Episodes
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In today's episode, I speak with Cheyenne Carell, a somatic experiencing practitioner and co-active coach. She has been supporting people in healing from trauma for over a decade.
Cheyenne began by working in substance abuse treatment centers, and she now works on developing trauma-informed curriculum for substance abuse treatment centers and seeks to understand the root of trauma in the nervous system, which can lead to many issues.
Hope you enjoy!
Cheyenne's Links:
resolvingtrauma.org
Alya’s Links:
Follow me on Instagram:@wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
Episode Timestamps:
(00:28) Introduction
(01:20) Getting to know Cheyenne and Somatic Therapy
(06:45) The Difference Between Physical and Mental Response to Trauma
(10:46) The Definition of Trauma
(20:00) Releasing Trauma in a Session
(27:30) Trauma Gaslighting
(34:20) Embodied Definition
(37:53) Do We All Walk Around With Trauma?
(50:00) Practices for Emotional Regulation
(55:40) How Emotional Trauma Impacts Physical Health
(59:10) Outro
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In this episode, I speak with Dave Neale, the Global Animal Sentience and Welfare Director for the Animals Asia organization. Animals Asia is committed to ending bear bile farming and improving the welfare of animals across Asia.
In this episode, we discuss the history of bear bile farming, elephant riding tourism, circuses, and ocean parks, and the improvements in animal welfare that have been made in each industry.
Hope you enjoy!
Dave’s Links:
Animals Asia website: https://www.animalsasia.org/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/animalsasia/?hl=en
The Asia for Animals Coalition https://www.asiaforanimals.com/
Alya’s Links:
Follow me on Instagram:@wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
Episode Timestamps:
(00:31) Intro
(02:28) Animals Asia & The History of Bear Bile Farming
(10:16) Intervention and Education in Bear Bile Farming
(17:32) How Bears Respond to Cruelty and Sanctuary
(26:55) Where Animals Asia is at Today
(29:50) Other Work of Animals Asia
(32:15) Elephant Riding Tourism and Developments in the Industry
(37:11) The Effects of Elephant Riding Tourism on the Elephants Themselves
(42:02) Circuses and their Harm
(47:48) The Truth Behind Ocean Parks
(56:04) The Path Forward and the Importance of Raising Awareness
(58:58) Where You Can Learn More About Wildlife Ethics
(1:03:20) Outro
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode, I speak with Zeina Maktabi, a functional medicine practitioner and expert in gut health, hormone balance, and menopause. In her professional life, Zeina helps women navigate the perimenopause transition through nutrition and lifestyle interventions.
In this episode, we dive into the difference between perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Zeina helps to define each phase, while also demystifying each and making recommendations to mitigate the uncomfortable symptoms that come with perimenopause.
Hope you enjoy!
Zeina’s Links: IG @upcloseandhealthy https://www.instagram.com/upcloseandhealthy/
https://upcloseandhealthy.com/
Alya’s Links:
Follow me on Instagram:@wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/Episode Timestamps:
(01:45) Intro
(06:06) The Symptoms of Perimenopause
(16.00) The Effects of Estrogen
(18:55) Advice to Women in Their 40s
20:39 Lifestyle Factors to Reduce Symptoms
(24:00) Gut Health and Nutrition
(30:00) Strength Training and its Benefits
(33:32) Detox
(37:02) Supplement Recommendations for Women
(40:34) Stress and the Role of Cortisol
(46:30) The Risks of Ashwagandha Overuse
(48:33) Myth Busting
(51:37) Doctors to Speak to About Menopause
(54:11) Ways Women Can Test for Perimenopause
(1:00:21) Outro
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Dr. Naser Alnusif discusses injury prevention, emphasising the importance of strengthening muscles and stretching before and after exercise. He highlights the role of nutrition and rest in maintaining optimal physical health. Dr. Alnusif also explains the risks of overstretching and the importance of finding the right balance. He provides insights into preventing injuries in paddle sports and clarifies misconceptions about tennis elbow and golfer's elbow. Additionally, he discusses advancements in medicine and surgery, including the use of robotics, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. Dr. Alnusif emphasises the value of seeking help and guidance from mentors in both personal and professional life.
Takeaways
Strengthening muscles and stretching before and after exercise can reduce the risk of injuries.
Proper nutrition and rest are essential for optimal physical health and recovery.
Overstretching can lead to injuries, and it is important to find the right balance.
Advancements in medicine and surgery, such as robotics, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, are revolutionising the field.
Seeking help and guidance from mentors is valuable in personal and professional life.
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In this episode, I connect with Sara Abiqwa, a self empowerment coach dedicated to helping women remember their authentic selves and connect to their natural inner power.
