Elements of Ayurveda Podcast

What happens after a cleanse or digestive reset? Have you ever finished a reset feeling better, more connected to your body and more aware of what supports you, only to gradually slip back into the habits and patterns that may have contributed to imbalance in the first place? A reset can create a valuable pause. It can help you notice your digestion, energy, appetite, cravings, sleep and how different foods affect you. But the real value of that awareness is what you do with it when you return to everyday life. In this episode, we explore how to take what you've learned during a reset and turn it into sustainable Ayurvedic habits, without restriction, perfection or constantly needing to start over. In this episode, you'll discover: How a reset can deepen your awareness and connection with your body Why Ayurvedic food guidance isn't about creating a lifetime list of forbidden foods How an 80/20 approach can create flexibility without deprivation Why small, ordinary daily habits can be more sustainable than…

What if your brain has its own system for clearing waste and the health of that system is connected to your digestion, emotions, breathing and sleep? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. John Douillard, Ayurvedic longevity expert, to explore the fascinating lymphatic system of the brain and how Ayurveda offers a different way of understanding this important process. Dr. John was previously my guest in Episode 388, Rethinking Gluten Through an Ayurvedic Lens, where we discussed his research connecting wheat and the brain's lymphatic system. In this conversation, we take that exploration much deeper. We begin by looking at what modern science understands about the brain's lymphatic system and then explore how Ayurveda has understood lymph, digestion and the movement of nutrients and waste through the body. Dr. John introduces the Ayurvedic concept of Sara, or Ahara Rasa, the first emotionally charged digestive fluid produced from the food we eat and explains its connection to the lymphatic system and the…

Protein has become one of the biggest conversations in modern nutrition. We're constantly being told to eat more protein, prioritise protein at every meal, choose certain protein sources or turn to protein powders to meet our daily needs. But Ayurveda asks us to look at food differently. Rather than focusing only on how much protein we consume, Ayurveda encourages us to consider our individual digestive capacity, our current state of balance, and the qualities of the foods we are eating. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Varalakshmi Yanamandra, BAMS, an Ayurvedic Doctor with 15 years of clinical experience across the UK, to explore protein through an Ayurvedic lens. We discuss why understanding your Agni (digestive fire) is so important, how your current Vikriti (state of imbalance) can influence your ability to digest and assimilate food, and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. We also explore the Ayurvedic concept of Gunas, or qualities, and how understanding the qualities of…

Have you ever decided that you need to make a change and then wanted to change everything at once? Maybe you decide you're going to eat better, exercise more, get to bed earlier, drink less alcohol, meditate every day or finally get yourself organised. We can become so focused on the result that we overlook the process of getting there. In Ayurveda, sustainable change isn't about forcing the body into a completely different way of being. It's about understanding where we are, listening to the body and creating the conditions that allow change to happen. In this episode, we explore why preparation is such an important part of an Ayurvedic reset and why this principle extends far beyond cleansing. Whether you're changing your eating habits, sleep, exercise, workload, relationship with technology or something more personal, the way you approach change can influence how sustainable it becomes. In this episode, we explore: Why we're often drawn to dramatic transformation and immediate results The difference…

What happens when you stop asking your digestive system to constantly do more? In Ayurveda, digestion is about far more than what happens in your gut. Agni, often translated as digestive fire, is the force of transformation, the process through which we digest, absorb, process and transform what we take in. And because we are constantly taking in more than just food, Ayurveda views digestion as something that can influence the whole system. In this episode, we explore what can happen when we give digestion a little more space, simplicity and rhythm. Colette covers the following: Why Agni is about much more than digesting food How modern lifestyles can place additional demands on digestion The Ayurvedic concept of Ama and why it is often misunderstood The connection between digestion, energy and mental clarity Why Ayurveda looks at digestion as part of the bigger picture rather than simply focusing on the gut How simplifying food, routines and daily habits can support digestion What you can learn about…

What if you didn't wait until your body was struggling before you gave it a reset? In our modern world, we often think of a cleanse or reset as something we need to do after we've overindulged, eaten too much sugar, gained weight, or simply "fallen off the wagon." But Ayurveda takes a different, more preventative approach. Because we are part of nature, the changing seasons affect us too, influencing our digestion, energy, routines, appetite, sleep and overall balance. In this episode, Colette explores why the transition between seasons is such an important time to pause, listen to the body, simplify and support ourselves through change. An Ayurvedic seasonal reset is about much more than a cleanse or detox. Through the Ayurvedic principle of ritucharya, adapting our lifestyle according to the seasons, we can become more aware of how our bodies respond to environmental changes and make adjustments before imbalance becomes more established. Colette explores the relationship between the seasons and the doshas,…

Have you ever noticed that when you're not feeling your best, your instinct is to do more? Another supplement, another diet, another wellness routine or maybe another expert to follow. But what if your body doesn't need more from you right now? What if it needs less? In this episode, Colette explores the Ayurvedic wisdom of simplicity and why creating space can sometimes be more supportive than continually adding more. Ayurveda reminds us that the body is constantly processing; not only food, but also information, experiences, emotions, stimulation and the demands of everyday life. When there is too much coming in and not enough capacity to process it, we can begin to feel overwhelmed, disconnected and depleted. Creating space can give the body an opportunity to digest, process and eliminate what it no longer needs, while also creating room for intuition, clarity and creativity to emerge. In this episode, you'll discover: Why our instinct to add more isn't always the answer when something isn't working The…

