This week, (episode 50 and the final episode of Season 3), I’m speaking with Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz, a curandera, indigenous foods activist, and natural foods chef whose work is deeply rooted in the healing properties of all earth medicines. Her business name came to be after friends lovingly called her "the kitchen curandera", as she was often creating healing foods and remedies in her tiny adobe kitchen.  Her work has been featured in Food & Wine, Spirituality & Health, and on Padma Lakshmi's Taste The Nation, among many other platforms. Felicia lives in the Sonoran Desert with her husband. Her first book, Earth Medicines, will be released next month.Resources:REGISTER October 28th Free Event: Body Neutrality Salon with Helen PhelanPre-order Earth MedicinesConnect with Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz:Felicia’s WebsiteFelicia’s InstagramFor the full show notes, visit ournaturepodcast.com/episodes

Our Nature

Earth Medicines and Indigenous Wisdom with Curandera Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz (Season 3 Finale!)

The earth is a schoolroom, and what a joy to be able to continue to remember through all these wild and wonderful means.” - Ayesha Ophelia If you’re looking to expand and transform your relationship to self expression and creativity, this episode is for you. Ayesha Ophelia is a self identified spiritual provocateur who is passionate about women, plants and human potential.Ayesha’s offerings include The Girlfriend Manifesto where she shares a daily dose of inspiration, spirituality, adventure, self-love and sisterhood. She also offers private support, group experiences and a membership community called the Society of Wild Hearts.Resources:Leave a review of Our Nature!Ayesha’s InstagramAs always, there are more resources and helpful information in the show notes, which you can find at ournaturepodcast.com/episodes. 

How to Become Creatively Fearless with Spiritual Provocateur Ayesha Ophelia

This week is the second part of an interview I had with Vedic astrologer Blaine Watson. In this final part of my conversation with Blaine, we discuss: How Blaine’s interpretation of a chart changes over the years as that person evolves and transcend, What it means to live a successful life from a Jyotish perspective, how often Blaine looks at his chart, why knowing when to have Yagyas done helps create a better and brighter future, Jyotish for our dog friends :), what Blaine would say to those who are skeptical of Jyotish, how someone would know if they’re ready for a reading from Blaine, and what happens to your chart when you reach enlightenment.Blaine has a level of consciousness that is powerful and we talk about pretty advanced subject matter in this conversation. If you are a seeker, which I know many of you are, and are interested in being a catalyst for your own evolution, this conversation is definitely for you.Resources:Our Nature InstagramRegister for Our Nature x Good Move Mini RetreatEP 29: Movement for Every(body) with Jules Bakshi of Good MoveEP 47: The Universe and You with Vedic Astrologer Blaine Watson (Part One)Ramana MaharshiTo book a session with Blaine, email: blainepw@gmail.com For full show notes, please head to: www.ournaturepodcast.com/episodes

The Universe and You with Vedic Astrologer Blaine Watson (Part Two)

This week on the podcast, I’m speaking with my Vedic astrologer - Blaine Watson. Blaine has been a life-long student of astrology, having studied it since childhood. In 1980, on a trip to India, he became specifically interested in Vedic astrology and after almost 9 years of self-study, the Dean of the Department of Sanskrit at Benares Hindu University in Varanasi, India certified him as an expert in Jyotish. He’s been a personal astrologer for the past 30 years, seeing over 30,000 clients in over 30 countries. And because the Vedic tradition prohibits him from advertising, clients find him only via word of mouth, which is a true testament to his expertise. This episode is part one of a two-part series on Vedic astrology, karma and transcendence. In this conversation, we discuss: Blaine’s relationship to nature as a child growing up on a farm, what led him to seek out astrology when he was very young, the role of past life karma in a person’s present life, all about Jyotish: what it is, its purpose, the difference between eastern and western astrology, what speeds up the process of our evolution, the incredible thing that astrologers in India do to gain trust from their clients, why there is no such thing as free will, and why it’s almost impossible to miss your dharma (which is your life’s purpose). Enjoy!Resources:Book an exploratory call for HomecomingOur Nature EP 16: The Architecture of Nature With Vaastu Consultant Hunter CressmanTo book a session with Blaine, email: blainepw@gmail.com  

The Universe and You with Vedic Astrologer Blaine Watson (Part One)

This week, I’m speaking with Helen Phelan, a body neutrality pilates and movement instructor who believes that everyone deserves to feel good in their body. Helen’s approach to fitness and health is one centered around how exercise makes you feel, versus how it makes you look. She uses conscious breathing techniques to enhance bodily intuition and high repetition sequences that encourage body awareness and mindfulness. As a former professional dancer, Helen developed disordered eating and exercise habits that caused a lot of self-criticism and harm. It was in her recovery that she realized just how often the boutique fitness industry subtly encouraged disordered eating and body shaming. She believes that the healing impact of the body neutral movement on mental health is the most important result exercise could give anyone.For full show notes, head to: https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodesConnect with Helen:Helen’s InstagramHelen’s WebsiteResources:EP 29: Movement for Every(body) with Jules Bakshi of Good MoveHelen Phelan Studio

How to Develop a Kinder, Compassionate Relationship with Your Body Featuring Pilates and Movement Instructor Helen Phelan

Today’s guest is a very dear friend of mine – Alexa Gantous of Trash Talk Studio. Alexa is a creative brand strategist and writer focused on eco-consulting. Her work uses ecological innovation and the power of play as a way to co-create a positive cultural impact. She is also the co-founder of LitterRally, a trash pick up dance party that elevates joy as a radical form of resistance and connects people to environmental action through fun. She’s a contributing writer for Mind Body Green and host of the Trash Talk Studio Podcast where she interviews guests from different industries, disciplines and perspectives about how they apply environmentalism to their respective fields.Resources:HOMECOMING courseTimothy MortonPackage Free ShopTrash is for TossersAlain de Botton: A Gentler Kinder Philosophy of Success Ted TalkMind Body Green Article: Why I Consider Environmentalism the Ultimate Act of Emotional Awareness & Self-Love>> Our detailed show notes can be found at: https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodesConnect with Alexa: Alexa’s InstagramAlexa’s Website------------------------------------HOMECOMINGOur Nature's Newest Offering: **HOMECOMING** - A four-day retreat + six-week course ~ 2 spots left! (Deadline to book an exploratory call is Monday, August 9th)CLICK HERE to schedule an exploratory call ~ 

A Joyful Approach to Climate Activism Featuring Writer, Eco-Strategist and Podcast Host Alexa Gantous

“We are all interacting with the energetic world already whether we are aware of it or not.” This week, I’m speaking with my favorite human on this earth - my partner David Sleininger. For those of you who have been friends of Our Nature for a while, you’ll remember David because he was a guest on Episode 19 of Season 1 where he shared his incredible healing journey, guided by his intuition. Today, we do a deep dive into somatic energy healing - what it is, how it works, why it matters, David’s gift of clairsentience, why more people don’t do energy work, the root of many physical and emotional illnesses and the incredible healing that energy work can offer. I speak with David every day, but it was truly an honor and a joy to connect with him in this episode. David is not only a powerful healer, he’s an equally powerful speaker. Embodiment is necessary in order to connect with nature in any meaningful capacity, so if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or a lot of mental activity, this episode is for you. Enjoy!>> Our detailed show notes can be found at: https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodesConnect with David:David’s InstagramDavid’s Website------------------------------------Announcing Our Nature's Newest Offering: **HOMECOMING**A four-day retreat + six-week course ~ only a couple spots remain CLICK HERE to schedule an informational call ~More details on HOMECOMING

