Healthy boundaries help you THRIVE

In this episode of the Rewilded Wellness podcast, I dive into the often-overlooked topic of fluoride exposure and its impact on women's hormonal health, particularly during perimenopause. I share personal insights from my journey, revealing how environmental toxins and genetic factors intertwine to shape our health experiences.As we transition into spring and embrace the revitalizing energy of Taurus season, I reflect on the importance of reconnecting with nature and the healing power of plants. I discuss my recent adventures in the woods, exploring various herbs like horseweed, nettles, and cleavers, which play a crucial role in supporting our well-being.Throughout the episode, I explore how fluoride, a common environmental toxin, disrupts hormonal balance, exacerbates perimenopausal symptoms, and affects mineral absorption. I break down the science behind fluoride’s impact on thyroid function, estrogen, and progesterone levels, and discuss the implications for women’s health.You’ll learn about the specific symptoms associated with fluoride exposure, such as hot flashes, irregular cycles, mood disturbances, and sleep issues. The conversation also delves into the importance of understanding genetic polymorphisms and their role in detoxification, highlighting how individual differences can affect how our bodies respond to environmental toxins.Whether you’re navigating perimenopause or simply seeking to understand the connections between environmental health and hormonal balance, this episode offers valuable insights and practical steps for reclaiming your wellness.Join me as I link arms with you, raise awareness, and share stories. Together, we can navigate the complexities of modern life and support one another on this journey toward holistic health.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with friends who might benefit from this important conversation! Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

Rewiring Your Vagus Nerve: A Functional ApproachWhile vagus nerve exercises like cold plunges and humming are popular, this episode explores a deeper functional perspective. What if underlying factors like mineral imbalances, gut issues, mold exposure, or structural misalignments are blocking your vagal function?The Mineral ConnectionYour vagus nerve functions as your body's electrical system, with minerals as crucial conductors. Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis reveals important patterns:- Calcium/Magnesium Ratio: Excessive calcium dominance keeps you stuck in "fight or flight"- Calcium/Phosphorus Ratio: Ideally balanced at 2.3:1 for optimal function- Potassium Levels: Low levels signal insufficient nerve energy- Heavy Metal Burden: Toxic metals hijack nerve function by stealing mineral binding sites"Your vagus nerve is your digestive system's power cord. Mineral imbalances create short circuits!"The Gut-Vagus ConnectionYour gut contains the second largest neural system after the brain. Comprehensive stool testing can identify issues affecting vagal function:- Low microbial diversity correlates with reduced vagal tone- Deficiencies in butyrate-producers deprive the nerve of energy- Dysbiosis creates inflammation that dampens signalingThis creates a feedback loop: poor vagal tone worsens digestive function, increasing dysbiosis, further impairing vagal tone.Mold ExposureMold illness disrupts vagus nerve function through:- Direct neurotoxicity to vagal nuclei- Mitochondrial damage impairing energy production- Inflammatory cascades that dampen vagal toneMany experience treatment resistance because underlying mycotoxin burden continues suppressing function.Structural ConsiderationsThe vagus nerve can physically get "pinched" due to:- Cranial misalignments- Neck tension- Rib cage restrictions- Abdominal compressionThis explains why bodywork sometimes dramatically improves digestion when supplements haven't helped.Practical Support StrategiesWhile addressing root causes, try:1. Singing: Creates vibrations that stimulate the vagus2. Essential Oils: Applied diluted behind the ears3. Digestive Bitters: Trigger vagal firing4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Provide building blocks for nerve structureThe Holistic ApproachRather than isolated "hacks," assess your unique terrain. When we restore harmony to the entire ecosystem, vagal tone naturally improves, with benefits cascading throughout your physiology.Looking for deeper support? Visit the "Work With Me" page on my website to learn about my approach to mineral balancing and microbiome optimization – two key pillars that profoundly affect vagus nerve function and overall health. Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

