The Health Habit Podcast | Holistic Medicine, Nutrition, Healthy living, Mental Health, Hormonal imbalance symptoms

10 | Why Your Gut Still Feels Off — Even When You're "Doing Everything Right"

You’re eating clean. Taking the probiotics. Drinking the water. So why are you still bloated, feeling irregular, sluggish and uncomfortable after meals?
 
In this episode of The Health Habit Podcast, we’re unpacking the deeper reasons your gut might still be struggling - even when you think you're doing all the right things.
 
We’ll explore:
✨ The overlooked nervous system connection to digestion
✨ Why demulcent herbs like marshmallow, licorice, and chia seeds can soothe and repair irritated gut tissue
✨ The role of mindful eating and how simply slowing down can improve nutrient absorption and reduce bloating
✨ What nutrients your gut actually needs to heal - and why clean labels and real food still matter
✨ Plus, how emotional stress and disconnection from your body can quietly sabotage your gut health
 
If you're tired of guessing and ready for clarity, this episode is your 3-step framework for supporting your gut holistically - from the inside out.
 
🌿 Get my “Herbal Bitters” tincture for digestive support
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN:
https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my weekly email newsletter for holistic tips + behind-the-scenes support: thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Connect with like-minded women inside my free FB group: The Health Habit Community – Holistic Health for Women Ready to Thrive
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net

9 | Maybe Anxiety is a Soul Signal: What Is Your Body Trying to Tell You?

You weren’t born anxious. Somewhere along the way, you started ignoring your inner signals - the gut feelings, quiet nudges, and subtle truths whispering, “This isn’t right for you.”
 
Yes, anxiety can have genetic roots - but that’s never the full picture (there is ALWAYS something that can be done ). Emotional suppression, spiritual disconnection, and repeatedly silencing your inner “no” can create a perfect storm within your nervous system.
 
In this episode of The Health Habit, we explore the deeper emotional and spiritual roots of anxiety - not as a flaw, but as a sacred messenger. In this episode you’ll learn:
How chronic anxiety can build when your emotions are dismissed.
Why your body often speaks through symptoms when your soul isn’t being heard.
How to reconnect with the guidance system you were born with.
PLUS, we unpack two common sensations that mimic anxiety but actually aren’t - helping you to pause, get curious, and stop mislabeling your body’s natural signals as something to fear.
 
📱 Connect with like-minded women inside my free FB group: The Health Habit Community – Holistic Health for Women Ready to Thrive
 
📩 Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net
 
✨ Follow me on Instagram @thehealthhabitllc

8 | The Liver-Hormone-Skin Connection: How to Detox Naturally with Herbs

Could your skin, menstrual cycle, or energy levels be trying to tell you something deeper?
 
In today’s episode, we dive into the world of herbal medicine and the often-overlooked connection between your liver, your gut, your hormones, and your skin health. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn acne, mood swings, PMS, or bloating that just won’t quit — your liver might be the missing link holding you back.
 
You’ll learn how to:
Support your skin and hormones from the inside out
Use bitter herbs and tea rituals to gently detox and rebalance
Improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and gut health with simple shifts
Break free from quick fixes and build a foundation of lasting wellness
Why your bile matters for hormonal harmony
 
I’m also sharing a personal story from my mid-20s — when breakouts rocked my confidence — and how herbal support changed everything. I’ll also share two of my favorite plant-based remedies:
🌿 My “Herbal Bitters” tincture for digestion + liver support🍵 My “Happy Hormones, Happy Skin Tea” a nutrient-dense blend for liver support and gentle, everyday detox + hormone balance
 
By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to nourish your gut, fire up liver detox, and balance your hormones—and complexion. All from using ancient herbal wisdom.
 
👉 Shop all products at thehealthhabit.net/shop
 
📩 Join my weekly email newsletter for holistic tips + behind-the-scenes support: thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Connect with like-minded women inside my free FB group: The Health Habit Community – Holistic Health for Women Ready to Thrive
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN:
https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan

7 | Hardwiring Consistency: How to Make Healthy Habits Stick in a Busy World

If you feel like you know what to do for your health - but just can’t seem to stick with it, then this episode will be a gamechanger. Because the truth is... staying consistent isn’t about trying harder or being more disciplined. It’s about wiring your habits in a way that works with your life.
 