Sara is an expert on intuition and self-love, and has worked with hundreds of women across the globe to embrace self love.
We touch on a variety of other topics in today’s episode, including nervous system regulation, understanding triggers, managing mental narratives, and building a connection with our inner wisdom.
Hope you enjoy!
Sara’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraabiqwa/
Website: https://saraabiqwa.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saraabiqwa?_t=8mHrbISL61Q&_r=1
Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0O1ySdsikgUPyadWXErv13?si=7PCRhLP7TsCgRXNMHHlFKQ
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@saraabiqwa111?si=b2_2wrmoE9_tghKh
Alya’s Links:
Follow me on Instagram:@wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
Book Links:
Solve For Happy by Mo Gawdat
Chatter by Ethan Kross
Burnout: The Secret To Unlocking The Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski
Episode Timestamps
(01:45) Intro
(06:00) Your Personality
(15:00) The Evolution of Your Truth
(19:25) Truth and The Mind
(28:20) Differentiation Between Inner Truth and Trauma
(35:30) Internal Family Systems
(47:00) Safety
(52:50) Social Media
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In this episode, I speak with Samia Al Duaij, an expert in sustainable development, natural resource management, environmental governance, and climate change.
Samia’s work spans the Middle East and she focuses on a multitude of sectors, mainly oil spill contingencies, sustainable fisheries, and solid waste management.
We touch on a variety of other topics in today’s episode, including fast fashion, energy efficient homes, marine ecosystems, air pollution, and more.
Hope you enjoy!
Samia’s Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samia-alduaij-8649728/?originalSubdomain=kw
Instagram: @sustainablelivingkw
https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelivingkw/?hl=en
Alya’s Links:
Follow me on Instagram:@wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
Episode Timestamps:
(2:21) Intro
(04:00) Coral Bleaching
(13:20) The Value of Water, Desalination
(16:00) Pollution and Air Quality
(25:00) The Importance of Indigenous Plants
(25:40) Droughts in Iraq and Syria
(32:00) Single-Use Plastics
(34:45) Conspicuous Consumption
(45:15) Textile Waste
(49:22) Climate Action
(55:37) Outro
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This conversation with Dr. Nichola Conlon explores the topic of NAD+ and its role in the body, particularly in relation to ageing and longevity. The discussion covers different methods of administering NAD+, including IVs and supplements, and the safety considerations associated with each. We also delve into the effects of NAD+ on the heart and brain, the connection between NAD+ and inflammation and discuss cancer risks. The importance of testing NAD+ levels and biological age is highlighted, along with the concept of fixing the root causes of NAD+ decline. Dr. Nichola Conlon explains the importance of NAD as an essential nutrient and its role in maintaining overall health. She emphasises the need to consult a doctor before taking any supplements, especially if undergoing cancer treatment. Dr. Conlon also highlights the impact of lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet on NAD production. Additionally, she highlights how fasting can boost NAD levels and promote cellular repair. The episode concludes with a discussion on the detrimental effects of smoking, alcohol, and sun damage on NAD levels.
Takeaways:
NAD+ is a natural molecule found in every cell in the body and plays a critical role in energy production and cell repair.
NAD+ levels decline with age, leading to a decrease in energy production and an accumulation of cellular damage.
Different methods of administering NAD+ include IVs, injections, and precursor supplements.
Safety considerations should be taken into account when using NAD+ IVs or injections, as high doses can lead to adverse side effects.
Testing NAD+ levels is challenging due to the instability of the molecule, but biological age tests can provide insights into inflammation levels.
Nuchido's approach to NAD+ supplementation focuses on fixing the root causes of NAD+ decline and includes ingredients that boost NAD+ production and inhibit inflammation.
NAD+ does not cause cancer, but targeting NAD+ supply to cancer cells is being explored as a potential treatment. NAD is an essential nutrient required by all cells for optimal functioning.
Consult a doctor before taking NAD supplements, especially if undergoing cancer treatment.
Lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet can influence NAD production.
Fasting can boost NAD levels and promote cellular repair.
Smoking, alcohol, and sun damage can deplete NAD levels.
Dr. Nichola Conlon’s Links:
Instagram: @drnicholaconlon https://www.instagram.com/drnicholaconlon/
Nuchido Instagram: @nuchido https://www.instagram.com/nuchido/
Nuchido Website: https://nuchido.com/
Alya's Links:
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
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In this episode, I speak with Jessica Alana, a board-certified, Integrative and Functional Medical Practitioner who specializes in mold illness, otherwise known as Sick Building Syndrome.
Jessica’s work is instrumental in furthering the study of mold and its impacts on the human body, all of which we cover in this interview.
