In The Doctor's Chair

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I’m Dr. Mark Rowe, Welcome to my VitalityMark™ Podcast. As a practicing Medical Doctor, I’m an expert in Positive Health & Lifestyle Medicine, an Author, Corporate Speaker, Vitality Expert & Life Strategist. I started podcasting sporadically a couple of years ago, and now, having spent a lot of time during Covid 2020, delivering to organizations about ‘Living with more Vitality & Building a resilient mind’ I’m answering the call to share my knowledge and practice, & that of my guests, with you, on this weekly VitalityMark™ Podcast. My passion is to Empower YOU to Live your life with Vitality on Purpose.

Dr. Mark Rowe


    • Jan 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 25m AVG DURATION
    • 416 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from In The Doctor's Chair

    Things Your Future Self Will Thank You For Book Launch Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 13:35


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com. In recent times, I have become fascinated with this concept of future you. This concept is something I use conversationally on many occasions in my medical practice when I see someone who attends.

    Interview with Minister Mary Butler

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 42:49


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.This personal (non political) interview was with Minister Mary Butler as I took my podcast ‘In The Doctors Chair' live for the first time where our conversation explored life lessons, wellbeing, personal reflections, and the meaning of life.

    Interview with Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson David Cullinane TD

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 38:07


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com. This personal (non political) interview was with Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson David Cullinane TD, as I took my podcast In The Doctors Chair live as a fundraiser for the Waterford Hospice Movement, who provide valuable support to patients and their families at a critical time in their lives...

    Jason Gootman Mayo Clinic Certified Wellness Coach

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2024 32:15


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com. Jason Gootman is a Mayo Clinic Certified Wellness Coach. His passion is in supporting people to make positive sustainable lifestyle changes that enhance health span. As I say in supporting people to close the ‘intention gap' between where they are right now in terms of their wellbeing and a healthier version of themselves.

    Gut Health with Dietician Lorraine Cooney

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 26:28


    In this episode of my wellbeing podcast, ‘In The Doctors Chair', I talk to Lorraine Cooney, a specialist gastroenterology dietician at Dublin's Blackrock Clinic about her new book ‘Why You Can't Go'. Her book is a gut health ‘bible' that delves into all the relevant factors contributing to constipation and excess bloating, empowering people to find their own personal solution to digestive relief.

    How to deal with Grief & Loss an Inevitable Part of Being Human

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 14:34


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.Firstly there's no real way to prepare for grief. It's part and parcel of life. While to love and be loved beings great joy and meaning to life, it also equates with loss. Kahlil Gibran, the Persian writer, put it well when he wrote that the depth of your loss is a mirror image to the depth of your love. In his words, ‘you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.'

    Brendan Ring from the Cliona Foundation: From Grief to Giving

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 43:32


    Grief is a ubiquitous experience that befalls everyone during life. To live and to love as a human being has its polar opposite of death, loss and suffering. Sometimes this loss can lead in time to a sense of posttraumatic growth with a renewed of purpose and meaning.Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.

    Five Wellbeing Benefits of Gratitude

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 10:05


    Just like Groundhog Day, each day that we wake up our brains are hardwired for fear, for anxiety, and for survival. Gratitude as a practice is a powerful way to attune your thinking and way of being in the direction of a more positive mindset.Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.

    Prof Ciaran O'Boyle in the Doctor's Chair

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2024 33:06


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.Recently I interviewed Professor Ciaran O'Boyle, a pioneering leader the area of psychology, leadership and positive health. As Professor of Psychology at the RCSI he is the Founding Director of the RCSI Centre for Positive Health Sciences (formerly the Centre for Positive Psychology and Health).

    Positive Aging with Alana James

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2024 32:28


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.Alana James is an artist, author, and academic whose artwork expresses the love of the intricacies of life as a human being. She obtained her degree in Fine Arts from the University of Colorado in 1971 and exhibited her art in galleries and competitive shows in the US during the 80s.

    What is The Price of Happiness?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2024 16:05


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com.As a family doctor for over three decades, I have met many patients who materially may have very little, but actually have so much. I have also seen people who are materially very wealthy, but are very miserable.

