’t another restrictive cleanse. It’s a sustainable, nervous-system-supportive approach to gut healing that helps you reclaim your clarity, energy, and self-trust. Whether you’re in perimenopause, recovering from burnout, or just ready to feel better in your body, this is a powerful place to begin.

In this episode, we cover:

Why gut health is essential for hormone balance, mental clarity, and mood
The difference between short-term detoxes and sustainable terrain healing
What inflammation, brain fog, and bloating are trying to tell you
Why I don’t believe in aggressive elimination diets or food fear
The three phases of the 21-Day Gut Reset (Remove, Restore, Rejuvenate)
Simple shifts that regulate the gut-brain connection and reduce overwhelm
Why clarity and self-trust are just as important as symptom relief

Links and resources:

21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset
Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Episode 19: Beyond the Germ: Why Your Terrain Holds the Real Healing Power: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a7bb01cb-6ee6-4c7c-93a4-9286d22f0eb7/
Episode 6: What Happens in Vagus: The Missing Link to Resilience, Digestion & Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b278c36f-eb4e-4004-9cea-44bd78a8db8e/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

21. Reclaiming the Herbal Roots of Medicine with Dr. Eugene Zampieron

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In this expansive and thought-provoking conversation, I sit down with Dr. Eugene Zampieron to explore what it really means to heal from the inside out. We talk about the nervous system, emotional terrain, ancestral patterns, and the critical difference between fixing symptoms and tending to the whole person. If you’ve ever felt like traditional or even functional medicine missed something deeper, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

Why your nervous system state determines whether healing can even begin
The difference between top-down and bottom-up approaches to trauma and illness
How digestive health affects neurotransmitter balance and emotional well-being
What it means to “treat the terrain” instead of just chasing a diagnosis
Why some healing must include ancestral wounds and generational patterns
The importance of slowing down, chewing your food, and restoring rhythm to the body
What happens when we stop overriding symptoms and start listening to them

Links and resources mentioned:

Ecotours For Cures Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_G6MjsoabWs

Connect with Dr. Z:

Website: https://www.drznaturally.com/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

20. Why Drainage Comes Before Detox (Gemmotherapy and Biotherapeutic Drainage)

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your fatigue, bloating, or burnout isn’t a sign to push harder but a sign to pause and drain?

In this episode, I’m peeling back the layers of what detox really means and why most people get it wrong. I share why I always start with drainage before detox, how Gemmotherapy and Biotherapeutic Drainage gently restore flow, and why true healing only happens when your terrain is ready.

Whether you’ve hit a plateau in your healing or you’re simply exhausted by all the “doing,” this episode will change the way you think about energy, vitality, and clearing the path to healing.

In this episode, we cover:

01:30 What drainage actually is (and why it’s not the same as detox)
05:00 Why doing more can backfire if your pathways aren’t open
07:30 What the extracellular matrix (ECM) is and how it impacts detox
09:00 Why Gemmotherapy supports both the physical and spiritual body
11:00 How I sequence terrain-based healing in the Vital Spirit Method
13:00 The difference between tinctures and gemmo remedies
16:30 Specific remedies I use for burnout, stagnation, and hormone support
22:00 A case study that shows why less (with precision) is more
25:00 Easy ways to support drainage at home
27:00 How to listen to your symptoms with compassion

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

19. Beyond the Germ: Why Your Terrain Holds the Real Healing Power

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if the real healing begins not by chasing the next protocol but by tending your terrain? In this episode, I explore the profound power of terrain-based healing, where symptoms are not enemies but sacred messages from your body. I break down the limitations of reductionistic medicine, introduce key philosophies of naturopathic care, and walk you through a powerful case study that shows how true healing is less about protocols and more about presence, nourishment, and self-trust.

