Ep 25. Unlocking Longevity: Qigong and Epigenetics with Ben Calder

In this episode of "Everyday Epigenetics: Raw, Real, Relatable," I explore long-term health habits with Ben Calder, a kinesiologist and founder of the Center for Integral Health. Our discussion dives into the critical role of lifestyle choices, mindful movement practices like Qigong, and their impact on our epigenetic health.

Lifestyle Choices and Epigenetic Health
Ben and I discuss how lifestyle choices in one's fifties can ensure better health outcomes into the eighties and beyond. Ben highlights the impact of long-term habits on unexpected health issues later in life, while I share observations from my diagnostic work, noting that younger generations are facing more health challenges due to modern lifestyle problems such as junk food, drug and alcohol use, and excessive technology use.

Introduction to Qigong
Ben introduces Qigong as a mindful movement practice focusing on breath, movement, and internal awareness. Sharing his personal journey, he explains how Qigong transformed his nervous and hormonal systems, improving his overall health over the past 34 years.

Incorporating Qigong into Daily Life
To combat prolonged sitting, Ben transitioned to a standing desk and shares practical tips for integrating exercise into daily routines, like using moments while waiting for the kettle to boil. In his practice, Ben combines kinesiology, epigenetics, and mindful movement, offering both in-person and online assistance, bi-weekly classes, and seasonal retreats.

Diet and Lifestyle Insights
Ben and I discuss modern dietary norms and their long-term health implications. Ben provides historical context on grain consumption and critiques sugary foods for their negative effects on digestion and energy. I highlight the pitfalls of convenience foods like breakfast cereals and suggest healthier alternatives. Together, we stress the importance of mindful food choices and timing.

Final Thoughts: Empowerment Through Mindful Practices
Ben's key message is that it’s never too late to make positive changes. He advocates for self-empowerment in health care by removing harmful habits and introducing enriching activities. We both agree on the importance of making healthy choices throughout life to maintain long-term vitality.

Whether you're interested in Qigong, curious about the influence of long-term habits, or looking for personalized health strategies, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for a healthier lifestyle.

RESOURCES:
Connect with Ben:
Website: https://bencalder.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bengcalder/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bencalderintegralhealth
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bencalderintegralhealth/


Weekly Classes online https://bookwhen.com/integralhealth
Online self-study learning program for LifeForce Qigong https://integralhealth.mylearnworlds.com/course/activate-lifeforce

Books:
Molecules of Emotion - Candace Pert


Show Links:
Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast
Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links
SHOW NOTES: healthyawakening.co/episode24

Connect with Susan:
Schedule a FREE consultation, send an email to susan@healthyawakening.co
Faceboook: https://www.facebook.com/susanrobbinshealthyawakening
Instagram: @susanrobbins_epigeneticcoach
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/healthyawakening

LISTEN NOW:
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Learn more about Ben Calder:
Ben Calder has been in professional practice as a kinesiologist since 2003. He uses a multidisciplinary approach with an integral perspective to assess health and well-being and develop bespoke solutions to optimize your life. Combining aspects of epigenetics and functional nutrition, the soft tissue manipulation, and targeting primary dysfunction of Bowen Technique, Mcloughlin Scar Tissue Release the Integral Relationships model and LifeForce Qigong to help develop unique strategies for your life. In 2013 he opened the Centre for Integral Health in Shrewsbury UK to further explore the Integral Model in a clinical setting that uses a multidisciplinary approach to health. Ben has worked with people from many backgrounds, been part of community health projects, spoken about health throughout the UK, and been a guest on various radio shows over the last 21 years. He has a real passion for addressing the cause of ill health and changing the behaviors that contribute to dysfunctional patterns and life challenges and believes there is always a way to make a difference."