Advertise on podcast: The Vital Spirit Podcast with Dr. Kelly Livingston

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 axis02:28 Why a holistic approach actually matters for IBS05:22 How IBS symptoms reflect the nervous system09:24 Top-down and bottom-up healing explained simply14:55 The Vital Spirit Method for IBS18:34 The mechanical and energetic layers most people miss24:10 Labs, testing, and real patient stories33:34 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.

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-startedListen 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 life01:56 Why IBS isn’t “just stress” or “just food”04:40 How inflammatory bowel disease reflects immune dysregulation, depletion, and loss of tolerance08:09 How perimenopause changes motility, permeability, inflammation, and stress resilience09:59 The healing order that actually works17:03 Why safety, meaning, co-regulation, and rest aren’t “extras” Connect with Dr. Kelly: Website: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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...

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-startedListen 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: a href="https://player.captivate.fm/episode/21b28c90-b987-4658-8429-87e06d3cc1ba/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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 Health03:14 Why movement is foundational for physical and nervous system health05:24 Why “movement as medicine” is different from “movement is medicine”09:13 How movement influences mood, stress, and depression11:38 The power of micro-movements throughout the day19:25 Why weight-bearing movement becomes essential in midlife23:54 The psoas as a key nervous system muscle28:08 Using yoga and stretching to support regulation and flexibility31:43 How movement supports lymphatic flow and detoxification34:22 Why rest and recovery are part of the medicine37:49 Walking and time in nature as underestimated healing tools42:59 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.

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 midlife02:28 Moving from symptom suppression to real pathways of healing04:28 How I use the therapeutic order to guide healing in layers07:05 Why safety and stabilization come first for the nervous system10:51 The foundational practices that quietly shape mood every day15:36 How the gut–brain axis and inflammation influence depression18:39 Hormonal shifts in perimenopause and menopause that affect mood22:47 Mitochondrial health, nutrients, and why emotional fatigue is often physical24:33 What depletion really looks like and how repletion restores capacity25:07 Food as medicine and nourishing mood without shame or perfection28:10 Psychotherapy, mindfulness, and working with the inner landscape31:04 Botanical medicine and homeopathy as gentle nervous system supports35:02 Medication and psychedelic therapies: when they help and how I think about them39:17 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: a href="http://youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston" rel="noopener...

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 healing05:33 What it means to be a “frequent feeler”08:32 Why naming emotions in the body is so empowering14:10 Cultural messages that teach us to suppress hard feelings19:05 The many ways we avoid emotion without realizing it22:00 How body work helps unlock emotional healing27:16 Learning to ride emotional waves instead of fearing them29:41 Why co-regulation matters when feelings feel overwhelming31:12 A personal story of grief, lockdown, and emotional overflow33:43 Breathwork as a gentle bridge between mind and body38:53 Navigating anxiety and panic through felt experience46:45 What it really means to strengthen your “feeling muscle”49:51 Midlife overwhelm, resilience, and emotional capacity59:01 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: a href="http://instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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 professionally01:58 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 care06:33 What depression can actually feel like in the body, especially in midlife16:17 The clinical lens: diagnoses, labels, and where they fall short22:45 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=1000734013547Listen 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=1000728187600Listen 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=1000739475942Listen 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston Thank you so much for...

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 work03:17 Her path into naturopathic medicine and stress-based healing07:58 Why cortisol isn’t “bad” and what it actually does for your body10:15 What inspired The Cortisol Cure and why the timing matters now14:24 Understanding the stress response in real-life terms20:06 The difference between spending energy and earning it back25:28 Why true rest is essential (and why scrolling doesn’t count)26:32 Small daily habits that rebuild healthy cortisol rhythms30:28 How blood sugar, meals, and nutrition affect stress hormones32:46 Supplements and adaptogens that can support adrenal health35:00 Personal stories of burnout, recovery, and nervous system healing37:07 Reconnecting with joy, creativity, and what truly restores you42:29 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.

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 me05:09 The daily habits that began to bring me back to myself09:07 How gratitude and coherence shift the nervous system toward healing11:42 What emotional blunting from SSRIs really feels like15:10 What the research reveals about alternative treatments for depression18:15 How to approach mental health through gut, hormones, trauma & spirit25:23 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/signupSeeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalThe Work by Byron Katie: https://thework.com/ Connect with Dr. Kelly: Website: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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....

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 you08:40 SSRIs: what they actually do—and what they don’t17:55 Withdrawal or relapse? The part women are never warned about28:02 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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...

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 medicine09:30 Why chronic illness is never one-dimensional15:40 Homeopathy explained in a grounded, practical way25:02 Low Dose Immunotherapy and when it actually helps30:03 Perimenopause, sensitivity, and the “overflowing bucket”30:57 Trauma, nervous system patterns, and subconscious beliefs32:22 How perimenopause becomes a catalyst for powerful change33:14 Breath work, bilateral stimulation, and deeper healing tools34:39 Why your body needs stability before doing deeper work35:19 How naturopathic practice evolves as practitioners evolve38:08 The real differences between functional medicine and naturopathy42:56 Professional training, complex homeopathy, and advanced tools47:38 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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

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 perspective02:33 Why nervous system regulation is the missing link in stubborn gut cases04:30 What SIBO actually is and how it shows up in the body07:49 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 enemy18:57 The 5R Framework I use to treat SIBO and rebuild the gut29:04 A powerful patient story that shows how healing actually unfolds Links and resources: 21-Day Gut Healing Reset: https://drkellylivingston.com/gutresetListen 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.

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 midlife03:30 A story about rescuing sea turtles and what it taught Dr. Valerie Simonsen about purpose08:14 Dr. Simonsen’s winding path into naturopathic medicine15:11 Why healing means listening to both science and spirit23:00 How belief and intention can affect your health29:09 The moment Dr. Simonsen knew she wanted to help women reclaim their wisdom42:36 How creativity and art can be part of the healing journey44:29 A surprising connection between parasites and brain tumors45:42 What fear can teach us and how to make empowered medical decisions46:51 Why trauma work is a critical piece of real healing48:38 Dr. Simonsen’s approach to investigating the root cause59:31 How community, ritual, and ceremony play a role in healing01:07:01 Finding restoration in nature01:14:24 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: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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...

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 useful06:32 Real patient stories that show how powerful food shifts can be08:02 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 way30:49 My gut-healing approach to help you tolerate more foods again Links and resources: Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalVagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup Connect with Dr. Kelly: Website: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.

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 midlife02:29 How I see the Sacred Descent as a rite of passage into your most authentic self03:57 Biological and psychological signs I often see in this phase06:38 How I help women navigate this health awakening with reverence, not panic09:16 The daily rituals I recommend to help your body feel safe during big transitions22:26 The Three Ps of Perimenopause: Patterns, Power, and Presence27:27 Why I bring in quantum healing and mindset as part of the work39:09 A reminder that you’re not broken—you’re becoming Links and resources: Download the FREE Seeds of Health Journal: drkellylivingston.com/daily-journalVagal Tone Guide: https://drkellylivingston.com/vagal-guide/signup Connect with Dr. Kelly: Website: drkellylivingston.com Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/ Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston 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.