In this episode, we cover:

03:00 The difference between germ theory and terrain theory
06:00 Why symptoms are sacred messengers, not malfunctions
08:00 Emily’s story: From lab overload to deep healing
11:00 Simple tools we used to rebuild her terrain
16:30 What “terrain” actually means beyond just gut health
22:30 The six stages of healing and how to map your progress
26:00 Why symptom flares can be signs of healing
28:00 How your terrain includes repressed emotions, stress patterns, and spiritual disconnect
29:00 How to begin again with gentle, sacred care

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Episode 1 Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a148aacf-0b68-41d0-8707-45f6d314c314/
Episode 2 The Blueprint for Healing: Naturopathic Principles and the Therapeutic Order: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6fae6042-8790-4cd9-add5-813f84132a22/
You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/129603.You_Can_Heal_Your_Life
Dr. Henry Lindlahr’s Philosophy of Natural Therapeutics: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/68138987-the-philosophy-of-natural-therapeutics

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

18. Who Killed Her Energy? A True Crime Health Mystery

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but still feel exhausted, ragey, foggy, and disconnected from yourself?

In this special storytelling episode, I take you through the fictionalized case study of a patient named Sarah—a midlife woman whose labs were normal, but whose life felt like it was unraveling. Together, we explore the clues that ultimately helped her reclaim her energy, peace, and power.

In this episode, we cover:

01:00 How to “investigate” symptoms like fatigue, rage, bloating, and disconnection
04:00 The 5 suspects draining Sarah’s vitality and how we tracked them down
06:00 What labs don’t always reveal (and what to look for instead)
07:30 Tools like candida protocols, vagus nerve toning, pregnenolone, and flower essences
13:30 The moment her symptoms lifted and the powerful insight it revealed
17:30 How your symptoms might be your soul’s whisper—not just a health hiccup

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

17. What the Midlife Body Reveals About the Soul

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your most persistent symptoms aren't problems to fix, but soul invitations you’ve been too overwhelmed to hear?

In this deeply personal episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I explore what happens when we stop viewing midlife symptoms as biochemical failures and start seeing them as calls from the psyche and soul. If you’ve been doing the “right” things—lab testing, protocols, even nervous system work—but still feel like something deeper is stirring, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

03:30 How physical symptoms reflect stored trauma, unmet needs, and identity shifts
06:15 The importance of safety and nervous system regulation before engaging in soul-level healing
10:20 Archetypal lenses: how anxiety, rage, depletion, or people-pleasing often mirror collective feminine archetypes
13:00 When clients say “I’ve done everything”—what might really be happening
15:30 Flower essences, journaling, and sacred ritual as tools for reconnection
18:45 Healing as re-embodiment, not bypass: why we need to be witnessed in the mess
21:00 The spiritual process of unraveling, re-membering, and redefining health in midlife

Links and resources:

Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/book-report

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

16. The Gut-Brain Anxiety Loop: Healing Anxiety from the Inside Out

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your anxiety isn’t all in your head but in your gut?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m unpacking one of the most overlooked drivers of chronic anxiety: the gut-brain loop. If you’ve been stuck in an endless cycle of fear, bloating, panic, poor sleep, and nervous system dysregulation, this conversation is for you.

I’m walking you through how gut dysfunction, hormone shifts, trauma history, and poor vagal tone keep the loop going—and how I help patients safely interrupt the cycle so they can feel calm, grounded, and clear again.

In this episode, we cover:

Why the gut-brain axis is central to anxiety, especially for women 35+
The signs your gut is inflamed and how they show up as mood symptoms
How trauma, chronic stress, and hormone shifts alter your gut-brain loop
Why anxiety and constipation often show up together in midlife
How poor vagal tone and nervous system dysregulation keep you in fear
Terrain-based tools to reset the gut-brain axis

Links and resources:

Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Panic Proof by Dr. Nicole Cain: https://www.panicproof.com/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

15. Inflammatory Depression: What’s Really Behind Low Mood in Perimenopause

Wed, 28 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your low mood isn’t just hormonal—or “just stress”—but a sign of inflammation in your brain and body?

In this episode, I’m breaking down the concept of inflammatory depression and why so many women in perimenopause feel anxious, flat, foggy, or fatigued and are handed a prescription before anyone investigates what’s actually going on.

