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.

How can moving and pressing on muscles or finding genetic “snips” provide answers to things like fatigue, depression, blood sugar swings, inflammation, or toxin overload? Dr. J Ann Dunn BS, DC, CKP, CWK, is a chiropractor, certified functional medicine practitioner, and the creator of Wholistic Kinesiology® and Wholistic Methylation, two groundbreaking approaches to natural health that have helped practitioners and patients around the world find answers conventional medicine couldn't provide. Dr. J teaches Ramsey all about Kinesiology and Methylation, including their definitions, why they are relevant to such a wide range of issues, and how people can find answers to things they’ve experienced their entire lives. Ramsey decides to get his genes tested, and you can to, with a 15% off discount code shared at the end of the episode. Visit myhappygenes.com to learn more and get started.

What can we do and control to improve our energy, attitude, strength, stress response, stamina, and all the other factors that push back the overwhelm of our lives? It’s not that complicated, and does not rely upon expensive formulas or products. However, it is tough to do on your own, without guidance or a deliberate strategy. Ramsey introduces the upcoming weekly workshops he will host and lead on Establishing Daily Vitality to get Better Before Burnout. You know how when you lift weights, you need to get your reps, right? Well, for daily Vitality you need to get your WEMS right: Waking, Eating, Moving, and Sleeping. Starting in July, join Ramsey each week to work on getting those foundations of health in line. Learn more at www.whatsworthwhile.net.

What goes with exercise? How about meditation, Qi Gong, Yoga or even Cannabis? Last we visited with Jill Wisehart, she was in Union, Washington, but she has since moved Treetop Fitness fully online and is expanding her holistic health experience offerings through a new network of practitioners … including Ramsey’s Better Before Burnout foundations of health program. Jill and Ramsey chat about all the changes Jill has navigated this past year, how exercise has kept her centered, and how the transformation of Treetop Fitness into a holistic and supportive community is shaping up. Listen in to get the full run-down of offerings that start in July. Learn more at www.treetopfitness.com.

Why do we get anxious when things are going our way? On TV shows and movies we brace ourselves for imminent plot twists when characters are too happy or comfy. Does that go for real life too? Things are actually going really great for me these days, at work, at home, and with my friends and colleagues. Does that mean a piano is going to fall from the sky? Perhaps instead I can find the courage to embrace the goodness, count my blessings, and genuinely praise and thank God for what He is providing. Things are not perfect, I certainly still have unmet goals, but things are headed in the right directions. I want to encourage you too: embrace optimism, see the good, count blessings and don’t let the fear of success hold you back. Of course, knocking on wood probably doesn’t hurt either.

Do they have it all figured out, those strong and silent guys? Or do emotions, doubts, and uncertainties swirl and remain unexpressed beneath those clear and steady eyes? Jason Blydell is a natural-born leader, athlete, Marine, husband, and father of four young kids. He’s a men’s health coach and retreat leader. There is also far more to him underneath that quiet confidence. Jason and Ramsey talk about feeling the need to perform, what it’s like to stop and actually feel your emotions, and what many men are truly seeking beyond the typical stereotypes. Learn more about Jason at https://www.gonebeyond.co.