You eat well, exercise regularly, meditate, manage your stress and genuinely try to take care of yourself, so why don't you feel better? Sometimes, the answer isn't that you need to try harder or add another healthy habit. Through the Ayurvedic lens, there may be another question worth asking: Does your body currently have the capacity to digest, process and assimilate everything you're giving it? In this episode, Colette explores why healthy habits can sometimes stop feeling helpful and how factors such as stress, sensory input, lifestyle, seasonal changes, accumulation and digestive capacity can influence how we experience our health and wellbeing. You'll learn more about the Ayurvedic concepts of Agni and Ama, why digestion involves more than just the food we eat, and why sometimes creating space, simplifying our routines and reducing unnecessary inputs can be more supportive than continually adding more. In this episode, we explore: Why doing "all the right things" doesn't always mean you'll feel your…

Have you ever found yourself saying, "I'm fine," even though you know you're exhausted? Maybe you've been living with bloating, poor sleep, low energy, headaches or digestive discomfort for so long that it has simply become your normal. You know something feels different, but life is busy, there are people depending on you, and there's always something else that seems more important. In Episode 458, we explored how Ayurveda views symptoms as messages from the body rather than problems to simply suppress. In this episode, we take the conversation a step further and explore why we so often ignore those messages in the first place. We've become fluent in the language of productivity, achievement and pushing through, but many of us have lost our fluency in the language of the body. We learn to override tiredness, rush through meals, ignore digestive discomfort and tell ourselves that poor sleep is "just stress" or that feeling exhausted is simply part of getting older. Colette shares some of the patterns she has…

Have you ever wished a symptom would simply disappear? Whether it's bloating, fatigue, headaches, restless sleep or digestive discomfort, our first instinct is often to silence the discomfort and get on with our busy lives. But what if those symptoms aren't the problem? What if they're messages? Colette explores one of Ayurveda's most profound teachings: that symptoms are not random inconveniences to suppress but meaningful signals that the body is communicating an imbalance. Rather than fighting our symptoms, Ayurveda invites us to become curious and ask, "What is my body trying to communicate?" You'll discover how Ayurveda helps us understand the body's language of imbalance, why we often ignore its early warning signs, and how seasonal changes can influence our health. Colette also explores why fatigue, bloating and even pain may be invitations to slow down, pay attention and make small adjustments before imbalances become more significant. Whether you're completely new to Ayurveda or have been practicing…

As the Elements of Ayurveda Podcast celebrates its ninth anniversary, Colette reflects on the journey of sharing Ayurveda with listeners around the world and explores why, in an age of artificial intelligence and unlimited information, human connection has never been more valuable. With health advice now available at the click of a button, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by conflicting opinions and disconnected from our own inner wisdom. In this thoughtful episode, Colette shares why Ayurveda offers something that technology cannot replace, a personalised, compassionate approach that honours each individual's unique constitution, life circumstances and capacity for change. Drawing on her experience as an Ayurvedic Practitioner, she reflects on the importance of being truly seen, heard and supported throughout the healing journey. She also explores how awareness, discernment and meaningful relationships are becoming increasingly important as we navigate an ever-changing world. Whether you've been listening…

Have you ever found yourself ignoring your body's signals, overriding your intuition, or constantly looking outside yourself for the "right" answer? In our modern world, we're surrounded by advice on what to eat, how to exercise, and the perfect wellness routine to follow. While information can be incredibly valuable, it can also disconnect us from the most important source of wisdom we have, ourselves. In this episode, Colette explores why self-trust lies at the heart of healing and how Ayurveda gently guides us back to our own inner wisdom. Rather than encouraging dependence on practitioners or protocols, Ayurveda teaches us to become students of ourselves through observation, awareness, and consistent daily practices. Whether you're new to Ayurveda or have been practicing for years, this episode is a gentle reminder that your inner wisdom hasn't disappeared, it may simply need your attention. In this episode, you'll discover: Why self-trust is one of the foundations of healing How modern life encourages…

Do you ever feel too exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself to even think about doing the things that you know would support your wellbeing? In this episode, Colette discusses the hidden energy leaks that quietly drain our vitality every day. These aren't always the obvious things like missing a night's sleep or skipping a meal. They're the subtle habits, thought patterns, and daily demands that slowly drain your vitality without you even noticing. They often go unnoticed because they've become part of our normal way of living. Through the Ayurvedic lens of Prana, the life force energy that animates the body and mind, Colette explores how these hidden energy leaks can leave us feeling scattered, depleted, and disconnected from our inner wisdom. In this episode, you'll discover: What prana is and why protecting it is essential for wellbeing How people pleasing and self-abandonment drain your energy Why doom scrolling and digital overload fragment the mind The energetic impact of physical and…

