RAK ON: Embracing a New Vision for Health
Dr. Rak ("Rock") here.
In our pursuit of health and well-being, how often do we pause to reflect on what it truly means to be healthy? This question has been at the forefront of my mind this week, inspired by my insightful conversation with Jason Gootman, a health and wellness coach and the most recent guest on The Health Feast podcast.
In our conversation, Jason introduces the concept of Salutogenesis, which emphasizes the origins of good health rather than pathogenesis, the origin of disease. This approach starkly contrasts with the traditional model I learned in medical school. Salutogenesis invites us to shift our focus from merely diagnosing and managing illness to actively fostering the conditions that support wellbeing. By emphasizing what keeps us healthy, it not only redefines our understanding of health but also encourages us to think proactively about cultivating a life full of vitality.
For a deeper dive into Jason's insights on wellness coaching, practical health tips, and our enlightening discussion on creating vibrant health, check out the full conversation on The Health Feast podcast. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
My own health journey offers a compelling example of the salutogenic approach in action. At 36, I was confronted with diagnoses of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pre-diabetes, obesity, and an ongoing battle with depression. Instead of solely focusing on weight loss, I expanded my focus to include overall health. This broader perspective led to the reversal of my chronic conditions within months. Yesterday, celebrating my 44th birthday, I found myself reflecting on being in the best health of my life.
This personal transformation has fueled my passion for helping others reverse their chronic diseases and lead more fulfilling lives. Health is much more than the absence of disease; it's about the aspirational self-identity we create and the achievements we realize as a result.
So, this week, let's draw inspiration from Jason's wisdom and my own experiences. Embracing the concept of salutogenesis has reaffirmed my commitment to a holistic approach to health. Let’s cultivate well-being in our lives, not merely by avoiding sickness but by actively creating conditions that foster robust health, setting the stage for a healthier, more vibrant future.
Roots Reflection 🌳:
What would your life look like if you focused more on cultivating health than combating illness? Reflect on this question as we delve deeper into the implications of Salutogenesis. Consider the shifts that might occur in your daily routines, choices, and overall mindset. How could embracing this approach transform your interactions, your environment, and, ultimately, your sense of vitality? Reflect on how a typical day might change if it were steered by health promotion rather than disease prevention.
Awareness Action 🧘🏾:
Building on our reflection, this week set aside some time for an exercise called “pointing the mind.” Find a quiet moment to vividly imagine a life filled with health and vitality. Envision yourself thriving: What activities are you enjoying? Who are you with? What meaningful work are you doing? This visualization is not just an exercise in creativity but a strategic blueprint that can guide your decisions toward a healthier future. Let this vision inspire your actions throughout the week, and later, assess how this focused intention might influence your ongoing health choices.
Kindness Opportunity 💖:
Kindness towards ourselves can ripple out to others, promoting a healthier community. Share the concept of Salutogenesis with a friend or family member. Discuss what health-promoting activities you both might enjoy together, such as cooking a nutritious meal or attending a yoga class. By spreading the idea that health is an active state to be cultivated, you help others think more critically about their well-being and the choices that lead to a healthier life.
Join Us for the next Mindful Meals! A Plant-Based BBQ Party!
🗓️ Date: Sunday, May 26, 2024
🕒 Time: 1:30pm PST/ 4:30pm EST (90 minutes)
💰 Cost: $20 (Included for RYL members!)
📍 Location: Zoom in the comfort of your kitchen
🔗 Register here
🔥 Get ready to fire up your taste buds without lighting a grill at our Whole Food Plant-Based BBQ Party cook-along! Dive into the delicious world of plant-based cooking with our mouth-watering menu:
🥪 BBQ Soy Curl Sandwiches with Dr. Rak’s homemade BBQ sauce
🥗 Crisp and Refreshing Coleslaw
🫘 Hearty BBQ Baked Beans
🍫 Decadent Mexican Chocolate Pudding
🧘 Mindful Meditation: Join Dr. Rak for a guided meditation session before cooking and tasting. This moment of mindfulness will help you connect more deeply with your food and the present moment, enhancing the overall experience.