Your Body as Nature featuring Somatic Energy Healer David Sleininger

This week I’m chatting with Tonya Papanikolov, the founder of Rainbo. Rainbo is a medicinal mushroom based line of supplements and functional foods whose mission is to optimize health and open minds with medicinal mushrooms. They believe that plants, food and fungi are medicine for the body, mind and consciousness. What I appreciate so much about Rainbo is how educating people on the healing power of fungi is so central to their purpose and that is exactly what we do in this episode! In this conversation we discuss: How Tonya’s own healing journey turned her attention towards mushrooms, the definition of medicinal mushrooms, how mushrooms heal ecosystems, what mushrooms can teach us about ourselves, Tonya’s theory about why they’re trending right now and Tonya even briefly goes over the different tinctures Rainbo offers and their benefits. The world of fungi is so vast and complex that there’s no way we could cover everything in this episode, but if you’re new to the medicinal mushroom world like I was, I encourage you to check out Rainbo’s website, where you’ll find so many helpful resources about this magical, mysterious mushroom world.RESOURCES:EP 19: (Season 1 Finale!) Going all in, with Homesteader David SleiningerHow To Change Your Mind BookBraiding Sweetgrass BookEP 13: Mushrooms, Mycelium and More with Andrew Carter, Co-founder and CEO of Smallhold>> Our detailed show notes can be found at: https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodes-----------Announcing Our Nature's Newest Offering: **HOMECOMING** A four-day retreat + six-week course, currently with early bird pricing CLICK HERE to schedule a call by Friday June 25th and lock in early bird pricing!Note: If you book a call with me by Friday, June 25th  (even  if the call is after June 25th) you can lock in early bird rates More details on HOMECOMING  

Medicinal Mushroom Magic with Tonya Papanikolov of Rainbo

This week I’m speaking with Angelo Grinceri, a functional wellness practitioner, eco grower and coach.  I’ve known Angelo for about five years and it’s been a joy to watch his life unfold with all of the unexpected twists and turns of a meandering stream. Angelo is someone who spent the majority of his early career in the world of fitness and personal training where appearances often mattered more than anything that was happening on the inside. He trained Victoria’s Secret models and in 2016 was named People Magazine’s Sexiest Trainer Alive, an accolade that became a catalyst for deep inner reflection and re-evaluation. In 2020, Angelo left his fitness career, a long-term relationship and his home in New York City for a life in the country. He recently moved back to New York after a three month trip in Africa where he worked on a conservancy, lived in the bush, and helped build sustainable homes. In the process of living so close to the land and observing nature through tracking wildlife, Angelo re-discovered himself and what truly mattered. Resources:Alyssa’s interview for the Pull It Together podcastThe Call to Unpack EventHolisticism Summer Solstice FestivalRise of Superman BookPower of Now BookFree Solo moviePeople Magazine Feature on Angelo For complete show notes, head to: https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodes

A Life in Flow with Functional Wellness Practitioner, Eco Grower and Coach Angelo Grinceri

This week, I’m speaking with Courtney Lanctot founder of The Unpopular Black @theunpopularblack, whose mission is to "encourage Black adventure beyond the stereotypes and narratives of what Black people ‘don’t do.'" The goal of her company is to “show a real representation of Black people adventuring and provide information on how to access outdoor spaces and adventure activities that have been white facing/focused for far too long.” Nature is a place where we can all find belonging and I believe it's essential for each of us to work towards making the outdoors feel inclusive for everyone. Courtney’s vision is so powerful and I’m so inspired by the work she is doing in the outdoor space! Resources:Braiding SweetgrassThe Unpopular BlackThe Adventure DirectoryFor full show notes, visit: www.ournaturepodcast.com/episodesTo sign up for the Our Nature Newsletter, head to: ournaturepodcast.comOn what it was like to grow up in Alaska surrounded by nature, but disconnected from itWhat nature offers usWhat inspired Courtney to start The Unpopular BlackWhy Black people don’t feel like there’s a place for them on the trailThe 3 pillars of The Unpopular BlackHow The Unpopular Black helps Black people feel safe in the outdoorsThe delicate balance of pushing yourself out of your comfort zone while also creating a foundation of safety in natureThe challenges of putting away your phone so that you can be present in natureCourtney’s struggle to be present while also capturing contentWhere to begin if you’d like to cultivate a deeper relationship with nature through adventuringHow Courtney’s relationship with nature has shifted since starting The Unpopular BlackVision for The Unpopular Black going forwardWhat Courtney is most proud ofThe Last 5 Questions

