Everyday Ayurveda with Kate

32. From Burnout to Balance: Ayurvedic Strategies for Modern Living

In this episode of Everyday Ayurveda with Kate, Kate O’Donnell is joined by Amadea Morningstar, a trailblazer in the field of holistic health with over 40 years of experience. Amadea shares her journey from studying nutrition and Ayurveda under Dr. Basant Lad to becoming a practitioner who bridges Western and Eastern healing modalities. Listeners will discover how Amadea’s unique approach combines Ayurveda, biochemistry, polarity therapy, and Tibetan Buddhism to support holistic well-being. Amadea reveals her practice of spending weekends in a forest hut for 10 years, emphasizing the importance of balancing mind and body, working with natural remedies, and finding wisdom through life’s transitions. She also explores how Ayurveda's five koshas and practical principles guide her work with clients, whether they are facing life-threatening illnesses or simply seeking greater balance. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: * How Amadea integrates Ayurveda, polarity therapy, and Tibetan practices for healing. * The importance of ethical impact, sustainability, and conscious choices in holistic health. * Practical self-care techniques for the Vata stage of life. * How to support your body through nourishment, movement, and breath. * Why spending time in nature can transform your mental and physical health. LINKS MENTIONED: * Amadea Morningstar's Website: amadeamorningstar.net [https://amadeamorningstar.net/] * Amadea's YouTube Channel: Apti YouTube Channel [https://youtube.com/@amadeamorningstar-ayurveda7632?si=Xtz0YvPN9a5mGWst] * "Easy Healing Drinks [https://amadeamorningstar.net/books-copy/]" by Amadea Morningstar (Book) * The American Polarity Therapy Association [https://polaritytherapy.org/] * Banyan Botanicals: banyanbotanicals.com [https://banyanbotanicals.com/] CALL TO ACTION: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Follow Kate O’Donnell on Instagram at @healwithkate [https://www.instagram.com/kateodonnell.ayurveda/]. For more insights on Ayurveda, visit Kate’s Website [https://healwithkate.org/]. HEALTH DISCLAIMER: The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine. Mentioned in this episode: Ayurvedic Living Institute: Women’s Health Courses Visit our website: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/courses Ayurvedic Living Insitute: Women's Health Courses https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/courses

31. Ayurvedic Secrets for a Healthy Menstrual Cycle: Embrace Your Natural Rhythm

In this solo episode, Kate O’Donnell opens the conversation on periods from an Ayurvedic lens, inviting listeners to sync their menstrual health with the rhythms of the moon and the wisdom of nature. This is the first of a two-part masterclass exploring the monthly cycle through the three doshas — Vata, Kapha, and Pitta — and how to bring harmony to each phase. Kate walks us through practical ways to nourish our bodies during menstruation with warm, moist foods, restorative movement, and subtle lifestyle shifts. You’ll learn how small changes — like avoiding artificial light after 10 PM or choosing period panties over tampons — can have a profound effect on your energy, digestion, mood, and menstrual flow. Whether you’re experiencing PMS, navigating your first period, or supporting someone who bleeds, this episode offers tools to honor the body’s intelligence, instead of overriding it. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: * How Ayurveda explains each phase of the menstrual cycle * What to eat (and what to avoid) to support downward flow * Why moon bathing helps regulate ovulation * The role of natural light in hormonal balance * Ayurvedic movement practices during your bleed * How to reduce bloating, cramps, and irritability naturally * Why you should always sit down to eat during your period * The emotional and spiritual wisdom of resting more Relevant Links: * Ayurvedic Living Institute: Women’s Health Courses  [https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/courses] * Kate’s Lunar Yoga Practice  [https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/lunar-yoga] * Kate’s book Everyday Ayurveda for Women’s Health [https://bookshop.org/p/books/everyday-ayurveda-for-women-s-health-traditional-wisdom-recipes-and-remedies-for-optimal-wellness-hormone-balance-and-living-radiantly-kate-o-donnell/20298924?ean=9781645471684&next=t&affiliate=109887] Next Episode: Stay tuned for Part 2 of this menstrual masterclass, where Kate dives into imbalances — like pain, irregularity, and intense PMS — and how to address them through Ayurvedic lifestyle shifts. Health Disclaimer: The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine. Mentioned in this episode: Ayurvedic Living Insitute: Women's Health Courses https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/courses

