Welcome back, Gratitude Geeks! This week, I sit down with my friend, Mira Dessy, a board-certified nutrition educator and holistic health expert, to explore the powerful connection between what we eat, how we think, and our overall well-being. Get ready to be inspired and empowered as we dive into topics ranging from mindful eating to building a resilient, real-food pantry.

About Mira Dessy:

Mira is a passionate nutrition educator, known as the "Ingredient Guru," and is a board-certified member of several leading holistic health associations. She helps people understand the importance of whole-food nutrition and encourages a more mindful approach to health.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

• The Holistic Approach: We explore how holistic health combines traditional medicine with natural and mindful practices, emphasizing that true wellness isn't just about treating symptoms but understanding the whole person.

• Food as Fuel (and Medicine): Discover how food can be a powerful tool for healing and supporting your body's natural functions, moving beyond restrictive diets to a place of mindful nourishment.

• Mindful Eating: Mira shares practical techniques for eating more mindfully, including how to calm your nervous system and improve digestion by engaging the senses, eating slowly, and eliminating distractions.

• Self-Reliance & Preparedness: We discuss creating a "preparedness pantry" filled with real food that will sustain you during any emergency. Learn what foods to prioritize, how to prepare your supplies, and the vital importance of having access to clean, potable water.

• Homeostasis and Bio-individuality: Understanding what works for you, and what doesn't, is a key element to learning about homeostasis. You’ll discover that your body has an amazing ability to regulate itself if given the proper tools.

Actionable Tips & Highlights:

• Mindfulness: Start with a simple daily mindfulness practice focused on food. Before eating, take three deep breaths, engage your senses, eat slowly, and minimize distractions. Notice how you feel after your meal.

• Real Food Choices: Begin to examine the ingredients of your food. Make more intentional choices that include whole, unprocessed foods. Look for food with shorter ingredient lists and more whole ingredients.

• Preparedness Pantry: Make a plan to begin stocking a "preparedness pantry" with shelf-stable, real foods. Focus on protein sources, vegetables, cooking oils, and spices. Remember to start small and build over time.

• Water: Everyone should have a way to make water potable in case of an emergency.

• Bio-Individuality: Make an appointment with a qualified professional who can help you determine your own deficiencies so that you can learn what you need to help your own body work correctly.

Mira’s Resources:

• The Ingredient Guru Website: http://theingredientguru.com

• YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/@theingredientguru

• "Gift Giving for the Unprepared": https://theingredientguru.com/Gifts2024

• Preparedness Pantry Calendar: https://theingredientguru.com/2025Calendar

Other Resources Mentioned:

• "Radical Remission" by Kelly A. Turner: https://amzn.to/4hd386M

• The Life Straw: https://amzn.to/3PygVZO

• "Confessions of a Cancer Conqueror" by Kirstin Nusgrober": https://amzn.to/40vflOA

• Ancient Minerals Magnesium Oil: https://amzn.to/4gQEQ2q

Gratitude Geek Resources:

• Website: http://kandasrodarte.com/podcast

• Podcast: http://podfollow.com/gratitudegeek

This episode of Gratitude Geek is not sponsored. However, I may receive compensation if you make purchases through some of the links shared here. Credits:

• Host: Kandas Rodarte

• Guest: Mira Dessy

• Theme Music: Track 14 by Rev Brock & Soul Lily

Join us next week for another episode as we explore gratitude in all aspects of our lives. Remember, every moment is an opportunity to be grateful! Stay Groovy, my friends!