I’ll walk you through how inflammation, hormone shifts, nutrient deficiencies, gut imbalances, and nervous system dysregulation all contribute to low mood and what to do about it. You’ll also hear a powerful case study of a woman who healed her mood by targeting the real root causes.

In this episode, we cover:

03:00 The hormonal imbalances that mimic or trigger depression
04:00 What inflammatory depression is—and why it’s not just about serotonin
06:00 How inflammation affects neurotransmitters, brain signaling, and mood
07:30 The top causes of brain inflammation in midlife
13:00 What labs and markers I run to assess mood-related imbalances
16:00 My go-to nutrients, herbs, and functional tools for supporting mood
19:00 Homeopathic remedies I use based on emotional patterns
22:30 A case study: how inflammation, nutrient depletion, and dysregulation were behind one patient’s “treatment-resistant” depression

Links and resources:

Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/book-report-2/Landing

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

14. The Root Causes of Constipation and Bloating in Midlife

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if bloating and constipation aren’t just gut issues but warning signs from your hormones, stress response, and nervous system?

In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many women in midlife feel chronically bloated, constipated, and inflamed—and why basic advice like “just take fiber” or “cut dairy” often doesn’t work.

I’m sharing the five most common root causes of constipation and bloating in women 35+, how I help my patients assess their patterns, and what you can start doing today to begin resetting your terrain.

In this episode, we cover:

03:00 The real role of your gut in hormone detox, neurotransmitters, and inflammation
06:00 The five root causes of bloating and constipation in women 35+
16:00 Rachel’s story: how her gut healing began with safety, breath, and regulation
22:00 Terrain-based tools I recommend: bitter herbs, magnesium, castor oil packs, ginger, flax, movement, and breathwork
25:00 Why nourishment, not restriction, is the foundation for gut healing

Links and resources:

21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

13. Removing Obstacles to Cure with Regulation: The Safe and Sound Protocol, Polyvagal Theory, and Naturopathic Terrain

Wed, 14 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if you’ve done all the right things…but your body still isn’t healing?

In this episode, I delve deep into a powerful (and often overlooked) question: What if your nervous system doesn’t feel safe enough to heal?

We explore the core concepts of Polyvagal Theory, how the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) works to improve vagal tone and shift the body into a healing state, and why regulation is often the most important, and missing, part of any health protocol.

You’ll learn how nervous system dysregulation blocks detox, digestion, hormone balance, and immune repair, and how gentle, sound-based neural exercises can help unlock your body's natural healing potential.

In this episode, we cover:

02:00 How a dysregulated nervous system becomes the hidden obstacle to cure
03:00 Why you can’t detox, digest, or repair without a sense of safety
04:00 Polyvagal Theory 101: the 3 states of your autonomic nervous system
06:30 How the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) works—and what makes it different
10:30 What titration really means and why going slow leads to deeper healing
13:30 How to map your nervous system and identify your “home” state
15:30 Sound as vibrational medicine—and why it’s more ancient than it seems
22:30 Real case studies: when meditation doesn’t work, chronic GI issues, and trauma shutdown
26:00 Why SSP isn’t the cure—it’s the entry point to reconnecting with your healing capacity

Links and resources:

Free Vagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
Episode 1 Naturopathic Principles: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a148aacf-0b68-41d0-8707-45f6d314c314/
Episode 2 Therapeutic Order: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/6fae6042-8790-4cd9-add5-813f84132a22/
Episode 4 Gut-Brain Axis: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/47733e90-298c-4bfb-bd76-46b443dd26a4/
Episode 6 The Vagus Nerve: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b278c36f-eb4e-4004-9cea-44bd78a8db8e/
Episode 7 Seeds of Health: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4c5b19f1-94c8-4fcc-8e1e-8d29857080dd/
Episode 11 Part 1 Functional Lab Testing & Terrain-Based Evaluation: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/d9c5db5b-1345-4af5-afb8-dcd1b51e609d/
Episode 11 Part 1 Functional Lab Testing & Terrain-Based Evaluation: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1f2d7e3d-3744-4fd6-bd7c-0283647fcde6/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

12. What Your Thyroid Is Trying to Tell You in Midlife

Wed, 07 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If your energy is crashing, your mood is shifting, and your doctor keeps saying “everything looks fine,” it might be time to take a deeper look at your thyroid.

