Orthodox Health

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John discuss the crisis of masculinity in modern society, exploring themes of disembodiment, the spiritual roots of masculinity, & the importance of reclaiming the body as a tool for virtue & sacrifice.They emphasize the need for practical steps to embody masculinity, the significance of brotherhood, & the role of fatherhood in protecting & providing for families.The conversation culminates in a call to action for men to re-engage in their physical & spiritual lives, reclaim their identity, & resist the passive tendencies of modern culture.Takeaways:Masculinity is in crisis at multiple levels.Modern men are detaching from their bodies & reality.The body is essential for discipline and virtue.Disembodiment is a spiritual issue, not just a lifestyle choice.Real masculinity involves sacrifice & self-offering.Men need to reclaim their physicality & engage in real work.Brotherhood & community are vital for masculine formation.Practical steps include fasting, physical training, & prayer.Fatherhood involves protection & spiritual leadership.The modern world promotes passivity & disembodiment, which must be resisted.Sound Bites:"You need to have a daily embodied rule.""This is war & you need a plan."Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Masculinity & Disembodiment04:45 The Crisis of Modern Masculinity07:25 Synthetic Masculinity & Transhumanism09:38 The Role of Suffering in Masculinity12:25 The Importance of the Body & Spirituality15:11 Addressing Masculinity at the Root17:41 Retaking the Arena20:41 The Hero's Journey & The Gamification of Man22:59 Building Brotherhood & Community Through the Cross27:00 Practical Steps for Embodied Masculinity29:49 Step 1: Fast30:33 Step 2: Prostrate32:21 Step 3: Build Something35:06 Step 4: Take Risks36:30 Establishing Daily Routines to Regain Masculinity39:31 The Role of Fatherhood & Protection44:20 Christ as the Only Way to True Manhood48:43 Two Daily Disciplines to Start Your Day50:23 Building Brotherhood & Community Through the Cross54:00 Closing Thoughts57:13 OutroSupport the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: ⁠coff.ee/OrthodoxHealth⁠Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠Intro & 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

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian (sans John) is joined by Orthodox catechumen, registered dietitian, & fitness specialist Gavin McCort, RDN, LDN to discuss the multifaceted crisis in men's health, exploring the decline in testosterone levels, the impact of social & environmental factors, & the importance of spirituality & community.They emphasize the need for men to reconnect with their purpose, the role of fasting & nutrition in health, & the significance of building a strong physical & spiritual foundation.The conversation highlights the interplay between mental, physical, & spiritual well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health that includes ascetic practices & community support.Takeaways:Men are experiencing a crisis in health, particularly with declining testosterone levels.Social & environmental factors, including diet & lifestyle, contribute to men's health issues.Spirituality plays a crucial role in men's health & identity.Community & brotherhood are essential for men's mental & emotional well-being.Fasting & nutrition are vital components of physical health.Stress & sleep are interconnected & affect testosterone production.Asceticism & discipline are important for building a healthy body, soul, & spirit.Finding purpose in life is key to overall health & motivation.Men often feel isolated & disconnected from their peers.Building a healthy temple involves treating the body with respect & care.Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Men's Health Crisis06:07 Exploring Testosterone Decline & Its Causes06:59 Male Isolation & Lack of Masculine Role Models07:53 Spiritual Decline & the Loss of Masculinity08:48 The Role of Diet in Men's Health10:52 Quick Sidebar for a Fast-Friendly "Mayo" Recipe11:31 Mental & Spiritual Stagnation in Men14:41 The Physiology of Strength & Resistance Training16:27 Should I Be Taking Peptides?17:38 The Debate on Artificial Sweeteners & Fermented Drinks18:17 Understanding GLP-1 & GLP-3 Peptides20:36 The Interplay of Testosterone, Stress, & Sleep22:16 The Importance of Silence & Prayer25:44 Fasting, Physical Discipline, & Spiritual Warfare28:56 On The Origin & Mission of Temple Builder Fitness33:47 The Body as a Temple: A Holistic Approach36:43 Millennial Man Screams at the Clouds 38:35 The Role of Fatherhood & Brotherhood42:41 Circles of Accountability in Life44:01 Foundational Health Tips for Men50:48 Supplements to Support Blood Flow & Heal Damage From Mandatory Medical Procedures51:47 Nutrition & Fasting for Men's Health53:58 Gavin's Favorite Male Saint for Strength & Virtue54:30 Gavin's Favorite Post-Training Meal (In Fast & Out of Fast)56:01 Finding Purpose in Health & Life56:47 Where Can You Find Gavin?01:00:41 OutroSupport the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: coff.ee/OrthodoxHealthWork with Dr. Mike: https://www.OrthodoxHealth.comPre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & 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