Encouraging Black Adventure with Courtney Lanctot of The Unpopular Black

Today’s episode is the final part of a series of conversations with my Ayurvedic teacher Dr. Bhaswati Bhattacharya. As many of you already know, Dr. Bhaswati is so incredible. I’ve been studying with her at the Dinacharya Institute through the Dinacharya master classes for about four years now. She is a biomedical scientist, international health specialist, primary care physician and holistic healer. She has a masters in neuroscience and pharmacology from Columbia University, a masters in International Public Health from Harvard University, and a doctorate from Rush Medical College. She’s a Fulbright Scholar. She was the the only Indian and the second woman in history to be selected as the Commencement Graduate Orator at Harvard University in 1993. Dr. Bhaswati is also the author of “Everyday Ayurveda” which outlines the daily habits that support health and well-being. I love talking to Dr. Bhaswati so much that I had her on three episodes! I just can’t get enough of her.Re-Naturing Immersion:>>> To register for the free 7-day Re-Naturing Immersion: CLICK HERECovid Relief for India:CLICK HERE to be taken to a Google form from Diaspora Co. where you can donate to vetted Covid Relief organizations For complete show notes: ournaturepodcast.com/episodesResources:Bhaswati’s websiteEveryday Ayurveda bookRe-Naturing ImmersionEP 27: Daily Habits That Can Change Your Life Featuring Ayurvedic Doctor Bhaswati BhattacharyaEP 39: How to Align Your Routine With The Cycles of Nature Featuring Ayurvedic Doctor and Holistic Healer Dr. Bhaswati Bhattacharya (Part 1)

How to Align Your Routine With The Cycles of Nature Featuring Ayurvedic Doctor and Holistic Healer Dr. Bhaswati Bhattacharya (Part 2)

This week I am so excited to welcome back Our Nature’s first repeat guest, my Ayurvedic teacher Dr. Bhaswati Bhattacharya to focus on the elements of Dinacharya, which is the Sanskrit word for the concept of looking at the cycles of nature and basing daily routines around these cycles to maintain optimum health.Before I go more into detail about what we discuss in this episode, here’s a refresher on Dr. Bhaswati. She is a biomedical scientist, international health specialist, primary care physician and holistic healer. She has a masters in neuroscience and pharmacology from Columbia University, a masters in International Public Health from Harvard University, and a doctorate from Rush Medical College. I also just learned that she was the first U.S. Fulbright Scholar to exclusively research medical ayurveda throughout India and teach at Banaras Hindu University. Today, she serves as the director of the Dinacharya Institute, teaching workshops, seminars and courses for students (such as myself) who are interested in studying Ayurveda. In her book “Everyday Ayurveda,” Dr. Bhaswati focuses on Dinacharya, or the daily habits that can change your life.What We Cover:Ayurveda in a nutshell as described by Dr. BhaswatiWhy everything you take in mattersWhy the body needs routine to maintain optimum healthEverything that’s involved in the early morning routineWhy you should touch the ground with your hands upon wakingYour morning alter - connecting to the divine through the five sensesThe natural cure for depressionHow to approach your daily routine according to your doshaDrinking water - how much, when, whyHow to modify Dinacharya according to the seasons or climateCircumstances when you should shift your DinacharyaWhat to do if you have chronic indigestionHow to bring more health and prosperity into your lifeSetting up rituals and observing what works for youThe best natural treatment for thyroid problemsRasa ShastraThe number one thing you can do for your healthThe last five questionsFor complete show notes, visit https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodes

EP 39: How to Align Your Routine With The Cycles of Nature Featuring Ayurvedic Doctor and Holistic Healer Dr. Bhaswati Bhattacharya