In this eye-opening episode, I share how thyroid function is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed during perimenopause and why that matters. You’ll learn the surprising ways your hormones, gut, stress levels, and nutrient status all impact thyroid health, and how to get the right labs (and interpretation) for your body.

In this episode, we cover:

06:00 How hormone shifts, gut health, and stress affect thyroid function in midlife
07:30 The deeper signs of thyroid imbalance that many women overlook
11:00 Why hair loss, fatigue, low mood, and feeling cold may be thyroid-related
13:30 The role of stress and nervous system dysregulation in thyroid slowdowns
15:00 How gut inflammation and nutrient depletion impact energy and metabolism
17:30 The effects of toxins, trauma, and stealth infections on thyroid vitality
18:30 Gentle, supportive tools for thyroid health
21:00 Why some women don’t feel better on thyroid meds and what to explore next
23:00 The spiritual and emotional component of thyroid healing
25:00 A real-life case study on healing fatigue, hair loss, and low iron with terrain-based care

Links and resources:

Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing
Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

11 Part 2. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Your labs are trying to tell a story, are you listening?

In Part 2 of this deep dive, we move beyond conventional blood work and into the advanced functional labs I use to map the full terrain of a woman’s body during perimenopause and menopause.

From gut health to hormone rhythms, mitochondrial function to hidden infections, this episode shows you how labs, when used correctly, become a roadmap for personalized healing, not just a list of “high” or “low” numbers. If you’re tired of band-aid solutions and ready to work with your body (not against it), this episode will open your eyes to a whole new approach to lab interpretation and healing.

In this episode, we cover:

Why advanced functional testing matters for true root-cause healing
The Dutch Panel: hormones, cortisol rhythms, melatonin & detox capacity
Stool testing: gut health, microbiome, inflammation & immune function
SIBO breath testing: when bloating, constipation, and brain fog won’t go away
Organic acid tests: mitochondria, B vitamins, neurotransmitters, detox markers
Hair tissue mineral analysis for minerals and toxic elements
Genetic testing (MTHFR, COMT) and how it impacts detox, mood, and energy
Chronic viral load and stealth pathogen screening (EBV, CMV, candida)
Food sensitivities, allergies, and hidden inflammatory burdens
Autoimmune screening: how to catch it before it becomes disease
The whole-body, soul-centered approach to interpreting labs and healing

Links and resources:

Listen to Part 1: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/d9c5db5b-1345-4af5-afb8-dcd1b51e609d/
Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing
Rupa Health Lab Shop: https://labs.rupahealth.com/store/storefront_6G8Rzpn
Blood Chemistry & CBC Analysis Book: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Chemistry-CBC-Analysis-Perspective/dp/0976136716
Perimenopause: Listening to Your Body’s Wisdom Through Lab Testing: https://drkellylivingston.com/blog/perimenopause-listening-to-your-body-s-wisdom-through-lab-testing

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

11 Part 1. Which Labs Actually Matter for Women in Perimenopause and Menopause?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve ever walked away from your doctor’s office with “normal” labs but still knew something was off, this episode is for you.

In Part 1 of this two-part lab deep dive, I’m walking you through the conventional lab panels I run in practice, how I read them through a functional lens, and why standard reference ranges so often miss the early signs of imbalance in women navigating perimenopause and menopause.

We'll talk about everything from hormone rhythm disruption, nutrient depletion, blood sugar issues, and inflammation, to how these “basic labs” hold deep insight when viewed in the context of your whole terrain.

