Body of Wonder

Latest Episodes:

Episode #55 Neurogenic Tremors for Trauma Release with David Berceli, PhD Oct 30, 2024

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In this episode, Dr. Victoria Maizes and Dr. Andrew Weil explore the revolutionary work of Dr. David Berceli, creator of Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE). Dr. Berceli shares his insights on neurogenic tremors, explaining how this natural, self-regulating mechanism helps the body release deep stress and trauma.

Drawing on his extensive professional experience in war zones and traumatic events, Dr. Berceli discusses the healing power of tremors, the role of community in recovery, and the body's innate ability to discharge accumulated stress. This episode sheds light on the practical applications of TRE for trauma recovery and stress reduction, providing valuable insights for those seeking accessible and powerful tools for healing.

Episode #54 Asthma with Dr. Randy Horwitz Sep 24, 2024

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Episode #54 Asthma with Dr. Randy Horwitz

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Victoria Maizes sit down with Dr. Randy Horwitz, an expert on asthma and immunology. Together, they dive deep into the topic of asthma including the reasons for its rising prevalence and advances in treatment. Dr. Horwitz provides a comprehensive overview of how integrative medicine can aid in managing this chronic condition. The three discuss different types of asthma, common triggers, mind-body interventions, and the role of nutrition. Join the conversation for insights on asthma as well as practical tips to improve respiratory health.

[00:01:13] What is asthma, and what causes it?
[00:03:58] Discussion about different types of asthma (exercise-induced, allergic, stress-induced)
[00:05:57] Early antibiotic use and its potential link to asthma development.
[00:07:49] Role of pets – do they increase or decrease asthma risk.
[00:09:03] Can asthma disappear?
[00:09:44] Current asthma treatments: Corticosteroids and biologics.
[00:12:11] The importance of peak flow meters in managing asthma symptoms.
[00:13:34] Dietary modifications and supplements like Omega-3s and Vitamin D for asthma control.
[00:17:00] Natural antihistamines like quercetin and their effectiveness compared to pharmaceutical interventions.
[00:21:00] Mind-body interventions, including hypnotherapy and breathing exercises.
[00:24:34] Impact of air pollution and environmental toxins, including wildfires, on asthma exacerbations.

Episode #53 Rethinking the Role of Diet in Mental Health Treatment with Dr. Georgia Ede Aug 27, 2024

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Join Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Victoria Maizes as they dive into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Georgia Ede, a pioneering expert in metabolic psychiatry.
In this episode, they tackle questions about the relationship between diet and mental health: How does inflammation impact mental health disorders like depression and anxiety? What role do carbohydrates play in brain function. Can a keto diet improve mental clarity and emotional stability?
Dr. Ede also discusses whether traditional psychiatric medications address the root causes of mental illness.
Whether you're a healthcare professional or simply interested in a deeper understanding of diet and mental health, this episode offers valuable insights that could reshape how you view your diet.

Episode #52 Improving Mental Health in Adolescents with Dr. Scott Shannon Jul 02, 2024

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In this episode, Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Victoria Maizes sit down with Dr. Scott Shannon, a pioneer in integrative psychiatry, to discuss the factors attributed to the growing mental health crisis among adolescents. Dr. Shannon, discusses the role of poor nutrition, reduced physical activity, and the influence of smartphones and social media contributing to rising distress in young people. He examines the potential benefits as well as the challenges of using psychedelics in adolescents. As MDMA and other psychedelics move towards gaining FDA approval, he anticipates there will be pediatric trials. Dr. Weil and Dr. Shannon discuss how, with proper management, psychedelics could offer a less risky alternative to traditional psychiatric medications in adults, as well as children. The discussion also explores non-pharmacological interventions such as transcranial magnetic stimulation and light therapy. Dr. Shannon offers an inside look at modern mental health challenges and the evolving landscape of treatment options, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of adolescent mental health care.

Episode #51 Ayurveda: Traditional Wisdom with Amita Nathwani, MA (Ayur) May 28, 2024

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Discover the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old practice designed to restore balance and harmony within the body. In this episode, we are joined by Amita Nathwani, MA (Ayur) - an author, culinary expert, and Ayurvedic practitioner. Amita has dedicated her career to bridging traditional and contemporary medical systems.
Along with hosts, Drs. Andy Weil and Victoria Maizes, Amita introduces listeners to the core principles of Ayurveda. Discover how to eat in alignment with your individual constitution (dosha), detoxify through the powerful Panchakarma process, and use breathing practices to enhance overall well-being.
Tune in to learn how Ayurvedic practices can bring profound benefits to your modern lifestyle.

