In this engaging episode of Wellness Curated, host Anshu Bahanda takes us on a journey into the world of Jewish mysticism, focusing on the Kabbalah. With special guests Dr Hyman Shipper, a neurologist fascinated by the link between science and ancient wisdom, and Gahl Eden Sasson, an author who combines Kabbalah, astrology, and psychology, the discussion offers an intriguing look into a tradition often shrouded in mystery.

The episode sheds light on Kabbalistic concepts that go beyond religion, touching on how they can enrich our understanding of life and well-being. Dr Shipper shares fascinating insights into the unexpected connections between Kabbalah and modern physics, while Gahl Sasson explores how the idea of oneness and interconnectedness can help us see life differently. They unpack timeless ideas like panentheism and interinclusion, leaving us with plenty to think about without getting too deep into the complexities.

In this insightful episode of Wellness Curated, host Anshu Bahanda expertly navigates the complex and often misunderstood world of astrology, drawing upon the expertise of Liz Norman and Dr. Sundeep Kochar to bridge the gap between Western and Vedic traditions.  The episode reveals astrology as a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth.

The conversation seamlessly flows into practical applications, exploring the impact of moon cycles and planetary transits on our well-being. Intriguingly, the discussion expands beyond pure astrology to encompass complementary healing modalities, such as homoeopathy and Bach flower remedies, highlighting astrology’s potential as a holistic guide to self-care.  This unexpected connection underscores astrology’s capacity to inform a more comprehensive approach to wellness.

In this episode of Wellness Curated, host Anshu Bahanda sits down with two remarkable shamanic practitioners, Kuauhtli Vasquez and Julie Kramer, for an insightful conversation about the ancient art of shamanic healing. Kuauhtli, a peyote shaman deeply rooted in Mexican traditions, shares his experiences using ceremonies and rituals to help people heal, move energy, and connect with the natural world. He explains how plants like peyote play a vital role in supporting mental and emotional well-being, particularly when it comes to overcoming trauma.

Julie, who has been practising shamanism since 2000, introduces the practice of soul retrieval, where a shaman helps someone recover lost parts of their spirit that may have fragmented during traumatic events. She discusses how reconnecting with these missing pieces can restore a sense of wholeness and balance. Julie also shares her thoughts on working with helping spirits and the role they play in guiding shamanic practitioners.

In this episode of Wellness Curated, Anshu Bahanda talks with Darren Rose and Jasmine Modi, two experienced Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) experts. Darren, based in the UK, and Jasmine, practising for over 27 years in India, share how TCM can help with everything from stress and fertility to pain and overall balance.

They open up about their personal experiences with TCM, explaining key concepts like Yin, Yang, and Chi. The conversation shows how these ancient practices still work today, offering natural ways to improve health without the side effects of modern treatments.

If you’re interested in exploring TCM’s natural methods, curious about acupuncture and herbal medicine, or want to learn how these traditions fit into modern life, this episode has a lot to offer. Tune in for a simple and practical look at how TCM can support your well-being.

In this episode of Wellness Curated, host Anshu Bahanda talks with Dr Safina Anees, a consulting physician and specialist in Unani medicine, who is also an expert in cupping therapy, psychotherapy, and holistic treatments for chronic illnesses, as well as counselling on stress, fertility, and ageing. Unani medicine is an ancient system that started in Greece and grew through Arab and Persian cultures before becoming a part of Indian traditional medicine. Today, it is used to help balance the body’s four humours—blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile—through natural methods like herbs, diet changes, and therapies.

Dr Anees explains how Unani medicine can treat many health issues, including digestive problems, mental health concerns, and even serious conditions like kidney failure. She shares real stories of patients who have improved their health using this approach. The episode also gives listeners practical tips on how to make small changes in their daily lives, like adding certain foods and herbs, to improve their well-being.

