In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I talk with Waldi Hoon, the founder of yōjō, about her journey into the world of vagus nerve health. She shares how her background in content creation, along with her family's experience with chronic pain, inspired her to help others improve their health using science-based solutions.

We also discuss how modern life, from constant stress to information overload and unhealthy habits, affects our nervous system. Waldi explains why building resilience, creating simple daily routines, and finding the right self-care practices can make a big difference. We also explore how YoJo's technology and community help people make these healthy habits part of everyday life.

If you're looking for practical ways to reduce stress, improve your wellbeing, and learn more about nervous system health, this episode is for you. If you find it helpful, share it with three friends who could benefit too.

Dr. Navaz Habib

Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

Waldi Hoon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waldihoon/
Website: https://www.yojo.health/

In this episode, I explore the connection between your light environment, the vagus nerve, and heart rate variability (HRV). Drawing on a 2025 systematic review of 25 studies, I explain how both the timing and quality of light exposure can influence nervous system function and overall recovery.

I discuss how morning exposure to bright, blue-enriched light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and support healthy biological rhythms, even if it may cause a temporary reduction in HRV. In contrast, warmer, dimmer light in the evening can help promote relaxation and prepare the body for restful sleep.

I also share practical strategies for optimizing your daily light exposure, particularly for individuals who experience anxiety, stress, or heightened sensitivity to environmental factors.

As a simple challenge, I invite you to pay closer attention to your light habits for one week. Aim to get natural light in the morning and use warmer, lower-intensity lighting in the evening. Observe how your HRV responds over time, rather than focusing on moment-to-moment changes.

If you find this episode valuable, share it with someone who may benefit from it. Small changes in daily habits can have a meaningful impact on long-term health and well-being.

Dr. Navaz Habib

Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

Welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast!

Today I am joined by Dr. David Rabin to dive deep into the science of stress, healing, and the power of the vagus nerve. Dr. Rabin unpacks decades of research, explaining how chronic stress impacts our cells, the crucial role of safety in the healing process, and how modern medicine often misses the importance of looking at the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. Together, we reveal how ancient practices align with the latest neuroscience, showing that mindful breathing, touch, and familiar, calming experiences directly influence our health.

The conversation also explores cutting-edge topics like MDMA-assisted therapy, epigenetics, and the power to reverse trauma at both psychological and genetic levels. Dr. Rabin discusses how trauma can be inherited, and more importantly, how healing is absolutely possible, with evidence-backed tools and practices ranging from technology like Apollo Neuro to traditional approaches such as yoga, meditation, and breathwork.

If you’re looking to upgrade your health and feel empowered in your healing journey, this episode is for you. Share it with friends who could benefit, and discover practical steps you can take today to reconnect your mind and body for a healthier, happier life!

Dr. Navaz Habib

Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

Dr. David Rabin
Website: https://www.drdave.io/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidrabin/