What did our small group learn about holistic brain health, and what were the extra benefits of getting together each week? Here are my reflections on the Amen WHOLE-4 6-week Foundations Program after facilitating our faith-based group. We expected to learn a lot about how brain health was tied into other aspects of the body, mind, and spirit, and we definitely did. But we also learned a lot about each other, and built stronger relationships. There’s something really powerful about working towards individual health within a group that is striving for the same goals. We are happy and feel blessed to be a part of this national pilot program, and to offer our feedback. Learn more at https://amenwhole4.com.

How can we reach out to others who are different and unfamiliar, to put them at ease and gain new friends? My friend Parfait knows what it feels like to be the outsider, as an immigrant from West Africa who came to the U.S. to go to college. In the decades since, he’s become an expert and leading voice in peacemaking, fostering belonging, and creating social and business structures that bring people together. In his new book “The Way of Befriending,” Parfait tells the story of how he found his way, how he finds joy and healing in music, and how he has witnessed many others become unlikely friends. The book also presents many practical models for us to use in social and business settings. Here in my response, I talk a bit about his and my friendship and how Parfait’s ideas resonate with mine. To learn more about Parfait and order his book, visit parfaitbassale.com.

What can we do to push back burnout, retake control of our basic health foundations, and bring vitality home to our lives? Ramsey is launching a LIVE, weekly interactive and informative program on Zoom, Tuesdays at Noon Pacific Time, starting July 21st, called “Better Before Burnout: Waking, Eating, Moving, and Sleeping to Beat Stress and Bring Vitality.” Each weekly hour-long session will bring value on its own, and also build your knowledge, capabilities, and momentum week over week. In this episode, Ramsey lays out what impending burnout looks like, how we can push it back with the foundations of health, and how that all connects to nervous system regulation. Listen to the end of the episode to get a coupon code to enjoy your first Tuesday session free. Learn more at whatsworthwhile.net/better-before-burnout.