    John McCarthy Champion Irish Surfer: Hope That Grows

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 40:36


    Find more episodes and helpful content on www.drmarkrowe.com. Originally from Tramore Co. Waterford, John McCarthy is a champion surfer who has competed and has travelled all over the world – including to Hawaii, Australia, Africa, Central and South America and all over Asia – in search of what he calls the ‘perfect wave'.

    Character Strengths & Self-Awareness What is Strong Rather Than What is Wrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2023 13:05


    Dr. Liana joins me again this episode to discuss adopting a strength-based approach to living our lives. We explain what individual character strengths are and discuss why we need to pay attention to and savor the moments when we're at our best. We discuss how routinely using our character strengths to our advantage helps contribute to our overall sense of well-being and why many people are hesitant about embracing their character strengths.Episode #93 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Positive Lifestyle Changes for Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023


    In this episode, I explore different solutions and suggestions to support your mental health. I highlight the difference between mental health and mental illness. I present UK research that identified seven separate lifestyle factors that reduce the risk of developing depression. I discuss the role of making positive lifestyle choices in preventing and managing mental health issues and how mental health can benefit from movement and exercise.Episode #144 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Cholesterol: What are the different types of cholesterol?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2023 20:53


    In this episode, I talk about the different types of cholesterol, and I explain why some are good and some aren't. I talk about what your numbers should look like in each category, and I talk about how to improve these numbers when they're not where they should be. I talk about the different ways you can help and hurt your cholesterol numbers, and I go into specific diet changes you can make to improve these levels or keep them healthy.Episode #21 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Blue Zones, Mediterranean Diet & Our Telomeres

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2023 14:40


    Today, I talk about the Mediterranean lifestyle and diet. I explain why I do not like the term “diet” for its connotations, and I note that, over the course of ten years, you make 11,000 food choices. I explain what blue zones are and list the four healthy lifestyle factors. I note the importance of consistency and color in your food, and I explain what is included in the Mediterranean diet. I also note that it supports better telomeres. None of us can go back to the beginning and start again, but starting today, you can create a brand new ending.Episode #26 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    All About Erectile Dysfunction & International Men's Health Week

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2023 14:46


    In this episode, I discuss what Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is and why it's not as uncommon as society typically believes. I discuss the connection between frequent erectile dysfunction issues and other, sometimes more serious, health concerns. I explain the common physical and psychological causes of ED and the connection between your psychological health and your physical wellbeing. I explain how certain health issues like diabetes, chronic pain, and anxiety as well as certain prescription medications can often lead to erectile dysfunction.Episode #70 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Positive Psychology the Prescription for Happiness

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2023 28:17


    Dr. Liana Lianov is the President of Global Positive Health Institute (GPHI), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the integration of positive psychology in the healthcare setting. She is an innovative global leader in lifestyle medicine who has led the development of its core competencies for physicians and healthcare professionals which, most recently, has been expanded to include positive psychology-based knowledge and skills.Episode #81 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    War Anxiety: Overcoming Headline Stress

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2023 12:01


    Today, I talk about how to navigate this situation. I note that we're hardwired for fear and that it doesn't take much to trigger stress in us. I talk about how to be mindful of how you consume media, noting that you don't need to unnecessarily stress yourself to stay informed. I note the power of differentiating between the things you can control and the things you can't. I discuss the importance of self-care, pointing out that every environment you spend time in can be health-depleting or health-enhancing. I posit that you can control your level of stress to an extent and offer practical tips on how to do so. You have the power to choose how to respond in any given situation.Episode #58 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Acne: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2023 14:57


    Today, I explain what acne is, some of the most common causes for acne breakouts, and the most common areas you may find blemishes develop. I highlight how chronic acne can sometimes lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and even depression for some people. I explain the difference between white-head and black-head pimples and how squeezing pimples can ultimately create scar tissue. I also discuss treatment options currently available, including home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications, to treat acne breakouts and share a few basic skin care tips you can do each day to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. The good news is – while acne may not be preventable, it's really treatable. There are so many effective options out there.Episode #84 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    Transforming Your Pain Into Something Beautiful with Kayleen Asbo

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2023 52:05


    Today, Kayleen joins me to share her story. She shares what's behind her love for learning and she notes that you can transform your pain into something beautiful. She emphasises the power of gratitude, offering practices to cultivate it, and she points out that beauty is always woven into the darkness; you just have to shift your way of seeing. She talks about her heroes, sharing why each one makes the list, and she notes that goodness, truth, and beauty are all united. She talks about the power of pilgrimage and emphasises the importance of cultivating habits that contribute to your vitality.Episode #61 see www.drmarkrowe.com for more episodes.