This episode is for anyone interested in natural healing, seeking ways to manage chronic health issues, or curious about the role of ancient medicine in modern life. Dr Anees’ passion for Unani medicine shines as she explains how it helps keep the body in balance through natural remedies. Join us to explore how this simple yet powerful system can support your overall health and well-being.

In this episode of Wellness Curated, Anshu explores the rich traditions of African herbal medicine with KhadiYah Preciado, an expert in African-based herbalism and the founder of Yah’s Apothecary— a renowned holistic herb school and store. KhadiYah is passionate about empowering others with the tools to care for themselves and their families.

In the episode, KhadiYah shares her personal journey of overcoming a decade of menstrual and hormonal issues through the healing power of herbs. Her story unfolds in a conversation that goes deep into the cultural roots of natural healing and how these age-old practices are thriving today. Her approach highlights the importance of intuition, ritual, and the powerful connection between physical and spiritual health. 

Whether you’re intrigued by ancient healing practices, want to explore natural remedies, or are curious about the link between nature, spirit, and health, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Learn how these traditional methods are being revitalised for today’s world, bridging the gap between wellness, culture, and spirituality.

In this episode of my series ‘Healing Traditions from Across Cultures’, we sit down with Dr Dimple Jangda, a renowned Ayurvedic expert who takes us through the fascinating world of Ayurveda, where age-old wisdom meets modern wellness. As the founder of Prana Healthcare Centre in Mumbai and a bestselling author of the book Heal Your Gut, Mind & Emotions: 5 Steps to Reset Your Health with Ayurveda and Food Chemistry, Dr Jangda shares her insights on integrating Ayurvedic principles into our daily lives.

In this conversation, we talk about how to use Ayurvedic principles in daily life to help with everyday health problems and boost overall well-being. We discuss key concepts like inflammation, detoxification, and syncing with nature’s rhythms, and how a personalised approach can address our unique needs, making it easier than ever to find balance and health. 

Get ready to hear some amazing stories about how Ayurveda has successfully managed chronic conditions. Whether you’re curious about alternative medicine or looking to enhance your wellness routine, this episode will expand your understanding of how Ayurveda can work alongside modern healthcare. Learn how this ancient practice can help you achieve harmony in body, mind, and spirit, and find out about specific herbs and practices that can bring lasting vitality.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that combines traditional wisdom with today’s health trends. By the end of this episode, you’ll be inspired to explore how Ayurveda can refresh your health and enrich your life.

Imagine a world where the remedies for our health issues lie not in a pharmacy, but in the roots, leaves, and flowers beneath our feet. In this episode of my new series— Healing traditions from across cultures, we venture deep into the mystical forests of Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, where nature’s ancient wisdom thrives. Our guide on this journey is none other than Dr Yanung Jamoh Lego, a 2024 Padma Shri awardee and a revered herbalist who has dedicated her life to preserving and practising the traditional healing methods of her ancestors.

Yanung’s incredible story begins with her own battle against numerous health challenges. When modern medicine failed her, she turned to the herbal knowledge passed down through generations in her family. Not only did she heal herself, but she also became a beacon of hope for her community, using the potent herbs of the region to treat ailments ranging from respiratory issues to stress.

In this episode, we discuss fascinating herbal traditions of Arunachal Pradesh. As Yanung speaks, you’ll be transported into a world where nature is revered as the ultimate healer, and where each plant holds a story, a history, and a divine connection. Whether you’re a believer in natural remedies or just curious about this ancient knowledge, this episode will leave you inspired and amazed at the healing power of nature.

Tune in to find out all about the secrets of Arunachal Pradesh’s herbal treasures, and learn how these time-honoured traditions could hold the key to better health and well-being for us all.

Host Anshu Bahanda takes you on an enlightening journey in the latest episode of Wellness Curated as she talks about the mystical world of Sufism and its teachings on achieving inner peace. Guest speaker Manjari Chaturvedi is a cultural academic and exponent of Sufi Kathak. She discusses various practices of modern-day Sufis that include meditation, poetry, dance, and music. 

