Do you live with aches and pains, stiff joints, muscle tension, inflammation, arthritis, back pain or recurring injuries?

In this fascinating episode of Alive and Loving It, Dr Rosy Daniel, Karen Mellers and integrative pharmacist Evelyn Liddell Davies explore why pain occurs, what it may be trying to tell us, and how we can support the body's natural healing processes.

With nearly half of adults experiencing chronic pain at some point in their lives, this conversation offers practical wisdom, emotional insight and natural approaches to help you understand and manage pain more effectively.

The team discusses the many different causes of pain, from injury and inflammation to poor posture, stress, autoimmune conditions and emotional overload. They explore the powerful connection between mind and body, the role of the nervous system, and why fear and anxiety can amplify painful symptoms.

Karen shares her personal experience of living with scoliosis and chronic pain, revealing how understanding her body's messages has transformed her relationship with pain and recovery.

In This Episode We Explore:

• Why pain is one of the body's most important communication systems
• The difference between acute pain and chronic pain
• How emotions, stress and fear can increase pain perception
• Autoimmune conditions and inflammatory pain
• The surprising connection between digestive health and pain
• The role of posture, movement and spinal health
• Why hydration matters for healthy fascia and muscles
• Heat versus cold therapy – knowing which to use and when
• The healing benefits of yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi and gentle movement
• Arnica and other natural approaches for aches, bruising and muscle recovery
• How behavioural patterns can contribute to chronic tension and pain
• The importance of listening to your body's signals before symptoms escalate

Key Takeaway

Pain is not simply something to suppress. While pain relief has an important place, especially during acute episodes, long-term healing often begins when we become curious about what our pain is trying to tell us.

By addressing inflammation, reducing stress, improving posture and movement, supporting digestive health and learning to regulate our nervous system, we can often reduce suffering and reclaim a greater sense of wellbeing.

As Karen beautifully describes it, healing is often a process of "defrosting"—gently releasing the layers of tension, fear and protective patterns that our bodies have been holding for years.

Resources Mentioned

• Weleda’s Arnica preparations for bruising, muscle aches and recovery – you can get these via our website market place at www.aliveandlovingit.org/marketplace which helps to support the Podcast.
• Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong and Pilates
• Osteopathy, chiropractic care and craniosacral therapy
• Homeopathy and integrative approaches to pain management
• Hydration and fascia health
• Mind-body approaches to healing chronic pain

Connect With Us

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who may benefit from a more holistic approach to aches and pains.

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Why are anxiety and depression affecting so many people today? In this heartfelt and hopeful episode of Alive and Loving It, Dr Rosy Daniel, Karen Mellers and Evelyn Liddell explore the growing mental health crisis, the impact of stress and social media, and practical ways to reclaim emotional balance, resilience and wellbeing.

From understanding the biology of anxiety and depression to discovering the healing power of nature, meditation, movement, friendship and purpose, this episode offers compassionate guidance for anyone struggling with overwhelm, worry, low mood or emotional exhaustion.

Whether you're experiencing anxiety yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking greater peace of mind, you'll find wisdom, encouragement and practical tools to help you move from fear and stress towards calm, connection and joy.

In This Episode You'll Discover:

• Why anxiety and depression have become so widespread in modern society
• How chronic stress affects both mental and physical health
• The role of social media, comparing ourselves to others, and isolation in emotional wellbeing
• The difference between feeling sad and experiencing true depression
• Why overthinking can exhaust the nervous system
• How breathing, meditation and mindfulness can help calm an anxious mind
• The healing benefits of yoga, nature, music and creative activities
• Why meaningful relationships are essential for mental health
• The importance of focusing on what you can control rather than what you can't
• Practical strategies to become the master, rather than the victim, of your thoughts

Key Topics Discussed

✔ Anxiety as a chronic "fear state"

✔ The connection between stress hormones and immune health

✔ Why isolation is one of the hidden causes of anxiety and depression

✔ Social media, self-comparison and the pressure to perform

✔ The concept that "thoughts are not who you are"

✔ Meditation and calming the "contents of consciousness"

✔ Stephen Covey's Circle of Concern and Circle of Influence

✔ The healing effects of volunteering and community

✔ Eco-therapy and nature as medicine

✔ Breathwork, yoga, EFT and relaxation techniques

✔ Herbal and natural approaches for stress support

✔ The importance of rhythm, routine and healthy boundaries

✔ Releasing shame around mental health struggles

If You're Struggling

If you are experiencing persistent anxiety, depression, hopelessness, panic attacks or thoughts of self-harm, please seek professional support from your GP, mental health services or a trusted healthcare professional. You do not have to face these challenges alone.

