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#35 The Gut-Hormone Connection: Why Your Microbiome Matters

#35 The Gut-Hormone Connection: Why Your Microbiome Matters

naturopath paris carina greweling
THRIVE Podcast by : Carina Greweling on

#35 The Gut-Hormone Connection: Why Your Microbiome Matters

The Gut-Hormone Connection: Why Your Gut Microbiome Matters

Are you experiencing PMS, estrogen dominance, weight gain, thyroid issues, depression, exhaustion, or insomnia? If so, it’s time to prioritize your gut health. Your gut plays a pivotal role in regulating hormones, and addressing it can be a crucial step in achieving hormonal balance.

Hormonal issues and gut problems often go hand in hand, creating a complex interplay. It’s a bit like the classic chicken-and-egg scenario – it’s challenging to determine which came first. On one hand, an imbalanced microbiome can disrupt your hormone equilibrium. Conversely, hormonal imbalances can contribute to digestive issues. Regardless of the origin, when striving to conquer a hormonal imbalance, regardless of its manifestations, your overall health takes precedence.

Tune in and discover:

  • The Gut-Hormone Connection
  • Leaky Gut Syndrome and it’s Impact on Hormonal Imbalance
  • Estrogen Metabolism and Gut Flora
  • Thyroid Health and Gut Connection
  • Mood, Appetite and Gut Health
  • Factors Affecting Gut Health

Check out the Ayurveda Hormone Detox

#34 Slow Living and Ayurveda – The Quality of Slowness

#34 Slow Living and Ayurveda – The Quality of Slowness

naturopath paris carina greweling
THRIVE Podcast by : Carina Greweling on

#34 Slow Living and Ayurveda – The Quality of Slowness

#34 Slow Living and Ayurveda

Today, join me to delve into the concept of Slow Living and Ayurveda.

In our modern, bustling world, we often find ourselves caught up in a web of deadlines, commitments, and constant distractions, which can leave us feeling disconnected from our own essence and neglectful of our overall well-being.

It is precisely in this context that the philosophy of slow living takes center stage, providing a beacon of hope for those seeking to recalibrate their lives. Slow living encourages us to shift our focus towards what truly matters and disengage from the relentless hustle and bustle of our daily routines.

At its core, slow living is a profound philosophy that champions deceleration and mindfulness. It stands in stark contrast to the rapid, high-stress lifestyles that have become all too common. Instead, slow living invites us to embrace conscious living and allocate precious time to nurture our inner selves.

Ayurveda and Slow Living form a harmonious union, as both philosophies share a commitment to deceleration and mindfulness. Ayurveda, the ancient holistic system of healing, seamlessly complements the slow living approach.

Tune in and discover:

  • My personal perspective on the essence of slow living.
  • The shortcomings of the “higher, faster, further” ethos and why it ultimately falls short of fulfilling our true needs.
  • The intricate connection between Ayurveda and the principles of slow living.
  • Practical insights into how each one of us can craft our unique slow living blueprint tailored to our individual Ayurvedic constitution.
  • Why different Ayurvedic constitution types, known as “doshas,” necessitate distinct approaches to slow living.

Much love to you!

#33 February AstroVeda: Astro Guidance & Ayurvedic Wisdom

#33 February AstroVeda: Astro Guidance & Ayurvedic Wisdom

naturopath paris carina greweling
THRIVE Podcast by : Carina Greweling on

#33 February AstroVeda: Astro Guidance & Ayurvedic Wisdom

#33 February AstroVeda: Astrological Guidance & Ayurvedic Wisdom

Welcome to another episode with Lauren and Carina, offering astrological guidance infused with Ayurvedic wisdom for February.

Listen as Lauren and I discuss:

  • Main Planetary Changes in February.
  • Pluto’s shift signifies a major transformation impacting power dynamics.
  • Emphasis on maintaining routine (Dinacharya) aligning with circadian rhythms.
  • Tips for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha types to cope with change.
  • Nature as a means to balance the nervous system and enhance overall well-being.
  • New Moon in Aquarius and Full Moon in Virgo.
  • Liver health to emotional balance and setting boundaries.
  • Impact of liver health on thyroid, insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones.
  • How to deal with perfectionism and self-criticism.

