To The Best Of Our Knowledge Giving Up
11 snips
Dec 14, 2024 
John Oakes, author of "The Fast," dives into fasting as a means of self-discovery and cultural critique. Psychoanalyst Adam Phillips discusses the virtues and shame tied to giving up, challenging the stigma of surrender. Maggie Jackson shares insights on embracing uncertainty, highlighting its potential for personal growth in a world obsessed with certainty. Together, they explore how letting go may be the most courageous act, encouraging listeners to navigate the complexities of surrender in a society that often equates success with relentless striving.
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First Fasts
- John Oakes first fasted as a young man for Yom Kippur, abstaining from food and reflecting on his sins.
- Later, he fasted for a week, finding it contemplative and a way to step off the treadmill of daily life.
Beyond Food
- Fasting is more than just about food; it's about disrupting automaticity in our daily lives.
- Stepping back from routines allows for new perspectives and experiences to emerge.
Gut-Brain Connection
- Our gut, or enteric nervous system, is our second brain with millions of neurons.
- Fasting creates a battle between the brain in our gut and the brain in our head.