RAK ON: Love Your Routines, Love Your Life
Dr. Rak (“rock”) here.
This week, I'm reflecting on the importance of loving our lifestyle. I was inspired by our recent conversation with Bob and Fran German, a remarkable couple who transformed their health and happiness by embracing a plant-based diet in their 60s.
Almost 20 years ago, Bob and Fran, now in their 80s, both faced serious health challenges that prompted them to make significant lifestyle changes. Fran was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a severe muscle weakness disorder, and Bob faced a cancer diagnosis. Despite these daunting challenges, they decided to take control of their health. They switched to a whole food, plant-based diet and have never looked back. Today, Fran is symptom-free and off all medications, while Bob has remained cancer-free.
What struck me most during our conversation was how much Bob and Fran genuinely love their lifestyle. They didn’t see their dietary changes as a sacrifice but as a joyful and empowering choice. They speak passionately about their vibrant meals, their daily exercise routines, and the sense of community they have built through sharing their journey with others. For them, every day is an opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest while nurturing their health.
Their enthusiasm reminded me of the joy and fulfillment I find in my own routines. Currently, I’m on vacation with my family in Costa Rica, and even here, I find myself missing the comfort of my daily habits. As soon as we arrived, I found a small gym nearby so I could keep up with my workouts. I brought ingredients to make my morning oatmeal and tracked down my favorite plant milk at a local market. I didn’t do these things out of a sense of obligation but because they bring me happiness. This is how much I love my routines; they help me feel joyful and energized, even when I'm far from home.
So let’s RAK Our Week by drawing inspiration from Bob and Fran. Let's find joy in our routines and explore new ways to make a healthy lifestyle enjoyable. Whether it's through the food we eat, the activities we engage in, or the simple habits that keep us grounded, let's embrace the routines that make us feel good. Remember, a healthy lifestyle isn't an obligation—it's about loving the way we live.
Roots Reflection 🌳:
What is one daily habit that brings you joy and fulfillment? How can you prioritize and nurture this routine to enhance your overall well-being?
Awareness Action 🧘🏾:
This week, pay close attention to how your routines make you feel. Note any shifts in your mood or energy levels as you engage in these routines.
Kindness Opportunity 💖:
Share the joy of your routines with someone close to you. Invite a friend or family member to join you in a healthy activity or share your favorite plant-based recipe with them. Your enthusiasm and support might inspire them to embrace a more joyful and fulfilling lifestyle.
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Last week, Dr. Rak discussed how to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. He shared practical tips for healthy eating, staying active, and ensuring good sleep, even when routines are disrupted. As Dr. Rak explains, the key is to make values-based choices and be flexible to stay healthy on the go.
The Health Feast Corner 🎧
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New episode! Episode 34: The Secrets to Living Young and Loving Life with Bob and Fran German, Healthy Lifestyle Coaches. Discover the secrets to living a fulfilling life full of vitality with Bob and Fran German, a remarkable couple in their 80s who have redefined healthy aging. In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po dive into Bob and Fran's inspiring journey from battling chronic illnesses to achieving vibrant health through a holistic lifestyle. They discuss how a plant-based diet, mindfulness practices, and staying active have transformed their lives. Bob and Fran also share their experiences teaching Tai Chi and Qigong, volunteering, and fighting human trafficking. Gain practical tips, heartwarming stories, and insights into the essence of true vitality and joyful living at any age. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
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
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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 👊🏽