30. How Vedic Astrology Can Help You Heal, Grow, and Thrive

Have you ever wondered how Vedic astrology could offer more than predictions — how it might serve as a tool for healing, understanding, and inner growth? In today’s conversation, Kate sits down with Roma Kapadia, a Mumbai-based Vedic astrologer, to explore how the ancient science of astrology aligns with Ayurveda and yoga to guide us toward a deeper relationship with our true selves. Roma shares her personal journey of discovering astrology through a health crisis, discusses the essential differences between Vedic and Western astrology, and explains how understanding planetary periods can bring clarity, purpose, and resilience to everyday life. This conversation offers not just a glimpse into the planetary map at the time of your birth — but a living, breathing method for navigating life’s challenges with greater empathy, patience, and trust. Whether you’re new to astrology or curious about how it connects to Ayurveda and your soul’s journey, this episode opens the door to powerful insights and practical wisdom. What We Cover in This Episode * How Roma’s health journey led her to astrology as a path of internal healing * Why Vedic astrology focuses on the moon rather than the sun — and how this changes everything * Understanding planetary periods (Mahadashas) and how they shape long cycles in your life * The interplay between karma, free will, and soul contracts in Vedic philosophy * Why astrology, Ayurveda, and yoga are the three pillars of the Vedas — and how they interrelate * Practical ways to use astrology to strengthen self-awareness, decision-making, and resilience * Insights into 2025’s energetic climate: why it’s a year of transition and what that means for your choices * Rituals and simple practices to harmonize planetary influences in daily life * How to start exploring your own Vedic birth chart — and when it’s time to work with a trusted astrologer About Our Guest Roma Kapadia is a Mumbai-based Vedic astrologer, intuitive guide, and teacher with over 15 years of experience. Initially studying astrology as a hobby, she soon recognized it as a lifelong calling. Roma uses astrology not merely for prediction, but as a powerful tool for psychological insight, healing, and spiritual evolution. Her work is deeply rooted in the Vedic traditions, connecting the threads of karma, free will, and planetary influence into a practical map for personal transformation. She works almost entirely by word of mouth and can be found sharing cosmic insights through her Instagram handle: @innergalaxy [https://www.instagram.com/innergalaxy]. To inquire about private astrology sessions with Roma, you can email her directly at romakapadia@gmail.com. Resources and Links Mentioned * Roma Kapadia on Instagram:@theinnergalaxy [https://www.instagram.com/theinnergalaxy] * Email Roma: romakapadia@gmail.com * Book Recommendation: * The Greatness of Saturn by Dr. Robert Svoboda — A profound introduction to the mythology and energy of Saturn in the Vedic tradition. Thanks to our Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge [https://acknowledge.co/], makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order. 🌟 If this conversation sparked your curiosity about Vedic astrology, or helped you understand your own healing journey in a new way, we’d love to hear from you. * Share the episode with a friend who could use a little cosmic clarity. * Subscribe to Everyday Ayurveda with Kate and leave a review — it helps more pod pals find our growing community. * Follow along for more everyday Ayurveda wisdom at healwithkate.org [https://healwithkate.org] and on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/kateodonnell.ayurveda/] Let’s keep exploring the ancient wisdom that lights the way for our modern lives. ✨ Health Disclaimer The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

