Episodes

Episode Title: Anchor in Reality Podcast: The Meditative Shift Host: Susan Taylor PhD Episode Summary: In this follow-up to our most-loved episode Rebuilding Connection, we explore what it really means to anchor in reality—beyond the noise, narratives, and digital illusions. Inspired by listener reflections and ancient wisdom, this episode is a grounding invitation to return to what’s steady and true: your breath, your body, and your inner clarity. We’ll explore the neuroscience behind dis...

Are you caught in a loop of self-doubt and criticism? In this episode of The Meditative Shift, we’re uncovering the science and spirituality behind breaking the cycle of negative self-talk. Learn how to rewire your inner dialogue, reclaim your confidence, and step into a mindset that lifts you up instead of holding you back.

In a world of endless noise and digital distractions, how do we truly connect? In this episode of The Meditative Shift, we journey from the ancient story of the Tower of Babel to the modern landscape of social media, exploring how communication has evolved—and where it’s breaking down. Discover the science and spirituality of authentic connection and how to bridge the gaps in our relationships, communities, and within ourselves.

Recent research has uncovered a remarkable link between these two seemingly unrelated aspects of health. Did you know that monks who regularly meditate have different gut microbes than their neighbors? This finding has opened up a new frontier in understanding how our mental state can influence our physical health. In today's episode, Susan talks about: meditation, anxiety, and cortisol the impact of a balance gut practical tips for meditation and gut health

At the core of self-care lies its essential role in fostering a clear and calm mindset. Amid the fast pace of today's world, carving out time and space to prioritize our mental and emotional well-being can seem non-existent, and even when it is possible, it often feels overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Taylor explores six vital self-care practices designed to protect and nurture a calm and tranquil mind.

A mindset reset isn't just about changing how we think on a superficial level; it's about transforming how we perceive and interact with the world around us. It’s about shifting from a reactive state, where life seems to happen to us, into a proactive stance, where we consciously choose our responses and shape our own experiences. In this episode, Dr Susan discusses: the very foundations of what it means to initiate a mindset reset what does a mindset really mean? why is it so crucial to our gro...

Research reveals that chronic stress, a seemingly ubiquitous companion in our fast-paced lives, plays a pivotal role in disrupting thyroid hormone balance. The findings suggest that the relentless pressures of modern life could be silently sabotaging thyroid health, contributing to a range of disorders that affect millions globally. In today's episode, Dr Taylor discusses: Strategies for managing stress Nutritional tips to support thyroid health Latest insights in mitigating the impact of stress

Our relationship with sugar goes beyond the taste buds. When we indulge in sugary treats, our brain releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, often associated with pleasure and mood elevation. This immediate surge in feel-good chemicals can create a temporary sense of joy and happiness. Join us for insights on: The fascinating interplay of sugar with our body and mind How sugar might exacerbate anxiety and depression Practical strategies for achieving and maintaining a balanced ...

In our modern world, where stress and uncertainty seem to be the norm, the pursuit of happiness has become a universal quest that transcends cultural boundaries and spans all living beings. But have you ever wondered why we're wired to seek happiness? Is it hardwired into our brains, compelling us to pursue it in various aspects of our lives? In this episode, Susan discusses: the science behind happiness, the brain's natural mood-enhancing substances and how to boost these neurochemicals new per...

We're more connected than ever before, with technology and screens around us, yet we've never felt more alone. It's like there's a paradox at play here. And unfortunately, there's a hidden crisis that's quietly spreading among us: a condition that affects more than 264 million people of all ages. Today's episode is inspired by a holistic perspective discussing: origins of depression three types of depression holistic strategies

In our fast-paced modern world, many individuals find themselves grappling with a phenomenon known as "brain fog." It is an often-frustrating cognitive state characterized by difficulty concentrating, mental sluggishness, memory lapses, and a general sense of mental fatigue. In todays episode, we will explore the scientific background of the gut in clearing the fog and improving mental clarity. Topics Include: Gut brain communication- what science tells us The 3 step Protocol - a practical pract...

Have you ever wondered why anxiety seems to have such a profound impact on our well-being? Why do those persistent worries and fears not only affect our minds but also take a toll on our bodies? In today’s episode , Dr Taylor delves into this fascinating relationship of the anxiety and inflammation cycle. Topics include: Chronic inflammation creates anxiety. Anxiety is a mind/body imbalance. Solutions to breaking the anxiety-inflammation cycle

Is it time to rekindle our understanding, to reclaim our connection with nature, and embark on a transformative journey towards reawakening our vital selves and rediscovering our true purpose? Back from Sabbatical, Susan Taylor introduces the meditative shift and the need for each of us to attend to inner self care and make informed choices about our health.

For many, the pandemic infused us with multiple forms of stress. We are left with a deep sense of loss leading to grief and perhaps a feeling of depression.​ In today’s episode, Dr Taylor discusses: if depression is a chemical imbalance a view from the inside 5 essential ways to move through depression

A growing number of clinical studies have demonstrated that breathing-including meditation-may represent a new non-pharmacological approach for improving specific aspects of how our brain focuses and thrives in stressful situations. In today’s episode, Dr Taylor discusses: The connection between breath and resilience The downside of mouth breathing How breathing can affect appetite

Did you know that you can directly impact your ability to focus, think and establish inner peace without supplements? We have much more control over our brain function than we realize and can alter the structure, function, and chemistry of our brains through our behavior, our breathing and our thinking. In today's episode, Dr. Taylor discusses: How we can turn on and turn off our genes The benefits of fasting for the brain Why staying upright nourishes our brain

The number of people living with dementia worldwide is currently estimated at 50 million and will almost triple by 2050. As the incidence of Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia affect our thinking, memory, behavior and ability to live life fully increase; maintaining optimal brain function has become a key concern. In todays episode, Dr Taylor discusses: Optimizing cognitive function How breathing affects brain health 6 essential components that benefit the brain

Your consciousness is pure, happy, compassionate and kind by nature, but to find that we must learn to let go of the unconscious turbulence that we can fall into when we lose connection with our inner peace. In today’s episode, Dr. Taylor discusses: Wired for fear Negativity on your brain How to move out of negativity bias

Most Americans feel worn out and exhausted—a feeling that has increased since the pandemic started. As summer approaches, we are inspired to venture out with energy to live our full potential. In today’s episode, Dr Taylor discusses: Diet and gut health Herbs and supplements Supporting emotional and mental health

People look for safety. The will to survive is hardwired in every living being. In today’s episode, Dr Taylor discusses: Why our mind needs protection 5 elements of psychological immunity 5 suggestions to support a meditative mind