Do you find it easy to follow your Ayurvedic routines when life is calm, only to watch them disappear when things get busy? Perhaps you're travelling, caring for family, juggling work responsibilities, navigating a major life transition, or simply trying to keep up with the demands of everyday life. Suddenly, the morning routine feels impossible, meals become irregular, and self-care is pushed to the bottom of the list. In this episode, Colette explores one of the biggest misconceptions about Ayurveda: the belief that we need to practice it perfectly for it to be effective. She shares why Ayurveda was designed for real life, not ideal circumstances and how small, consistent practices can support balance even during life's busiest seasons. This episode is a gentle reminder that Ayurveda isn't reserved for calm, quiet days. In fact, it's often the busy, messy, imperfect days when we need its wisdom most. In this episode, you'll learn: Why life naturally moves through seasons that require different levels of…

If you've been studying Ayurveda for a while, chances are you already know a lot. Yet knowing what supports your wellbeing and consistently living it are often two very different things. In this episode, Colette explores the gap between knowing and living Ayurveda. She discusses why information alone doesn't create transformation, how the nervous system influences our ability to change, why we often resist the very habits that would support us, and how self-compassion and consistency can help us bridge the gap between understanding Ayurveda and truly embodying it in everyday life. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why information alone doesn't create lasting transformation The difference between learning Ayurveda and living Ayurveda Why the nervous system prioritizes familiarity over what's healthiest How seemingly unhelpful habits may actually be meeting deeper emotional needs Why lack of follow-through is often not a willpower problem How learning can sometimes become a form of avoidance The difference…

The word authenticity can sometimes feel overused, misunderstood, or even a little cliché. Yet beneath the buzzword lies a profound question: Who are you underneath all the layers of conditioning, expectations, habits, and beliefs you've accumulated throughout your life? In this episode, Colette explores how Ayurveda offers a unique framework for uncovering your authentic self. Rather than becoming someone new, Ayurveda encourages us to peel back the layers that obscure our true nature and reconnect with who we've always been. She discusses the importance of understanding your unique constitution (Prakriti), restoring balance before seeking clarity, and cultivating awareness through sustainable daily practices that support physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: Why the concept of authenticity is often misunderstood How Ayurveda views authenticity as a process of remembering rather than becoming The role of Prakriti (your unique constitution) in living an aligned life Why…

Have you ever wondered if your skin is trying to tell you something? In this episode, Colette continues the conversation on Ayurvedic skin health following her interview with Vaidya Kamya Pillai on the gut-skin connection in episode 447. While many of us are taught to focus on skincare products to address dryness, breakouts, redness, or sensitivity, Ayurveda encourages us to look beneath the surface and explore what these symptoms may be communicating about our overall health. Colette explores how imbalances in the doshas of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha can manifest in the skin and how understanding the underlying causes can help us better support our skin and our wellbeing. She discusses the relationship between skin health and digestion, the nervous system, stress, life stages, seasonal influences, and the Ayurvedic principle that symptoms are often messages rather than problems to eliminate. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Ayurveda views the skin as a reflection of internal health How Vata imbalance may…

Have you been feeling less drawn to hustle culture, constant productivity and striving, and more drawn to simplicity, connection and a slower rhythm of life? In this episode, Colette explores the concept of the feminine fire through an Ayurvedic lens. Inspired by reflections on the balance between feminine and masculine energies within us all, she examines how modern life, excess rajas and nervous system overstimulation can disconnect us from our intuition, creativity and natural rhythms. Drawing on personal experiences and Ayurvedic wisdom, Colette discusses the qualities of a rajasic mind, the importance of cultivating sattva, and why so many people are yearning for deeper connection, community and a more intentional way of living. You'll also learn simple ways to rekindle the feminine fire within by reconnecting with nature, honouring your body's wisdom, creating moments of quiet, nurturing meaningful relationships and finding balance between doing and being. In this episode, Colette discusses: The…

Are you living by your body's wisdom or by your data? In today's wellness culture, we're encouraged to track, measure, monitor, and optimize almost every aspect of our lives. Sleep scores, step counts, fasting windows, heart rate variability, recovery metrics, calorie burn, protein intake, the list seems endless. While technology can offer valuable insights, many people are finding themselves increasingly disconnected from the very thing that matters most, their relationship with their own body. In this episode, Colette explores the growing culture of self-optimization through the lens of Ayurveda and nervous system health. Drawing on her own experience as a former triathlete whose pursuit of performance ultimately led to burnout, she shares how Ayurveda helped her move from rigid self-monitoring to embodied self-awareness. This conversation is not about rejecting technology. It's about remembering that health is not a collection of numbers. Ayurveda teaches us that true wellbeing is dynamic, individual,…