    #138 Making Lifestyle Changes for Health Gains

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2023 22:12


    When I was in medical school more than 30 years ago, the education I received emphasized disease and illness; there was much to learn about different health conditions, and genetics and DNA were given a large degree of importance. But today, there is a growing body of science which suggests that lifestyle changes—such as exercise, having quality sleep, and avoiding smoking—can make a real difference to your health and lifespan. And, perhaps better than these factors, they can also enhance the quality of your lived experience: how you think and feel, day in and day out. In this episode, I discuss health beyond the absence of disease and how making lifestyle changes can significantly improve your health and well-being. I define lifestyle medicine and outline its six pillars. I share the Million Veteran Study and explain how it demonstrated the cumulative effects and age-specific benefits of adopting multiple healthy habits. I also suggest a few small, positive lifestyle changes and habits you can adopt today and underscore the interconnected nature of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. “Lifestyle medicine is as much a mindset change as it is a habit change. It's a mindset change to say to yourself, ‘less emphasis on pills and more emphasis on skills and lifestyle habits.'” – Dr Mark Rowe   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: The disease- and genetics-focused medical education I received decades ago Health beyond the absence of disease The ancient, philosophical notions of health and well-being The life-saving benefits of medicine How lifestyle medicine does not imply abandoning traditional medicine Becoming an active participant of your health and well-being The six pillars of lifestyle medicine How spending time in nature and having a strong sense of purpose enhances health and well-being The Million Veteran Study and ranking healthy habits The impact of positive health behaviors on longevity The cumulative effect and age-specific benefits of incorporating multiple healthy habits Exercise as medicine and how exercise and weight training can reduce your risk of death from any cause Avoiding drinking and smoking, and improving nutrition How learning to respond better and manage stress can reduce early mortality rates How depriving yourself of quality sleep can negatively impact your long-term health and well-being Positive relationships as the leading indicator of your well-being The interconnection between the emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental aspects of your well-being Small health-enhancing habits you can start today   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #138 Making Lifestyle Changes for Health Gains appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #137 Gratitude, Love, Self-Compassion, and Overcoming Adversity with Michelle Bauge

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 35:12


    Michelle Bauge is the Sports Development Coordinator for Glasgow Life. As a coordinator, Michelle supports the personal development of young people, providing them with as many opportunities as possible to ensure they are developing and thriving on every level. While she has spent most of her career to date in sports and sports development, the most meaningful lessons Michelle has learned in life have come from years of studying personal development and how the human mind works. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Studies from the University of West Scotland. In this episode, Michelle and I discuss how self-care and self-compassion can help us show up for ourselves and others. We explore her background in sports, sports development, and her interest in psychology and personal development. We describe the power of hope and how faith allowed Michelle to navigate the most challenging chapters of her life. We also outline her daily gratitude practice, discuss her experience writing A Heart Full of Love, and highlight Michelle's thoughts on the essence of life. “Let love out, but also let love in. Allow yourself to be seen, because that will help you build strength from others. Keep showing up and keep trying.” – Michelle Bauge   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Michelle's background in sports and sports development Her deep interest in psychology, personal development, and how people overcome adversity Learning to navigate the darkest hours of our lives How hope and faith helped Michelle overcome the most challenging chapters of her life The Sanskrit concept of samsara and how we're all beings of pure love Why people experiencing isolation and loneliness find it difficult to reach out Michelle's mission to let people know they're not alone How the COVID-19 lockdowns helped Michelle shift her perspective on loneliness Writing her book, A Heart Full of Love, and the clarity and catharsis writing brings Michelle's gratitude practices and habits to keep her healthy, fit, and engaged Prioritizing the important and meaningful tasks in life How the basic human kindness is universal to all cultures and civilizations The importance of self-compassion and self-care Resources Mentioned: Book: The Gift: 14 Lessons to Save Your Life by Dr. Edith Eva Eger Book: The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Dr. Edith Eva Eger Connect with Michelle Bauge: Glasgow Life Glasgow Life on LinkedIn Michelle Bauge on LinkedIn   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #137 Gratitude, Love, Self-Compassion, and Overcoming Adversity with Michelle Bauge appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #136 Be Stronger to Live Longer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2023 15:43