In this episode, we cover:

03:00 What it means to heal your terrain and interpret labs holistically
06:00 How I assess CBC, metabolic panels, iron, B vitamins, and liver markers
11:00 Glucose, insulin, A1C, and the link to anxiety and weight gain
13:00 Cholesterol, cardiovascular risk markers & why estrogen is protective
15:00 What a full thyroid panel should include (hint: it’s more than just TSH)
17:00 The case for testing estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and pregnenolone
21:00 Other markers I always run: ferritin, DHEA, prolactin, CRP, IL-6, ANA
24:00 Why labs are only part of the picture and what your body is really trying to say

Links and resources:

Lab Interpretation Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing
Rupa Health Lab Shop: https://labs.rupahealth.com/store/storefront_6G8Rzpn
Blood Chemistry & CBC Analysis Book: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Chemistry-CBC-Analysis-Perspective/dp/0976136716
Perimenopause: Listening to Your Body’s Wisdom Through Lab Testing: https://drkellylivingston.com/blog/perimenopause-listening-to-your-body-s-wisdom-through-lab-testing

Lab Panels & Markers Discussed (and commonly run):

Standard Labs: CBC, metabolic panel, fasting glucose, A1C, insulin, iron panel, ferritin
B vitamins: B12, B6, methylmalonic acid, folate
Hormones: Estradiol (E2), progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, pregnenolone, prolactin
Thyroid panel: TSH, free T3, free T4, reverse T3, anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin
Inflammation & cardiovascular markers: hs-CRP, IL-6, homocysteine, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL/LDL, lipoprotein A, Apo B
Immune & stealth pathogen testing: ANA, Epstein-Barr virus, Candida antibodies
Micronutrient deficiencies and omega-3 index

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

10. What is Perimenopause Anyway? Guide to the Transition Before THE Transition

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Is it anxiety, burnout, or perimenopause?

Today, I’m breaking down what perimenopause actually is, why so many women are dismissed or misdiagnosed, and how you can begin to understand this transition through a whole-body, whole-self lens.

Whether you’re in your late 30s or early 40s and starting to feel “off,” or you’re navigating symptoms like insomnia, mood swings, brain fog, or cycle changes, this episode will help you name what’s happening and reclaim your power in the process.

In this episode, we cover:

01:00 What perimenopause is (and what it’s not)
07:00 What early signs to look for in your 30s and 40s
13:00 Breaking down the four phases of perimenopause
16:00 What labs to run and why sex hormone testing isn’t enough
20:00 How to prepare your body (and soul) for this transition
22:00 Two patient case studies showing what’s possible with the right support
26:00 Why perimenopause isn’t a problem to fix

Links and resources:

[FREE] Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Episode 7. Why Your Health Philosophy Matters + The Seeds of Health for True Healing: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/4c5b19f1-94c8-4fcc-8e1e-8d29857080dd/

Functional Labs & Assessments mentioned:

Dr. Kelly's FREE Lab Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/lab-guide/Landing

Hormone testing (estradiol, progesterone, FSH, LH)
Comprehensive dried urine testing (e.g., DUTCH test)
Thyroid panel (TSH, free T3, free T4, thyroid antibodies)
Cortisol and HPA axis testing
Metabolic markers: lipids, insulin, blood sugar
Inflammation markers: hs-CRP, homocysteine
Iron & ferritin (especially in women with heavy bleeding)
Pregnenolone – the “mother hormone”

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

09. Rebalanced and Resilient: Hair, Skin, Nails, and Spirit

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your hair loss or skin changes weren’t cosmetic problems but sacred invitations to go deeper?

In this final phase of The Vital Spirit Method, we enter Pillar Four: Rebalanced & Resilient, where we shift from managing symptoms to embodying radiance—from the outside in and the inside out.

Yes, we talk about hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin, histamine flares, and hormone imbalances, but we also explore how these visible signs are often rooted in nutrient depletion, stress responses, and even spiritual disconnect. In this episode, I guide you through the physical and emotional patterns that emerge during midlife and how to integrate body, mind, and soul medicine to feel real, radiant, and rooted again.

