In this episode hosts, Dr. Michael Christian & John, explore the intersection of Orthodox Christianity & holistic health, emphasizing the importance of caring for the body, mind, & spirit. They discuss the concept of telos in the Christian worldview, the significance of asceticism (spiritual discipline), & the role of community in achieving wellness.

The conversation critiques modern obsessions with health & self-care, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes spiritual health alongside physical well-being.

Takeaways

• Health is not just about the body; it encompasses mind & spirit.
• Voluntary suffering can lead to greater resilience & faith.
• Modern society often idolizes health & self-optimization.
• The pursuit of health should not overshadow spiritual priorities.
• Fasting is a transformative practice that strengthens the soul.
• True wellness integrates physical, mental, & spiritual health.

Chapters

00:00 Cold Open

01:19 Intro Music

01:46 Podcast Concept, Mission & Host Introductions

04:29 The Orthodox Christian View of Health - United of Body, Soul, & Spirit

11:43 Spiritual Discipline (Askesis) & an Orthodox Understanding of Suffering

16:16 Modern Wellness Industry: Mortality & Self-Optimization

21:22 Eastern Mysticism & New Age in the Secular Wellness Space vs. Orthodoxy

28:59 Cultivation of True Health in an Orthodox Framework

31:02 Stressors - Physical, Mental, & Noetic (Spiritual)

34:57 The Importance of Community to Health

37:34 Closing Thoughts, Shameless Plugs, & Episode 2 Preview

39:51 Outro

Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠

Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠

Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:

⁠⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠⁠