RAK ON: From Cramps to Champs and the Power of Enduring Friendships

Dr. Rak here, and this week, I’m reflecting on how enduring friendships shape our life’s journey. Today, we're excited to release a new episode of my podcast, 'The Health Feast,' featuring my brother from another mother, Amit Mirchandani, MD , also known as Dr. Mirch. Reflecting on our friendship reminds me how deep, supportive connections can shape our lives.

I met Amit during a transformative time when I was in medical school, and he had just started his medical training. From our first meeting, there was an immediate and undeniable connection, a rare and special sense of familiarity and kinship. Over the 17 years that have followed, Amit has served as both a mirror to my aspirations and a catalyst for my growth. And despite the many different paths our lives have taken since we first met, our friendship has been a steady, unwavering presence.

Seven years ago, Amit and I struck a deal that reshaped my fitness journey. I struggled with consistent exercise, and Amit's support was key in changing that. We became each other's accountability partners: I'd send Amit a ???? every day after my workout, and he’d reciprocate ????. It was our way of checking in and saying, 'I'm sticking to the plan, and here’s to you doing the same.' Movement has since become a natural part of my life, and it started with the support of a friend who wouldn't let me give up.

Fast forward two years to the photo above. Amit and I were side by side in a Spartan obstacle course race, testing our endurance and resilience. When intense cramps hit my calves, I nearly gave up. But Amit reminded me of what I am capable of and that I wasn’t alone. We had started together, and with his encouragement, we finished together.

The value of friendships like this is immeasurable. They push us beyond our perceived boundaries, sharpen our strengths, and cushion our falls. Friends like these are the rare gems that make life's journey bright and beautiful.

So let's RAK our week by reflecting on those who have helped us level up and how we, in turn, can support their ascent.

Roots Reflection ??: Think about the friends who have been with you from the beginning, who have seen you grow and have grown alongside you. How have you lifted each other to new heights of personal and professional growth?

Awareness Action ????: This week, engage in a mindfulness exercise centered around friendship. Find a quiet space to sit and reflect on the qualities of your close friends that have inspired you to grow. Contemplate the shared experiences that have strengthened your bond and visualize sending gratitude to each of these cherished friends.

Kindness Opportunity ??: Kindness is the language of friendship. This week, let’s act on this by creating a moment of joy for a friend. Maybe it’s scheduling a catch-up call with someone on your mind or sending a surprise delivery to a friend who has helped you level up in life. Let it be a gesture that says, "I am better because of you.”

December RYL Community Webinar: Breath Better to Live Better Thursday, December 14 at 5 pm PST/8 pm EST (sign up here). In our fast-paced lives, we often forget the healing and calming potential of a deep, mindful breath. This workshop will teach breathwork basics, offering practical techniques to effectively communicate with your nervous system. Learn how to harness your breath to manage anxiety, curb cravings, and significantly enhance your overall well-being. Let's breathe together towards a healthier, more mindful existence. Space is limited. (sign up here).

The Health Feast Corner ??

NEW EPISODE!! Episode 18: From Success to Significance with Dr. Amit Mirchandani. Dive into the inspiring world of Dr. Amit Mirchandani, aka Dr. Mirch, as he shares his transformative path from achieving personal milestones to making a significant impact in pain medicine and encouraging others to find their purpose in life. Discover how his unique perspective on luck, the influence of his upbringing, and his dedication to selfless service shapes his approach to treating chronic pain and beyond. This episode is a deeper exploration of finding true significance in life's work and the power of serving others. Don't miss out on this compelling conversation of growth, purpose, and the pursuit of true significance. Listen On Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube

Episode 13: How This ’Biggest Loser’ Made His Biggest Comeback with Sam Poueu. In this episode of The Health Feast, Dr. Rak and Po sit down with Sam Poueu, a former contestant on 'The Biggest Loser,' to delve into an extraordinary story of resilience and transformation. After losing over 150 pounds and surviving a five-story fall from a building resulting in traumatic brain injury, Sam's journey serves as a powerful reminder of human strength and fortitude. His story aligns perfectly with our weekly theme of diving deep into life-affirming experiences. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will motivate you to face life's challenges head-on. Listen On Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Substack | YouTube

Thanks for walking this path with me. I always look forward to hearing your stories and insights, so feel free to hit reply and share a bit of your world. Or pass this message along to someone who could use a boost of Roots, Awareness, and Kindness today.

Live Well and RAK ON,

Dr. Rak ????

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Interested in working with Dr. Rak? Want to level up your health journey? Join me and the supportive community of RAK Your Life. Join a RYL Tribe, where group support and friendships are key to transformation in these weekly coaching groups. Or work with Dr. Rak individually for 1:1 medical care and get a Lifestyle Medicine doctor on your side to help oversee your care. Discover more and sign up for a Tribe or 1:1 care with Dr. Rak on the RAK Your Life website.