Moments in Health Shotzz with Barbara O’Neil You Shouldn’t Miss

A few days back, I had the pleasure of speaking with Barbara O'Neil, a distinguished health educator, author, and speaker renowned for her expertise in natural therapies and wellness. Carrying over five decades' worth of experience in this field, Barbara has dedicated her career to promoting holistic health principles, emphasising the importance of diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies in achieving optimal well-being.

After months of trying to connect with Barbara, I finally had the chance to sit down with her for a meaningful conversation. We shared insights on how simple daily practices at home can contribute to a longer, healthier life. 

Below are just some topics and conversations we had that I’d like you to know before you watch the entire podcast:

Indians and The Use of Water 

We Indians have a rich tradition of wellness wisdom passed down through generations, like adding turmeric and ginger to our diets for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory magic. But during my chat with health educator Barbra O’Neill, I discovered that some of these age-old habits align beautifully with what she calls the “water theory.”

Barbra is a big advocate for water therapy, which is all about being intentional with how and when you hydrate. Interestingly, it echoes many Indian practices like not drinking water during meals to protect digestive enzymes, or starting the day with a cold-water splash or plunge to awaken the body and kickstart circulation.

According to Barbara, understanding the temperature and timing of water intake can make a real difference in how your body functions and feels. Cold water can boost circulation, while warm water can aid digestion and detoxification.

So, next time you skip that glass of water during a meal or reach for a cold rinse in the morning, know that you’re not just following tradition, you’re tapping into a science-backed wellness ritual that’s been hiding in plain sight.

Toxic Threads & Makeup Madness: What Your Skin Wishes You Knew

Did you know that lab-made fabrics often contain chemicals that your skin absorbs, and over time, those toxins can make their way into your bloodstream? That kind of exposure isn’t just irritating; it can actually contribute to long-term health issues. It isn’t only textiles but also makeup that causes some serious long-term health issues. 

We all love a good glow-up, but many popular brands pack their products with synthetic ingredients that can do more harm than good. That’s why choosing clean, skin-safe formulas is a must.

“The best make up in the world is to be well hydrated” and I cannot agree more, with the secret behind good skin is hydration. It’s the ultimate glow for your skin. When your skin is well-hydrated, it naturally looks fresh, dewy, and radiant with no filter (or foundation) needed. Trust me!

Body deterioration 

As we age, our bodies naturally undergo wear and tear, muscle mass decreases, skin loses elasticity, and bones become more fragile. These changes are part of the ageing process, but lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and dehydration can speed up deterioration. The good news? Healthy habits can slow the decline and keep you feeling strong, vibrant, and energised well into later years.

I asked Barbara how she had such lovely skin at the age of 71 when someone her age would be wrinkling and looking dehydrated. Her response was mindful living, and honestly, the simple habits she swears by are ones we could all benefit from and recommend to everyone who hears her out. 

First up: Daily exercise. Now, you might think hitting the gym is just about building muscle or staying in shape, but according to Barbara, it goes much deeper. Regular movement helps maintain skin elasticity, keeps circulation flowing, and plays a key role in longevity. Without it, your skin can start thinning and losing vitality as early as your 50s or 60s. So yes, those squats and stretches are doing more than just toning your legs, they’re future-proofing your glow.

But exercise is only part of the equation. Barbara also puts a major focus on hydration and nutrition. She fuels her body with clean, nutrient-dense foods and keeps her skin hydrated from the inside out. The result? Radiant skin, high energy, and a youthful presence that turns heads, she genuinely looks (and feels) like she’s in her 50s; mainly due what she practices and preaches–SUSTAIN ME an acronym that stands for: Sunshine, Use of Water, Sleep, Trust in God, Inhale, Nourish, Mindful Movement, Exercise. These are the key elements from Barbara O'Neill’s own formula, one she has personally created, lived by, and shared as the foundation for a healthy life.

The takeaway? Healthy ageing isn’t about expensive creams or secret serums. It’s about building smart, sustainable habits—daily movement, clean eating, and hydration—that nourish your body and skin over time. Barbra is living proof that it’s never too late to start, and the glow you’re after might just be a few good habits away.

My conversation with Barbara O'Neil was truly eye-opening. From uncovering the hidden dangers in everyday habits to exploring the transformative power of consistent movement and mindful eating, her insights were refreshingly simple and grounded, not driven by trends. What struck me most was her message that living well doesn’t require dramatic change, just small, intentional choices made consistently. At 71, Barbra’s energy and glow are living proof of that. So, whether it’s drinking smarter, moving daily, or choosing cleaner products, start today, and your future self will thank you.

Click here to watch the episode with Barbara O'neil