127: Integrative Mental Health = HOPE

127: Integrative Mental Health = HOPE Dr. Toula Kelikian joins Kefi Life® to talk about microbiome, relationships, sleep, self-regulation and more!  Dr. Toula Kelikian Kiki and Toula Today's Lexi:  Νοσοκόμα - Nosokoma - Nurse In Today’s Episode: Toula Kelikian is a professor of nursing and a uniquely compassionate professional with over 40 years of experience and a PHD in integrated mental health. Toula shares how the daily physical and mental challenges she experienced during her career as a nurse led her to develop a coaching model for nursing students. Toula shares a simple, easy way to check in with yourself to make sure all of your needs are being met. Dr. Toula discusses the importance of close relationships and the effects loneliness can have on physical and mental health. Listen to this helpful conversation between two friends who share the benefits of European cultures, pointing out that strengthening relationships is more of a priority especially in Greece and Italy – AND, eating is seen as a social experience that shouldn’t be rushed. What is the vagus nerve, and how is it related to mental health? What is Flora, and how is it related to brain health? Dr. Toula talks about how the negative impacts meat has on gut microbiome lead her to become a flex-etarian- eating a plant-based diet 90% of the time. “You don’t have to be all-or-nothing! Start with small changes.” Learn a few more small changes you can make in your daily life that will have a big impact on your overall health. Finally, sleep is the underrated nourishment, discover how to create a mindful wind-down routine for yourself each night before bed. Today's Ola Kala Moment: Check in with yourself Resources:  Morton.edu Credits: Music: Spiro Dussias Vocals: Zabrina Hay Graphic Designer: Susan Jackson O’Leary   🫒 Purchase the finest, yummiest extra virgin olive oil from Kalamata, Greece at the Kefi Life Shop!🫒 Please be sure to follow the Kefi L!fe podcast to ensure that you are Ola Kala in mind, body and soul! Insta: @kefilife_ For a natural and uplifting support with your health and wellness, connect with Kiki to discover the beauty of essentials oils: my.doterra.com/kefilife. This episode made possible in part by: The Law Offices of Liston & Tsantilis — Ranked #1 LTLawChicago.com This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. None of the information should be construed as medical advice. Users are encouraged to seek professional medical assistance for any significant health-related matters.