Dr. James Rouse, often referred to as “Dr. James,” is a consultant and spokesperson for Gaiam who has developed the Optimum Wellness and Gaiam Health Solutions self-help health series found in national grocery chains.

Dr. James emphasizes the importance of balance in life and gives advice on health topics, such as nutrition, exercise, and clearing the mind for improved concentration and better sleep. He runs a naturopathic family practice clinic and hosts two Optimum Wellness news segments, “Wellness Wednesday” and “The Fit Kitchen,” which air weekly on NBC affiliates.

His extensive credentials in the wellness field include a doctorate degree in naturopathic medicine, post-doctorate work in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, a degree in transpersonal psychology and certification as a yoga teacher. He combines his knowledge of natural medicine, transformational psychology, yoga and therapeutic cooking to inspire people to improve the quality of their lives and to provide them with the tools they need to make positive changes.

“I've always been fascinated by the idea of health, more on the emotional side of things than in terms of physical disorder,” Dr. James says. “I've always wondered about and studied what makes people feel optimum in their life.”

While travelling in Asia to fully integrate the mind-body relationship into healing, he met the Dalai Lama's physician and became interested in Tibetan Ayurvedic Medicine, leading to his pursuit of greater knowledge of holistic medicine. Back in the U.S., while working on his naturopathic medicine doctorate program at National College, in Portland, Oregon, he co-owned and managed The Common Sense Café, an organic, sustainable restaurant where he incorporated cooking with therapeutic foods into his menus.

Eight years ago, Dr. James closed his café and moved to Denver to start a family naturopathic medicine practice. The clinic offers primary care, acupuncture, physical therapy, yoga and Pilates instruction, as well as cooking classes taught by a nutritionist.