Jeff Krasno: Bad vs. Good Stress, Fasting, & Healing Through Hard Conversations
Jan 30, 2025
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Jeff Krasno, co-founder of Wanderlust and CEO of Commune, dives into the transformative power of embracing challenges in health. He discusses his book, "Good Stress," and the difference between beneficial and harmful stress. Krasno shares insights on how fasting can enhance emotional resilience and the importance of hard conversations in fostering well-being. Reflecting on his journey in wellness festivals, he highlights the community's healing power and the necessity of empathy in tough dialogues.
Jeff Krasno emphasizes that embracing good stress can enhance resilience and well-being by transforming manageable challenges into health benefits.
The healing potential of community and yoga, as experienced by Krasno after 9/11, illustrates the profound impact of collective wellness practices.
Engaging in tough conversations fosters empathy and understanding, which are essential for personal growth and societal healing.
Deep dives
Importance of Detailed Diagnostics
Basic labs often overlook critical factors that can significantly affect one's health. Issues like nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and exposure to environmental toxins can go undetected. Understanding these underlying conditions is essential in addressing chronic issues such as autoimmune disorders, fatigue, and hormonal problems. A thorough diagnostic approach rooted in functional medicine can help individuals discover the reasons behind their health concerns and pave the way for effective treatment.
Transition from Music to Wellness
Jeff Krasnow reflects on his past life in the music industry before transitioning to wellness and community building. His experiences in managing a successful record label and navigating life in lower Manhattan shaped his perspective on creativity and community. Following the traumatic events of September 11, he witnessed the healing power of yoga and community firsthand through the Kula Yoga Project. This pivotal moment led him to shift his focus towards promoting wellness and personal growth through collective experiences.
Birth of Wanderlust
Wanderlust emerged as a major platform blending music, wellness, and community experiences. Initially inspired by his wife's yoga retreats in Costa Rica, Krasnow sought to create accessible wellness experiences for a broader audience. Wanderlust festivals grew to become significant events, attracting thousands of participants globally and integrating various aspects of wellness, including yoga, mindfulness, and sustainability. The success reflected a growing desire for connection and health-focused experiences in modern culture.
Understanding Good Stress vs. Bad Stress
Krasnow's exploration of good stress, rooted in the concept of hormesis, reveals its health benefits when applied in the right context. Good stress refers to short-term, manageable challenges that can enhance physiological and psychological resilience. In contrast, bad stress is ongoing and can lead to chronic diseases and emotional imbalances. By recognizing and leveraging good stress through practices like fasting or cold exposure, individuals can foster a healthier lifestyle and improve overall well-being.
Healing Through Honest Conversations
Krasnow emphasizes the importance of engaging in tough conversations as a pathway to personal and societal healing. He developed resilience through confronting criticism regarding sensitive topics, learning to respond with empathy rather than defensiveness. These exchanges allowed him to connect deeply with others, fostering understanding and compassion across diverse viewpoints. This approach highlights the significance of open dialogue in bridging societal divides and enhancing emotional well-being.
In this episode of The Art of Being Well, Dr. Will Cole sits down with Jeff Krasno, co-founder of Wanderlust and CEO of Commune, to explore the science behind doing hard things for better health. Jeff shares the inspiration behind his upcoming book, Good Stress, and why embracing challenges can be transformative. They discuss the difference between good and bad stress, how hard conversations improve well-being, and why fasting offers unexpected mental and emotional benefits. Jeff also reflects on his journey creating wellness festivals and how those experiences shaped his personal growth. For all links mentioned in this episode, visit www.drwillcole.com/podcast.
Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.
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