We touch on a variety of other topics in today’s episode, including an overview of Jessica’s work, Sick Building Syndrome, symptoms associated with the illness, how mold shows up in food, and much more!
Jessica's links:
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jessicaalanas
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaalana/
Website: https://www.jessicalana.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-alana/
Alya's Links:
Follow me on Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Visit my website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
Episode Timestamps:
(1:32) Intro
(2:20) Sick Building Illness overview
(05:00) Who’s impacted by SBI
(07:15) Symptoms and how to treat SBI
(15:20) Tips for suspected exposure
(20:08) Mold in food
(25:50) Testing for the genotype
(27:34) Surprises in mold work
(32:00) How women are affected by mold exposure
(35:00) Where to find Jessica
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Flavia Morellato delves into the lymphatic system's role in health, emphasizing its collaboration with the circulatory system. She highlights how it influences metabolism, hydration, digestion, and immunity, shedding light on lymph nodes and fluids. Flavia introduces her specialized lymphatic drainage technique, which uses deeper pressure and gut manoeuvres.
She underscores the significance of movement, hydration, and proper breathing for lymphatic efficiency and links emotional stress to lymphatic health. Flavia advocates for regular lymphatic drainage, offering advice on care before and after sessions.
Discussing lymphatic drainage's advantages, Flavia points to its effectiveness in managing pain, supporting hormonal balance, and enhancing fertility. She suggests auxiliary therapies like triple detox, ozone, and cryotherapy. She provides insights into correct facial and body massage techniques, cautioning against common errors and underscoring pain-free procedures. Flavia wraps up by stressing hydration's role in maintaining lymphatic health.
Links:
Flavia’s IG: @flaviamorellato https://www.instagram.com/flaviamorellato/
Falvia’s website: https://www.flaviamorellato.co.uk/
Can also visit the Biolite Clinic in Dubai to enjoy the Flavia Morelatto method: https://www.biolitedubai.com/
Alya's Links:
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
Episode Timestamps:
(0:00) intro
(2:42) Overview of the lymphatic system
(10:55) The Flavia Morelatto method
(25:05) Who benefits from lymphatic drainage
(27:08) Preparing for a session
(31:02) Supplements for lymphatic health
(36:06) Interesting client stories
(44:32) Wrapping up
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In this conversation, Lulu Alarmali, a Functional Nutritionist and gut health specialist, discusses the importance of gut health and its impact on overall well-being. She explains the difference between conventional medicine and functional medicine, highlighting the comprehensive approach of functional medicine in treating the root cause of health issues.
Lulu emphasises the role of food in gut health and how it can either promote a healthy gut microbiome or contribute to inflammation and imbalances. She also explores the gut-brain-axis and the connection between gut health and mental health, explaining how gut inflammation can affect brain function and mood, but also how stress and negative thoughts can impact gut health.
Lulu addresses the impact of gut health on sleep, highlighting the importance of a healthy gut microbiome for quality sleep. The conversation explores the impact of gut inflammation on cortisol and sleep, the importance of sleep and recommended hours, the connection between cortisol, stress, and weight gain, the effects of belly fat and estrogen dominance.
We explore the body positivity movement and its health implications, understanding skinny fat and the importance of muscle mass, the impact of snacking or "grazing" on gut health, and tips for starting a gut health journey.
In this conversation, Lulu discusses the importance of a diverse gut microbiome and the positive impact of exercise on the microbiome and overall health. She emphasises the need to cycle probiotics and shares a study that shows a positive improvement in microbial balance after exercise. Lulu also mentions the connection between exercise, movement, mental health, and serotonin levels.
Lulu's Links:
Lulu’s Instagram: @thefunctionalnutritionist https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalnutritionist/?hl=en
Lulu’s Website: https://www.thefunctionalnutritionistkw.com/
Alya's Links
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
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In this conversation, Lucas Aoun discusses the issue of low testosterone in men and the factors that contribute to it. He explains the impact of obesity on testosterone levels and the role of estrogen in men's health. Lucas also addresses the question of whether there is such a thing as too much testosterone and the effects of stress on testosterone production. He provides insights into the importance of diet, lifestyle, sleep, and stress management for optimizing testosterone levels.
Additionally, he discusses the concept of biohacking and the use of nootropics for cognitive enhancement. The conversation also touches on NAD+, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and MSM Sulfur for overall health and well-being.
He covers the benefits of detoxification and metabolic regulators like the amino acid taurine. He also explores the use of weighted blankets to improve sleep and highlights the importance of blue light blocking glasses for protecting our eyes from artificial light at night. He emphasises the value of journaling and tracking to optimise biohacking efforts and recommends resources such as Dr. Andrew Huberman and Ben Greenfield's podcast for further learning.