Listen, Follow and Share

If this episode resonates with you, please follow Alive and Loving It, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from this conversation. Together, we can help create a healthier, kinder and more connected world.

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

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What would you do if someone was injured, stung, burned, sprained an ankle, developed cystitis on a Sunday afternoon, or suffered from a panic attack while travelling?

In this practical and empowering episode of Alive and Loving It, Dr Rosy Daniel is joined by pharmacist and herbal medicine expert Evelyn Liddell and co-host Karen Mellers to explore the art of natural first aid. This episode is all about reclaiming confidence in caring for ourselves and those we love. Together, we discuss the essential items every home and travel first aid kit should contain, from bandages and thermometers to natural remedies including arnica, calendula, aloe vera and herbal digestive supports.

With NHS services under increasing pressure and many of us lacking confidence in dealing with minor injuries and ailments at home, this conversation offers simple, evidence-informed and time-tested remedies that can help you feel prepared, calm and capable. While professional medical care is essential for serious illness and injury, there is enormous value in learning practical first aid skills and understanding how natural remedies can support healing, comfort and resilience in everyday life.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why every home should have a well-stocked first aid kit
• The role of soluble aspirin in heart attacks and strokes
• How hydration may help visual migraines
• Essential first aid equipment to keep at home and when travelling
• Natural approaches to bruises, sprains, strains and muscle soreness
• The difference between using heat and cold for injuries
• Remedies for burns, sunburn, insect bites and stings
• How to safely remove ticks and reduce the risk of Lymes disease
• Natural support for cystitis and urinary discomfort
• Digestive remedies for travel sickness, diarrhoea, trapped wind and tummy upsets
• Why electrolytes and mineral-rich salts matter for hydration and cramp prevention
• Simple breathing techniques to help calm anxiety and panic attacks
• Homeopathic and herbal options commonly used for stress, shock and emotional upsets
• Travel health essentials for flights, holidays and outdoor adventures

Resources Mentioned

• Marcus Fernandez's Home Prescriber Course
• College of Homeopathic Education
• Weleda natural health products – available from www.aliveandlovingit.org/marketplace
• Cytoplan Aloe Vera Inner Leaf Gel

Always seek professional medical advice for severe symptoms, significant injuries, suspected heart attack or stroke, persistent infections, breathing difficulties, or any other medical emergency.

What if your skin is trying to tell you something?

In this fascinating conversation, Dr Rosy Daniel and Karen Mellers welcome Weleda skin expert and esthetician trainer Elizabeth King to explore the extraordinary relationship between skin, health, emotions and healing.

Elizabeth shares her journey from a young aromatherapy enthusiast to becoming a pioneer in holistic skin therapy. Drawing on anthroposophic medicine and decades of experience, she explains why skin is far more than a surface to be treated, it is a living mirror of our inner world.

Together, they explore how skin reflects our physical health, emotional wellbeing, stress levels, relationships, boundaries and even our sense of purpose. Through powerful client stories, Elizabeth reveals how skin conditions such as rosacea, acne and psoriasis can sometimes reflect deeper life challenges and emotional patterns.

The conversation also explores the profound healing power of touch, the importance of trust and safety in skin healing, and how mindful, therapeutic facial treatments can calm the nervous system, support emotional wellbeing and reconnect us with ourselves.

Whether you're struggling with a skin condition, interested in holistic health, or simply curious about the deeper wisdom of the body, this episode offers a refreshing and compassionate perspective on skincare and self-care.

In This Episode You'll Discover

• Why skin is often described as a mirror of the psyche
• How emotions, hormones, digestion and stress can influence skin health
• The difference between working on the skin and working with the skin
• What rosacea, acne and other skin conditions may reveal about our lives
• How gentle facial touch helps regulate the nervous system
• Why trust and safety are essential for healing
• The anthroposophic approach to skin and wellbeing
• The healing role of rhythm, movement and presence
• How plant remedies are selected to support different skin conditions
• Why holistic skincare can be a gateway to deeper self-awareness and healing

Memorable Quotes

"The skin is constantly telling us a story."