In this eye-opening episode of Rewilded Wellness, I speak with Dan Kittredge, founder of the Bionutrient Food Association and lifelong regenerative farmer, about the critical gaps in our food system:• Why finding genuinely nutrient-dense food is increasingly difficult in today's world• How nutrition labeling fails to capture true food quality and is outdated• The fascinating science behind our built-in taste receptors that help identify nutrient-rich foods• The concept of being "denatured" and the urgent need to "renature" ourselves• The alarming reality of modern illness epidemics and how reconnecting with the land offers solutions• The groundbreaking work of the Bionutrient Food Association to create better food quality standards through testing and researchDan shares his vision for a future where consumers can make truly informed choices about food quality and where regenerative agriculture helps restore both human and ecological health. This conversation goes beyond typical farming discussions to address how our disconnection from nature has profound implications for our wellbeing.Learn more about Dan's work:Dan's website: https://www.dankittredge.comThe Bionutrient Food Association: https://www.bionutrient.org Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

In this episode, I explore horsetail, a fascinating living fossil that's remained virtually unchanged for 300 million years, and its remarkable silica content.I share why proper preparation methods matter for extracting horsetail's full mineral benefits, going beyond quick steeping to unlock its medicinal potential through infusions and vinegar preparations.I dive into silica as the literal building block of structure in our bodies—essential for collagen production, skin elasticity, and bone strength. Did you know horsetail contains 5-8% bioavailable silica by dry weight? I'll explain why this ancient plant delivers silica in a form our bodies recognize and utilize better than synthetic supplements.I cover emerging research on silica's role in aluminum detoxification and share how horsetail's jointed structure perfectly mirrors its action in our body's structural systems.You'll learn five key physiological benefits of incorporating horsetail during spring transitions: supporting detoxification, strengthening connective tissue, enhancing bone health, improving skin integrity, and supporting kidney health. I'll also explore how silica works synergistically with other minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc.By the end, I introduce my "Mineral Foundations" mini-course, which combines functional nutrition with ancestral wisdom to reconnect you with essential mineral building blocks. This foundational approach works with or without specialized testing, creating the solid base needed before pursuing advanced health strategies.Whether you're seeking personal health improvements or you're a practitioner looking to strengthen your mineral knowledge, today's episode offers critical insights into reclaiming our birthright to vitality in a modern world that has forgotten these elemental foundations. Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

In this episode designed specifically for HTMA practitioners, we explore the nuanced art of ethical foundation-first mineral balancing that honors both biochemical principles and human complexity.Drawing from years of clinical experience, I share insights into the growing divide between "identify and attack" methods versus more measured approaches that respect the body's healing timeline. For practitioners struggling with complex cases or feeling caught between conflicting HTMA philosophies, this episode offers a refreshing middle path.We'll dive into:• The critical distinction between issues requiring immediate intervention versus those best addressed through building foundational resilience• Why the traditional "metals first" approach often backfires with today's overwhelmed clients• How to sequence interventions strategically to honor nervous system capacity• Ethical considerations around disclosing sensitive health information—when transparency serves healing and when it might create new obstacles• The practitioner's paradox: why even knowledgeable professionals benefit from guidance on their personal health journeys• Creating protocols that clients can actually implement amidst real-life constraintsThis conversation challenges the metrics-obsessed tendencies in functional health, instead advocating for a practice approach that measures success by sustainable client transformation rather than perfect lab values.Whether you're new to HTMA interpretation or a seasoned practitioner seeking to refine your approach, you'll gain practical insights for creating more ethical, effective, and sustainable healing journeys for your clients.Ready to deepen your HTMA practice? I offer two pathways for practitioners:1) Support on your personal health journey with special practitioner rates (email [email protected])2) One-on-one mentorship to develop your clinical skills and approachThe path of balanced, foundation-first practice isn't always the quickest, but it creates the most sustainable results for both practitioners and their clients. Reach out today to explore how we might work together. Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

