Dr. Riley Smith
Have you ever noticed that your inner critic gets loudest at night? The thoughts that tell you what you didn’t accomplish or what you should have done differently can make it nearly impossible to fall asleep. Negative self-talk doesn’t just affect your mood—it disrupts your sleep cycles, increasing stress hormones and delaying deep rest. How […]
Many people associate inflammation with diet or environmental toxins, but research now shows that self-criticism can be just as inflammatory. When we engage in negative self-talk, we trigger a biochemical cascade that increases markers of inflammation in the body. Let’s explore how our inner dialogue influences physical health and how self-compassion can serve as an […]
Heart rate variability (HRV) is one of the most powerful indicators of health, measuring the flexibility of your nervous system. Interestingly, self-acceptance and self-compassion have been shown to directly impact HRV, improving resilience and reducing stress-related inflammation. In this post, we’ll explore how your thoughts influence your heart’s rhythm and how to cultivate a more […]
We often think of stress as something external—work deadlines, relationship conflicts, or financial struggles. However, one of the biggest sources of stress comes from within: our own self-criticism. The way we talk to ourselves can trigger the same stress responses as external threats, leading to chronically elevated cortisol levels. But here’s the good news—self-compassion can […]
Spring detoxes are popular, but many people overlook the foundational steps necessary for effective cleansing. Before beginning a detox, movement and sunlight must be prioritized to support hormone balance and mitochondrial function. Detox and Hormones Detoxification isn’t just about diet—it requires hormonal balance. Movement and light exposure regulate cortisol, insulin, and melatonin, which influence your […]
After a season of reduced movement, your body requires a gentle approach to reintroducing activity. A compassionate transition into spring movement prevents injury, enhances mitochondrial health, and helps regulate stress hormones. Winter’s Impact on the Body Reduced movement leads to: Signs Your Body Needs a Gentle Transition Self-Compassion as a Movement Tool Spring Movement Practices […]
With the return of longer daylight hours, your body’s circadian rhythm undergoes adjustments. If you’ve felt sluggish or out of sync, it may be due to winter’s disruption of your biological clock. Resetting your circadian rhythm using natural light is a powerful way to enhance energy, improve sleep, and optimize overall health. Why Light Matters […]
As winter fades and spring arrives, your body undergoes a natural transition. However, lingering winter habits—comfort foods, reduced sunlight exposure, and inconsistent movement—can create imbalances in blood sugar and mitochondrial function, leaving you feeling sluggish. Stabilizing blood sugar levels and supporting mitochondrial health is key to regaining sustainable energy for the vibrant season ahead. Understanding […]
There’s something magical about the way winter naturally draws us toward warming foods and cozy meals shared with loved ones. It’s as if our bodies instinctively know what we need during these colder months. This isn’t just coincidence – it’s the wisdom of our heart’s intelligence guiding us toward seasonal nourishment. The connection between our […]
Your nervous system isn’t just an electrical network – it’s a complex biochemical system that requires specific nutrients to function optimally. While breathwork, meditation, and other regulation techniques are valuable tools, they might not reach their full potential if your nervous system lacks the basic building blocks it needs to maintain balance. The Biochemistry of […]