Ten years ago, Athina was severely ill with Crohn's disease, exhausted, unable to eat properly, rapidly losing weight, and unsure if she would survive. In this deeply inspiring conversation, she shares how discovering Ayurveda became a turning point in her healing journey. Together, Colette and Athina reflect on the physical, emotional, and spiritual transformation that unfolded through simple daily practices, nourishment, self-awareness, and long-term lifestyle change. This episode is a powerful reminder of the body's incredible capacity to heal when given the right support. In this episode, Athina shares: Her first introduction to Ayurveda in 2016 during a serious health crisis with Crohn's disease Feeling unheard and unsupported before discovering a new path to healing The simple yet powerful Ayurvedic rejuvenation plan that helped restore her strength and vitality The dramatic shifts she experienced within days of beginning her healing journey How stress, competition, perfectionism, and comparison were…

Could your skin be reflecting what's happening in your digestive system? Colette explores the Ayurvedic understanding of the gut-skin connection and why true radiance begins from within with Vaidya Kamya Pillai. While modern research continues to uncover the relationship between the microbiome, inflammation, and skin health, Ayurveda has long taught that healthy digestion, balanced doshas, and proper nourishment are essential for clear, vibrant skin. You'll learn how Agni (digestive fire), Ama (toxic accumulation), Rasa Dhatu (the body's primary nourishing tissue) and Ojas (our vital essence), influence skin health and overall vitality. They also discuss how stress, emotions, and nervous system dysregulation can impact both digestion and complexion, and why Ayurveda views beauty as a reflection of internal balance rather than external appearance alone. In this episode you'll discover: The Ayurvedic gut-skin connection The role of Rasa Dhatu in hydration, nourishment, and radiance How Agni and Ama affect skin…

People pleasing is often misunderstood as simply being "too nice," but for many people it's much deeper than that. It can become a nervous system survival strategy shaped by childhood conditioning, fear of rejection, emotional hypervigilance, and the longing to feel safe, accepted, loved, and connected. In this episode, Colette explores people pleasing through the lens of Ayurveda, nervous system healing, and emotional awareness. She shares how these patterns can disconnect us from our true nature and why healing involves much more than simply "setting boundaries" or "learning to say no." Drawing from both Ayurvedic wisdom and her own personal journey, Colette discusses how chronic people pleasing can manifest as anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, exhaustion, over-responsibility, insomnia, digestive imbalance, nervous system depletion, and emotional disconnection. She also explores the connection between people pleasing and the nervous system's fawn and freeze responses, and why the body may still perceive…

Why is it so difficult to truly rest, even when we're exhausted? In this episode, Colette explores the deeper Ayurvedic understanding of rest, nervous system regulation, productivity culture, and the relationship between Vata and Pitta imbalance. Many people today are living in a constant state of overstimulation and "doing," leaving the nervous system unable to fully soften and restore. Colette looks at how modern culture often praises dysregulation when it looks productive, why rest can feel emotionally difficult, and how busyness can become a way of avoiding deeper feelings and disconnection from ourselves. She covers the following in this episode: Why many people struggle to truly rest The Ayurvedic understanding of nervous system dysregulation How productivity can become connected to identity and self-worth Why slowing down can sometimes feel unsafe The connection between rhythm, dinacharya and nervous system safety Why summer season can become surprisingly depleting Gentle Ayurvedic practices to calm…

Colette explores the Ayurvedic concept of Sadvritta, often translated as right living or ethical conduct, and how these timeless teachings can help us navigate modern life with more awareness, compassion, and harmony. While Ayurveda is often associated with food, herbs, and daily routines, the classical teachings remind us that true health goes far beyond the physical body. Our thoughts, beliefs, speech, and interactions with others all influence our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. In today's fast-paced and highly stimulated world, where disconnection, reactivity, and social tension are increasingly common, Sadvritta offers a practical and deeply relevant framework for living consciously and cultivating both personal and collective wellbeing. In this episode, Colette explores: Why Ayurveda considers ethical living essential for health The connection between the mind, relationships, and physical wellbeing How our beliefs influence the doshas and nervous system Mental ama (toxins) and the impact of…

What does integrity truly mean in Ayurveda and why does it matter now more than ever? In today's rapidly expanding global wellness space, conversations around ethics, responsibility, and authenticity are becoming increasingly important. While this episode doesn't focus on specific events, it acknowledges that moments of rupture in any healing tradition can serve as powerful invitations to return to its roots, back to awareness, accountability, and integrity. In this episode, I'm joined by Vaidya Jayarajan Kodikannath, CEO and Academy Director of Kerala Ayurveda (USA), he brings both traditional wisdom and modern perspective to this essential conversation. Together, we explore the ethical foundations of Ayurveda, the responsibilities of practitioners and teachers, and how integrity can be embodied in both personal practice and professional life. In this episode, we discuss: What integrity means within the context of Ayurveda Why this conversation is especially relevant in today's global wellness landscape The…

In modern life, we often talk about stress as if it's one single experience. We say "I'm stressed" and assume the solution is the same for everyone, but Ayurveda offers a much more nuanced understanding. From an Ayurvedic perspective, stress is not one-size-fits-all. It expresses itself through the lens of the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and each one creates a very different experience in the body and mind. This is why what works for one person may feel ineffective, or even aggravating for another. In this episode, Colette guides you through the different types of stress according to Ayurveda so you can begin to understand your own patterns and choose support that truly aligns with your needs. In this episode, you'll learn: Why stress is not a one-size-fits-all experience in Ayurveda How stress manifests through Vata, Pitta, and Kapha The key signs and symptoms of each stress type Common lifestyle triggers that aggravate each dosha Why generic self-care routines often don't work Simple, aligned ways to…