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the intersection of Orthodox Christianity & herbal medicine, emphasizing the importance of discernment in using natural remedies. They discuss the historical context of herbal practices within the Orthodox tradition, the dangers of New Age ideologies, & the philosophical roots that contribute to confusion in modern herbalism. Additionally, practical guidelines are given for reclaiming herbalism in a way that aligns with Orthodox beliefs, advocating for a humble & prayerful approach to healing.TakeawaysTakeawaysHerbal medicine is an integral part of Orthodox tradition.Discernment is crucial when engaging with herbal practices.The church does not oppose the use of herbs, but warns against idolatry.New Age practices often corrupt the original intent of herbalism.Healing should be approached as a gift from God, not a tool for self-deification.The influence of Gnosticism has led to confusion in modern herbalism.Orthodox Christians should reclaim herbalism within a sacramental framework.Prayer and humility are essential in the use of herbs.Consulting with spiritual elders is important for guidance in herbal practices.Repentance is necessary for those who have engaged with occult herbalism.Chapters00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Herbal Medicine & Orthodoxy02:24 The Role of Herbs in Orthodox Tradition04:09 Discernment in Herbal Practices06:34 Scriptural Foundations for Herbal Healing08:48 The Church Fathers & Herbal Knowledge11:12 The Dangers of New Age Herbalism13:26 Identifying Spiritual Deception in Herbalism14:57 The Intersection of Herbs & Occult Practices20:39 Hidden in Plain Sight23:14 What if I Have Participated in These "Wellness" Practices?24:18 Pharmakeia: Understanding the Biblical Context26:57 Rudolf Steiner & the Mystical Approach to Healing32:09 Orthodoxy Vs. Gnostic Syncretism36:08 "But, What About Homeopathy?"38:20 Reclaiming Herbalism: An Orthodox Perspective46:23 Closing Thoughts & Looking Forward to the Next Episode Arc47:42 OutroHexaemeron with On the Making of Man – St. Basil of the Great & St. Gregory of Nyssa (contains Amazon affiliate link)Work with Dr. Mike: https://www.OrthodoxHealth.comPre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & 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

Explore the fascinating world of Anthroposophy and its founder, Rudolf Steiner, as hosts dissect his spiritual approach to health. They contrast Steiner's teachings with Orthodox Christian views, emphasizing the unity of body, soul, and spirit. The discussion highlights the importance of discerning health practices while cautioning against esoteric interpretations. Through the lens of Orthodox healing, listeners learn about humility, repentance, and the divine connection to well-being. This thought-provoking dialogue encourages grounding in faith and community.

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John are joined by Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff to explore the vital role of community in healing within the Orthodox Church. They discuss the Church as a spiritual hospital, the importance of understanding healing beyond the physical, & the communal aspect of salvation. The conversation delves into the tools for spiritual healing, the significance of spiritual gifts, and the dynamics of parish life, including the challenges of fragmentation & the importance of welcoming newcomers. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that worship is about giving back to God & being part of a community that supports each other in their spiritual journeys.TakeawaysHealing happens in community, not in isolation.The Church serves as a hospital for the soul.Spiritual healing encompasses physical, mental, & emotional aspects.Community plays a crucial role in individual healing.Worship is about giving everything to God, not receiving.Spiritual gifts are essential for parish life & community building.Cliques can hinder the welcoming nature of a parish.Every member of the church has a unique role to play.Confession & spiritual practices are vital for healing.True freedom is found in serving God, not in sin.Sound Bites"The parish is a hospital for the soul.""We are saved in community.""We are slaves to God.""The Church is the Israel of God""(Yoga) absolutely is not, cannot, and will never be (compatible with Christianity)."Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to The Importance of Community in Healing03:22 A Brief Discussion of Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff's Journey06:35 Understanding the Church as a Spiritual Hospital08:53 The Secular Vs. The Orthodox Mindset Towards Healing11:42 The Holistic Approach to Healing17:50 The Role of the Parish in Spiritual Health22:25 Community as an Enactment of the Image of God25:42 Tools for Healing in the Orthodox Tradition29:52 The Essence of Confession31:51 Understanding Sin and Self-Esteem34:11 Freedom from Sin vs. License37:38 Community & Loneliness in Parish Life43:37 Discovering Spiritual Gifts46:47 The Saints as Role Models for Your Own Spiritual Gifts54:37 Shameless Transfigured Life Podcast Plug55:39 Can Yoga Ever Be Made Christian?56:58 Worship: Giving vs. Receiving01:01:11 OutroWork with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠Intro & 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-fundraiser⁠⁠Check out Fr. Jonathan over at The Transfigured Life Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTransfiguredLife

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the deep-rooted issues of modern health & spirituality through the lens of Orthodox Christianity. They discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of sickness, both physically & spiritually, & how modern medicine often fails to do so.The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, self-examination, & the tools provided by Orthodoxy, such as fasting, confession, & prayer, to heal & restore balance in life. They also highlight the significance of liturgical life & reconnecting with creation as essential components of true well-being.Takeaways:Modern health paradigms are rooted in materialism.Orthodox Christianity offers tools for true healing.Rootlessness is a profound sickness of our time.Awareness is the first step to healing.Functional medicine seeks to restore design, not just optimize dysfunction.Fasting & confession are essential for spiritual & physical health.The church provides a rhythm for life that aids healing.We must identify & uproot false ideologies in our lives.Engaging with creation is vital for holistic health.Healing is about becoming fertile ground for grace.Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 The Sickness of Modern Civilization03:00 Identifying Root Sicknesses06:42 Modern Medicine & Pharmaceutical Whack-a-Mole08:17 Why Choose Functional Medicine?09:48 Practical Case Study11:46 Reclaiming True Healing13:32 Cutting Down the Trees of Ideology16:54 The Power of Self-Examination21:27 Tools for Uprooting Sickness22:35 First Tool: Fasting23:45 Second Tool: Confession25:15 Third Tool: Prayer27:59 Fourth Tool: Liturgical Participation29:55 Fifth Tool: Return to Nature32:20 Planting Seeds of Faith34:33 The Church as a Healing Sanctuary36:25 Living Sacramentally for Transformation39:05 Reclaiming the Ancient Path42:38 OutroWork with Dr. Mike: https://www.OrthodoxHealth.comPre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & 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

Certified nurse midwife Brennan Straka, an Orthodox Christian, shares her journey of faith and midwifery, blending spirituality with women's health care. She discusses the spiritual dimensions of childbirth and the vital role of community support in navigating health challenges. Brennan emphasizes how modern healthcare often overlooks the sacred aspects of women's bodies, while also addressing the unpredictability of birth and the importance of faith during such times. Her insights resonate with themes of patience and embracing the journey of motherhood.

Discover the sacred significance of breath in Orthodox Christianity, where it serves as a divine connection to God and the Holy Spirit. The discussion warns against modern breathwork's spiritual pitfalls, advocating for humility and surrender in breathing practices. Explore how the integration of prayer enhances spiritual healing, while proper breathing techniques can elevate both physical health and emotional well-being. Listeners are invited to reflect on their breath as a transformative gift, fostering a deeper communion with the divine.