    Strength training used to be a considerable blind spot for me. To me, exercise was only about getting off a sweat—and, perhaps, it may be for you too. After all, the prevailing mindset about strength training today is that it's mainly for bodybuilders, boxers, and gym-goers. But, as I've learned through life and research, strength training and exercise are some of the most powerful pills of all. In this episode, I discuss how you can live better and longer through strength-based training and exercise. I share the story of John, an 84-year-old man whose biological age is decades behind his chronological age. I explain how our bodies lose lean muscles as we age—leading to eventual decline—and how the environments we spend our time in can be health-enhancing or health-depleting. I also outline the key benefits of strength training on aging, metabolism, mental health, and vitality and offer advice on starting strength training as a habit. “Starting a strength training program today could optimize your chances of staying in the peak zone of health, well-being, and vitality for years and decades to come.” – Dr. Mark Rowe   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: How exercising and strength training is a health secret kept from many people How my journey to understanding lifestyle as medicine changed my mindset about strength training Strength training's power to slow the process of age-related decline Strength training's impact on mental health How an 84-year-old man maintains his peak performance and health Hope molecules and their positive effects on the brain How strength training can boost metabolism by increasing your sensitivity to insulin How strength training and exercise can give you more energy   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #136 Be Stronger to Live Longer appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #135 Building Mental Resilience through the Fertility Journey with Eimear Byrne

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023 25:58


    Eimear Byrne is a fertility support coach and IVF survivor. Eimear is the creator of Moments of Sparkle, through which she helps others navigate the challenges of the fertility journey. She created the Fertility Rollercoaster Toolkit, a six-week course packed with all the mental health practices and tools she has learned from her own fertility journey and mindfulness training. She is on a mission to help people realize that they are not alone, that there is mental health support available, and that it's possible to live a meaningful life after IVF. Eimear joins me today to share her fertility journey. She describes the IVF cycles she has been through, the challenges that she faced, and the lessons she learned from the adversities she overcame. She outlines the practices in her mental health toolkit—including mindfulness, journaling, and counseling—and how they helped her face the challenges of her IVF journey. Eimear also discusses how she helps others through Moments of Sparkle and shares her ideas for cultivating a resilient mind. “A resilient mind has the capacity to recover from difficult times, but it is also the realization that you're human that makes difficult things happen.” – Eimear Byrne This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Eimear's journey through healthcare and IVF The failings of conventional medicine and healthcare How Eimear discovered mindfulness practices and how she initially reacted to them How mindfulness kept Eimear mentally well through her IVF journey Seeking support and how counseling helped Eimear navigate fertility challenges How Eimear's family and friends supported her through her journey How the pandemic became a transformative period in Eiemar's life What life was like for Eimear before her mindfulness and mental health practices How gratitude journaling can help us recalibrate our attentive energy to what's present Having and creating a sense of realistic hope and optimism The creation of Moments of Sparkle Post-traumatic growth Cultivating a resilient mind The essence of emotional agility and the power of learning to sit with difficult emotions What life means to Eimear Connect with Eimear Byrne: Moments of Sparkle Moments of Sparkle on Instagram Eimear Byrne on Instagram In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #135 Building Mental Resilience through the Fertility Journey with Eimear Byrne appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #134 Cholesterol – We Make Our Habits in Life, and Then Our Habits Make Us. Aristotle

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2023 20:53


    Having a Health IQ is important. A great way to start building it up is to keep track of your cholesterol numbers. This can seem like a daunting task, so today I talk all about cholesterol: what it is, why it matters, how to keep track of it and how to leverage lifestyle changes to keep it at healthy levels thereby reducing your risk of chronic illnesses. In this episode, I talk about the different types of cholesterol, and I explain why some are good and some aren't. I talk about what your numbers should look like in each category, and I talk about how to improve these numbers when they're not where they should be. I talk about the different ways you can help and hurt your cholesterol numbers, and I go into specific diet changes you can make to improve these levels or keep them healthy. “I call exercise the greatest pill of all.”– Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair What is cholesterol and why does it matter? The yo-yo diet and why you should avoid it The different types of cholesterol The power of exercise What you should be eating to keep your cholesterol levels healthy   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #134 Cholesterol – We Make Our Habits in Life, and Then Our Habits Make Us. Aristotle appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #133 Boosting Your Well-being through Character Strengths with Dr. Liana Lianov