"Instead of working on the skin, it became about working with the skin."

"The skin only heals when it feels trust and safety."

"The skin is a facilitator, a mediator and a mirror."

"This work is so far from being only about the face; it's a portal to the nervous system, the heart and the soul."

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

🌟 Visit www.aliveandlovingit.org for more resources, and follow us on Instagram

What if the biggest risk factor for heart disease isn't cholesterol, but loneliness?

In this deeply personal and moving episode of Alive and Loving It, Dr Rosy Daniel and Karen Mellers explore the growing epidemic of cardiovascular disease through both a medical and human lens. The conversation is dedicated to their mothers, Margaret and Mary, who both died from cardiovascular illness, and becomes a heartfelt exploration of what truly keeps our hearts healthy.

"The heart is not just a pump. It responds continuously to how we live, eat, move, think, feel and connect with each other."

Drawing on cutting-edge research, integrative medicine, lifestyle science, and personal experience, Rosy reveals why our hearts are far more than mechanical pumps. From the pioneering work of Dr Dean Ornish showing that heart disease can be reversed through lifestyle changes and emotional connection, to fascinating studies on oxytocin, community, purpose and belonging, this episode uncovers the hidden emotional and social dimensions of heart health. You will discover why stress, isolation and unexpressed emotions may be damaging your cardiovascular system, and how love, touch, community and meaningful relationships can become powerful medicine.

Whether you're concerned about heart disease, high cholesterol, stroke risk, blood pressure, stress, or simply want to live a longer and healthier life, this episode offers hope, practical wisdom and a reminder that the human heart thrives on loving connection.

In This Episode we explore:

• Why heart disease remains the world's leading cause of death
• The emotional roots of cardiovascular illness
• The groundbreaking work of Dr Dean Ornish in reversing heart disease
• Why loneliness may be as dangerous as smoking
• The surprising role of oxytocin, the "love hormone"
• How community and belonging protect heart health
• Understanding cholesterol from an integrative perspective
• The impact of chronic stress on blood pressure and heart function
• The connection between grief, loss and heart disease
• Why touch, affection and emotional expression matter
• The importance of purpose, volunteering and meaningful contribution
• Lessons from the world's Blue Zones and longest-lived communities

Key Takeaways

❤️ The heart responds not only to what we eat, but also to how we think, feel and connect.

❤️ Chronic stress drives inflammation, hormonal imbalance and cardiovascular risk.

❤️ Oxytocin—the hormone of safety, trust and connection—helps lower cortisol and support heart health.

❤️ Community, friendship and social support are among the most powerful protective factors against disease.

❤️ Healthy fats, fibre-rich foods, movement and emotional wellbeing work together to protect cardiovascular health.

❤️ Purpose and belonging are essential human needs, not optional extras.

Resources Mentioned

• Dr Dean Ornish's work on reversing coronary artery disease – www.pmri.com
• Love and Survival by Dean Ornish
• The Roseto Study
• The Blue Zones research
• Dr Helen Kingston's Frome ‘Compassion Project’
• Human Givens approach to recognising and meeting our emotional needs
• Anthroposophic remedies including Cardiodoron and Aurum Rose preparations

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

🌟 Visit www.aliveandlovingit.org for more resources, and follow us on Instagram

In this powerful and emotionally charged episode Karen and Dr Rosy explore the growing epidemic of type 2 diabetes and obesity in the UK and worldwide. With obesity affecting:

• 10% of children aged 0–5 rising to 22% by age 10–11
• 5.6 million adults in the UK living with type 2 diabetes
• 66% of UK adults overweight or obese (up from 53% in 1993)
• Diabetes and obesity ruining lives and costing the UK NHS over 20 billion annually

Rosy and Karen call for all of us to get active to diffuse the sugar bomb! Moving through sadness, frustration, and urgency we land in hope: showing how small, consistent lifestyle changes can radically transform health outcomes and reduce reliance on medication.

We unpack how modern lifestyles, ultra-processed foods, stress, and sedentary living are driving metabolic disease and, crucially, how diabetes can be prevented and even reversed through lifestyle change.