Spring Equinox marks nature's New Year - a powerful time to rebuild your health from the foundation up. In this episode, we explore why mineral foundations are critical for lasting wellness and how the spring season offers unique wisdom for our healing journey.As we transition from winter to spring, our bodies initiate natural detoxification and renewal processes that require proper mineral balance. Yet many of us approach spring with depleted reserves, wondering why we feel exhausted rather than energized by the season's promise.We'll dive into: • Why minerals are the overlooked foundation of all health functions • How seasonal transitions affect your mineral needs • The connection between nervous system safety and mineral utilization • Why the "act first, think later" approach to health often backfires • Ancient wisdom about spring renewal that modern approaches ignoreLearn how plants and people share similar needs during spring - both requiring mineral-rich foundations to grow strong and resilient against stress. Discover why quick-fix approaches contradict nature's rhythms and how to align with the equinox energy for genuine transformation.This episode bridges ancestral wisdom with modern mineral science to help you create lasting health foundations rather than temporary fixes. You'll understand why your body might be struggling to heal despite your best efforts, and how to create the conditions where healing becomes not just possible but inevitable.I also share exciting news about my upcoming Mineral Foundations course (with pay-what-you-can pricing starting at just $33) and enhanced HTMA services to provide the support I've observed people truly need on their healing journey.For additional practical guidance, check out my recent episodes on spring transitions and vitamin E for cellular repair, which complement today's deeper exploration of mineral foundations.-> Spring clean your health: transitioning from winter to spring HERE-> Vitamin E: The Seasonal Key To Cellular Repair & Mineral Balance HEREAs we honor the spring equinox - that perfect balance point between darkness and light - we discover a template for health that respects both our need for renewal and our need for patient, consistent support. Join me to explore how this ancient wisdom can transform your modern wellness journey. Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

In this episode, I dive deep into the critical role of vitamin E in cellular membrane repair and mineral balance—a connection our ancestors understood intuitively through seasonal eating patterns.Discover how modern processed oils and year-round food availability have disconnected us from the complete vitamin E complex our bodies need for proper cellular function. As we transition into spring, I share my personal approach to adjusting supplements and foods based on HTMA results, a cornerstone of my rewilded wellness philosophy.Learn why low tissue sodium and potassium levels on HTMA tests reveal cellular energy failure and membrane damage—and why it can take up to two years to truly repair these systems by eliminating damaged fats and restoring proper nutrient intake.This episode explores:• The relationship between damaged cell membranes and mineral imbalance• How vitamin E complex protects cellular integrity beyond simple antioxidant effects• The critical connection between fat quality and your body's ability to maintain mineral balance• Seasonal strategies for incorporating complete vitamin E foods this spring• Why ancestral eating patterns naturally supported cellular repair cyclesI break down the often-overlooked connection between seasonal eating and cellular health, offering practical guidance for incorporating these principles into your own healing journey—whether you're just beginning or already on the path.Remember, true healing requires slowing down and creating space for restoration. After the collective challenges of recent years, many of us are working to rebuild our foundations. This episode provides a roadmap for one crucial aspect of that journey: restoring your cellular membranes through vitamin E and complementary nutrients.If you've been experiencing unexplained fatigue, mood changes, or chronic health challenges, this episode may offer key insights into the cellular mechanisms behind these symptoms—and ancestral solutions that support your body's natural healing capacity.Join me as we explore how rewilding your approach to fats and fat-soluble vitamins can transform your cellular health from the inside out, honoring the wisdom of seasonal eating patterns while addressing modern nutritional challenges.Additional links to past episodes and resources can be found on the full blog post: www.lydiajoy.me  Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

In this episode, I'm chatting about how we can gracefully transition from winter to spring. As we approach the spring equinox, I've been thinking a lot about resetting our health and embracing the new energy of the season.In this episode, I'm going to share why our bodies need time to adjust between seasons and how spring offers us a unique opportunity for cleansing and renewal. I'll talk about my own experience with the dance between craving those last comforting winter meals and feeling the pull towards fresher, lighter spring foods. I'm even going to let you in on my secret spring broth recipe – it's packed with veggie scraps, wild greens, and some powerful immune-boosting ingredients I swear by.We'll explore why spring is so crucial for liver and gallbladder health. If you've been feeling a bit sluggish after winter, trust me, you'll want to hear this! I'll share some natural ways I support my body's cleansing processes without going to extremes.I've got some insights on how the astrological shift from Pisces to Aries relates to our personal renewal, and I'll walk you through some holistic practices I use to support my overall wellbeing this spring. We're talking exercise, self-awareness, and letting that creativity shine!As we chat about the Spring Equinox, I'll give you some ideas for setting intentions and creating health plans for the new season. I'll cover some practical tips too – from how I spring clean my space to transitioning my pantry and planning my body support routines.Throughout the episode, I'll emphasize the importance of listening to your body and share some personal stories about how I'm preparing for spring. We'll touch on the benefits of journaling and trying out different body therapies – things that have really helped me in my seasonal transitions.If you're feeling inspired to make the most of this seasonal shift, I've got you covered. I'm offering 1:1 health sessions to help you create a personalized spring wellness plan. I'll tell you how you can book a session with me and get started on your spring health reset.Past Spring Episodes to Help You PrepareIf you're looking for more in-depth information on spring health, check out these past podcast episodes:Spring clean your health naturally Spring nutrition to detox the natural way Thanks for tuning in, and here's to a vibrant, healthy spring ahead!  Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