In this episode, we cover:

05:00 Hormonal changes, histamine flares & thyroid imbalances in perimenopause
08:00 Nutrient depletions and gut-skin connection
11:00 What to do when all your labs are “normal” but you still feel off
13:00 Midlife as a spiritual initiation: from perfectionism to presence
20:00 Ego vs. soul work: getting quiet, real, and deeply healed
24:00 Archetypal healing, sacred contracts & the journey to your true self
26:00 The embodied radiance that emerges when healing is integrated

Links and resources:

[FREE] Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Sacred Contracts by Caroline Myss: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/190115.Sacred_Contracts
Mirror Work by Louise Hay: https://www.louisehay.com/what-is-mirror-work/
The Pregnant Virgin by Marion Woodman: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/715577.The_Pregnant_Virgin
The Velveteen Rabbit

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

08. Your Mood Is a Message: Hormones, Neurotransmitters & the Truth About Vitality

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your “mood swings” aren’t a flaw—but a message from your body, asking you to listen more closely?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, we’re diving into Pillar Three of The Vital Spirit Method: Replenish & Rejuvenate—where we rebuild your mood, motivation, and energy from the inside out. This is where science meets soul.

I unpack what it really means to support mental and emotional vitality in midlife by nourishing your neurotransmitters, hormones, mitochondria, and deeper energetic reserves. Whether you’ve been told your symptoms are “just aging” or you’re wondering if there’s more you can do before turning to medication, this conversation will help you see your mood as a sacred signal—not a malfunction.

In this episode, we cover:

01:00 Why moodiness isn’t a weakness—it’s inner wisdom asking for attention
06:00 The truth about the “mood myth” and how midlife symptoms are often misunderstood
10:00 How emotions are sacred data—not dysfunction
13:00 Neurotransmitters 101: serotonin, dopamine, GABA, norepinephrine & oxytocin
18:00 Hormonal shifts, histamine, and the mood impact of progesterone and estrogen
20:00 Mitochondria, the cell danger response & root causes of fatigue and low mood
23:00 Naturopathic tools for mood support: herbs, nutrients, and homeopathy
30:00 Emotional and spiritual exhaustion: how to know when soul work is needed

Links and resources:

[FREE] Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
Burnout to Balance: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew
Episode 6: What Happens in Vagus: The Missing Link to Resilience, Digestion & Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b278c36f-eb4e-4004-9cea-44bd78a8db8e/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

07. Why Your Health Philosophy Matters + The Seeds of Health for True Healing

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

What if your daily habits were actually the foundation for lasting healing—not just temporary relief?

In this episode, I share why your health philosophy matters and introduce my Seeds of Health framework, which lays the foundation for lasting wellness. I also walk you through a powerful case study and show how simple, consistent shifts—like hydration, sleep, and breathwork—can restore your energy, gut health, and emotional balance.

In this episode, we cover:

01:00 Why having a health philosophy shapes your choices and outcomes
06:00 What it means to truly create the conditions for healing
12:00 The Tree of Disease concept from Nature Cure
20:00 How I use the Seeds of Health to lay the foundation for hormone balance and vitality
31:00 A patient case study on healing gut issues and burnout—without jumping into aggressive protocols
38:00 Why simple, consistent changes (like hydration, breathwork, and sleep) are more powerful than you think

Links and resources:

[FREE] Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journal
[FREE] Beyond the Line of Fine Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup
Burnout to Balance: https://www.rootsdeepmedicine.com/b2bnew

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

06. What Happens in Vagus: The Missing Link to Resilience, Digestion & Hormone Balance

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Did you know that one nerve could be the key to better digestion, hormone balance, and stress resilience?

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m diving deep into the vagus nerve, the body’s built-in stress regulator. If you’ve tried everything—diet changes, supplements, functional medicine—yet still struggle with low progesterone, mood swings, anxiety, bloating, or chronic stress, your nervous system may be the missing piece.

