Orthodox Health

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