29. The Crown Jewel of Ayurveda: How Panchakarma Can Change Your Life

In this much-requested solo episode, Kate O’Donnell explores Panchakarma, Ayurveda’s ancient and deeply transformative cleansing and rejuvenation process. Whether you’re new to the concept or considering a retreat yourself, Kate breaks down everything you need to know: what Panchakarma is, how it works, who it’s for, and whether a three-week immersive in India or a shorter U.S.-based version is right for you. Through personal stories, clinical wisdom, and practical tips, Kate demystifies this powerful process and helps you consider when, why, and how to incorporate it into your own long-term healing path. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE * Why Panchakarma is considered the “crown jewel of Ayurveda” * What the five cleansing actions are and how they work in the body * The role of toxins (ama) and doshas in the disease process * How Panchakarma differs when done in the U.S. versus in India * The importance of preparation and rejuvenation phases * Why it’s not a quick fix—and what to do before you ever book a retreat * Kate’s personal experiences with Panchakarma and spiritual awakening * How to know if you’re ready—or not yet ready—for this process * Legitimate options for those who want to do a shorter or local version * Practical tips on daily routines and diet to support longevity ABOUT KATE O’DONNELL Kate O’Donnell is the founder of the Ayurvedic Living Institute, an international speaker, practitioner, and author of four bestselling books on Ayurveda. With over 25 years of experience teaching yoga and Ayurvedic lifestyle, Kate translates ancient wisdom into modern, practical tools for healing and self-care. She leads trainings, retreats, and now, a Panchakarma group trip to India in 2026. Thanks to our Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge [https://acknowledge.co/], makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order. 📚 Learn more about Kate at healwithkate.org [https://healwithkate.org] 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS * Panchakarma Group Trip (India 2026): Email hello@ayurvediclivinginstitute.com * Sohum Healing Resort in North Carolina: https://sohumhealing.com/ [https://sohumhealing.com/] * Use code KATEPK2025 for $500 off * Panchakarma Retreat in Vermont: https://ayurvedicliving.institute/ayurveda-retreat-vermont [https://ayurvedicliving.institute/ayurveda-retreat-vermont] * Kate’s books + cookbook: healwithkate.org/books [https://healwithkate.org/books] CALL TO ACTION Feeling curious about how Panchakarma could fit into your healing journey? Start by tuning into this episode, then visit the show notes for retreat options or email Kate’s team to inquire about the 2026 group trip. And remember—before jumping into a cleanse, create the foundation. Start small: nourishing food, daily rhythms, and sleep by 10pm. You’ve got this. HEALTH DISCLAIMER The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

28. CBD for Sleep, Mood, and Focus: Insights from a Regenerative Hemp Farm

In this deeply informative conversation, Kate is joined by regenerative hemp farmer and wellness entrepreneur Stefanie Reiser, founder of Acknowledge Farms. They explore the healing potential of the hemp plant and the nuances of creating clean, effective CBD products. Stefanie shares how her personal wellness journey and background in agricultural policy led her to start a farm dedicated to organic, regenerative practices. Together, Kate and Stefanie demystify the language of CBD—from cannabinoids and terpenes to full-spectrum vs. isolate products—and discuss how to choose the right form and dosage based on your body’s unique response. Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, struggling with sleep, or simply curious about using plant medicine safely and intentionally, this conversation offers grounded, Ayurvedic-aligned guidance you can trust. What You’ll Learn: • The difference between hemp and cannabis, and why that matters • What full-spectrum CBD really means and why it’s important • How cannabinoids like CBD and THC work with your endocannabinoid system • The role of terpenes in plant medicine and mood regulation • How to start using CBD for sleep, mood, inflammation, or focus • The importance of traceability, clean farming, and transparency in CBD production • Why product quality matters—and how to assess it About Our Guest: Stefanie Reiser is the founder of Acknowledge Farms, a small regenerative hemp farm in Maryland that brings hemp from seed to shelf. With a background in agricultural policy and a passion for clean, wellness-driven products, Stefanie has made it her mission to produce full-spectrum CBD tinctures and gummies that support sleep, focus, mood, and performance. Her commitment to quality, sustainability, and consumer education sets her apart in the rapidly expanding world of plant-based wellness. Resources & Links: • Visit Acknowledge Farms: https://acknowledge.co [https://acknowledge.co] • Follow on Instagram: @acknowledge_wellness [https://www.instagram.com/acknowledge_wellness] • Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org [https://www.healwithkate.org] Thanks to our Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge [https://acknowledge.co/], makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order. Health Disclaimer: The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.