The Hygge Nurse

When sickness hits your home, it can feel like a never-ending cycle of coughs, sniffles, and exhaustion. In this episode, Dr. Rachel Zimmer, a nurse researcher and food-as-medicine expert, shares practical, research-backed strategies to help you and your family recover faster. From healing foods to simple home adjustments and stress-reducing techniques, these tips go beyond “drink water and rest”...

Are you always on —even when you’re supposed to be resting? Do you wake up at 3 AM with a to-do list running through your head? If so, this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, Dr. Rachel Zimmer, nurse practitioner and food-as-medicine researcher, dives deep into the science of true restorative rest—beyond just sleep. Chronic stress, especially for women, is at an all-time high, impacting...

Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or caught in an endless loop of checking the news? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Hygge Nurse , Dr. Rachel Zimmer shares why our brains are wired to fixate on negative news, how the constant stream of updates impacts our nervous system, and—most importantly—how to break free from the stress cycle while still staying informed. With science-backed strategies a...

Dr. Rachel Zimmer opens up the deep connections between food access, health, and policy in this heartfelt episode of The Hygge Nurse Podcast. She shares personal experiences that have shaped her passion for food as medicine and discusses the real-life impact of programs like SNAP, WIC, Meals on Wheels, and produce prescription initiatives. With policy changes threatening the accessibility of these...

In this episode of The Hygge Nurse , Dr. Rachel Zimmer dives deep into the psychology of habits—why we repeat the ones we don’t want and why willpower alone isn’t enough to break them. Whether it's pouring a glass of wine at night, endlessly scrolling on your phone, or stress eating, your brain isn’t addicted to the habit itself—it’s addicted to the relief it brings. Rachel walks through the habit...

Welcome back to The Hygge Nurse Podcast ! This is our first episode of the year, and I’m thrilled to introduce my friend and esteemed colleague, Dr. Amber Brooks . She’s a board-certified anesthesiologist and comprehensive pain management physician from Wake Forest School of Medicine,. Today, we’re diving deep into holistic, science-backed ways to manage pain . Dr. Brooks is an incredible advocate...

In this episode, Dr. Rachel Zimmer chats with Annael Brown, a registered dietitian nutritionist, busy mom of four (soon to be five!), and founder of Annael Brown Nutrition. Annael lives in Israel and specializes in helping women balance their health and nutrition amidst the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Together, they explore: Why busy moms often prioritize others over themselves when it comes to...

In this cozy and insightful episode, Dr. Rachel Zimmer, nurse researcher, nurse practitioner, and founder of Hygge Abode, guides us through the essentials of winter wellness. From combatting the winter blues to building spaces that nourish both body and mind, Rachel offers practical, research-backed strategies to support your well-being during the colder months. This episode is your gentle reminde...

In this episode of The Hygge Nurse Podcast , Dr. Rachel Zimmer explores the transformative power of boundaries for physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness. Drawing from her personal experiences as a nurse, nurse researcher, and student of Brené Brown’s work, Rachel explores how boundary issues manifest in our bodies and minds and how setting boundaries can lead to a healthier, more bal...

Welcome back to The Hygge Nurse Podcast ! In today’s special holiday episode, Dr. Rachel Zimmer dives into the heart of the home—the kitchen—to help you create a space that supports your wellness goals and brings calm and joy to your holiday season. If meal prep chaos, cluttered counters, or mismatched utensils overwhelm you, this episode is here to help. Dr. Rachel shares actionable strategies to...

Welcome back to The Hygge Nurse podcast! In today’s episode, we explore how your kitchen can become more than just a cooking space—it’s the heart of your home, a hub for connection, and a powerful tool for your health. This episode is inspired by my upcoming workshop, Five Steps to a Wellness-Centered Kitchen (happening live on December 4th) . What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why is your kitchen...

In this episode of The Hygge Nurse Podcast , Dr. Rachel Zimmer explores the transformative power of gratitude—not just as a fleeting feeling but as a practice that can enhance your well-being and your home's atmosphere. Learn about the fascinating science behind gratitude, how it rewires your brain for positivity, and discover five simple, actionable tips to make gratitude a part of your daily lif...

Welcome back to The Hygge Nurse Podcast , exploring wellness, coziness, and finding balance in a chaotic world. In this episode, your host, Dr. Rachel Zimmer , nurse researcher, and wellness enthusiast, dive into the transformative power of the mind-body connection. Learn how breathwork, mindfulness, and gentle movement can help you manage stress, foster resilience, and find moments of peace—all w...

Welcome to The Hygge Nurse Podcast! In today’s episode, Rachel Zimmer dives into the powerful impact of a veggie-forward diet and the transformative effects of mindful eating. Drawing from her Fresh Food RX program, she shares research-backed insights on how increasing access to fresh, nutrient-rich foods has positively impacted participants’ physical and mental health, reducing symptoms like fati...

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Elimarie Caballero, a clinical psychologist focused on trauma-informed care and mental health advocacy for immigrant communities. Dr. Caballero shares her journey into psychology, rooted in breaking generational cycles and promoting culturally competent care. We discuss the mental health challenges faced by immigrant families, how trauma affects physical health, an...

In this episode of The Hygge Nurse Podcast , Dr. Rachel Zimmer is joined by Dr. David Docusen, author, speaker, and founder of the Neighborliness Center, to dive deep into the importance of community engagement, interconnectedness, and building genuine relationships. Dr. Docusen shares his journey of starting nonprofits and churches, explaining how true transformation comes from listening to the l...

In this episode of The Hygge Nurse , Rachel Zimmer explores the transformative power of boundaries as a form of self-care and energy protection. Discover how setting clear, mindful boundaries at home, work, and in everyday life can improve your mental and emotional well-being. Rachel shares practical tips on how intentional design, routine, and communication can help you create physical and mental...

In this episode of the Hygge Nurse podcast, Dr. Rachel Zimmer, a nurse researcher and hygge enthusiast, dives deep into the heart of what it means to create a home that is a true reflection of your values. Your home isn’t just a space—it’s a reflection of your life, your priorities, and what truly matters to you. However, when our spaces become cluttered with things that don’t serve us, it’s easy...

In this enlightening episode of the Hygge Nurse podcast, Rachel Zimmer sits down with Dr. Mia Yang, a dedicated geriatrician with extensive experience in dementia care and caregiver support. Together, they explore the intricacies of caregiving, focusing on the well-being of caregivers and practical strategies to navigate the challenges of dementia care. Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding Caregiver We...

Dr. Andrea Lein, a psychologist with expertise in mental health, positive psychology, and giftedness, shares her insights on holistic mental health and the importance of connection. This episode covers Dr. Lein's journey, her work with gifted individuals, and strategies for fostering holistic mental health. The discussion also delves into the issue of loneliness and social isolation, highlighting...

Welcome back to the Hygge Nurse podcast! In this enriching episode, Rachel Zimmer, your host, sits down with Kristy Farewell, the visionary CEO and Founder of Kairos Insights. Kristy shares her journey from financial services to leading a consulting firm dedicated to developing and strengthening leadership teams. Together, Rachel and Kristy explore the profound impact of wellness on leadership and...

Rachel Zimmer sits down with Simone Smith, founder of Calm Joy Candle Company. Simone shares her journey as a mental health therapist and creator of the Calm Joy Candle Co. She discusses the therapeutic power of scent and the importance of creating a calm and joyful space. Simone emphasizes the need for personal growth and resilience and encourages listeners to find ways to overcome challenges. Sh...

In this episode, I interview Christina Saldana, a physician assistant who started her practice in NC and specializes in menopausal and sexual health. We discuss the importance of hormonal health and how it can be influenced by environment, sleep, exercise, and self-care. We also explore the hormonal changes women experience in their 30s and beyond and how to differentiate between normal changes an...

In this episode, I speak with Diane Shenberger, a registered dietician, and discuss our shared work in food as medicine programs, the impact of nutrition on mental health, and the challenges of food insecurity. Diane will share insights on integrating more fruits and vegetables into daily routines, the role of nutrition in health, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlight...

In this inaugural episode of the Hygge Nurse podcast, I sit down with Dr. Allison Matthews, co-founder of Second Shift Playbook, to explore her unwavering commitment to equity and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Dr. Matthews delves into the inspiration behind the Second Shift Playbook and unpacks the "second shift" concept—the additional labor women often shoulder at home. Throughout...