Join our upcoming events:

Ibiza Retreat with Lauren

Ayurveda Hormone Detox with Carina

Feminine Resilience, Ayurveda & Entrepreneurship – Katie Silcox

Feminine Resilience, Ayurveda & Entrepreneurship – Katie Silcox

naturopath paris carina greweling
THRIVE Podcast by : Carina Greweling on

Feminine Resilience, Ayurveda & Entrepreneurship – Katie Silcox

#31 Feminine Resilience, Ayurveda & Entrepreneurship: Insights from Katie Silcox

This week, we’re delighted to welcome the incredible Katie Silcox as our guest. Notably, Katie is a New York Times Best-Selling author of “Healthy, Happy, Sexy” and “Glow-Worthy.” Moreover, she’s the visionary founder of The Shakti School—an online certification hub for women-centered holistic Ayurvedic wellness.

Through her work, Katie not only imparts valuable knowledge but also serves as a beacon, tirelessly inspiring and empowering women to radiate in their daily lives.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Exploring Ayurveda and Feminine Empowerment: Embark on a voyage into Katie’s initial interest in Ayurveda and feminine empowerment. Delve into what makes her an authority in this transformative field.
  • Feminine Energy in Entrepreneurship: Uncover the powerful link between understanding and embracing feminine energy, elevating a woman’s journey in entrepreneurship and life. Explore the essential feminine leadership qualities that empower women in the business world.
  • Ayurveda and Self-Care for Women: Balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood is indeed no small feat. Katie generously shares Ayurvedic and Yoga-based self-care practices for women to maintain vitality and prevent burnout.
  • Ayurvedic Balance in Work and Personal Life: Gain profound insights into Ayurveda’s perspective on balancing work and personal life. Additionally, receive valuable tips on creating a self-care routine that aligns seamlessly.
  • Navigating Challenges with Ayurvedic Principles: Learn how women entrepreneurs can strategically leverage Ayurvedic principles to adeptly navigate stress, setbacks, and boost resilience in their business journey.
  • Ayurvedic Rituals for Success: Explore a realm of Ayurvedic rituals and practices that serve as pillars supporting women in cultivating success and abundance in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
  • Stories of Transformation: In this segment, Katie shares awe-inspiring stories of women who have successfully integrated Ayurveda, feminine energy, and entrepreneurship, effecting meaningful change in their lives.
  • Ayurvedic Wellness Coach Training: Discover more about the unique opportunity to study with Katie and what sets her Ayurvedic Wellness Coach training apart in the field.
  • Valuable Lessons Learned: As we gracefully wrap up, Katie shares the most valuable lesson she has learned throughout her journey.

To explore more about Katie and her work, including details on her Ayurvedic Wellness Coach training, visit here.

Explore Katie’s Glow Worthy Meditations

Connect with Katie on Instagram

#30 January AstroVeda: Ayurvedic Wisdom & Astrological Guidance

#30 January AstroVeda: Ayurvedic Wisdom & Astrological Guidance

naturopath paris carina greweling
THRIVE Podcast by : Carina Greweling on

#30 January AstroVeda: Ayurvedic Wisdom & Astrological Guidance

#30 January AstroVeda: Ayurvedic Wisdom & Astro Guidance with Lauren & Carina

Lauren and Carina kick off the first episode of AstroVeda, promising monthly astrological guidance infused with Ayurvedic wisdom.

In this episode, Lauren enlightens us about the current Capricorn season, emphasising the importance of grounding ourselves for a balanced start to the year. We explore the New Moon in Capricorn on January 11th, a perfect time to set intentions for the next six months. Carina shares her appreciation for Capricorn’s energy and how she aligns her practices with Ayurveda during this season. Lauren then prepares us for the upcoming Aquarius season, heralding a time of rebellion and innovation.

Shifting gears, Carina introduces Ayurvedic nutrition tips for January, highlighting the need to balance Kapha and Vata doshas as we transition into winter. The discussion touches on sleep habits and self-care routines, emphasizing the significance of getting enough sleep and maintaining circadian alignment for hormonal balance.

As we anticipate the full moon in Leo on January 25th, Lauren shares insights into embracing creativity, self-confidence, and authentic expression. Carina talks about rituals around self-love and letting go of egoic pridefulness to harness the lunar energy.

Join us every first Sunday of the month for your dose of AstroVeda inspiration.

Sign up to Lauren’s next Lunar Yin Yoga online class here.