In this episode, I cover:

Why the vagus nerve is the body’s stress "brake" system
How poor vagal tone affects hormones, digestion, and mental health
The link between chronic stress, perimenopause, and gut health
Polyvagal Theory and how your nervous system states impact healing
A case study on how vagal tone impacted a patient's SIBO, anxiety, and digestion
Simple daily practices to activate and tone your vagus nerve
The Safe and Sound Protocol—a breakthrough nervous system healing tool

Links and resources:

Free Vagal Tone Guide : https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup
4-7-8 Breathwork & Box Breathing – Techniques for instant vagus nerve activation
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) & Vagal Tone – How to measure your nervous system health

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

05. Regulate and Restore: Balancing Your Stress Response

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Do you ever feel like stress is running your life? If you’re constantly overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling with brain fog and hormone imbalances, your stress response system may be out of balance.

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I’m diving into the Regulate and Restore pillar of The Vital Spirit Method and sharing how balancing your stress response is key to achieving lasting health and well-being. I’ll break down how stress hormones—especially cortisol—affect everything from digestion and mood to hormone balance and mental clarity. When stress becomes chronic, our bodies shift into survival mode, disrupting gut health, hormones, and even our ability to connect with our authentic selves. I’ll also walk you through practical steps to restore balance so you can start feeling like yourself again.

In this episode, we cover:

02:00 - Why stress is a major roadblock to healing
05:00 - How the HPA axis impacts hormones and overall health
08:30 - The connection between chronic stress, thyroid health, and adrenal function
12:00 - Why I test pregnenolone and how it influences mood and hormone balance
16:00 - How nervous system dysregulation affects your mental and physical well-being
21:00 - Understanding your nervous system state: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn
26:00 - My favorite tools for nervous system regulation

Links and resources:

Listen to Episode 4: Why Healing Your Gut Is the First Step to Hormone Balance: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/47733e90-298c-4bfb-bd76-46b443dd26a4/
The Vital Spirit Method Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup
Pregnenolone Testing

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

04. Why Healing Your Gut Is the First Step to Hormone Balance

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I reveal the profound connection between your gut health and hormone balance that affects everything from energy and mood to digestion and mental clarity. Learn why the gut is always the first pillar I address in my Vital Spirit Method and how healing this foundation can transform your midlife experience.

Your gut and hormones function like dance partners, constantly communicating and influencing each other. When your gut health is compromised, it creates a cascade of effects throughout your body, especially during hormonal transitions like perimenopause. I share why approximately 90% of serotonin is made in your gut and how the estrobolome (a subset of your microbiome) regulates estrogen levels, impacting everything from your mood to your menstrual cycle.

In this episode, we cover:

02:00 What is the Vital Spirit Method and its Four Pillars
05:00 The Gut as Foundation for All Health
07:00 Understanding the Enteric Nervous System and Vagus Nerve
10:30 The Estrobolome and Hormone Processing
16:00 Common Gut-Hormone Disruptors
21:00 Inflammatory Foods to Avoid
27:00 Healing and Sealing the Gut Lining
33:00 Patient Case Study: Resolving IBS, Brain Fog and Hormone Issues
36:00 Practical Steps: The Three F's for Gut Health

Links and resources:

The Vital Spirit Method Webinar: https://drkellylivingston.com/webinar/signup
21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutreset/getting-started
Clean Fifteen and Dirty Dozen List: https://www.ewg.org/
Box breathing episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a148aacf-0b68-41d0-8707-45f6d314c314/
Bristol Stool Chart: For tracking bowel movement health
Food Testing Options: IgE food allergy panels (often covered by insurance)

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode: Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

03. Midlife and the Nervous System: Building Resilience Step by Step

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0400

When your body is stuck in fight-or-flight mode, healing becomes nearly impossible. In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, you’ll learn how the nervous system affects everything from digestion to hormone balance, and discover why creating a healing state must be our first priority. I share my approach to untangling complex health concerns by focusing on nervous system regulation, and offer simple yet powerful tools you can start using today.

I explain how stress accumulates in the body over time, eventually manifesting as physical symptoms that serve as wake-up calls. Understanding this connection helps us create lasting resilience, not just temporary relief.

In this episode, we cover:

- 02:00 Why the nervous system comes first

- 04:00 Understanding Fight or Flight vs. Healing State

- 07:00 Case Study: Complex Health at Midlife

- 12:00 Practical tools for nervous system support

- 17:00 At-home practices for building resilience

- 21:00 Creating foundations for lasting health

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode:

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

02. The Blueprint for Healing: Naturopathic Principles and the Therapeutic Order

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:50:00 -0400

In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I dive deep into the foundational principles of naturopathic medicine and the therapeutic order—a powerful blueprint for creating lasting wellness. I share how these guiding philosophies transformed not only my practice but also my personal approach to healing, and why they hold the key to sustainable health for everyone navigating their midlife journey and beyond.

We explore the six principles of naturopathic medicine and how they guide every aspect of the healing process. I explain the therapeutic order, our step-by-step roadmap from basic healing foundations to more intensive interventions. Most importantly, you'll learn why working with your body's natural intelligence, rather than against it, creates true and lasting wellness.

Listen now to learn:

- 04:00 The Foundation: Creating Conditions for Health

- 06:00 The Six Principles Of Naturopathic Medicine

- 13:00 Understanding the therapeutic order

- 15:00 The Healing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

- 21:00 Practical applications and action steps

Links and resources:

Listen to Episode 1: Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/a148aacf-0b68-41d0-8707-45f6d314c314/

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode:

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

01. Midlife As A Gateway to Your Health Awakening

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:45:00 -0400

Welcome to the very first episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast! In this foundational episode, I dive deep into what I call the “health awakening journey” and why midlife isn't an ending—it's a powerful invitation to reclaim your vitality.

Drawing from my 20 years of experience as a naturopathic physician, I share why your body's signals—whether it's exhaustion, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed—aren't just symptoms to manage, but rather a wake-up call to deeper healing. Through patient stories and practical examples, I explain how understanding your nervous system becomes the gateway to lasting wellness.

In this episode, I introduce the concept of getting into a "healing state" through nervous system regulation, share real patient experiences that might mirror your own journey, and offer practical tools you can start using today—from breathwork practices to the healing power of nature connection. You'll discover how small, intentional steps can create profound changes in your health journey.

Listen now to learn:

- 01:12 Why midlife is your wake-up call

- 01:27 When "normal" labs don't tell the full story

- 05:39 Understanding your nervous system's role in healing

- 10:23 Practical tools you can use today to start healing

- 13:24 Guided practice: Box breath exercise

- 14:18 The power of grounding

- 17:02 Your next steps in health awakening

Connect with Dr. Kelly:

Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod

Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine

Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode:

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.

Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.

If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.

Disclaimer:

Welcome to The Vital Spirit Podcast with Dr. Kelly Livingston

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Welcome to The Vital Spirit Podcast, where holistic health meets true human potential. Hosted by Dr. Kelly Livingston, Naturopathic Physician and expert in mind-body-spirit medicine, this podcast is your guide to reconnecting with your health, your purpose, and ultimately yourself.

Midlife transitions don’t have to mean surrendering your vitality. Whether you’ve been told your labs are “fine” when you don’t feel fine or handed a pill without being truly listened to, this podcast is here to offer a different path - to help you navigate the complexities of life with clarity and resilience.

From gut-brain health to hormones, we’ll explore how most physical and emotional challenges are rooted in a maladaptive stress response. Each episode combines practical tools, ancient wisdom, and cutting-edge science to help you awaken your body’s natural healing potential and fully integrate, body, mind, and spirit.

This isn’t just another health podcast - it’s your guide to creating lasting wellness and reclaiming your energy, balance, and vitality. Are you ready to live life fully human and deeply healed? Let’s begin this journey together.

Listen now to learn:

- How your nervous system is the key to healing and renewal

- Practical strategies to shift from “fight or flight” into balance

- Ways to reconnect with yourself and thrive through midlife transitions

Join Dr. Kelly for empowering conversations that will leave you feeling inspired to reclaim your health and embrace your authentic self.

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Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com

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