Colette is joined by Dr. Sujatha Kekada to explore some of the most common myths surrounding Ayurveda and bring clarity to what this ancient system truly teaches. From questions around diet and lifestyle to its relevance in today's scientific landscape, they unpack how Ayurveda is far more adaptable, nuanced, and evidence-aligned than many believe. Together, they explore how Ayurveda meets you where you are, honouring individuality, context, and balance rather than enforcing one-size-fits-all rules. In this episode, they discuss: Whether Ayurveda is truly "scientific" and how modern research supports its core principles Ayurveda's perspective on vegetarianism and the role of animal protein in healing The origins of avoiding garlic and onions and when they may be appropriate How Ayurveda evaluates coffee and alcohol Why Ayurveda is not inherently strict or restrictive, and how it embraces flexibility and indulgences How to follow Ayurvedic principles while maintaining a vegan lifestyle, including alternatives…

Mushrooms have become increasingly popular in the modern wellness world, particularly for their potential benefits for the nervous system, immunity and resilience. But where do they fit within Ayurveda? In this episode, I'm joined by Sharmistha Guha Majumdar to explore mushrooms through the lens of Ayurvedic principles. While mushrooms are not extensively described in the classical texts, Ayurveda offers a sophisticated framework for understanding any substance through observation, energetics and ecological context. Sharmistha shares how we can move beyond simply asking whether something is listed in the texts and instead learn how to evaluate it through the Ayurvedic concepts of dravya, guna, karma, and the subtle energies of prana, tejas and ojas. Together we explore how mushrooms grow, what their ecological patterns reveal about their energetics, and what considerations are important when incorporating them into the diet. In this episode, we discuss: How substances like mushrooms can be evaluated through…

As winter transitions into spring, many people begin to notice subtle shifts in how they feel. You might experience brain fog, sluggish digestion, low motivation, seasonal allergies, or new cravings for sugar and comfort foods. While these symptoms may seem random, Ayurveda recognizes them as common responses to the seasonal shift from winter to spring. In this episode, Colette shares seven signs that your body may be asking for a seasonal reset and explain how Ayurveda views these signals as early messages from the body. Rather than waiting for deeper imbalance to develop, Ayurveda encourages us to recognize these subtle signs and support the body through seasonal cleansing, lighter foods, and strengthening digestion. You'll learn how seasonal accumulation develops, why spring often brings feelings of heaviness or congestion, and how small adjustments can help restore clarity, energy, and digestive balance. In this episode, we explore: Why kapha accumulates during winter and begins to mobilize in spring How…

Have you ever felt tired… but something about it didn't feel like true fatigue? In this episode, Colette explores the subtle but important difference between Kapha accumulation and true fatigue, and how easily the two can be confused. What feels like low energy may actually be heaviness, stagnation, and mental fog, which are signs that the body is asking for movement and stimulation, not more rest. Colette shares a recent personal experience of waking up feeling heavy, slow, and mentally foggy, not depleted, but stuck. Through her Ayurvedic lens she understood that these qualities were not in fact fatigue but a Kapha accumulation. Understanding this distinction prevented her from unintentionally moving further out of balance. She shares how to recognize these qualities in your body and how to respond in a way that restores balance. This episode is about tuning inwards and taking note of the qualities you feel in your body, being curious and building a deeper relationship with your body's inner intelligence.…

Healing rarely happens through a single change. More often, it unfolds through awareness, consistency, and a growing relationship with the body and mind. In this episode, Colette is joined by her client Erica, who shares her deeply personal journey of healing through Ayurveda. What began as a search for answers during a period of fatigue and sluggishness became a transformational process of self-discovery, compassion, and empowerment. Erica began working with Colette in January 2025 and joined the Reset–Restore–Renew Program, where she experienced how structured cleansing, supportive routines, self-care and mindfulness practices can create a powerful container for healing. Over time, she moved from feeling heavy and depleted to experiencing renewed energy, clarity, and vitality. In their conversation, Erica reflects on how life's busyness can easily pull us out of balance and how returning to seasonal resets and supportive habits has helped her reestablish structure and stability. With each cleanse, she…

As we approach the Spring Equinox on March 20th, nature reaches a moment of perfect balance, equal light and equal dark. But this shift isn't just happening around you… it's happening within you. In Ayurveda, seasonal transitions are considered powerful physiological turning points. The Spring Equinox marks a pivotal moment when winter's accumulated heaviness begins to melt and move through the body, influencing digestion, energy, emotions, and overall wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: The deeper meaning of seasonal awareness in Ayurveda Why the Spring Equinox is a physiological turning point The Ayurvedic concept of seasonal accumulation Why symptoms like congestion, fatigue, and allergies often appear in spring How agni (digestive fire) changes during seasonal transitions The importance of Ritu Sandhi, the seasonal junction Why spring can bring emotional shifts and restlessness The difference between seasonal awareness and seasonal reaction How gentle cleansing supports the body during spring Join…

