Orthodox Health

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

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the profound significance of water from an Orthodox Christian perspective. They delve into the theological, ancestral, & scientific aspects of water, emphasizing its sacredness & the need for reverence in our relationship with this essential element. The conversation covers the importance of hydration, the impact of modern water quality, & practical tips for integrating a spiritual approach to water consumption in daily life.Takeaways:​Water is not just a physical necessity but a sacred element.​The Orthodox Church views water as a symbol of renewal & grace.​Reclaiming reverence for water is essential for spiritual & physical health.​Holy water is considered a powerful tool for healing.​Modern society often treats water as a commodity rather than a gift.​Ancestral practices show a deep respect for water sources.​Understanding the quality of our water is crucial for health.​Hydration should be approached with intention & gratitude.​Blessing water before consumption fosters a spiritual connection.​The quest for meaning & healing is reflected in our relationship with water.Sound Bites:"Water points us to a deeper reality.""Holy water is the best medicine, & I say this not as a bishop, but as a physician." - St. Luke the Surgeon"We thirst for meaning, for healing."Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Ep 10 Recap & Intro to Water's Sacred Role as Medicine02:56 Theological Perspectives on Water04:32 Water in the Life of the Church07:04 Water as a Symbol of Healing13:45 Ancestral Wisdom & Water Practices20:08 Modern Science & Water Quality22:16 The Dangers of Contaminated Water24:21 Understanding Structured Water & Hydration25:12 The Importance of Minerals in Water27:35 Hydration & the Nervous System28:58 Practical Tips for the Water in Your Life33:22 The Spiritual Significance of Water35:39 Key Takeaways on Water & Health40:22 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 episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John are joined by Nick Hillman, founder of Regenerative Ag Solutions, to explore the intersection of Orthodox Christianity & regenerative agriculture. They discuss the sacred relationship with the land, the importance of stewardship, & how modern agricultural practices have strayed from traditional wisdom. Hillman shares his journey from conventional farming to regenerative practices, emphasizing the need for community involvement, & the spiritual dimensions of farming. The conversation also touches on the impact of synthetic fertilizers, the role of animals in agriculture, & the hope for a more sustainable future, as both producers & consumers become more conscious of the sources of their food.Ultimately, Nick & the hosts leave us with a vision for an approach to health that integrates body, mind, & spirit... & soil, providing wisdom & practical tips you can start at home.Takeaways:Creation isn't just scenery, it's sacred.We need to treat the soil with respect.Regenerative agriculture is about nurturing life.The consumer is becoming more conscious of food sources.Animals play a crucial role in sustainable farming.Faith informs our stewardship of the land.Community involvement enhances agricultural practices.Start small when beginning your gardening journey.Soil health is vital for nutrient-dense crops.The future of agriculture lies in regenerative practices.Orthodox Christianity offers a unique perspective on health and the environment.Regenerative agriculture focuses on healing the land & building ecosystems.NPK fertilizers can deplete soil health & nutrient availability.Home gardening can start small & grow over time.Food forests & permaculture principles promote biodiversity.Soil testing is essential for understanding soil quality & health.Community involvement in agriculture fosters connection & responsibility.Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to the Sacred Relationship with Creation02:50 Nick Hillman's Journey into Regenerative Agriculture07:28 The Impact of Soil Health on Nutrition10:52 Understanding NPK & Its Origins13:17 Chemical Inputs, Their Context & Consequences16:20 The Philosophy of Stewardship in Farming19:16 The Spiritual Connection to Agriculture20:16 The Role of Animals in Agriculture22:01 The Importance of Biodiversity in Farming24:27 On the Importance of Starting Slow28:11 Building a Food Forest30:23 Nick Hillman's Homestead Rescue33:38 Building a Self-Sustaining System36:40 Fasts & Feasts in the Context of Agriculture38:34 Community & Stewardship in Farming41:53 Technology's Role in Modern Agriculture45:24 Glyphosate & Its Impact on Health50:54 Soil Testing: Understanding Your Garden55:48 Hope for Sustainable Practices01:02:05 The Renaissance of Holistic Understanding01:05:23 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 episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the extremes of modern diets, such as carnivore & veganism, & how these approaches often neglect the spiritual dimensions of eating. The conversation emphasizes the importance of Incarnational Theology, the royal path of balance, & the significance of the liturgical calendar in guiding dietary choices. Ultimately, the hosts advocate for a holistic approach to health that integrates body, mind, & spirit, encouraging listeners to find a path that glorifies God & nurtures the whole person.Takeaways:Fasting is a self-offering, not self-perfection.The body serves the soul in Orthodox thought.Orthodoxy provides a royal path that avoids dietary extremes.Food is a battlefield of the will, requiring discernment.The liturgical calendar offers a rhythm for health & wellness.Fasting & feasting are integral to spiritual growth.Carnivore & vegan diets have pros and cons that should be considered.The saints provide a model for balanced eating without obsession.Health is a byproduct of holiness & living in accordance with God's will.Community & shared practices enhance the journey of health. Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to the Diet Wars02:58 The Extremes of Dietary Practices07:28 The Missing Theology in Diets10:02 Real Healing vs. Nutritional Absolutism12:39 The Church's Teachings on Food20:00 Diet as Religion26:48 The Royal Path & Dietary Discernment32:56 The Royal Path to Health38:45 The Wisdom of the Liturgical Calendar45:20 Pros & Cons of Carnivore & Vegan54:48 Carnivores & Vegans from a Paradigm Level01:01:05 An Orthodox Dietary Paradigm01:04:54 Stepping Out of the Materialist Myth01:15:05 Practical Steps for a Liturgical Life01:19:25 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