Is yoga just stretching—or something far deeper?In this powerful episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, cantor, choir director & seminarian, Robert Sirico, joins Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John, to unpack the hidden spiritual foundations of yoga & why it stands in sharp contrast to the Orthodox Christian life. From kundalini awakenings to Eastern metaphysics, we explore how yoga prepares the body—not for union with Christ—but for contact with spiritual forces foreign to the faith.Together, we discuss:🔹 Why yoga is not spiritually neutral🔹 How Orthodox theosis differs radically from Eastern “enlightenment”🔹 The dangers of kundalini energy vs. the grace of divine energies🔹 Why the Church warns against spiritual practices outside Christ🔹 The importance of discernment and historical understanding🔹 How personal testimony can draw others to truth, with love & clarityOrthodoxy offers a different path—one not of self-deification, but of repentance, humility, & communion with the Living God.⚠️ Listen before unrolling that yoga mat.TakeawaysYoga is a different spiritual system that contrasts with Orthodox Christianity.The Divine Energies in Christianity are fundamentally different from the energies invoked in yoga.The metaphysical roots of yoga involve a quest for oneness that opposes the Christian understanding of individuality.The practice of yoga prepares the body for supernatural contact within the noetic realm, but not in a Christian sense, which can lead to demonic oppression & eventually possession.Orthodox asceticism is not just safer; it is salvific, focusing on filling the soul with Christ.Theosis is the process of becoming like God, while the opposite, diavolosis, or demonosis, leads to becoming like demonic spirits.The Scriptures warn against the dangers of engaging with spiritual practices that do not align with Christian teachings.The Church plays a crucial role in guiding individuals away from harmful spiritual practices.Spiritual discernment is of utmost importance.Historical context is important in understanding the evolution of spiritual practices.Christianity is experiential, with a rich history of miracles & the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.Witnessing to others about the faith is essential, but it should be done with care & understanding.Chapters00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Yoga & Orthodoxy05:50 Robert Sirico's Personal Journey to Orthodoxy08:23 Pious Immigrant Roman Catholic Grandmas11:24 Martial Arts & Spirituality17:02 The Nature of Demons & Spiritual Entities20:05 Contrasting Worldviews26:55 Yoga, Evolution, & Platonic Worldviews28:49 The Purpose of Yoga & Supernatural Contact34:44 Demonic Experiences, Exorcisms & Baptisms38:00 The Role of the Holy Spirit39:57 Serpent Imagery & Spiritual Deception42:30 Understanding Canonicity50:20 The Serpent Reloaded57:42 No True Atheist1:00:53 Hindu Milk Miracle1:06:53 Relativism & Syncretism1:10:07 Understanding Naivety in Spiritual Practices1:12:10 The Incarnational Aspect of Faith1:14:22 The Role of Witnessing in Conversion1:16:17 Experiential Christianity & Truth01:20:41 The Nature of Demonic Influence01:23:13 Planting The Little Kernel01:24:33 OutroWork with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠Intro & 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

In this thought-provoking episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host, John take a deep dive into the astonishing world of the microbiome—the vast ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, & other microorganisms that live in & on the human body—& how it intersects with the rich theological tradition of the Orthodox Christian faith.They explore how spiritual disciplines such as fasting, Eucharistic communion, & living in harmony with the rhythms of the Church can profoundly support not just the soul, but the biological integrity of the body itself. From the gut-brain connection to the immune system, nutrient absorption, & even emotional regulation, this conversation uncovers the biological intelligence designed into our bodies—& how it reflects the divine order & Logos.Dr. Michael unpacks how modern science increasingly affirms what the Church has always known: healing is relational, communal, & begins from within. The microbiome becomes not just a health topic, but a spiritual icon—a living parable of synergy, humility, and unity.This episode is perfect for those seeking to bridge the gap between Orthodox theology, ancestral health, & cutting-edge biology, while reclaiming the body as sacred & purposeful.Takeaways:– The microbiome is not just a health trend; it reflects Orthodox Christian anthropology.– Fasting serves as a reset for both the gut & the soul.– The Eucharist is viewed as the ultimate healing act that nourishes both body & spirit.– Our health is deeply interconnected with our relationships, including those with microbes.– Healing involves both repentance & restoration, aligning with Orthodox practices.– The microbiome acts as a living icon of the body of Christ, emphasizing community & synergy.– Fasting is not about deprivation but about realignment & creating space for deeper spiritual experiences.– The Eucharist is described as the medicine of immortality, healing at a cellular level.– The microbiome challenges evolutionary materialism by showcasing cooperation & intentionality in nature.– Every act of care for our bodies, including fasting & prayer, is seen as salvific. Key Quotes:"Fasting resets both our gut & our soul.""The Eucharist is the ultimate probiotic.""Your gut is a little icon of yourself."Chapters:00:00 Opener03:53 The Microbiome: A Reflection of Communion06:07 The Physiological Depths of the Microbiome08:37 Science & Faith: Bridging the Gap11:09 The Interconnection of Gut & Soul12:28 The Healing Power of the Eucharist21:30 Miracles & the Eucharist24:23 5 Steps for Treating Your Gut Like a Garden30:34 Challenging Evolutionary Materialism41:41 The Microbiome as a Living Parable42:49 Closing Thoughts & Looking to the Next Episode44:30 OutroWork with Dr. Mike: https://www.OrthodoxHealth.comPre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & 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