What if midlife isn't something to survive but an invitation to come home to yourself?
In this episode of The Vital Spirit Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kathy Casey, DACM, L.Ac., C.Ht., doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, to explore a completely different way of looking at midlife. Instead of seeing symptoms as something to suppress or simply "get through," we talk about how this season of life can become an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, your body, and the wisdom that's been there all along.
Dr. Kathy shares her own journey into Chinese medicine, the experiences that shaped her philosophy of healing, and why she believes the body is never working against us. We talk about the importance of curiosity over judgment, why symptoms often carry important messages, and how simple daily practices can help shift us from constant survival mode into a place of greater resilience and self-awareness.
Whether you're navigating perimenopause, feeling disconnected from yourself, or simply craving a more grounded approach to health, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on what healing can really look like.
In this episode, we cover:
● 01:03 Meet Dr. Kathy Casey and the path that led her to Chinese medicine
● 03:20 The meaning behind "the body-mind is the oracle"
● 10:01 The gallbladder health scare that changed the direction of her life
● 14:33 How energy healing became part of her practice
● 20:59 Looking at symptoms as your body's solutions instead of problems
● 33:53 What it means to be a "midwife for midlife"
● 36:55 Why patterns matter more than simply treating symptoms
● 39:27 Creating a safe space where women feel truly heard
● 40:33 Why you're reporting symptoms—not complaining
● 41:59 The "magic wand" question she asks every patient
● 42:59 The everyday stressors that quietly shape our health
● 45:34 Simple "parasympathetic snacks" to help regulate your nervous system
● 57:38 Rediscovering who you are beyond your roles and responsibilities
● 01:00:27 A different way to think about anxiety and emotional health
● 01:04:39 The importance of noticing and naming what's happening in your body
● 01:09:38 Why awareness alone isn't enough without practice
● 01:19:47 The missing rituals of midlife and why they matter
Links and resources:
● Dr. Kathy Casey Website: https://touchstoneacupuncture.com/
● Dr. Kathy Casey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkathycasey/
● Dr. Kathy Casey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-casey-dacm-lac-cht-44680618/
● Dr. Kathy Casey Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100047536339240
Connect with Dr. Kelly:
Website: drkellylivingston.com
Website Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.com
Instagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/
Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicine
YouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingston
Thank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.
Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together.
If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.
Disclaimer:
The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