From childhood obesity statistics to the hidden role of cortisol and stress in blood sugar imbalance, this episode blends science and hope. The conversation also highlights practical strategies including nutrition, movement, intermittent fasting, and health coaching support to change our behaviour patterns.

This is an essential listen for anyone wanting to understand blood sugar health, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and natural approaches to reversing type 2 diabetes.

Key Topics Covered

• What is diabetes? Type 1 vs Type 2 explained simply
• The global rise of obesity and diabetes in adults and children
• Why ultra-processed foods are driving metabolic disease
• The role of insulin resistance and pancreatic overload in diabetes and obesity
• How stress and cortisol increase blood sugar and fat storage
• The link between diabetes, heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, and dementia, sometimes called type 3 diabetes
• Why sedentary living causes “sitting disease” which is a major risk factor
• The power of walking and movement in reversing disease
• Food as medicine: fibre, whole foods, and low-GI eating
• Why data from wearables like continuous glucose monitors changes everything
• The emotional and psychological roots of overeating
• Having Hope: reversal of type 2 diabetes is possible!

The episode emphasises that type 2 diabetes can be reversed through:

• Daily walking (even 1 mile per day shows reductions in mortality and need for medication)
• Reducing ultra-processed foods and refined sugars
• Increasing fibre, legumes, whole grains, and vegetables
• Managing stress and raised cortisol levels which releases stored sugar into the blood
• Eating within a shorter time window -known as intermittent fasting)
• Using data tools like continuous glucose monitors to see which foods spike blood glucose
• Health coaching, motivational and behavioural support for sustainable change

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest introduction

03:02 The alarming rise of diabetes and obesity

06:50 Understanding diabetes: Type 1 vs Type 2

08:11 The impact of stress on blood sugar and fat storage

12:01 Serious health consequences of unmanaged diabetes

15:41 Monitoring blood glucose and personal control

17:49 The economic and social costs of diabetes and obesity

20:38 Lifestyle changes and natural remedies for prevention

25:35 Policy and societal measures to combat the epidemic

28:35 Dietary strategies: fiber, low GI foods, and traditional diets

36:25 Psychological patterns and emotional eating

37:42 Natural supplements and herbal remedies

43:45 Changing social norms and food marketing

49:59 Hope and practical steps for diagnosis and management

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

🌟 Visit www.aliveandlovingit.org for more resources, and follow us on Instagram

In this rich, fascinating and deeply honest episode of the Alive and Loving It podcast, wellness broadcaster Karen Mellers is joined by integrative physician Dr Rosy Daniel and holistic wellbeing expert Evelyn Liddell-Davies to explore the complex world of digestion, gut health and the powerful connection between the digestive system, stress and emotional wellbeing.

From acid reflux and indigestion to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, constipation, food intolerances and gut inflammation, this episode dives deep into why so many people are struggling with digestive problems and what we can do to support healing naturally.

The conversation explores how digestion is affected not only by what we eat, but by how we eat, when we eat, how stressed we are, how well we rest and how connected we are to our bodies. Rosy explains the physiology of digestion and the microbiome, while Evelyn shares powerful insights into constitutional body types, food sensitivities and holistic digestive support.

Together they discuss:

• The gut-brain connection and how stress seriously inhibits digestion
• Acid reflux, indigestion and the risk of Helicobacter Pylori infection
• IBS, bloating, constipation and gut dysbiosis
• Candida overgrowth and sugar cravings
• Food intolerances, allergies and leaky gut
• The role of fibre, hydration and bowel transit time
• Why ultra-processed foods may damage gut health
• The importance of probiotics, digestive rhythms and mindful eating
• The link between inflammation, acidity and chronic pain
• Natural digestive remedies including lemon balm, warming herbs and soothing botanicals
• Gut health, liver support and the microbiome
• The connection between soil health, biodiversity and human wellbeing

This episode also explores how digestive symptoms can appear far beyond the gut itself reminding us that the body constantly communicates what it needs. This may be through skin irritation, fatigue, inflammation, disrupted sleep and even anxiety as science shows us that sugar fed bacteria in the gut can worsen anxiety.

Warm, funny, practical and deeply insightful, this conversation offers a holistic roadmap to digestive health.