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John are joined by special guest, Fr. John Wehling to discuss the inadequacies of contemporary self-care practices, the search for meaning in a secular world, & how Orthodoxy offers a holistic approach to health that encompasses both body & soul. The conversation delves into personal journeys to Orthodoxy, the paradox of self-actualization, & the dangers of consumerism in shaping identity. Additionally, Fr. John discusses the nature of immortality, the hierachical relationship between the soul & the body, & the significance of sacraments in Orthodox Christianity. He emphasizes the paradox of living & dying, the vampiric nature of seeking immortality apart from Christ, & the importance of faith in understanding the body as serving the soul. The discussion also touches on the cultural reflections of immortality & the Orthodox perspective on facing death.Impactful Quotes:"You have to die to live.""The body serves the soul.""Even Lazarus died again."Takeaways:Self-care trends often leave individuals feeling empty.Orthodoxy offers a different path to true healing.The journey to Orthodoxy can be transformative.Christianity is not just a belief system, but a way of life.The modern world struggles with identity & purpose.Self-actualization requires self-denial & sacrifice.Consumerism shapes our understanding of identity.True happiness comes from community & communion.The pursuit of immortality can lead to a vampiric nature, consuming others for fulfillment.True immortality is found through Christ, requiring a willingness to die to oneself.Christianity without the cross is a false representation of faith.The body is good but serves the soul, highlighting a hierarchical relationship.Sacraments are essential for the healing of both body & soul in Orthodox faith.Facing death is a crucial aspect of living a Christian life.The purpose of the Orthodox Church is to create relics, emphasizing the sanctity of the body.Christ's resurrection is the ultimate victory over death, offering hope for immortality.Cultural pursuits of immortality often lead to unhealthy behaviors & self-deception.Kettlebells > yoga, period. Chapters:00:00 Opener01:30 Introduction to Self-Help Epidemic & Fr. John Wehling03:49 Father John's Journey to Orthodoxy09:47 The Search for a Way of Life16:34 Self-Care vs. Orthodox Healing23:52 The Role of Freedom & Identity in Modern Life27:30 The Paradox of Self-Actualization29:18 The Dangers of Self-Help Culture31:32 Consumerism & Identity36:35 Faith & the Body's Purpose39:17 Living & Dying as a Christian47:04 The Nature of Sacraments and Healing51:26 Understanding Death & Resurrection55:17 The Pursuit of Immortality & Its Implications01:00:07 Facing Death & Embracing Life01:01:59 Final Thoughts on Body, Soul, & Salvation01:03:11 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-fundraiser⁠

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