Science & Soul with Dr Kristen Holmes

Marius Aleksa, the Mental Skills Coach for the Miami Marlins, shares insights on transforming mental resilience in baseball. He discusses techniques for overcoming pressure, emphasizing the importance of learning from failure. Marius highlights how to define success on your own terms and the importance of routines versus superstitions for mental toughness. He also addresses the mental health challenges athletes face and the significance of self-compassion and mindfulness in enhancing performance, both on and off the field.

Join Dr. Ben Bikman, a metabolic scientist and author of 'Why We Get Sick', as he unpacks the hidden dangers of insulin resistance linked to chronic diseases like migraines and cognitive decline. Explore how insulin and glucose interact, and learn why the ketogenic diet may be vital for reversing these issues. Bikman discusses practical habits to boost insulin sensitivity, the benefits of time-restricted eating, and how small lifestyle changes can lead to significant health improvements. Your metabolic health might just depend on it!

In this enlightening discussion, neuroscientist Anne-Laure Le Cunff, known for her work at King's College London and practical tools for mental health, uncovers the unseen scripts that lead to stress and anxiety. She shares science-backed strategies for overcoming procrastination and reframing negative emotions. The conversation also explores the balance between ambition and well-being, the benefits of embracing imperfection, and the power of curiosity in personal growth. Tune in for insights on breaking free from mental patterns to reclaim your focus and happiness.

Napping can significantly boost alertness, mood, and cognitive function. Discover why naps don’t replace a full night’s sleep and debunk common myths. Learn the best duration and timing for naps, and how caffeine can influence their effectiveness. Explore the mental and physical benefits of napping, including its positive effects on athletic performance. With practical strategies for optimal napping, you’ll find ways to elevate your health and productivity without sacrificing your nighttime rest.

Michael Davis, an NFL cornerback with eight seasons under his belt, shares his inspiring journey from an undrafted player to success with the Chargers and Commanders. He discusses the rigorous recruitment process and the emotional rollercoaster of balancing sports, family, and academics. Davis reveals the mental and physical demands of the NFL, including injury pressures and the importance of recovery for longevity. He also reflects on fatherhood and how his upbringing shaped him, emphasizing the deep connections between players, their teams, and passionate fans.

Over 60% of Americans are dehydrated, which could affect your brain and body health. Discover the truth about common hydration myths, like needing eight glasses of water daily and whether coffee is truly dehydrating. Find out how individual factors, like sweat rate and body composition, influence your hydration needs. Learn when electrolyte intake is essential and the hidden risks of both dehydration and overhydration. Plus, tips on staying hydrated while traveling and navigating hospital environments that may worsen dehydration.

Dr. Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychology professor known for her pioneering research on mindfulness and the mind-body connection, discusses how our thoughts can impact health. She explains the significance of mindfulness in reducing stress and potentially reversing aging. Langer encourages reframing negative perceptions and embracing uncertainty for a healthier mindset. She shares studies demonstrating how belief and self-talk can physically affect well-being, empowering listeners to take control of their health through mindful practices.

Unlock the power of sauna for better heart health and enhanced cognitive function! Discover how regular sauna sessions can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and aid muscle recovery. Learn about the key differences between dry and infrared saunas to tailor your wellness routine. Plus, explore the fascinating concept of contrast therapy, combining heat and cold for optimal recovery. Dive into essential safety guidelines to ensure a safe sauna experience while maximizing its benefits!

CrossFit Legend, Annie Thorisdottir has been one of the Fittest Women on Earth for the last 14 years. In this inspiring episode, she sits down with Dr. Kristen Holmes to share her full CrossFit journey– revealing why she first fell in love with the sport, her difficult decision to boycott the 2025 CrossFit Games, how she’s stayed elite through injuries & kids, and her future in CrossFit. Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or just trying to get stronger, Annie’s journey will leave you motivated to keep pushing. (00:00) Intro   (01:30) How Annie Thorisdottir Turned CrossFit Into a Career   (05:36) Finding Purpose in CrossFit   (09:01) The Impact of the CrossFit Community  (09:59) What CrossFit Taught Annie Thorisdottir About Herself   (12:38) Overcoming Injuries Throughout Her Career   (15:19) Rethinking Training and Recovery   (18:22) Using Data to Optimize Her Performance   (20:22) The 3 Keys Behind Annie Thorisdottir's Success   (22:49) Annie Thorisdottir's Worst CrossFit Games Experience   (27:38) Lazar Dukic & Why Annie Boycotted CrossFit Games 2025   (30:03) CrossFit Athletes Deserve Better Safety   (32:57) Annie Thorisdottir's Future in CrossFit   (35:37) Will Hyrox Replace CrossFit?   (37:18) Shopify Ad   (38:22) WHOOP Ad   (39:23) Becoming a Mom as a Professional Athlete   (40:15) Annie Thorisdottir's Birth Story   (44:41) Battling Postpartum Depression   (48:09) Rebuilding Fitness After Giving Birth   (50:43) Finding the Dark Place and Pushing Your Limits   (54:48) Returning to CrossFit After Motherhood   (55:26) Advice for Other Women With Postpartum Struggles   (59:11) The Fitness Exercises Every Woman Needs  (01:03:17) Women Need to Train Differently Than Men   (01:07:40) Breaking Down Barriers in Menopause   (01:13:32) What Does it Mean to Be Human? (01:14:14) Fiverr Ad   Follow us here: www.instagram.com/scienceandsoul  www.instagram.com/drkristenholmes/  www.instagram.com/anniethorisdottir Sponsored by: Shopify - http://SHOPIFY.CO.UK/KRISTEN  WHOOP - https://join.whoop.com/gb/en/SCIENCE/   Fiverr - https://fvrr.co/kristen and use code KRISTEN for 10% SYNCH ID:  MB01OSYJJULRAMV MB010APS9ZI8QRW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cold plunges may be the secret weapon for reducing inflammation and enhancing recovery. Dr. Kristen Holmes explains the science behind cold therapy, including ice baths and cold showers, and their surprising benefits on the body. She discusses how cold exposure can boost mental resilience and outlines the best practices for safely integrating these techniques into your routine. Plus, learn about the role of cold shock proteins in facilitating recovery and why consistency is key to reaping the rewards.