In this episode of Unlocking Senior Resources, I sit down with Natalie Zolotareva, founder of Mind Your Wellness and a board-certified nurse coach, to explore the powerful intersection of mindfulness, health, and disease prevention. Drawing from over two decades in ICU nursing and a deep passion for holistic healing, Natalie shares how simple lifestyle changes—especially around nutrition and mindset—can lead to dramatic improvements in health outcomes, even for those with chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease.

We talk about the impact of mindfulness on aging, the hidden dangers in our food system, and how beliefs and language can shape our health trajectory. Whether you’re a caregiver, a senior, or someone navigating your own wellness journey, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical tips that could transform the way you live and age.

Episode Highlights

[0:00] Introduction

[1:01] Natalie shares her journey from ICU nurse to board-certified health coach

[2:38] The role and unique advantage of being a nurse coach with a medical background

[3:45] Why mindfulness is at the core of lasting behavior change

[6:16] How music can awaken memories and spark emotional breakthroughs in seniors

[10:08] How Natalie supports women over 40 with weight loss through a holistic, flexible approach

[11:56] The importance of whole foods and reading labels for long-term wellness

[19:04] How having a purpose can directly improve physical and emotional health

[23:16] Stories of disease reversal through small, sustainable lifestyle changes

[31:20] Risks of microplastics in fish and reconsidering “healthy” animal products

[35:54] Gut health, the microbiome, and their impact on mental health and focus

[41:10] Stress isn’t always bad—how to reframe and use it for personal growth

[44:45] What mindfulness truly means and how to practice it without extra time or tools

5 Key Takeaways

1. Prevention beats treatment – Keeping people healthy before they end up in the ICU is more impactful than treating them at their sickest.

2. Mindfulness is powerful medicine – Being present and intentional can reshape habits, improve brain health, and even slow aging.

3. Nutrition is key to disease reversal – A Whole Foods, plant-forward diet can significantly improve or even reverse chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

4. Small steps lead to big results – Natalie emphasizes progress over perfection, showing how incremental changes can create lasting transformation.

5. You don’t have to outsource your health – With the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your well-being and live with greater vitality and purpose.

Links & Resources

• Resources on plant-based eating: Forks Over Knives, Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn

• Book mentioned: Erroneous Zones by Wayne Dyer

• Insight into the Blue Zones longevity research

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