Explore the breakfast recipes at the following link:
Sweet Kitchari Recipe and Amaranth Porridge

Unlocking Vitality: Understanding Toxins aka Ama in Ayurveda

Unlocking Vitality: Understanding Toxins aka Ama in Ayurveda

Today, let’s delve into toxins aka Ama in Ayurveda! What Ama is, how it adversely affects us, how we can identify if there’s an accumulation of Ama in our body, and most importantly, what we can do about it!

In Ayurvedic nutrition and medicine, great emphasis is placed on the compatibility of food. This is based on Ayurveda’s fundamental assumption that individual constitution (Prakriti) and the current balance of Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) in a person must be considered to promote health and well-being. Foods that do not go well together or interfere with each other are termed “Virya-Virya Avarodhak,” meaning they can impair the effect or potential of another food and can lead to Ama build up.

What is Ama?

In Ayurvedic medicine, the term “Ama” refers to undigested or unmetabolised metabolic residues in the body. Ama occurs when digestive strength (Agni) is weakened and unable to fully digest and assimilate food. OR: When incompatible food is consumed!

So, if the food is not properly digested, leaving incomplete, toxic substances, these waste products can burden the body. These sticky deposits clog the body’s channels, preferentially traveling to fatty tissues and joints. This is how the body becomes congested.

Fatigue, chronic itchy skin (pruritus), pain in the muscles and joints and abdominal pain, for example, are typical signs of Ama. But there are more signs of Ama, which I will list shortly.

Signs and Characteristics of Ama

As already mentioned before, Ama is considered a toxic substance that results from incomplete digestion, leading to the accumulation of waste products. The accumulation of Ama is associated with various health issues and is viewed as a precursor to many diseases in Ayurveda.

Therefore, recognizing signs and characteristics of Ama can help identify its presence. Here are common symptoms associated with Ama:

Excess Mucus Formation:

  • Ama tends to create an imbalance leading to increased mucus production.
  • This excess mucus can manifest as nasal congestion, throat irritation, or respiratory issues.

Morning Heaviness and Fatigue:

  • Individuals with Ama often wake up feeling heavy and fatigued.
  • A sense of lethargy may persist throughout the day.

Coated Tongue and Bad Breath:

  • Ama accumulation can result in a white or sticky coating on the tongue.
  • It may contribute to unpleasant breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Digestive Issues:

  • Ama affects the digestive system, leading to issues like indigestion, bloating, and gas.
  • Stools may become sticky, foul-smelling, or irregular.

Joint Pain and Stiffness:

  • Ama tends to accumulate in the joints, causing pain, stiffness, or discomfort.
  • Conditions like arthritis may be aggravated by Ama.

Unpleasant Body Odor:

  • Ama accumulation can contribute to an unpleasant body odor.
  • Despite regular hygiene practices, a lingering, stale smell may persist.

Mental Fog and Lack of Clarity:

  • Ama affects mental clarity, leading to foggy thinking and poor concentration.
  • Individuals may experience a sense of confusion or mental dullness.

Skin Issues:

  • Ama in the bloodstream can manifest as skin problems like acne, eczema, or rashes.
  • The skin may appear dull or lack a healthy glow.

Low Energy Levels:

  • Individuals with Ama often report low energy levels and a lack of vitality.
  • Fatigue may persist even after adequate rest.

Foul-Smelling Sweat and Urine:

  • Ama can contribute to unpleasant body odors, including foul-smelling sweat and urine.
  • Even with proper hygiene, these odors may persist.

Additionally, there are signs that manifest depending on individual body constitution, which can be identified in a professional Ayurvedic consultation. If interested, feel free to contact me, especially if you want specific and tailored measures for your diet and lifestyle. What dietary habits and life situations promote the build up of Ama?

Dietary Habits and Lifestyle Practices That Form Ama

Let’s delve into the ways our food choices and daily routines contribute to the accumulation of Ama. Some factors that lead to the build up of Ama are:

Unsuitable Diet for Your Dosha Type:

  • Consuming foods that are not aligned with your specific Dosha constitution.
  • Ignoring imbalances and not adjusting your diet to address Dosha-related issues.

Incompatible Food Combinations:

  • Mixing foods that have conflicting qualities, according to Ayurvedic principles such as eating milk with fruits.
  • Combining incompatible tastes, temperatures, or textures in a single meal.

