In the first half, Prof. David H. Rosmarin discussed how anxiety, often seen only as a disorder, can also serve as a valuable human emotion that fosters resilience and connection. He emphasized that anxiety is universal and rooted in the brain, stating, "The biggest factor for being anxious is the fact that you are human." While acknowledging that anxiety disorders require professional treatment, Rosmarin argued that for most people, anxiety signals important emotional information and can strengthen relationships and personal growth.
He challenged the common objective of eliminating anxiety, suggesting instead that "the goal is to get to a reasonable range and to use it in a constructive way. And that's a very different goal than what many people in the medical field believe." He also pointed out the cultural tendency in the U.S. to avoid discomfort, advocating for embracing stress as part of life's challenges. Addressing anxiety in children, he noted that societal pressure to never feel anxious exacerbates the problem. He touched on common misconceptions, such as confusing anxiety with excitement or love, and highlighted the role of neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin. On performance anxiety, he explained how athletes reframe jitters as "excitement" to improve outcomes.
Central to Dr. Rosmarin's approach are four steps to transform anxiety: identify, share, embrace, and let go. He explained the first step as actively recognizing the root cause of anxiety rather than avoiding it, often by taking time to reflect, such as a "10-minute walk" to process fears. Sharing anxiety with others provides validation and connection, while embracing anxiety involves facing discomfort rather than fleeing from it. The final step, letting go, means leaning into uncertainty.
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In the latter half, Sara Chana Silverstein, master herbalist, homeopath, and author, delved into the power of herbs and roots, and how they can help us heal and strengthen our bodies in both hot and cold weather. Seasonal changes can influence mood and health, she explained, describing fall as a critical transition period where the body prepares for winter. She praised pumpkin as a "superfood" rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin A, which supports night vision as daylight hours shorten. She highlighted turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties and the importance of plant color in indicating health benefits, such as orange pigments aiding night vision. She also shared historical insights, suggesting ancient knowledge came from observing animals and nature.
For anxiety relief, Chana recommended valerian and skullcap, with skullcap praised for its safety and efficacy in calming "butterflies in your stomach" before stressful events. One of the easier ways to incorporate herbs is by using various spices in your food, she said, citing the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of paprika, saffron, and cinnamon. She recommended root herbs such as burdock and ashwagandha for grounding and anxiety relief, explaining that ashwagandha is best taken as a powder or a tincture, and has been used for generations in Ayurvedic medicine from India.
On cancer support, she mentioned medicinal mushrooms like chaga as being helpful. "I'm not going to say that herbalists can cure cancer," she remarked, but herbs can reduce side effects from medications. Chana described favorite herbs like motherwort for gloominess and echinacea for immune balance, and also stressed patience with herbal treatments, noting chronic conditions may require months for noticeable improvement.
News segment guests: Lauren Weinstein, Mike Bara