RAK ON: Stronger, Together
Dr. Rak ("rock" here).
This past weekend, I experienced the power of community and resilience during a Spartan Obstacle Course Race. The race reminded me that in life's most challenging moments, it's our connections with others that keep us moving forward. We find strength in each other, and it's this collective spirit that helps us overcome life’s toughest obstacles.
Alongside eleven other men from F3, a workout group that has become like a family over the past six months, we tackled the course together. Our regular early morning workouts have created a deep sense of trust and connection among us. F3’s motto, "Leave no man behind and leave no man where you found them," guided us on course. This motto has inspired me since I first learned it. Beyond not leaving anyone behind, it also means helping each other become better versions of ourselves.
This idea of helping others was brought to life as we encountered a group on the course assisting a woman with multiple sclerosis (MS) in a wheelchair up a steep hill. Her friends and family were working together to help her complete the race. Inspired by their dedication and energy, I asked if I could join them, and I was given the role of one of the yolks, leading at the front. At the summit, I was able to meet this woman. We embraced each other, and I showed my respect with a traditional gesture of respect from my Indian heritage by touching her feet. This encounter was very special and filled me with immense gratitude and renewed energy.
Toward the end of the race, I saw a fellow racer struggling with a severe leg cramp. Remembering how others had helped me many times (including my teammate earlier in the race), I instinctively offered my assistance. Guiding him through deep breaths and applying pressure to his leg, I felt the satisfaction of paying it forward and helping someone else in their moment of need.
In addition to completing the race, we raised $5,500 for Bay Area Cancer Connections, an organization that supports women all over the country diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer. BACC was a lifeline to my wife and our family during her recent journey with breast cancer, so this fundraiser added another layer of meaning to this experience. A very special thank you to all those who donated (with a special shout-out at the bottom of the newsletter). If you want to support our cause, you can still do so by clicking here.
So, let's RAK Our Week with the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and compassion. Let’s embrace the challenges ahead, knowing we are not alone. Let’s support each other, celebrate progress, and continue to lift one another up every step of the way.
Roots Reflection 🌳:
Reflect on the power of community in your life. How has the support from others helped you overcome challenges?
Awareness Action 🧘🏾:
Spend a few minutes each day this week listing or thinking about someone you are grateful for and why.
Kindness Opportunity 💖:
Tell those people why you appreciate them. Express your gratitude via a message, call, or in person.
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Last week, Dr. Rak explored the concept of hormesis in depth in "Harnessing Hormesis." He discussed how mild stressors like exercise, cold exposure, and intermittent fasting can significantly boost mood and health. Dr. Rak also shared his personal journey from battling depression to thriving through these practices.
The Health Feast Corner 🎧
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Episode 30: The High Achiever's Guide to Self-Compassion with Jordana Confino, Professional Coach. In this episode of The Health Feast podcast, Dr. Rak welcomes Jordana Confino, a Yale Law School graduate, certified professional coach, and expert in positive psychology and well-being. Jordana shares her compelling journey from experiencing severe burnout in her legal career to transforming her life through self-compassion and positive psychology. The conversation delves into the impact of perfectionism on mental and physical health, and Jordana offers practical strategies for overcoming it. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with daily actions and how small, actionable steps can lead to significant changes in overall well-being. Additionally, Jordana discusses the link between perfectionism and chronic pain, offering insights into mind-body medicine and how positive psychology principles can be applied to address physical health issues. Learn how self-compassion can lead to lasting success and well-being and discover transformative insights to help you thrive. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube
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
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Join a RYL Tribe, where community, support, and accountability are key to transformation in these weekly health education groups.
Our Plant-Based Tribe meets on Monday evenings at 430pm PST/ 730pm EST (only 3 spots left!)
Our Heart Health Tribe meets on Wednesdays at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST (only 5 spots left!).
Our Mens Peak Tribe meets on Wednesdays at 6 pm PST/ 9 pm EST (there are only 4 spots left!). More details can be found here.
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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. As of this writing, we have raised $5500 to support women navigating this challenging moment in their lives. Learn more and help us reach our fundraising goal here:
A HUGE THANK YOU to all who donated! (including a kind anonymous donor):
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 👊🏽