Welcome to this enlightening episode of the Yoga Therapy Hour! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Ella Davar, RD, a longevity nutritionist whose work delves deep into the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and longevity. Ella brings a wealth of knowledge about gut health, the brain-gut axis, and the role of the vagus nerve in managing our stress response. She discusses how a well-functioning microbiome supports not only our physical well-being but also our mental, emotional, and even spiritual health. Ella’s insights open up an inspiring conversation about how intentional nutrition and mindful practices can lead to a longer, healthier life—a mission that aligns beautifully with the goals of yoga and yoga therapy.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the importance of the microbiome: Ella breaks down how the gut microbiome influences our physical and mental health, and how diet and stress impact this critical system.
• The role of the vagus nerve: Ella discusses the vagus nerve’s pivotal function in “rest and digest,” linking mindful breathing and meditation with better digestion and a balanced nervous system.
• Longevity nutrition: Ella explains her approach to nutrition that goes beyond disease management to support health span—living a vibrant life well into old age.
• The gut-brain axis and emotional health: Learn how emotional states and stress directly affect the gut and overall well-being, emphasizing the need for integrative health practices.
• Practical tools for supporting gut health: Ella shares simple techniques, like mindful breathing before meals, to help stimulate digestive function and promote a healthy microbiome.
• Precision medicine as the future: Ella shares her view on personalized, precision medicine and how understanding individual needs through testing can transform our approach to health.

Closing Paragraph:

Thank you, Ella Davar, for joining us today and sharing your incredible knowledge on how our gut health, emotions, and lifestyle intersect to create a foundation for longevity and well-being. From explaining the power of the vagus nerve to providing practical tips for supporting our digestion, Ella’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that true health involves mind, body, and spirit. As you go into the week, consider not only what you’re nourishing your body with but also how you’re managing stress and supporting emotional balance. For those inspired to explore Ella’s work further, check out her resources on longevity, nutrition, and gut health.

Ella Davar’s Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.gutbrainmethod.com
• TED Talk on Nutrition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXOaCpTT6b8

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

· For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.

In this insightful episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, our host sits down with Dr. Eileen Forrestal, a former medical doctor turned entrepreneur and author. Eileen shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a childhood trauma that left her struggling to speak. Through decades of perseverance, personal growth, and yoga therapy, she was able to reclaim her voice, both literally and figuratively. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and courage, offering a powerful message for anyone facing their own challenges and fears.

Key Takeaways:

• Early Trauma and Speech Challenges: Eileen shares how a medical trauma in early childhood affected her throat and her ability to speak, leading to a prolonged struggle with stuttering and silence.
• From Silence to Speaking: Learn about Eileen's transformation from a quiet child into a public speaker and author, detailing the steps she took to overcome fear and embrace her authentic voice.
• Facing Fears Head-On: Eileen offers valuable insights into how facing one's fears, even if it takes decades, can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.
• A Message for Everyone: This conversation reminds listeners that the traumas and challenges we face—whether big or small—shape us, but they don't have to define us. Like Eileen, we can all take the courageous step to heal and transform.
• Living Authentically: Eileen’s story inspires listeners to shine their own light, no matter how long it takes to heal or face life's obstacles.

Closing Thoughts: Eileen Forrestal's journey shows us that it’s never too late to find your voice and live authentically. Her experience is a testament to the power of yoga therapy in healing both body and mind. For anyone struggling with trauma or fear, this episode serves as a reminder that the path to healing is always available, and it begins with the courage to take the first step.

You can connect with Eileen on her website eileenforrestal.com or follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter under the same handle.

Check out www.TheOptimalState.com

Yoga workshops on Emotional Intelligence coming soon in 2025! See website above for more details. Each month will have a special topic around Emotional Intelligence.

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by

Special Note: This episode contains swear words and storytelling about sexuality

Introduction:

In this special episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy sits down with the vibrant and authentic Susan Weis Bohlen. As a former Board Member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) and the author of three bestselling books on Ayurveda, Susan shares her deeply personal story of overcoming body image struggles and how Ayurveda helped her transform her relationship with her body. From battling bulimia to losing over 60 pounds, Susan opens up about her path to self-love, Ayurvedic practices, and her passion for helping others on their journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Body Transformation through Ayurveda: Susan discusses how she went from discomfort in her body to losing 60+ pounds and maintaining it with Ayurvedic practices.
• Healing from Bulimia: Susan shares her long battle with bulimia and understanding her Ayurvedic dosha.
• Ayurvedic Self-Care Practices: The role of Panchakarma and daily self-care rituals like abhyanga (oil massage) in maintaining balance and wellness.
• Living with Authenticity: Susan’s experience of opening her heart and creating space in her life, which eventually led to meeting her husband and finding deeper connection.
• American Jewish Ayurveda: Susan explains her unique approach to Ayurveda, blending her cultural background with ancient practices, making them accessible for a modern audience.
• Thoughts on NAMA: Susan discusses her decision to step away from NAMA Board, which has some similarities to what IAYT is facing at this time.

Susan Weis Bohlen’s Contact Information:

Website: www.SusanWeisBohlen.com

Substack Newsletter: Available on her website

Books:

• Ayurveda Beginner’s Guide
• Seasonal Self-Care Rituals
• Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Check out www.TheOptimalState.com

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.