RAK ON: Finding Strength in Your Story
Dr. Rak ("rock") here.
This week, I'm inspired by our recent conversation on The Health Feast with Charles Inniss, DPT, PCC, NBC-HWC, an optimism and mental wellness coach. Charles's insights on mindset really struck a chord with me. As Charles defines it, our mindset is a product of our story and our focus, and shifting these can transform our lives.
For a deeper dive into Charles' story and a masterclass on cultivating a positive mindset, check out the full conversation on The Health Feast. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
For years, I told myself a story of being a victim of my circumstances. I focused on the negative, on the things that annoyed me, and on the bad things that seemed to surround me. This focus drained my energy and kept me stuck in a cycle of resentment and anger.
I remember vividly a moment about eight years ago, when after a long day at work, I came home feeling physically exhausted and defeated. My wife noted that I was always in a bad mood. I would focus on all the things that went wrong that day or frustrated or annoyed me. I told her I didn’t have a choice, and that at work I had to be collegial, so at home I had permission to complain. That night, my wife asked me how it was fair that the people I supposedly loved the most got the worst version of me.
I didn’t know how to respond. Her words hit me like a ton of bricks, and I felt a profound sense of shame and helplessness. I felt lost, stuck in a cycle that was turning me into someone I didn’t want to be.
I knew something had to change. Looking for answers, I went to a workplace wellness talk on ways to be happier and learned about the power of gratitude and mindfulness. After the session, specifically, I started meditating in my car for 10 minutes after work. Instead of focusing on all the things that went wrong, I focused on bringing calm and peace into my life, and on being present with my family when I left the car.
Within weeks my family noticed a difference. Indeed, there had been a subtle but meaningful shift in my mindset, and, as a result, I was more positive and present. And remarkably, everyone in my life started benefitting.
During our conversation, Charles highlighted the importance of focusing on our strengths and the positive aspects of our lives. Gratitude helps us see the good and find joy, while mindfulness allows us to witness our current narratives and shift our focus to inner peace and potential. Challenges don’t disappear, but this shift in mindset changes how we approach them.
So let's RAK Our Week by reflecting on our own stories and where our focus lies. Are we telling ourselves a narrative of defeat or of empowerment? Let's draw inspiration from Charles and choose to rewrite our stories with a focus on hope, gratitude, and growth.
Roots Reflection 🌳:
Reflect on what you are grateful for. Each day, list something you are grateful for in your life, someone you are grateful for in your life, and something you appreciate about yourself. These practices can help change your focus and bring more positivity into your day.
Awareness Action 🧘🏾:
Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Try meditating for just 10 minutes a day. A great free guided app to help you get started is Smiling Mind, which is completely free and ad-free as it is funded by the Australian government.
Kindness Opportunity 💖:
Share your appreciation with others. Tell a friend, family member, or colleague what you appreciate about them, either electronically or in person. This not only boosts your mood but also spreads positivity to those around you.
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Last week, Dr. Rak was joined by his good friend Marsha Sims, and together they explored How to Navigate Summer BBQs, parties, and get-togethers. Watch to learn how you can you best make choices that align with your values, including your health goals.
The Health Feast Corner 🎧
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Episode 33: Unleash Your Inner Joy with Charles Inniss, Optimism and Mental Wellness Coach. Join Dr. Rak and Po on The Health Feast as they welcome Charles Inniss, a certified health and wellness coach with a doctorate in physical therapy from Boston University, for one of their most insightful and impactful episodes yet. Charles delves into the power of mindset and shares practical tips and daily mental workouts to foster optimism and transform stress into joy. The conversation explores finding meaning in work, enhancing self-awareness, and building resilience through gratitude and self-compassion. Packed with actionable advice and personal anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to live a more fulfilling and joyful life. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
Episode 32: Plant-Based Power to the People with Jill and Jeffrey Dalton. Dr. Rak and Po are thrilled to welcome Jill and Jeffrey Dalton from The Whole Food Plant-Based Cooking Show. With nearly 400,000 YouTube subscribers and two bestselling cookbooks, the Daltons have been transforming kitchens and lives for nine years with their delicious plant-based recipes. In this episode, they share their journey from facing significant health challenges to embracing a whole-food, plant-based diet. They discuss their adventurous move to New Zealand, their dietary experiments, and the pivotal moment they discovered Dr. Fuhrman's "Eat to Live." The Daltons offer practical tips for making plant-based eating accessible and enjoyable, emphasizing the importance of involving kids in cooking. They also explore how their Bahá'í faith influences their commitment to service, community, and integrity. This inspiring conversation is packed with heartfelt stories and practical advice, perfect for anyone looking to embrace a healthier, plant-based lifestyle. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
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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 👊🏽