Lucas's Links:
Lucas’s Instagram: @ergogenic_health https://www.instagram.com/ergogenic_health/?hl=en
Lucas’s Website: https://www.boostyourbiology.com/
Lucas’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/boost-your-biology-with-lucas-aoun/id1520485498
Other Links
Dr. Andrew Huberman Instagram: @hubermanlab https://www.instagram.com/hubermanlab/?hl=en
Dr. Andrew Huberman Podcast: https://www.hubermanlab.com/podcast
Ben Greenfield Instagram: @bengreenfieldfitness https://www.instagram.com/bengreenfieldfitness/?hl=en
Ben Greenfield Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ben-greenfield-life/id283908977
Smart Drugs Smart: https://www.youtube.com/user/SmartDrugSmarts
Alya's Links
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
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In this conversation, Dr. Louise Peters explains the principles and techniques of Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT). RRT is a strength-based and solution-focused therapy that aims to provide rapid relief from emotional distress and trauma.
It differs from traditional therapy by focusing on the present and future rather than dwelling on past negative experiences. RRT works by reprogramming the subconscious mind and creating new neural pathways through visualisation and rehearsal.
Dr. Louise mentions how important it is for someone to also connect with their true inner self, away from the drama of the trauma, a place inside everyone that is already perfect and doesn’t need healing. She talks about this as being a powerful practice towards healing and growth.
Louise's Links:
Louise’s website: https://drlouisepeters.com/
Huberman Labs Podcast: https://www.hubermanlab.com/podcast
Jill Bolte Taylor books: My Stroke Of Insight: https://amzn.to/3T6Ochi
Whole Brain Living: https://amzn.to/3SO7vuk
Alya's Links:
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
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In this conversation, Hala Barghout and I discuss various aspects of weight loss and healthy living. We emphasise the importance of approaching weight loss in a sustainable and respectful way, focusing on fat loss rather than weight loss.
The dangers of restrictive dieting are discussed, along with the benefits of intermittent fasting. This conversation covers various topics related to women's health and nutrition. It emphasises the importance of nutrition for women's overall well-being and the specific dietary recommendations during the menstrual cycle.
The conversation also debunks myths about juicing and the keto diet, highlighting the potential dangers of these trends. It addresses the misconceptions surrounding cholesterol and the misleading claims on packaged foods.
We discuss the inaccuracy of daily weighing due to factors like food consumption and water retention. We highlight the importance of looking beyond weight as a measure of health and focusing on body composition instead. We also address the misconception that thinness equates to health and discuss the benefits of strength training for weight loss. We dispel the fear of bulking up and explain how strength training can increase muscle mass and boost metabolism. We caution against excessive HIIT workouts and stress the importance of a holistic approach to weight loss.
The conversation concludes by emphasising the power of food as medicine and the limitations of supplements in replacing a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Hala's Links:
Hala’s Instagram: @halabarghout https://www.instagram.com/halabarghout/
@colourmyplatedubai https://www.instagram.com/colourmyplatedubai/?hl=en
https://colourmyplate.ae/
Alya's Links
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Website: www.alyaalhamad.com
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In this conversation, Alina Polner discusses her High Life method, which is a 360-degree approach to personal development and self-actualization. She emphasizes the importance of foundational elements such as nutrition, lifestyle, sleep, and stress management.
Alina also introduces the concept of archetypes and explains how they can be used as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in the journey of self-discovery. Overall, this conversation provides valuable insights and guidance for individuals seeking to find their authentic selves and live a high-quality life.
We explore the Myers-Briggs test as a tool to understanding oneself. We delve into the significance of shadow work and the need to confront the parts of ourselves that we may find uncomfortable. The conversation highlights the role of failure and mistakes in personal development, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfections.
We discuss the hero's journey and personal transformation, emphasizing that setbacks and challenges are a natural part of growth. The toxic nature of perfectionism and procrastination is also explored, along with the importance of unconditional love and acceptance. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of parents in providing both love and appropriate challenges. They also emphasise the importance of finding stillness and silence for self-reflection and offer advice on taking responsibility for one's life and finding purpose.
Alina's Links:
Alina’s Instagram: @alinapolner https://www.instagram.com/alinapolner/
Alina’s Website: https://alinapolner.com/
Myers Briggs Personality Test: https://www.myersbriggs.org/my-mbti-personality-type/the-16-mbti-personality-types/
Books:
Goddesses in Everywoman: Powerful Archetypes in Women’s Lives https://amzn.to/3wt10FH
Gods in Everyman: Archetypes That Shape Men’s Lives https://amzn.to/49TgBNv
Alya's Links
Instagram: @wholesome_practice https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/?hl=en
Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/