This week, I’m speaking with Kristina Headrick of Yia Mas, a lifestyle brand and workshop series inspired by the traditions of wellness and self inquiry embedded in Hellenic culture. Yia Mas’ aim is to “elevate alternative perspectives of Greek culture beyond the mainstream.” Kristina is a Greek American who became fascinated with exploring new and more modern ways to present Greek folk remedies and ancient traditions. Through Yia Mas, she hosts workshops focusing on topics such as: Greek herbs and remedies for wellness or Greek dance gatherings. Whether you are Greek or not, you’ll definitely resonate with many of the practices in ancient Greece, which remind us to slow down, to live with intention and to celebrate and honor the powerful forces in nature. What we cover:What the term yia mas means and origins of Kristina’s company of the same nameGreek Mountain Tea and its significance in Greek cultureWhat about the land of Greece spoke to Kristina so deeplyThe concept of “friend of a foreigner”How Yia Mas has shaped Kristina in a personal wayHerbs that are endemic to GreeceWhy Greek dance is the antidote to our modern timesWhat the Greek myths can teach us about ourselvesThe myth of Persephone and its wisdomThe Greek philosophers and what they still offer usEpictetus - a primer for mindfulnessEudemonia - how to live with intention in order to flourishHow to honor a culture without appropriating itThe Last 5 QuestionsFor complete show notes, visit https://ournaturepodcast.com/episodes

EP 38: Ancient Greek Wisdom for Modern Times with Kristina Headrick of Yia Mas

This week, I’m speaking with Doniga Markegard, a wildlife tracker turned regenerative rancher. In her memoir, Dawn Again, Doniga shares the incredible story of how a near death experience as a teenager changed the course of her life, setting her on a new path, back to nature and reclaiming her wildness. From a young age, Doniga was steeped in indigenous wisdom and eventually adopted by an indigenous elder Gilbert Walking Bull. She learned the ways of the natural world at the Wilderness Awareness School, an alternative high school where there were no grades and the main measure of success involved having an active, participatory relationship with nature. An interest in permaculture led her to learn more about holistic management, and then regenerative ranching. Today, she operates Markegard Family Grass-Fed with her husband Erik, which is a regenerative cattle ranch that produces certified grass-fed and grass finished beef and lamb, and pasture raised chicken and pork.  

EP 37: Reclaiming Your Wild Spirit with Wildlife Tracker and Regenerative Rancher Doniga Markegard

This episode will forever change the way you relate to the sun, your dental health and your microbiome. In this first episode of Season 3, I speak with one of my personal heroes – Nadine Artemis. She is the creator and inspirational force behind Living Libations, a botanically-rich line of serums, elixirs and oils that have a cult-like following, garnering rave reviews from the NY Times, The National Post and the Hollywood Reporter. Nadine busts so many wellness myths in this episode – from why you shouldn’t fear the sun, how traditional acne products make our skin worse and why “getting clean” can actually be harmful for our health. This episode will truly shift the way you experience your body as a part of nature. Covered in this episode:The philosophy of vitalismWhy the sun needs a new PR agentUVA vs. UVBHow to get safe sun!The myth of "getting clean"Why traditional acne products can make our skin worseHow to properly care for your yoniNadine’s game changing dental protocolWhat essential oils can do for our mouth’s microbiomeHow to heal a UTI naturallyWhy the health of your mouth is a litmus test for your overall healthHow Nadine connects with the earth element on a regular basisThe most exciting development Nadine has come across since writing Renegade BeautyResourcesEP 35: How Simple Can Be Sacred With Jenn Tardif of 3rd RitualRenegade Beauty bookLiving LibationsLiving the Good Life bookModern Painters bookD-minder: The vitamin D appYoni serum: Living LibationsD-mannose - Jonathan WrightHolistic Dental Care: The Complete Guide to Healthy TeethNadine’s 8 Step Dental SystemThe show notes for this episode can be found at www.ournaturepodcast.com/episodesIf you enjoyed this episode, please let me know by writing a review or sending me a DM on Instagram - @ournaturealways

EP 36: Elemental Wisdom for Better Health and Vitality Featuring Nadine Artemis of Living Libations

The Our Nature Podcast explores the methods, systems and practices that bring us into greater alignment with the natural world. The opportunity to live a more joyful and harmonious existence is available to each of us right in this very moment. Join me, Alyssa Benjamin, and let's rediscover what comes naturally.