Welcome to the Alternative Flight Plan Podcast hosted by Kristin Barnes! In this enlightening episode, Kristin sits down with Dr. Erica Zelfand, a renowned naturopathic doctor from Oregon, to explore the powerful intersection between science and soul in medicine. They delve into how alternative modalities, including psychedelic medicine, can bring a deeper, more holistic approach to healing—bridging the gap between conventional and indigenous healing systems. Dr. Zelfand shares her journey from growing up in a Russian-American family to becoming a medical director involved in innovative retreats and therapies that support mind, body, and spirit. Tune in to hear how she combines her medical expertise with soulful practices to help patients reclaim their lives.
You can watch the full episode on YouTube here: [https://youtu.be/GjPp6HbNvI8). In this conversation, Dr. Zelfand discusses her personal experiences with psychedelic medicines like psilocybin and ayahuasca, emphasizing their role in accessing the unseen layers of healing—such as beliefs, karma, and ancestral wounds. The episode also highlights the importance of safety, cultural differences in medicine practices, and the need for authentic integration and community support. Whether you're curious about how psychedelics can be used responsibly or how naturopathic medicine can incorporate these powerful tools, this episode offers valuable insights.
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion about the future of healing modalities and how we can merge science with soul to create more compassionate, effective care.
#AlternativeMedicine #PsychedelicHealing #HolisticHealth #NaturopathicMedicine #SpiritualHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney
00:00 Bridging Conventional and Alternative Medicine
01:40 Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine
05:59 The Journey to Becoming a Naturopathic Doctor
09:51 Cultural Influences on Healing Practices
13:33 Understanding Naturopathy and Its Distinctions
17:19 Exploring Psychedelic Medicine
21:28 Challenges in Regulated Psychedelic Practices
25:10 Healing Retreats in Mexico
29:26 Navigating Bad Experiences with Psychedelics
33:06 The Role of Integration in Healing
37:17 Indigenous Practices vs. Western Approaches
40:58 The Importance of Holistic Assessment
44:55 The Future of Psychedelic Medicine