Excessive Food Intake:

  • Overeating or consistently consuming quantities beyond what your body can digest.
  • Eating large meals late at night when digestion tends to be weaker.

Irregular Eating Patterns:

  • Skipping meals or eating at irregular intervals, disrupting the digestive process.
  • Inconsistency in meal timing and frequency.

Unhealthy Fasting or Cleansing Practices:

  • Engaging in extreme or unbalanced fasting without proper guidance.
  • Undertaking detoxification practices without considering individual needs.

Processed and Unnatural Foods:

  • Consuming processed, canned, or genetically modified foods.
  • Relying on artificial additives, preservatives, and unhealthy cooking oils.

Ignoring Seasonal Changes:

  • Disregarding seasonal variations in food choices and adjusting your diet accordingly.
  • Not aligning lifestyle practices with the natural rhythms of the environment.

Sedentary Lifestyle:

  • Lack of regular physical activity and exercise.
  • Prolonged periods of sitting or leading a predominantly sedentary life.

Inadequate Hydration:

  • Insufficient water intake leading to poor digestion and toxin accumulation.
  • Consuming excessive amounts of caffeinated or sugary beverages.

Stress and Emotional Imbalances:

  • Chronic stress and emotional disturbances affecting the digestive fire (Agni).
  • Emotional eating or eating in response to stress without awareness.

Poor Sleep Patterns:

  • Inconsistent sleep schedules and insufficient rest.
  • Sleeping immediately after meals or staying awake late into the night.

Addressing these habits through mindful dietary choices, lifestyle adjustments, and Ayurvedic practices can help prevent the buildup of Ama and support overall well-being.

What Can You Do to Avoid Ama?

If a substantial amount of Ama has accumulated, it needs to be “cooked” first to eliminate it from the body. In this regard, periodic cleansing and detoxification practices, such as my Hormone Ayurveda Detox, are recommended. If you want to delve deeply into Ayurveda, understand your body’s symptoms, and learn all the self-care practices for self-healing, my program Hormone Thrive might be a good fit for you.

Generally, there’re some things that you can integrate into daily life to prevent Ama:

Mindful Eating:

  • Choose foods that suit your Dosha constitution.
  • Pay attention to taste, temperature, and texture combinations in your meals.
  • Eat in a calm, relaxed environment, focusing on your food.

Balanced Diet:

  • Follow a well-balanced diet with a variety of fresh, seasonal, and whole foods.
  • Adjust your diet based on changes in season and your individual needs.

Proper Food Combining:

  • Be mindful of combining foods that complement each other in terms of digestion.
  • Avoid conflicting combinations that may hinder digestion.

Moderation in Food Intake:

  • Practice mindful portion control to prevent overeating.
  • Be attentive to hunger and fullness cues during meals.

Regular Eating Schedule:

  • Establish regular meal times to support consistent digestion.
  • Avoid skipping meals or eating at irregular intervals.

Healthy Fasting Practices:

  • If you choose to fast, do so mindfully and with proper guidance.
  • Consider intermittent fasting approaches that suit your body.

Whole, Natural Foods:

  • Opt for fresh, unprocessed, and organic foods.
  • Minimize the intake of processed, canned, or genetically modified foods.

Hydration:

  • Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
  • Limit the consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages.

Regular Physical Activity:

  • Engage in regular exercise or physical activities that suit your body type.
  • Avoid prolonged periods of sitting and incorporate movement into your routine.

Stress Management:

  • Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
  • Cultivate emotional well-being to support a healthy digestive system.

Adequate Sleep:

  • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule aligned with natural circadian rhythms.
  • Allow some time between your last meal and bedtime.

By incorporating these Ayurvedic principles into your lifestyle, you can create a holistic approach to prevent Ama buildup and promote well-being. Remember, individual variations exist, so it’s beneficial to tailor these practices to your specific needs and consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalised guidance. Reach out if you’re interested in a consultation.

Your Body is Your Ally

Treat your body with respect and help it rid itself of Ama, which significantly burdens it. And above all, don’t drive yourself crazy: the 70/30 rule is my guiding principle, which I also convey in all consultations. If you stick to the recommendations 70% of the time, you’re doing great, and your body will thank you. Measure, quantity, and frequency are the deciding factors. Our bodies are resilient and can typically manage the remaining 30%, especially when you engage in detoxes twice a year—after the winter in March/April and post-summer around October.