Discover the story of the cracked pot that teaches us about self-acceptance and finding the divine within our imperfections. Ms. Chaturvedi shares her insights into Sufi practices such as Zikr, Sama, and contemplation, offering a deeper understanding of how these can help anyone find tranquility and purpose in life. Whether you’re a longtime follower of Sufi teachings or just beginning to explore spiritual traditions, this episode promises to enrich your journey towards inner peace.

In this episode, host Anshu Bahanda looks toward the ancient practice of Zen Buddhism with two esteemed guests: Professor Ruben L. F. Hábito, a Filipino Zen rōshi of the Sanbō Kyōdan lineage, and Shozan Jack Haubner, a Zen Buddhist priest known for his humorous takes on monastic life, having spent many years in a monastery. Hábito discusses the Zen koan (story) of the monk who carries a woman across the river. After helping her, he continues on his journey, but his fellow monk is troubled, later asking, “Why did you carry that woman?” The first monk replies, “I left her at the river. Are you still carrying her?” This story underscores the essence of Zen presence—letting go of the past to remain steadfastly in the now. Zen Buddhism is a Japanese school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasises the value of meditation and intuition. Hábito also explains the core concepts of Zen, focusing on the practice of Zazen, a form of seated meditation, and offers practical advice on how to start practising Zazen.

Jack Haubner shares insights on integrating Zen practices into daily activities. He also discusses the role of humour in Zen practice and how it can be used to cope with life’s challenges. Haubner’s anecdotes from monastic life provide a relatable and lighthearted perspective on applying Zen principles in everyday situations.

In this episode of the ‘Best of Wellness Curated’ series, I present you with what renowned medical and sleep experts have to say on why sleep can be elusive for some of us. They discuss phenomena such as sleep paralysis—a bewildering state that blurs the lines between sleep and wakefulness, and which is often accompanied by vivid and unsettling experiences. Our specialists equip you with effective strategies to tackle anxiety and stress, major culprits of sleepless nights, alongside valuable sleep hygiene practices to enhance the quality of your rest. Featured voices include  Sheetal Radia, an ENT specialist at Wockhardt Hospitals; Mangesh Ghulghule, a neuropsychiatrist; Kate Mikhail, author of ‘Teach Yourself to Sleep’; and Shomit Mitter, a renowned therapist. They collectively address a spectrum of topics, from the pivotal role of melatonin and cortisol levels to the importance of circadian rhythms in fostering a healthy sleep cycle. This episode is an essential listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of sleep science and its profound influence on our well-being. Join me, Anshu Bahanda, as I speak to these experts to unlock the secrets to achieving restorative sleep and transforming your quality of life.

Welcome to the first episode of my new series Wellness Curated Repurposed – the Science Edit. In this series, we explore relevant topics through a scientific lens. We’ve handpicked the best conversations of host Anshu Bahanda with experts from across the globe.  

In this episode, she decodes the law of attraction and the power of manifestation. Moving beyond the realm of wishful thinking and mystical practices, she discusses how real science — spanning psychology, neuroscience, and quantum physics — provides a framework for attracting wealth, well-being, and remarkable experiences into your life.

The episode features expert insights from hypnotherapist Luigi Sciambarella, board member at The Monroe Institute in the UK, spiritual teacher and transformation coach Shreans Daga, and Toronto-based bioscientist Dr. Arnie Gotfryd. Discover the psychological underpinnings of belief and action alignment, the role of the Reticular Activating System in focusing awareness, and how goal-setting and visualisation techniques can lead to peak performance. Learn about neuroplasticity and the transformative power of rewiring your brain through positive, abundant thinking. This episode is packed with actionable strategies, including gratitude practices, visualisation exercises, and mindfulness and meditation techniques, all aimed at turning intentions into reality. Remember, manifestation is not just about thinking or hoping — it’s about doing. Join us to unlock the secret to living your best life by setting your intentions, visualising your goals, and taking concrete steps toward achieving them.