Orthodox Health

Has social media taken over your spiritual life?In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the impact of screens & social media on spiritual life. We discuss the importance of silence & stillness, the dangers of comparison & identity distortion through social media, & the role of confession in fostering authenticity & connection with God. We also emphasize the need for discernment in navigating digital distractions, while maintaining a focus on spiritual growth & true communion with God & others. Additionally, we explore Orthodox theology & the challenges posed by the digital age, the importance of embodied presence, & the need for practical steps to establish digital boundaries. The conversation emphasizes the spiritual warfare for your attention in a hyper-connected world & concludes with a challenge to you to help reconnect with God, one's neighbor, & oneself.Takeaways:​The modern health paradigm often overlooks spiritual dimensions.​Screens & social media can distract from spiritual practice.​Silence & stillness are essential for spiritual growth.​Social media fosters comparison & envy, harming mental health.​Authenticity in relationships is diminished by digital interactions.​Confession is vital for personal responsibility & spiritual health.​Attention is a battleground for spiritual life.​The internet can be a tool for good if used wisely.​Gratitude is foundational for prayer & spiritual well-being.​Silence is about the presence of God in the soul.​Real communion requires being fully present.​The Incarnation affirms the importance of the body.​Digital communication often lacks depth & nuance.​Embodied worship engages the whole self in communion with Christ.​Digital boundaries are essential for spiritual health.​Fasting from technology can lead to freedom & clarity.​Christ is Risen!Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction & Holy Week/Pascha Recap04:06 The Impact of Screens on Our Lives05:12 Social Media is Not Completely Value Neutral06:36 Stillness, Silence, & the Plugged in Mind08:41 Digital Distraction & Its Effects on Prayer12:58 The Distortion of Identity in the Digital Age17:21 False Realities & AI Demons18:04 The Incarnational Nature of Orthodox Life20:59 Discernment in the Digital Age23:26 The Invitation to Relationship24:49 Finding Wholeness in Silence26:01 Embodied Presence in a Digital Age29:00 The Importance of Communion and Ritual32:34 In Defense of Mel Gibson34:30 Vulnerability and Healing in Community36:41 Establishing Digital Boundaries Through Fasting38:55 A Quick Appreciation for the Amish39:03 Understanding the Impact of Social Media42:23 Navigating Social Media Intentionally44:54 Replacing Digital Distractions46:46 Final Thoughts and Challenges49:16 Conclusion: Invitation to the Listener49:25 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

What does it mean to move your body, not for vanity, but for virtue?In this episode of Orthodox Health, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore physical movement through the lens of the Orthodox Christian life – from the embodied rhythms of monastic tradition, to the daily disciplines that help us to resist acedia, cultivate humility, & honor the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.We unpack the spiritual significance of movement, the dangers of idleness, & how modern believers can reclaim strength, energy, & quality of life through an ascetic, yet joyful relationship with physical activity.What We Cover in This Episode:​How Orthodox tradition frames movement as a sacred duty​Why walking, manual labor, & strength training were core to ancient Christian life​How Brazilian jiu-jitsu is the perfect analogy for understanding theosis, the Orthodox Christian understanding of salvation​The role of fasting & prayer in shaping our fitness mindset​How to overcome laziness, fatigue, & modern sedentary habits with small, intentional steps​The difference between training for pride vs. training for service & spiritual resilience​Strength training for muscle mass, bone density, hormone regulation, aging well, & overall wellness, as part of a Christ-centered lifestyle.Takeaways:​Movement is not separate from your spiritual life – it is a form of embodied prayer.​Strength & vitality are tools for service, not self-glorification.​You don't need a gym – start small, be consistent, & offer your movement to God.​Training & fasting can harmonize with the right intention & pacing.​Orthodox Christians are called to move with purpose, gratitude, & humility.If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend. Subscribe for future episodes where we dive deeper into the integration of Orthodox faith, ancient wisdom, & true health. Strengthen the body, steward the soul.Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Movement as Medicine: An Orthodox Perspective03:11 Historical Context of Physical Activity in Orthodoxy04:07 The Saints and Their Approach to Movement05:04 Movement for Christ, the Apostles, & a Man Named Rocky06:22 Practical Application of Orthodox Movement Today07:11 The Limits of Performance as an End Goal09:51 Fitness as a Preparation for Service14:48 Jiu Jitsu & Theosis: On the Way of Salvation17:45 Real World Obstacles20:05 Fasting & Training: Can it be Done?22:10 Are You Just Being Lazy? Acedia Vs. Asceticsm24:08 Breaking Through Mental Blocks25:36 Common Problems: Integrating Movement into Daily Life27:44 Common Problems: Practicality of Training While Fasting 29:53 Common Problems: The Importance of Proper Movement Patterns31:16 Practical Steps for Novices32:55 Movement & Coming to Christ as Children35:24 But What About Moving Iron?38:20 Final Practical Takeaways40:26 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

