Dr Arien’s journey: coping with retinopathy, depression and stroke
Instead of losing all hope when faced with a debilitating eye condition, stroke and acute depression, Dr Arien van der Merwe found ways to grow into a more perceptive, empathic healer. She explains how neuroplasticity helped her recover from paralysis, discusses the placebo versus the nocebo effect and metabolic syndrome, and lists her personal tips for self-care.
If you are new to podcasts, simply click on the arrow to listen to Arien and Mariette, or on the download button to download the conversation onto your device.
In ep. 225 of the weekly podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful, Arien van der Merwe - medical doctor specialising in holistic counselling, natural medicine, stress solutions, women’s health and youthful living - considers
the wounded healer archetype and how her health challenges have enabled Arien to be more empathetic and observant
neuroplasticity and whole-brain integration
how inflammation relates to Arien’s considerable challenges: retinopathy, stroke and depression
using PlayDance and cross-over movements to help her recover from a stroke that left the right side of her body paralysed
Arien’s approach to being considered high-risk for a third stroke, dementia and multiple sclerosis
deep relaxation through uplifting movement
what metabolic syndrome involves
being diagnosed with acute depression
understanding that a predisposition is a possibility, not an inevitability
the placebo versus the nocebo effect
how X39 LifeWay patches have improved her visual challenges caused by retinopathy
Arien’s experience of acute depression and her stay in a mental health clinic
difficulties posed by “being a healer”
how her “playfun art” had to change due to retinopathy
practical tips for self-care.
In this episode, Dr Arien mentions NIA technique dancing, a form of fusion fitness including moves from Aikido, gumboot dancing and Isadora Duncan’s dance technique and choreography; her own PlayDance, free-flowing movement to music suitable, which can be adapted for paralysed individuals; the work of Greg Braden and Bruce Lipton on the placebo and nocebo effect; the superconscious mind.
Scroll down to learn more about Dr Arien and her little Blue Bird book.
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Also read Dr Arien’s Up Close & Personal article, where she writes about PlayDance, setting healthy boundaries, and being a free spirit.
If you’re a wellness expert looking to expand your authority and reach, you’re invited to visit https://www.mariettesnyman.co.za/services
Little Blue Bird of Love - in Afrikaans Die Blou Voëltjie van Liefde - by Dr Arien (Naledi) is available from her at drarien01@gmail.com and also at Naledi Books.
More about Dr Arien
Dr Arien van der Merwe is a medical doctor, author and speaker based in Somerset West. She has practiced for 45 years and specialises in holistic counselling, natural medicine, youthful living, women’s health, stress solutions and workplace wellness. Arien believes a holistic approach, including modern medicine and natural healing, helps address the root cause of illness and doesn’t simply treat symptoms.
Arien has authored 18 books on health & wellness. She works in person and does video consultations. She offers online courses and workshops, and can be contacted for speaking engagements – see her special interests and services for topics.
Special interests:
Cell regeneration, Skin renewal, Insomnia, Brain fog, Menopause relief, Fatigue and Faster wound healing.
Services:
Personalised wellness plans, Hypertension & insulin resistance, Brain health and neuroplasticity, Health products & supplements, High blood glucose & cholesterol, Weight management & stress solutions, Workplace wellness & burnout recovery and X39 Phototherapy stem cell activation.
Her Ariani Health products are available on her website, the ‘Ariani Health Solutions - Dr Arien & Anri’ Facebook page and from Faithful to Nature: https://www.faithful-to-nature.co.za/catalogsearch/result/?q=ariani+health
Website: https://arianihealth.com/home/
Email: drarien01@gmail.com
Whatsapp: 083 731 2049
Facebook: Ariani Health Solutions - Dr Arien & Anri as well as Dr Arien
You can also listen to chiropractor Dr Jeff Crippen’s eye-opening research studies involving the placebo effect.
The free podcast series Calm, Clear & Helpful is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, Player FM and Iono.fm – I hope you’ll subscribe!
Original music by Mart-Marie Snyman
Thumbnail image: Unsplash
Photograph of Dr Arien van der Merwe: supplied