RAK ON: From Challenge to Change
Dr. Rak ("Rock") here.
This week, I'm reflecting on resilience and transformation, themes deeply woven into the latest episode of The Health Feast, with my good friend and co-host, Po. Po's journey through significant health challenges, including his decision to recently undergo bariatric surgery, mirrors the universal journey many of us face in overcoming life's obstacles.
In the episode, Po shares his lifelong battle with weight, the physical and mental toll of his work-related injuries, and the pivotal moment when he chose surgery—a profound step towards a healthier future. His story is a powerful reminder that true resilience is finding the strength to make transformative decisions in our darkest hours.
For a deeper dive into Po’s transformative journey and the power of resilience, tune into the latest episode of The Health Feast.
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
Similarly, last year I faced a period of profound uncertainty and change. In August, the lifestyle medicine startup I had left my longstanding job to join lost its funding, and at the same time, my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. Faced with personal and professional turmoil, I found myself at a crossroads. The easy path would have been to return to traditional corporate medicine, but I knew in my heart that wasn't where I belonged.
Inspired by my wife's strength and my own commitment to health transformation, I founded RAK Your Life. This practice was born from the belief that we can create something meaningful and aligned with our deepest values, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Just as Po has found a new beginning through his surgery, I am discovering a renewed purpose in helping others live healthier, more fulfilled lives outside the confines of the conventional healthcare system.
So this week, let's RAK our week by drawing inspiration from each other's journeys and remembering that our greatest trials can lead to our most meaningful transformations.
Roots Reflection 🌳:
What has been your most transformative challenge? Reflect on how this experience has shaped your resilience and contributed to your personal growth. These pivotal moments highlight our strength and adaptability.
Awareness Action 🧘🏾:
Identify a situation this week where you can apply a lesson learned from a past challenge to make a healthier or more positive choice. This action encourages you to use past experiences as a guide for present decisions, reinforcing your journey of continuous transformation.
Kindness Opportunity 💖:
Offer words of encouragement to someone facing a decision that could significantly change their life. Your support might provide the confidence they need to choose a path that leads to growth and healing. This act of kindness aligns with the theme of transformation, reminding us how our interactions can influence others' paths.
RAK ON Live! Dr. Rak’s Weekly Wellness Livestream
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Last week, I had a technical snafu with my audio, so instead enjoy this recent live stream I did about addressing loneliness in men and why I am starting a new Men’s Peak Tribe, starting May 13! Only 4 spots remain for what promises to be a transformative experience for everyone involved. Express your interest here.
The Health Feast Corner 🎧
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NEW EPISODE! 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
Episode 27: From Hardship to Healing with Dr. Gebre Nida. In this episode, Po and Dr. Rak welcome Dr. Gebre Nida, MD, FACE, DipABLM, whose remarkable journey from the rugged terrains of rural Ethiopia to the forefront of lifestyle medicine in North Carolina epitomizes resilience and transformative care. Born in a village without electricity, Dr. Nida walked hours to school each day, a testament to his commitment to education and betterment. Now a triple board-certified endocrinologist, he integrates lifestyle medicine into his practice, profoundly impacting patients battling chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. In this episode, Dr. Nida shares his personal story and professional insights, demonstrating how deep empathy and dedicated care can revolutionize healthcare. Listen as we explore how overcoming extreme obstacles equipped him to change lives through a unique blend of medicine and compassion. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
Support Dr. Rak's Spartan team RUCK CANCER. Proceeds go to help women with breast and ovarian cancer. A HUGE THANK YOU to all who have donated! As of this writing, we have raised almost $4800 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 4 spots left!).
Our Mens Peak Tribe will start in mid May 2024. Day/time is soon TBD (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.
Discover more and express your interest with Dr. Rak on the RAK Your Life website.