Have we traded in productivity at any cost for true rest? Are idle hands really the devil's play things? What should you do if you suffer from sleep paralysis?In this episode of Orthodox Health, Dr. Michael Christian & John explore the critical role of rest & sleep in overall health, emphasizing its importance not just for physical recovery, but also for spiritual well-being. They discuss the science behind sleep, the historical practice of biphasic sleep, & how Orthodox traditions view rest as a sacred act. The conversation highlights practical tips for improving sleep quality & the necessity of trusting God with our time and energy.They also discuss the teachings of Church Fathers like St. Basil and St. John Climacus on the importance of moderation in sleep & the implications of sleep paralysis as a spiritual phenomenon. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of rest for overall health & well-being, integrating Orthodox traditions & practices into the understanding of sleep & true health.Takeaways:​Sleep is foundational to our health & well-being.​Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to serious health issues.​Biphasic sleep was historically common & aligns with Orthodox practices.​Rest is not just about idleness; it's about communion with God.​The Orthodox tradition emphasizes the spiritual significance of rest.​We need to manage our light exposure to improve sleep quality.​Trusting God with our time is essential for spiritual health.​Incorporating moments of stillness is vital for spiritual rejuvenation.​Sleep practices should align with our natural circadian rhythms. Rest is essential for physical, mental, & spiritual health.​Moderation in sleep is crucial; excessive sleep can be detrimental.​Prayer & spiritual practices can help combat sleep disturbances.​Cultivating a Sabbath mindset is vital for true rest.​The experience of sleep paralysis can be linked to spiritual warfare.​True rest is ultimately found in Christ.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:30 The Importance of Rest in Health08:21 Biphasic Sleep and Its Historical Context11:47 Effects of Brain Waves on Sleep Quality & Spirituality12:59 Practicality of Biphasic Sleep15:48 The Extreme Ends of Sleep "Bio-Hacking"17:31 Implementing Biphasic Sleep for Spiritual Health18:34 Effects of TV & Sounds on Sleep21:32 An Orthodox Understanding of Rest in Modern Life23:43 Puritan's Pride: The American Ethos26:11 Wisdom from the Church on Rest & Sleep27:48 Exploring the Nature of Sleep30:32 Sleep Paralysis is Not Just Physical34:55 Personal Experiences with Sleep Paralysis40:28 Concluding Thoughts42:06 Challenge to the Listeners43:16 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

Struggling to know what & how to eat?In this episode of Orthodox Health, Dr. Michael Christian & John dive deep into the ancient wisdom of fasting & feasting through the lens of Orthodox Christian tradition—& how it aligns with real nutrition & metabolic health today. For centuries, Orthodox Christians have practiced structured fasting cycles, alternating with nutrient-dense feasting. But in today’s world, these traditions have been distorted—replaced with ultra-processed fasting substitutes, industrial seed oils, & lab-engineered foods. Meanwhile, mainstream nutrition continues to push ideas that contradict both ancestral wisdom & true metabolic health.What We Cover in This Episode:✅ The Biblical & early Christian approach to food✅ How modern nutrition science contradicts ancient dietary wisdom✅ Why whole, unprocessed foods are key to both fasting and feasting✅ Avoiding common metabolic pitfalls in Orthodox fasting✅ How to break a fast properly for optimal energy & resilience✅ The role of feasting in restoring health & metabolic functionFasting & feasting are meant to work together—not as extremes, but as a natural, God-ordained rhythm of nourishment & renewal. Tune in to learn how you can apply these principles to your own health while staying faithful to Orthodox tradition.Takeaways:Fasting & feasting are designed to work together in cycles.Whole foods, not processed substitutes.Breaking the fast properly matters.Feasting is for restoration, not overindulgence.Ancient Christian wisdom aligns with metabolic health.Fasting supports detoxification & resilience. Mineral balance is key during fasting.Simplicity is the foundation of true nutrition.Chapters00:00 Opener01:30 The Body as a Temple: An Introduction04:11 Nutrition Through the Lens of Faith05:16 Co-working with God07:05 Fasting and Feasting: A Balanced Approach10:10 Ancient Wisdom vs. Modern Nutrition12:16 Moses, the Microbiologist?13:09 Wisdom of Christ & the Church Fathers on Food16:11 Metabolic Health and Orthodox Practices18:18 Frankenfoods: Techne of the Demons Vs. God-Given Food21:55 The Cycle of Fasting and Feasting24:44 Spiritual and Physical Balance25:51 Watchful Fasting: Practical Tips for Health27:50 Breaking the Fast: Practical Tips28:39 Feasting as a Celebration & Metabolic Health29:21 Poor Stewardship & the Modern Food Supply30:37 Listening to the Body Vs. the Passions32:11 The Symbolism of the Body for Health35:45 Conclusion & Look Ahead to Episode 5: Sleep38:14 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

A fascinating exploration of how prayer impacts the nervous system reveals its stress-relief benefits. The discussion highlights gratitude and corporate worship's role in fostering community and mental well-being. It also touches on the gut-brain connection and the soothing effects of incense. The hosts examine the relationship between anxiety and trust in God, emphasizing a holistic approach to health that combines body, mind, and spirit. Unique insights on integrating prayer with breathing techniques further enrich this journey into healing.

Discover the profound interplay of spiritual and physical health through fasting in Orthodox Christianity. The hosts dive into fasting's purpose, emphasizing humility and community involvement. Learn how this ancient practice not only strengthens the soul but also offers significant physiological benefits, enhancing gut health and overall wellness. Explore nutritious plant-based options and the importance of genuine intent while engaging in fasting. Finally, grasp the balance between tradition and family dynamics, making fasting a holistic journey towards a closer relationship with God.

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.TakeawaysHealth 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.Chapters00:00 Cold Open01:19 Intro Music01:46 Podcast Concept, Mission & Host Introductions04:29 The Orthodox Christian View of Health - United of Body, Soul, & Spirit11:43 Spiritual Discipline (Askesis) & an Orthodox Understanding of Suffering16:16 Modern Wellness Industry: Mortality & Self-Optimization21:22 Eastern Mysticism & New Age in the Secular Wellness Space vs. Orthodoxy28:59 Cultivation of True Health in an Orthodox Framework31:02 Stressors - Physical, Mental, & Noetic (Spiritual)34:57 The Importance of Community to Health37:34 Closing Thoughts, Shameless Plugs, & Episode 2 Preview39:51 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