The Appalachian Wellness Connection
Holistic Health from the Heart of East Tennessee
Welcome to Appalachian Wellness Connection, where Dr. Micheal Bryan and Dr. Kevin Britt explore the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern science in the pursuit of true wellness. Broadcasting from the foothills of East Tennessee, this podcast is your down-to-earth guide to holistic health—covering everything from chiropractic care and functional medicine to nutrition, detox, and sustainable lifestyle choices.
Whether you're a curious patient, a wellness enthusiast, or just someone looking for practical ways to feel better and live well, you’ll find real conversations, expert insights, and a whole lot of heart. Tune in as we break down complex health topics, share clinical experience, and reconnect you to what it means to feel good in your body, mind, and spirit.
The Appalachian Wellness Connection
#13 Your Brain on Sunlight – How Light Talks to the Hypothalamus
Sunlight isn’t just about vitamin D — it’s information for your brain.
In this episode, we explore how light acts as a powerful signal to the hypothalamus — the master control center for your hormones, sleep, mood, metabolism, and more.
You’ll learn:
- ☀️ How sunlight sets your internal clock through the brain’s SCN
- 🧠 Why your hypothalamus depends on morning light to function properly
- 🌙 How artificial light at night confuses your biology
- 🔄 Simple, no/low-cost strategies to reset your circadian rhythm and reclaim your energy, sleep, and hormonal health
We also share real patient stories and practical tips to help you create a light environment that supports healing — not stress.
If you’ve been feeling out of rhythm, this episode can help you sync your brain with the sun — and shift your health from surviving to thriving.