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 17:08


    Dr. Liana Lianov is the founder and President of HealthType LLC, which offers digital programs and interactive workshops that focus on positive psychology for health professionals and individual audiences. An international leader in lifestyle medicine and positive psychology, Liana has dedicated her career to promoting positive psychology in healthcare. In addition to her role at HealthType, she serves as the President of the Global Positive Health Institute, a nonprofit organization that helps health professionals promote flourishing and total well-being for their parents and themselves. She is also the author of Strengths in the Mirror and Roots of Positive Change. In this episode, Liana and I discuss how approaching life with your character and personal strengths can help you achieve long-lasting benefits to your health, well-being, and vitality. We discuss how individuals can find their character strengths amid a world that focuses on insecurities and imperfection. We explore different ways to discover your character and personal strengths. We describe how everyone can bring their character strengths into their daily lives and develop them. We also highlight the power of knowing yourself and underscore how knowing your personal strengths can help you navigate challenging circumstances. “When the world seems to crumble around us, it's very reassuring to know that when all else fails, we can turn inward and see that we have character strengths we can use to persevere, thrive, and flourish.” – Dr. Liana Lianov This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Finding your character strengths in a social-media-centered society The six core virtues of the wisdom books and their 24 character strengths Developing character strengths over time Allowing your signature to emerge and develop How identifying and applying your top character strengths can feel resonant and effortless Knowing yourself and the power of having a sense of self How to bring your character strengths into your everyday life How all change happens on the inside Resources Mentioned: The VIA Character Strength Survey   Connect with Dr. Liana Lianov: Dr. Liana Lianov on LinkedIn Book: Strengths in the Mirror: Thriving Now and Tomorrow Book: Roots of Positive Change: Optimizing Health Care with Positive Psychology   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #133 Boosting Your Well-being through Character Strengths with Dr. Liana Lianov appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #132 Health is Wealth

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2023 11:30


    If health is truly every individual's wealth, what can we do to improve it? There is a myriad of information out there on improving health, vitality, and longevity. Educating yourself on cultivating well-being can be, ironically, a stressful experience, but taking the initiative to gather knowledge is a good step towards being an active participant in your health. And it doesn't have to be an overwhelming journey—there are simple but impactful ideas to help you enhance your health span. In this episode, I discuss health being your wealth and outline key ideas to help, support, and improve your health span and enable you to live with vitality. I explain how having a positive view of aging impacts vitality and longevity. I share my G.L.A.D. and W.W.W. exercises to help build your emotional bank account. I also highlight how our interpersonal relationships impact our health, discuss how our daily lifestyles and habits determine our well-being, and underscore the power of gratitude on improving our vitality. “By taking good care of our health and appreciating that your health is your wealth, you can optimize your health span and increase the number of years in your life where you stay healthy.” – Dr. Mark Rowe   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Knowing yourself and your bio-markers The importance of having a positive view of aging Why having a positive mindset doesn't mean ignoring our negative experiences What it means to have emotional agility How the quality of our interpersonal relationships is directly linked to the quality of our long-term wellbeing Letting your lifestyle and daily habits become your best possible medicine How 80% of your genes express themselves according to lifestyle habits Becoming your own best friend and how self-care starts from the inside Optimizing your health span and being an active participant in your own health and well-being   Resources Mentioned: Book: The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness by Robert Waldinger M.D.   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #132 Health is Wealth appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    The Myth of Invincibility & Undergoing Open-Heart Surgery with Dr. Akil Taher

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2023 31:18


    Dr. Akil joins me today to share his life before undergoing open-heart surgery and why he didn't believe heart disease could happen to him. We discuss his experience with depression and how those negative thoughts and behaviors manifested into physical symptoms. We discuss how undergoing open-heart surgery became the pivotal moment he finally decided to transform his life and make healthier lifestyle choices. We discuss his physical, mental, and emotional state immediately following open-heart surgery and why he chose to avoid taking medication to reduce his post-surgery pain.

    #131 Forest Therapy

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 15:08


    Imagine that there is a bridge between you and a state of health, well-being, vitality, creativity, and empathy for yourself and the world around you. That bridge exists and is accessible to anyone for free—and that bridge is forest therapy. Spending time in nature, disconnected from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, is a relaxing, restorative, health-enhancing experience. In this episode, I discuss forest therapy and how it can improve your overall well-being, creativity, and connection to the world around you. I reveal how nature inspired me to write my book, The Vitality Mark. I explain how spending time in natural environments can help you lower your stress response, increase your relaxation response, and become more compassionate to yourself and the world around you. I also highlight how you can make the most out of your time being in nature to maximize its benefits. “Forest therapy, or shinrin-yoku, can become that bridge to more well-being and vitality; it can take you home not just to nature, but to your true nature.” – Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Nature as a creative laboratory How time in nature can reduce the voice of the inner-critic and increase self-compassion The ‘Green Exercise' prescription The history of forest bathing or shinrin-yoku Improving your relaxation response through forest therapy How time spent in nature can reduce stress and chronic health conditions How being in nature produces a flow state and triggers the “small self” effect Forest therapy and raising awareness of the importance of the natural world Ralph Waldo Emerson on adopting the pace of nature What you should do before ending your time in nature Hellen Keller on spending time in nature Resources Mentioned: Book: The Vitality Mark: Your Prescription for Feeling Energised, Invigorated, Enthusiastic and Optimistic Each Day by Dr. Mark Rowe   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #131 Forest Therapy appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    The Journey to Emotional & Chemical Sobriety with Tony Kelly

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 34:53


    Tony joins me today to share his story of battling drug and alcohol abuse. We discuss the misunderstandings and misconceptions society typically has around drug and alcohol addiction and why medical professionals and health organizations view addiction as a mental health issue. We discuss the struggles of trying to break addiction and what ‘emotional sobriety' means.

    #130 Set Goals To Grow with Caroline Adams Miller

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2023 30:29


    Caroline Adams Miller is an author, speaker, leader of the self-help and positive psychology movements, and an expert on the science behind successful goal-setting and “good grit.” Caroline's journey began with her battle against bulimia in her early twenties, and she draws from her experience, real-life examples, and cutting-edge research from positive psychology to engage audiences and empower them with practical takeaways. Caroline has worked with prestigious clients worldwide— including Morgan Stanley, lululemon, McKinsey & Company, and Harvard Law School—and her contributions have been featured in prominent media outlets such as BBC World News, The New York Times, and CNN. Caroline holds one of the first 32 Masters of Applied Positive Psychology degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University. When she's not transforming lives, Caroline excels as a Masters Swimmer, holds a black belt in Hapkido, and is pursuing another in the self-defense system, Tzee Wai Kuen. She resides between Bethesda, Maryland, and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware with her husband and their giant black Schnoodle, Alpha. Today, Caroline joins me to discuss where happiness comes from and the science behind goal-setting. She recounts her journey recovering from bulimia and addiction and how it led her to the field of positive psychology and coaching. She demonstrates the importance of positive psychology and provides instructions on using it to pursue difficult goals. She reminds us that it is never too late to start pursuing our goals and how novelty and zest for life can help us through challenges. We highlight how grit can be cultivated and how women in particular benefit from supporting each other in developing it. We also talk about the importance of healthy habits and Caroline's favorite ways to find meaning in life. ​​”I think there's something about the pursuit of hard goals that makes us better people, that makes us more resilient, that makes us more creative, that makes us more optimistic.” – Caroline Adams Miller This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Caroline's passion for positive psychology How Caroline discovered positive psychology and coaching The importance of growth after trauma How giving back helps you achieve happiness and fulfillment The connection between goal-setting and the science of happiness Behind the science of goal-setting Why pursuing hard goals leads to long-term happiness Action steps for pursuing hard goals The importance of support networks The importance of novelty and zest in life Caroline's thoughts on the meaning of life   Resources Mentioned: Book: Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner   Connect with Caroline Miller: Caroline Adams Miller Website Caroline Adams Miller on LinkedIn Caroline Adams Miller on Instagram Caroline Adams Miller on Facebook Caroline Adams Miller on Twitter Caroline Adams Miller  on YouTube Caroline Adams Miller's Books   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #130 Set Goals To Grow with Caroline Adams Miller appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    Keeping Your Body Moving: Let Your Footsteps Do the Talking

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2023 14:19


    In this episode, I discuss why it's important to make time to keep your body moving, whether it's through walking, yoga, or following an exercise routine. I discuss the benefits of walking and how all movement can be considered beneficial. I explain what brisk walking is and how it helps you maintain optimal health. I discuss how walking in nature helps boost your creativity and problem-solving skills and how walking with others improves your relationships. I also share a few simple ways you can add more healthy movement to your daily routine. Moving is medicine. Moving more can transform your health over time.

    #129 Life Lessons from Epictetus

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2023 8:46


    Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher that was born into slavery. After being banished from Rome, he moved to northwestern Greece, where he lived for the rest of his life. His life was about making progress instead of mastering perfection and, because of this, there are many great life lessons we can learn from him. These lessons provide us with a practical path to resilience, growth, fulfillment, and wisdom. This week, I discuss some of the life lessons we can learn from the great minds of ancient philosophers, like Epictetus. I share how he learned by choosing how he responded to different situations, it gave him an inner sense of freedom despite his circumstances. I share how Epictetus teaches us to use adversity as a means to develop our sense of freedom and the importance of taking responsibility for our thoughts and beliefs. I discuss why he believed our actions speak louder than words, his thoughts on receiving criticism from others, and why he taught his students to cultivate good habits. I also discuss the value of being mindful of how we spend our time and making light of life's challenges. “Use adversity as an opportunity to develop your inner sense of freedom. The robber of your free will does not exist. Some things are in your control, others are not.” – Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Choosing how we respond to different situations Epictetus' manual for living What Epictetus believed about blaming others for your own bad circumstances Accurately identifying what's within your control and what is not Using adversity as an opportunity to develop your sense of freedom How Epictetus describes suffering Taking responsibility for our thoughts and beliefs Making light of life's challenges Why your actions speak louder than your words Epictetus' views on receiving criticism from others Cultivating good habits Being mindful of how we spend our time Resources Mentioned: Book: The Enchiridion by Epictetus Book: Discourses by Epictetus   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #129 Life Lessons from Epictetus appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    Ibrahim Halawa: The Power of Forgiveness & Letting Go for a Better Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2023 32:29


    Ibrahim Halawa, a 25-year-old Irishman, spent more than four years of his life in prison in Egypt after he was arrested while on a family holiday in 2013. Then aged 17, Ibrahim was detained by the Egyptian security forces after he and three of his sisters were caught up in a siege at a mosque in Cairo in August 2013.

    The Opportunity Cost of the Overthinking Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 15:42


    This episode, I discuss the opportunity cost associated with an overthinking mind. I explain what the amygdala is, how it works, and how high worry and stress levels can impact your health and wellbeing. I explain how overthinking affects your ability to process emotions properly.

    #128 Dr Beth Frates: Lifestyle Medicine as a Game Changer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2023 48:27


    Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) Frates, MD, is a pioneer in Lifestyle Medicine education and an award-winning teacher at Harvard Medical School and the Harvard Extension School. Dr. Frates's passionate teaching style at Harvard Medical School has earned her several Excellence in Teaching awards for her work in multiple pre-clinical courses. She specialises in connecting one-on-one with her clients. Today, Beth joins me to talk about the power of a healthy body, peaceful mind, and joyful heart. She shares how her story began and talks about the impact of her father's heart attack and stroke on his life and hers. She notes that exercise can often act as an internal motivator and discusses the power of a growth mindset. She shares her own lifestyle health practices and discusses the power of movement. She notes the power of self-care and its effects on a person's health and ability to take care of others well. She discusses the six pillars of lifestyle health and notes that they work best as a combination. Finally, she emphasises the power of a growth mindset, gratitude, and the ability to see beauty in everything. “It's a new day. It's a new chance.”– Elizabeth Frates This week on In the Doctor's Chair The power of knowing you have control Exercise as an internal motivator The power of movement The importance of self-care The six pillars of lifestyle health Why the six pillars work best together   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations sharing life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify The post #128 Dr Beth Frates: Lifestyle Medicine as a Game Changer appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #127 Food as Medicine: Uniting Health and Flavor with Domini Kemp