In this episode, we’re ditching the all-or-nothing mindset and diving into what actually helps habits stick—even when life gets busy.
 
✨ You’ll learn:
The most important mindset shift for lasting change
How to automate your healthy choices (without overwhelm)
The power of habit stacking and real-decision making
Why failure is part of the plan—and how to plan for it
How to create habits that feel fun, doable, and aligned with you
 
Whether you’re trying to eat better, move more, take your supplements, or stop starting over—this episode gives you the tools to make healthy habits finally feel sustainable.
 
Let’s rewire your routine—one small, consistent shift at a time.
 
👥 Join the Facebook community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thehealthhabitcommunity
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net

6 | Sleep Explained: Understanding Your Sleep Cycle and Why You're Still Tired

What if sleep isn’t the problem—but how you sleep is? This episode breaks down the biology behind real rest.
 
In this episode, I’m breaking down what actually happens in your body and brain while you sleep. We’ll explore the biology behind the 5 phases of sleep, your circadian rhythm, and how factors like light, caffeine, and naps affect your energy and rest.
 
Whether you’re waking up groggy after a full night’s sleep, relying on caffeine to get through the day, or curious about how to feel more consistently energized — this episode gives you the science-backed clarity you need to finally feel rested.
 
Inside this episode, we cover:
What happens during each phase of sleep (and why it matters)
Why you're still tired after 8 hours
The science of sleep cycles, brain waves, and “sleep pressure”
How the circadian rhythm and sleep pressure affect your energy
How caffeine tricks your brain and how to best time your caffeine intake
The truth about naps and how to use them strategically
What “chronotypes” mean and how to explore your ideal sleep-wake rhythm
 
If you’re ready to finally understand what your body needs to rest, recharge, and truly feel like yourself again—this one’s for you.
 
Stay tuned for Part 2 of the Sleep Series, where we’ll explore how sleep impacts hormones, metabolism, skin, weight, and more.
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net
 
Thank you for listening :)

5 | Break Free from OTC Meds: 3 Herbal Remedies to Support Immunity, Digestion & Stress

What if the “relief” in your medicine cabinet is part of what’s keeping you stuck?
 
Over-the-counter medications may offer quick fixes, but they often come with hidden side effects, unnecessary additives, and long-term consequences that can disrupt your hormones, digestion, and nervous system.
 
In this episode, I’m inviting you to take a closer look at what you’re reaching for — and offering you gentle, effective herbal alternatives that work with your body, not against it.
 
You’ll learn how to support your health naturally using 3 powerful remedies that I keep stocked in my own home. These simple swaps can help you feel clearer, more energized, and more connected to your body — all without the side effects.
 
In this episode you'll discover:
The difference between plant medicine and pharmaceuticals — and why it matters
Why OTC meds may be doing more harm than good
3 herbal remedies to replace common drugstore staples
How humans and plants have evolved side by side — and why that matters for your health today
Why reconnecting with nature’s pharmacy can help you feel more empowered and less overwhelmed
 
✨ If you’re ready to build a natural medicine cabinet that truly supports your body, this episode is for you.
 
🛒 Featured Herbal Remedies
Explore the handcrafted formulas mentioned in this episode:
Immune Boost – A potent blend of immunostimulants to support your body’s natural defenses
Herbal Bitters – A digestive and liver-supporting formula made with Dandelion and Burdock root
Just Chill & Smile Tea – A calming nervine blend to ease stress and uplift your mood
👉 Shop all products at thehealthhabit.net/shop
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net

4 | How Carbohydrates Support a Healthy Lifestyle: Ditch the Diet Drama and Nourish Your Body Naturally

What if carbs aren't the problem? This is your invitation to rethink the “clean eating” rules that left you drained.
 
In this episode, I unpack the truth about carbohydrates—how they impact your energy, hormones, and mental clarity—and why cutting them might be doing more harm than good. You’ll learn how to use carbs intentionally to feel nourished, not depleted, and why they can be a key part of a healthy, whole-food lifestyle.
 
We’ll look at how carbs actually support the body—and why the low-carb mindset can lead to burnout, cravings, hormone imbalances, and disconnection from your body’s natural rhythms. You’ll walk away with a grounded, holistic perspective on how to fuel yourself with more ease, clarity, and trust.
 