Rewilding Our Wellness: Nurturing the Body's EcosystemWelcome to the exciting premiere of Season 2! I'm thrilled to introduce you to the new name and direction of my podcast: Rewilded Wellness (previously known as A Joy To Be Me).In this inaugural episode, I explore the concept of the body as a thriving ecosystem and how to nourish it holistically. I dive into the seven pillars of human health: natural light, water, air, movement, nourishing food, connection, and purpose. Discover with me how aligning with nature's rhythms can transform your well-being.I share a powerful client success story, illustrating the profound connection between emotional healing and physical health. Learn how mineral balancing and addressing root causes can lead to life-changing transformations.This episode also features:- A sneak peek into my upcoming spring client program- A thought-provoking quote on conscious living- An original poem I wrote on holistic health- Practical tips for rewilding your wellness as we approach springWhether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for your journey towards vibrant, holistic health.Join me as I explore the path to true healing by integrating all aspects of our being – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. It's time to reconnect with our innate wisdom and thrive in this new season of Rewilded Wellness! Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing

I'm excited to share this final episode of "A Joy To Be Me," with you all as I transition to my new podcast name; "Rewilded Wellness." Looking back, it's amazing to think I started this podcast in February 2020, right before the world changed with COVID-19 lockdowns. My journey through chronic health issues, trauma, loss, and grief has profoundly shaped how I approach wellness now.I can't stress enough how important patience and support are for those dealing with chronic health problems and grief. Trust me, I've been there, and I know firsthand that healing takes time. It's not a linear process, and that's okay.I'm thrilled to introduce you to the concept of "Rewilded Wellness." This new direction focuses on minerals, microbes, and nature's ways for nervous system healing. I've come to realize how interconnected our health is with the environment, seasonal foods, and even soil health. I believe our collective disconnection from nature is a core wound, and returning to natural ways is key for nervous system regulation.Let's dive into the role of minerals in nervous system function. These tiny powerhouses are crucial for our body's complex communication network. Different minerals play various roles - sodium, potassium, and calcium for signal transmission; calcium and phosphorus as building blocks; copper for myelin formation. Getting the right mineral balance is essential for nervous system health, affecting everything from muscle function to cognitive processes.Remember, no mineral works alone - everything in the body affects everything else. Modern lifestyles, soil degradation, and chemical exposure have led to mineral imbalances that can even be passed down through generations. And don't get me started on how heavy metals can disrupt nervous system function and mineral metabolism!In my practice, I use Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) to assess nervous system health in my clients. It's fascinating to look at various patterns and ratios to guide personalized treatment plans.As we wrap up this final episode of "A Joy To Be Me," I want to invite you all to explore HTMA consultations and check out my online program if you're looking to take control of your health. And please, stay tuned for future episodes of "Rewilded Wellness" where we'll dig even deeper into topics like the microbiome and its role in overall health.Thank you all for being on this journey with me. Here's to new beginnings and rewilding our wellness together! Mineral Foundations Course HERE Learn more about how you can I can work together HERE Book an initial health session HERE Join my newsletter HERE If you are interested in becoming a client and have questions, reach out by emailing me: [email protected] Find me on Instagram : @ Lydiajoy.me OR @ holisticmineralbalancing