42. The Truth About Menopause and Brain Health That Every Woman Needs to Hear

In this powerful roundtable discussion, Kate O’Donnell is joined by three renowned practitioners—Dr. Scott Blossom, Jennifer Boyd, and Kimberly Giunta—to explore how perimenopause and menopause affect the heart, brain, hormones, and spirit. Together, they challenge conventional narratives, emphasizing that this sacred transition isn’t something to fix, but to support and honor. From hormone replacement therapy and bioidenticals to the role of self-breast massage, fiber intake, and spiritual trust, this conversation offers a truly integrative view of midlife wellbeing.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why cognitive and cardiovascular shifts occur in midlife
• The surprising connection between estrogen and brain health
• How to interpret the language of the menopausal heart
• The truth about hormone replacement therapy (and what most women aren’t being told)
• Ayurvedic, Chinese Medicine, and Functional Medicine perspectives on midlife care
• How self-breast massage can enhance hormonal balance and emotional wellbeing
• The importance of fiber, the microbiome, and metabolic flexibility in cognitive health
• Why listening is a healing act—and how to cultivate it
• How faith, trust, and community support our transformation

Guest Bios:

Dr. Scott Blossom is a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga and somatics teacher, and expert in evidence-based nutrition. He specializes in cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s prevention, and holistic aging.

Jennifer Boyd, PA is an ecosychologist and integrative medicine practitioner with deep roots in women’s reproductive health, functional medicine, and psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Kimberly Giunta is a clinical Ayurvedic specialist and somatic healer who bridges classical Ayurveda with spiritual and emotional healing. Her work focuses on the wisdom of the heart, ritual, and midlife embodiment.

Relevant Links:

Kripalu Workshop- The Menopausal Heart and Brain: https://kripalu.org/presenters-programs/menopausal-heart-and-brain-ayurveda-yoga-and-functional-medicine-approaches

The Simple Breast Massage Protocol: https://www.myayurvedamentor.com/simple-breast-massage-protocol 

Jennifer's Midlife Magic: Free Journal prompts for Deep Inner Listening: https://boydwellness.vipmembervault.com/products/offers/view/1185585

Kimberly on IG: @kimberlyanngiunta

Jennider on IG: @boydwellness

Scott on IG: @docblossom

Call to Action:

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend going through midlife transitions. And don’t forget to leave a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts!

Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org

Summer Self Care Workshop: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/summer-self-care-workshop  

Summer Bundle:  https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/bundles/SummerBundle

Thanks to our Sponsors:

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