We cover…
Why carbs are not the villain when it comes to weight and energy balance
How your brain and nervous system actually depend on certain carbs to function optimally
The difference between carbs that ground and fuel you vs. those that spike and crash you
Simple mindset shifts to help you eat with more ease, presence, and trust
It is time to move away from restrictive food rules and toward a more intuitive way of eating - one that helps you feel mentally clear, emotionally calm, and physically nourished, even on your busiest days.
 
If you're craving a more intuitive, holistic approach to nutrition - without obsessing over every meal, then this one’s for you.
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net
 

3 | Holistic vs. Western Medicine: What’s the Difference & Which Path Is Right for You?

Confused by all the holistic health titles out there? You’re not alone— here's how to make sense of it all.
 
Between naturopathic doctors, osteopaths, functional medicine practitioners, and integrative providers — it can feel overwhelming trying to understand who does what, and how they’re different from a traditional MD.
 
In this episode, I break down the key differences between Western (allopathic) and holistic approaches to health, including what each path offers and how their philosophies, training, and treatment styles differ. We’ll explore what terms like functional medicine, osteopathy, naturopathy, and homeopathy actually mean — so you can confidently choose providers who align with your needs, values, and healing goals.
 
Whether you're navigating hormonal concerns, chronic fatigue, or just want more natural support, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make empowered decisions about your care.
 
Ready to stop Googling and start feeling clear? Tune in now.
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at MariaBellavia@TheHealthHabit.net

2 | How to Calm Your Racing Mind Naturally — in 5 Minutes or Less

If your mind’s cluttered with nonstop thoughts and “shoulds,” this episode is your reset button.
 
I’m sharing 3 quick and powerful techniques to help you clear mental noise, reconnect with your body, and experience more presence and peace in your everyday life.
 
These are the tools I personally turn to when I’m overwhelmed or disconnected — and they take just seconds to work. You’ll learn how to use your breath, body awareness, and nervous system shifts to stop the spiral and come back to center, fast.
 
If you’ve been craving more calm, clarity, and comfort in your own skin — hit play now. 
 
Explore guided meditations and other mind clearing resources: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHealthHabitLLC/playlists
 
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HEART LOCK-IN TECHNIQUE: https://www.heartmath.org/articles-of-the-heart/study-validates-effectiveness-of-heart-lock-in-technique/
 
ATTEND A FREE YOGA + MOBILITY CLASS: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/yoga-and-mobility-classes
 
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Looking for more holistic tools to support your mental health? Join my free newsletter at https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at Mariabellavia@Thehealthhabit.net
 

1 | Can Natural Remedies Help Parkinsons Disease? How Holistic Health Can Change the Game

Parkinson’s can feel like a life sentence—but what if holistic remedies could slow or even reverse it?
In this episode, I share a clear, step-by-step plan to support the body and brain through Parkinson’s using herbs, lifestyle strategies, and nutrition that’s grounded in science and nature.
 
You’ll learn:
How to naturally boost dopamine production and brain activity
Herbs and supplements that can protect brain tissue
Daily strategies to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life
How to approach brain health proactively—even if you don’t have a diagnosis
 
Whether you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, or you simply want to preserve mental clarity and prevent neurodegeneration, this episode will give you practical, affordable tools to start taking action today.
 
Brain health doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Let’s take the guesswork out of it—together.
 
Learn more about the science of sleep and how to improve your nightly reset by reading: Why we Sleep by Michael Walker
 
Explore high-quality Herbal Products https://www.thehealthhabit.net/shop
or https://mountainroseherbs.com/
 
Get the anti-inflammatory fatty acids your body craves with a high-quality cod liver oil or fish roe such as the one produced by Paleo Valley: https://paleovalley.com/store/fish-roe
 
When it comes to supplements, quality makes a huge difference. If you want to supplement with helpful nutrients, these are my two suggestions: B6/B1 Plus Zinc or BioProtect Plus. Both are produced by Biotics (contact me for a discounted rate)
 
✨ GET A PERSONALIZED HOLISTIC HEALTH PLAN: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/get-my-holistic-health-plan
 
📩 Join my email newsletter to get more holistic health resources: https://www.thehealthhabit.net/newsletter
 
📱 Follow me on Instagram for more info and inspiration @TheHealthHabitLLC
 
📩 Questions? Email me at Mariabellavia@Thehealthhabit.net