Chapters

06:10 Understanding Digestion: The Gut's Role

09:14 Dysbiosis and Its Impact on Health

12:06 Acid Reflux: Causes and Solutions

15:09 Personal Experiences with Gut Health

18:00 Types of Digestive Personalities

20:59 The Mind-Gut Connection

23:59 The Importance of Fiber and Rhythm in Diet

26:59 Managing IBS and Stress

27:41 Holistic Approaches to Wellness

30:42 The Impact of Acidity on Health

35:03 Food Sensitivities and Intolerances

39:31 The Role of Digestion in Overall Health

44:49 Natural Remedies for Digestive Issues

50:23 The Connection Between Soil and Human Health

Resources

Weleda Products- See the Market Place on www.aliveandlovingit.net

Helicobacter pylori test – Free from your GP

GI Effects Test by Genova Labs - www.gdx.net – Dr Rosy Daniel can help you to get a test

Soil Association - https://www.soilassociation.org

Biodynamic Farming - https://www.biodynamics.com

Melissa (Lemon Balm) for digestion - https://www.herbco.com and About Herbs www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

🌟 Visit www.aliveandlovingit.org for more resources, and follow us on Instagram

In this powerful and compassionate episode Karen and Rosy explore asthma from a truly holistic perspective, looking beyond inhalers and medication to understand the deeper physical, environmental and emotional causes behind breathing difficulties. If you or someone you love struggles with asthma, allergies, wheezing, recurrent chest infections or stress-related breathing issues, this episode is filled with insight, compassion and practical support.Together, they unpack what happens during an asthma attack, why the airways constrict in response to irritants and emotions, and how stress, grief, fear and emotional suppression can directly affect the lungs and nervous system.

The conversation covers:

• What asthma is and how inflammation affects the bronchial airways
• The difference between asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and bronchiectasis
• Common asthma triggers including pollen, mould, dust mites, pollution, chemicals and pet dander
• The mind-body connection between asthma, stress, anxiety and unresolved grief
• How high alert in our nervous system can increase susceptibility to asthma attacks and infections
• Why emotional safety and self-regulation are central to breathing easier and preventing asthma attacks
• Breathwork techniques including counted breathing, pranayama and alternate nostril breathing
• The role of forests, nature and sea air in supporting respiratory health
• Conventional asthma treatments including inhalers and steroids — and where they can be lifesaving
• Integrative approaches such as meditation, EFT, acupuncture, shiatsu, herbal medicine, aromatherapy and homeopathy
• Potential food triggers including dairy and wheat, plus the value of food diaries and intolerance testing
• Natural remedies discussed including omega oils, aloe vera and essential oil blends for respiratory support

Karen also shares her deeply personal journey of improving her lung health through emotional healing, breathwork and nervous system regulation, while Rosy explains how the lungs are viewed as the “seat of grief” in Chinese medicine.

This episode offers hope, practical tools and a fresh understanding of asthma empowering listeners to explore not only what affects their breathing physically, but also to become aware of where they truly “breathe easy” emotionally and spiritually.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & overview of asthma
01:13 – What asthma is & how irritants affect breathing
03:11 – Recognizing symptoms & common misdiagnoses
05:07 – Asthma vs. other lung conditions
06:05 – Triggers: dust, pollen, smoke, pollution & mold
07:40 – Stress, emotions & asthma sensitivity
08:40 – The body’s protective response to irritants
09:37 – Natural environments that support easier breathing
12:56 – Emotional patterns, childhood influences & family stress
16:00 – Fear, grief, stress & the nervous system connection
22:18 – Breathwork, heart coherence & nervous system regulation
25:23 – Pranayama, nasal breathing & relaxation methods
27:24 – Medications, bronchodilators & balanced treatment approaches
30:17 – Daily breathing exercises & prevention routines
31:54 – Emotional healing, vulnerability & self-expression
36:13 – Trauma, triggers & emotional management
37:36 – Herbal remedies, aromatherapy & nutrition support
41:36 – Supplements, EFT, homeopathy & personal healing paths
44:24 – Hope, awareness & long-term asthma management
45:13 – Final thoughts: patience, love & self-compassion

To become a guardian of the podcast go to aliveandlovingitguardians.org

✨ Enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for our Alive and Loving It community with the code ALIVEPOD-15 at checkout. Discover more at cytoplan.co.uk

Join our Alive and Loving it Community find the loving support that you need to change, grow and heal

🌟 Visit www.aliveandlovingit.org for more resources, and follow us on Instagram