What happens when we slow down enough to truly listen? In this heartfelt conversation, Colette is joined by her client Jenny, who shares her personal journey with Ayurveda, from her early connection with nature to her recent experience on the Digestive Reset Cleanse. Jenny reflects on how growing up in rural Ireland with a deep love of the natural world quietly shaped her path toward yoga and, eventually, Ayurveda. What began as curiosity evolved into a meaningful relationship with practices that helped her reconnect with her body's rhythms. In this episode, they explore her experience on the Digestive Reset Cleanse, including what surprised her most, the level of personalization and support that allowed the cleanse to feel sustainable within her real life. Rather than being restrictive, she describes it as grounding, clarifying, and deeply supportive. Beyond digestion, Jenny shares how the cleanse helped her rediscover her creativity and cultivate a new level of awareness, not just around food, but around…

Hormones influence every system in the body, from mood and metabolism to sleep, fertility, and the transitions of midlife. In this episode, I'm joined by Vaidya Princy Prasad of Kerala Ayurveda Academy to explore hormone regulation through the classical lens of Ayurveda. Rather than viewing hormones in isolation, we discuss how endocrine balance reflects the state of the doshas, agni, the nervous system, and overall resilience, especially in today's high-stress world. Vaidya Princy shares practical wisdom on building awareness of hormonal fluctuations, supporting the body through stress and burnout, and navigating perimenopause with steadiness and nourishment. In This Episode, We Explore: Why hormone regulation is such a timely focus in modern life How chronic stress and burnout disrupt hormonal balance The relationship between hormones and Vata, Pitta, and Kapha How to observe and track your own hormonal patterns Managing the transition of perimenopause through Ayurveda Ayurvedic herbs that support hormonal…

In Episode 432, we explored how awareness builds integrity, how listening to the body moment by moment allows coherence to arise naturally. But what happens when awareness feels muted? What if you can't clearly feel hunger, fatigue, or even your own emotions? What if instead of clarity, there's numbness, confusion, or second-guessing? In this follow-up episode, Colette explores what happens when body signals have been overridden for years and how Ayurveda offers a gentle, practical path to rebuilding trust with your body. Drawing on the Ayurvedic concept of prajnaparadha (loss of awareness), this episode explains how repeated overriding of hunger, fatigue, or emotional signals is not a personal failure, it is physiology. The nervous system adapts to long-term stress by lowering the volume of internal cues, conserving energy for survival. You'll learn how chronic stress can dull interoception (your ability to sense internal states), weaken agni (digestive and perceptual fire), and create disconnection from…

What if integrity wasn't about discipline, willpower, or doing the "right" thing, but something that naturally arises from awareness? In this episode, Colette explores one of the most foundational yet often overlooked principles of Ayurveda: awareness. Beneath dosha food lists, routines, herbs, and lifestyle practices lies Ayurveda's deeper invitation, to notice what is happening in the body, mind, and nervous system, moment by moment, and to respond with honesty and care. This episode explores how awareness builds integrity from the inside out, how integrity is felt somatically in the body, and why this responsiveness is deeply physiological, influencing digestion, vitality, immunity, and nervous system regulation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Ayurveda is fundamentally a system of awareness, not rules or discipline How integrity naturally emerges when awareness is present Understanding of prajnaparadha as forgetting what we already know The physiological effects of repeatedly overriding awareness on…

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, love is everywhere, on our screens, in shop windows, and throughout marketing campaigns. Yet for many of us, this time of year can feel complicated, tender, or even disconnecting. In this episode, Colette explores what Ayurveda really teaches about love, not the fleeting or idealized version we're often sold, but the steady, nourishing love that begins within. Drawing on Ayurvedic wisdom, this episode reframes love as a state of balance, regulation, and inner union, rather than something we chase or seek outside ourselves. You'll learn how daily habits, digestion, rhythm, and self-care practices quietly shape our capacity to give and receive love in all areas of life. This episode is an invitation to return to a more grounded, sustainable, and compassionate understanding of love, starting with your relationship with yourself. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Ayurveda views love as a state of balance and nourishment, not a performance or achievement Why true…

Ayurveda can feel deeply nourishing and also overwhelming especially when you've been learning for a long time and don't know where to begin, how to stay consistent, or how to soften self-pressure along the way. In this solo Ayurveda Q&A episode, Colette answers thoughtful questions from the Elements of Ayurveda Podcast Community, exploring how to work with overwhelm, perfectionism, and stress through the lens of daily habits, nervous system health, and rhythm rather than rigidity. This episode is an invitation to approach your health with more awareness, curiosity, and compassion, and to remember that healing doesn't require doing everything perfectly, it asks us to show up gently and consistently. In this episode, you'll learn: Where to begin with Ayurveda when you've absorbed a lot of information and feel overwhelmed Why daily habits are one of the most underestimated, yet powerful tools for long-term healing How perfectionism can arise from different doshic patterns, especially Vata nervous system…