Episode #50 The Vagus Nerve: Driver of Emotional and Physical Wellbeing with Stefan Chmelik, MSc Apr 30, 2024

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What is the vagus nerve, and what role does it play in our body?
In this episode, we explore the "wandering nerve" and its profound impact our physical and emotional wellbeing. With research demonstrating its connection to many of our organs, impacting gut health and regulating emotional states, the vagus nerve is emerging as a central player in our overall health.
We are joined by Stefan Chmelik. Traditional Chinese medicine physician and founder of the company that produces Sensate, a vagal toning device. He discusses how advances in neuroscience and biofeedback have paved the way for innovative solutions to influence our nervous system, promoting relaxation, stress reduction, and emotional balance.
This conversation with Drs. Andrew Weil and Victoria Maizes and Stefan Chmelik offers listeners a fascinating look into the current understanding of the vagus nerve and the transformative potential of well-being technology.

Episode #49 Honoring Grief and Finding Meaning with David Kessler Mar 26, 2024

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In this episode, we are joined by renowned grief expert and author, Dr David Kessler. David delves into the intricacies of grief, drawing upon his extensive experience and the wisdom gained from years of working with clients in the field and alongside the pioneering psychiatrist Dr Elizabeth Kubler-Ross. Throughout this compassionate conversation with hosts Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Victoria Maizes, David describes how grief shapes individuals and communities, offering invaluable guidance on how to navigate the complex nature of loss and finding meaning. He shares practical advice on what to say to someone experiencing grief and provides listeners with essential tools to support themselves and others during times of profound loss.

Episode #48 A Journey into Mindfulness with Shauna Shapiro, PhD Feb 27, 2024

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Dr Shauna Shapiro is a clinical psychologist and an internationally recognized expert in mindfulness and self-compassion. Her TEDx talk, The Power of Mindfulness, has been viewed almost 4 million times. In this episode, Drs. Andrew Weil, Victoria Maizes, and Shauna Shapiro explore mindfulness, its profound impact on our well-being, and practical techniques to cultivate daily practice. We discuss how it can help us manage emotions, foster healthy relationships, reduce stress, and enhance our overall quality of life. As a special treat for our listeners, Dr. Shapiro offers a brief, guided meditation within the episode. Tune in as we explore the mind and meditative states with Dr. Shapiro.

Episode #47 The T.I.G.E.R Protocol for Autoimmune Diseases with Dr. Akil Palanisamy Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we are joined by Harvard-trained physician, integrative medicine expert and graduate of our Fellowship, Dr. Akil Palanisamy.
Dr. Palanisamy is the creator of the T.I.G.E.R protocol, a guide to address and heal autoimmune diseases.
Combining modern science and traditional medicine approaches, Dr. Palanisamy discusses the five elements of the T.I.G.E.R protocol (which stands for Toxin, Infection, Gut Health, Eating Right, and Rest) and how it can combat autoimmune conditions.
Join Dr. Andrew Weil, Dr. Victoria Maizes, and Dr. Palanisamy as they discuss the underlying triggers of autoimmune disease.

Episode #4 Donna Jackson Nakazawa - Friendly Fire: How the Brain's Tiniest Cells Hold Hope for Auto Mar 18, 2020

Show notes

What happens when good cells go rogue? What if those cells reside inside your brain can have a dramatic impact on your body and mind?

In this episode we discuss the fascinating world of the brain's tiniest cells, microglia. Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Victoria Maizes speak with award-wining science journalist Donna Jackson Nakazawa on her latest book, The Angel & The Assassin, which explores the science of neuroimmunology. Previously defined as the housekeeper cells of the brain, microglia have been quietly overlooked since their original discovery in the 1800's.

Now, Nakazawa shares how researchers have recently uncovered the cells real work and why they might just be our best ally in the battle against the alarming increase of autoimmune diseases and mental health disorders.

In the show, we hear about the cutting edge, non-invasive technology and explore two free integrative lifestyle techniques that aid in microglia support.

Body of Wonder is hosted by Dr. Victoria Maizes and Dr. Weil and produced by the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona. Learn more about this and other topics by going to www.azcim.org/podcast.

Connect with us on Twitter: @BodyofWonder, Instagram: BodyofWonderPodcast, or Facebook/BodyofWonder

Please note, the show will not advise, diagnose, or treat medical conditions. Always seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider for questions regarding your health.

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