I want to share some thoughts that go beyond the usual health tips. Our current political climate is more than just a backdrop to our lives; it’s a significant factor affecting our physical and mental well-being. Here’s a glimpse of what we discussed in our latest episode:Key Takeaways:Chronic Stress from Political Division: The constant division, fear-mongering, and denial of science create a toxic environment that leads to chronic stress. This stress can cause high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and even increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.Denial of Global Warming: Ignoring scientific facts about climate change fosters mistrust and division, contributing to a culture of fear that negatively impacts our health.Social Media and "Doom Scrolling": Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok often amplify negativity and misinformation. This behavior, known as "doom scrolling," can harm our mental health by breeding anger, fear, and mistrust.Immigration and Deportation Policies: The increase in deportations under various administrations has severe health consequences for immigrant families. Fear of deportation leads to reduced healthcare visits, worsening public health outcomes.Militarization of U.S. Cities: The presence of troops in cities like Portland creates a warzone-like atmosphere, which is demoralizing for troops and unsettling for communities.Mass Shootings: The U.S. has experienced over 4,000 mass shootings between 2009 and 2024. This epidemic, fueled by an obsession with guns and toxic politics, leads to PTSD, grief, and trauma in communities.Misinformation about Groups like Antifa: Fearmongering about groups like Antifa being terrorist organizations is misleading and divisive. Chronic fear raises cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart attack risk, weakens immunity, and shortens lives.Importance of Free Speech: Free speech is crucial for health and democracy. Without it, doctors can’t warn us about pollution, scientists can’t share pandemic truths, and journalists can’t hold leaders accountable.Why This Matters:Unity Over Division: We need to come together, rebuild trust, and focus on truth. Democracy and truth are essential for our health and well-being.Practical Steps: Stop doom scrolling, question what you see online, and seek unity over division. Practice community service, volunteer, and perform random acts of kindness.Final Thoughts:Your health matters, and the political climate we live in is making us sicker. It’s time to demand leaders who unite instead of divide, who tell the truth instead of lying, and who protect health instead of weaponizing fear.Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Let’s continue to strive for a healthier, more united world.Warm regards,Karl SterlingI hope this newsletter sparks your curiosity and encourages you to listen to the full episode. Together, we can navigate these challenging times and prioritize our health and well-being.Stay healthy and united,Karlhttp://www.karlsterling.com