What does it mean to heal when the nervous system no longer feels safe in the body or the world? In this episode, Colette is joined by Sita Severson, Director of the Soul of Yoga Institute in San Diego, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Certified Yoga Therapist, and Vedic counselor. Sita's work lives at the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern trauma science, supporting people through grief, addiction recovery, burnout, and chronic stress with compassion and practicality. Drawing from her own lived experience as well as decades of teaching and clinical work, Sita shares how Ayurveda, yoga, and pranayama can gently support regulation without overwhelming the system and why healing is not about fixing what's broken, but restoring relationship with the body and self. This conversation is especially meaningful for anyone navigating grief, recovery, exhaustion, or a sense of disconnection, and for practitioners interested in trauma-sensitive, embodied approaches to wellbeing. In this episode, you'll hear: How Sita's…

Winter is often misunderstood in modern wellness culture as a season to simply endure, yet Ayurveda recognizes it as a powerful time for nourishment, restoration, and deep tissue building. In this episode, Colette is joined by experienced Ayurvedic physician Dr. Sujatha Kekada for a classical and clinical exploration of winter wellness. Together, they move beyond surface-level seasonal advice to examine how winter influences the doshas, dhatus (tissues), srotas (channels), and ojas. Dr. Sujatha explains why aligning diet, routine, and mindset with this season is essential for long-term health and resilience. In this episode, you'll learn about: Why winter is considered a prime season for tissue nourishment and rebuilding in Ayurveda Which doshas and dhatus become most vulnerable when winter diet and routines are misaligned How winter impacts srotas (channel) integrity, with a focus on rasavaha srotas (plasma and lymph channels) and medovaha srotas (fat channel) The connection between winter emotions, mental…

As winter settles in, many of us notice shifts in mood, energy, motivation, and emotional resilience. In this episode, Colette explores Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) through the compassionate lens of Ayurveda, reframing seasonal low mood as a natural response to changes in light, rhythm, digestion, and mental qualities. You'll learn how winter affects the doshas, digestion, and nervous system, why gut health is central to emotional wellbeing, and how gentle, practical Ayurvedic practices, including a supportive Digestive Reset, can help restore clarity, balance, and resilience during the darker months. In this episode, you'll learn: How Ayurveda understands Seasonal Affective Disorder Why winter naturally increases Kapha, Vata, and Tamas guna The dosha story behind feeling both heavy and unsettled in winter Why digestion and Agni are central to mood, sleep, and nervous system health How Ama and weak digestion can contribute to brain fog, low mood, and emotional stagnation The relationship between…

If you're feeling heavy, foggy, congested, or more run-down than usual as we move into January, this episode is for you. In Ayurveda, post-holiday sluggishness isn't just about overindulgence, it's often a sign that the lymphatic system and rasa dhatu (the body's primary nourishing fluid) need support. In this episode, we explore why sickness is so common at this time of year and how to gently restore flow, vitality, immunity, and emotional clarity without harsh detoxing. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Ayurveda understands the lymphatic system through rasa dhatu Why winter and the festive season naturally increase Vata and Kapha How our digestive fire (agni) influences lymphatic health and immunity The role of ama (toxins) in post-holiday heaviness, congestion and sickness How Vata and Kapha affect the lymphatic system in different ways The emotional component of lymphatic stagnation Gentle, seasonal Ayurvedic practices to restore flow and balance Join the Digestive Reset Cleanse – Starting January 23rd,…

As we step into a new year, many of us focus on resolutions, but what if a more powerful question is: How do I actually want to feel? In this episode, Colette explores Ayurvedic cleansing not as a quick detox or rigid reset, but as a gentle ritual, a way to digest the past, build resilience, and step into the year ahead with clarity, steadiness, and intention. Rather than pushing or restricting, this conversation invites you to slow down, listen inward, and reconnect with digestion as the foundation of physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. If you're craving a nourishing fresh start that supports your nervous system and long-term health, this episode is for you. In this episode, we explore: Why the threshold between one year and the next is considered a potent time for healing The lost art of ritual and why modern life often skips over important transitions How unprocessed experiences and emotions can create subtle ama (toxicity) in the body and mind Digestion as more than food, including how we digest…

Colette is joined by Dr. Ishan Shivanand, mental health researcher, professor, bestselling author, and founder of Yoga of Immortals (YOI). Raised in Indian monasteries within a 21-generation yogic lineage, Dr. Shivanand brings a rare integration of ancient wisdom and modern science. His groundbreaking double-blind RCTs show up to 82% improvement in insomnia, anxiety, depression, and overall quality of life in as little as 4–8 weeks. Together, they explore how meditation, breathwork, Yoga and Ayurveda can transform mental health and how these ancient sciences understood the mind long before modern neuroscience. This conversation offers both profound insight and practical inspiration for anyone seeking holistic wellbeing and preventative health practices. In this episode, they discuss: How a 21-generation monastic lineage shaped Dr. Shivanand's understanding of the mind What ancient Yogic and Ayurvedic teachings reveal about consciousness and brain function Dr. Shivanand's perspective of today's scientific…

As we move fully into early winter, many of us begin to notice changes in our skin, tightness, dryness, rough patches, or increased sensitivity. In Ayurveda, these seasonal shifts are meaningful clues about what's happening internally. Winter, especially early winter, increases Vata dosha with its cold, dry, and mobile qualities, which can intensify skin imbalance if we don't adjust our routines and nourishment. In this episode, we dive into Ayurveda's full guide to winter skin care. You'll learn what happens to the skin during early winter, how to identify signs of imbalance for your dosha type (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and the internal and external practices that keep your skin hydrated, radiant, and resilient all season long. This episode includes: Seasonal skin insights: How early winter's Vata qualities affect moisture, circulation, and sensitivity Signs of winter imbalance for each dosha Why rasa dhatu matters for skin health Internal and external rituals to support dryness, irritation, or congestion…

In this episode, we explore how to support steady blood sugar during the holiday season using Ayurvedic wisdom. With more sugar, irregular meals, travel, and stress during the holidays, it's easy for the body's metabolic fire (agni) to become overwhelmed. Ayurveda offers practical, gentle tools to keep digestion strong, cravings balanced, and energy steady. We take a deeper look at the pancreas as a home of agni and how its function relates to three key subdoshas: Pachaka Pitta, Kledaka Kapha, and Samana Vayu. You'll learn how these forces work together to regulate metabolism, mood, and digestive rhythm and why sugar crashes are both a physical and emotional imbalance. You'll also discover: Why holiday habits disrupt blood sugar How sugar cravings form from an Ayurvedic standpoint Simple remedies for sugar crashes Spices that naturally support metabolic balance Eating rhythms and lifestyle tools that strengthen agni Practices to prevent toxins (ama) and emotional overload during the festive season Whether…

In this inspiring episode, Colette is joined by her client, Sónia from Flores, a small and remote island in the Azores archipelago off the coast of Portugal. After an overstimulating and energetically demanding Summer season, Sónia felt called to reset her body and mind. She chose to do the private Digestive Reset Cleanse in October, but quickly realised that the cleanse required a pace of life she wasn't accustomed to. Together, Colette and Sónia explore: Her desire for a full body-mind reset and the initial reluctance to slow down her activity during the cleanse. How awareness slowly blossomed as she softened into the process, noticing where her resistance to rest and stillness was coming from. The many positive effects of the cleanse, including improved bloodwork results, a noticeable reduction in inflammation, more energy, and a sense of glowing from the inside out. The surprising simplicity that followed, as her new habits naturally moved onto autopilot, making her daily life feel more spacious and…

Holiday season is here and this time of year often brings a beautiful mix of joy, connection, nostalgia and let's be honest, a little chaos. The festive season can easily throw us off rhythm. We may be travelling, eating differently, staying up later, or navigating emotionally layered gatherings. Ayurveda offers practical tools to support digestion, soothe the nervous system, and help us meet this season with greater steadiness and ease. In this episode Colette shares simple, grounding Ayurvedic tips to help you stay nourished, present, and balanced throughout the festivities. We explore: Understanding the dosha dynamics of the holiday season Ayurvedic tips for enjoying holiday meals without the stress Simple daily rituals that keep you grounded (even on busy days) Emotional and energetic boundaries for the holiday season Travel tips - your Vata-soothing toolkit A short guided holiday intention practice Resources & Links Mentioned: Pranayama Tutorial - Breath work tutorial Digestive Reset Cleanse – Next…

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of the Elements of Ayurveda Podcast, Colette is joined by her sister, Niamh, an Occupational Therapist who specializes in mental health for children and young adults. Together, they explore Niamh's honest and vulnerable journey through perimenopause, a time that tested even her professional understanding of the mind and her long-time relationship with Ayurvedic living. Despite her professional knowledge of mental health and years of practicing Ayurvedic principles, Niamh found herself facing out-of-character symptoms and a sense of losing control, especially during intense hot flushes and cognitive difficulties. This conversation offers a compassionate look at what it means to navigate hormonal shifts when even your best tools seem to fall short. Colette and Niamh discuss how Ayurveda supported her self-understanding, how she began to view her therapeutic work through a new lens, and how the Ayurvedic Digestive Reset Cleanse helped her find stability amidst the…

In this episode of the Elements of Ayurveda Podcast, we're exploring a truly beautiful concept in Ayurvedic wisdom, Sneha, a Sanskrit word that means both oil and love. And that's no coincidence. Sneha is the essence of softness, warmth, and care that keeps our body, mind, and heart supple. It's both nourishment and an act of conscious love, a daily reminder that tending to ourselves is not selfish, but sacred. In this episode, Colette shares how Sneha can be practiced both externally through self-oiling rituals like abhyanga, and internally through nourishing fats such as ghee or medicated oils. You'll also discover how Sneha softens not only the physical body but also the mind and emotions, helping to cultivate resilience, calm, and compassion in your daily life. In this episode, you'll learn: The dual meaning of Sneha in Sanskrit and why oiling is an act of love The difference between external Sneha and internal Sneha How Sneha supports physical health, from joint mobility and skin nourishment to…