📚 Educational Insight: As we cook, Dr. Rak will highlight the health benefits of key ingredients, sharing why each component is chosen not just for its flavor but for its nutritional value. This educational aspect is designed to empower you with the knowledge to make healthier food choices.
Whether you’re a plant-based pro or just curious about incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet, this cook-along is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy classic BBQ flavors in a healthier, plant-powered way. Grab your spot now and join us for an afternoon of cooking, learning, and fun!
Register here: https://calendly.com/drrak/mindful-meals-w-dr-rak
RAK ON Live! Dr. Rak’s Weekly Wellness Livestream
Every Wednesday at 11 AM PST / 2 PM EST!
Make sure to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode.
Dive into the world of Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Rak’s weekly livestream, which focuses on Lifestyle Medicine, behavior change, and mindfulness. Whether you're a seasoned wellness enthusiast or just beginning your journey, these sessions offer valuable insights to enhance your well-being.
Can't join live? Catch up anytime with our post-stream recordings.
Watch Live or Recorded on YouTube
Last week, Dr. Rak guided listeners on How to Start Exercising in 2024. With the year already 35% over, it’s the perfect time to jump-start your fitness journey and embrace the remaining 65% of the year with movement!
The Health Feast Corner 🎧
If you’ve been enjoying The Health Feast, please do us a favor by subscribing to the podcast on your favorite platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify) and leaving a review. Your support is much appreciated!
NEW EPISODE! Episode 29: Redefining Health and Wellness with Jason Gootman. In this enlightening episode, Dr. Rak sits down with Jason Gootman, a health and wellness coach, certified nutritionist, and certified exercise physiologist known for his candid and transformative insights into health and self-improvement. Jason discusses his journey from battling weight issues and identity to championing lifestyle medicine and wellness coaching. He delves into salutogenesis—a focus on wellness creation rather than disease treatment. The conversation emphasizes simple, evidence-based lifestyle changes and the need to demystify complex health issues into actionable steps. Jason shares his personal story of adopting a sustainable health approach, highlighting the critical role of addressing our basic needs and fostering a harmonious relationship with ourselves. The two invite listeners to reflect on their health journeys and underscore the importance of moving towards a healthier, more conscious society. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
Episode 28: RAK Your POtential: The Weight of Change. In this compelling episode of The Health Feast, we explore the themes of transformation and resilience with our co-host, Po. He shares the pivotal moments from his health journey and recent bariatric surgery, reflecting on the profound impact of his decision. Po discusses his long battle with obesity, the rigorous preparations for surgery, and the essential support systems that have helped him navigate his recovery. We delve into the psychological renewal and lifestyle shifts resulting from his courageous choice, offering insights into his ongoing recovery and the hope it inspires. Join us as we follow Po's transformative journey, drawing lessons on confronting life's challenges with strength and determination. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
Support Dr. Rak's Spartan team RUCK CANCER. Proceeds go to Bay Area Cancer Connections, an incredible non-profit that helps women with breast and ovarian cancer. A HUGE THANK YOU to all who have donated! As of this writing, we have raised over $5000 to support women navigating this challenging moment in their lives. Learn more and help us reach our fundraising goal here:
Thanks for walking this path with me. I always look forward to hearing your stories and insights, so feel free to hit reply or join the RAK ON chat and share a bit of your world. Or pass this message along to someone who could use a boost of Reflection, Awareness, and Kindness in their life.
Live Well and RAK ON,
Dr. Rak 👊🏽
Want to level up your health journey? Join Dr. Rak and the supportive community of RAK Your Life.
Join a RYL Tribe, where group support and accountability are key to transformation in these weekly health education groups.
Our Plant-Based Tribe meets on Monday evenings at 730pm EST/ 430pm PST (only 2 spots left!)
Our Heart Health Tribe meets Wednesdays at 4 pm EST / 1pm PST (only 5 spots left!).
Our Mens Peak Tribe will start May 20, 2024. Tentatively scheduled for Mondays at 6pm PST/9pm EST (only 4 spots left!)
You can also work with Dr. Rak individually for 1:1 medical care and get a Lifestyle Medicine doctor on your side to help oversee your care, reverse chronic diseases, and optimize your health and longevity.
Express your interest here and learn more on the RAK Your Life website.