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2023 41:37


    Domini Kemp is an entrepreneur, chef, author, and advocate for positive health. As the co-founder of ITSA Ltd, she has successfully developed multiple award-winning brands within the ITSA Group, including Feast, Joe's, Alchemy Juice Co., Hatch & Sons, and more. Domini trained as a chef at Leith's in London. Upon returning to Ireland, she co-authored “New Irish Cooking” and gained invaluable experience at Dublin's Michelin-starred Peacock Alley. Domini has been named a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and received the Image Business Woman of the Year award, as well as contributed to notable publications, including The Irish Times Saturday Magazine, Image, and The Dubliner Magazine, and is a familiar face on TV and radio. Following a breast cancer diagnosis, Domini co-authored the best-selling cookbook “The Ketogenic Kitchen.” She holds an MA in Gastronomy & Food Studies and a Prof. Dip in Positive Health. She also regularly speaks internationally on topics like “Food & Cancer” and “Food as Medicine.” Today, we discuss Domini's passion for food as medicine. Domini shares how being a chef and entrepreneur-led her to embrace the power of food. She emphasizes the importance of real, unprocessed food and highlights the benefits of herbs and spices for their potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. She clarifies why her goal is not to make absolute claims but to promote the idea that small dietary choices can have a significant influence on our health. We discuss the role of food education and Domini's frustrations with bureaucratic systems. We emphasize the importance of confidence, particularly for women, and how we can influence the healthcare system through food. We also stress the value of gratitude, self-kindness, and acceptance in navigating life's challenges and how to find meaning in sharing meals with loved ones and bringing joy to others through food. “This older knowledge that old cooks have passed down, not only do they taste delicious, but you get this added enhanced nutritional benefit.” – Domini Kemp   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: How Domini's breast cancer diagnoses affected how she views food as medicine The importance of unprocessed and plant-based foods The benefits of herbs and spices How diet impacts cancer The small choices we can make to improve our health through diet The challenges of cooking nutritious meals The role of food education in schools How sharing meals increases your levels of joy Resources Mentioned: Book: Anticancer: A New Way of Life by David Servan-Schreiber Connect with Domini Kemp: Domini Kemp's Website Domini Kemp on LinkedIn Itsa Cafe and Catering on LinkedIn   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #127 Food as Medicine: Uniting Health and Flavor with Domini Kemp appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #126 Food As Medicine for Menopause with Rachel Graham

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2023 25:44


    Rachel Graham is a Nutritional Therapist and Medicinal Chef who helps her clients improve their eating habits and increase their well-being by creating delicious and healthy meals. Rachel specializes in women's health, particularly focusing on menopause, and is an accredited menopause educator recognized by The British Menopause Charity. She offers guidance and advice on various treatment options for managing Menopause symptoms, including Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), alternative supplements, lifestyle adjustments, and alternative therapies. Rachel also caters to younger women experiencing early menopause and those approaching menopause, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared for this transitional phase. She is the author of several books including a medicinal cookbook and fosters a supportive online menopause community through a private Facebook group called “BACK TO LIFE – Your Menopause Transformation Community.” She also conducts small group workshops and private one-on-one medicinal cooking demonstrations.   Today, Rachel joins me to discuss the significance of willpower, seeking professional help, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during menopause and beyond. Rachel explains the benefits of a nutrient-focused approach to eating during menopause, highlighting eight essential nutrients for women's health, and emphasizes the challenges of overcoming sugar addiction. She shares her personal practices for healthy living and recounts how overcoming adversity in her own life led her to pursue nutritional therapy and lifestyle medicine. She shares advice she wished she received when she was younger, like exploring a different career options and taking care of her skin with SPF. We also discuss how focusing on a whole-food diet, regular physical activity, and quality sleep increases our quality of life.   “Once you start feeling the benefits of your actions, then it is self-perpetuating.” – Rachel Graham   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: The 8 essential nutrients for women's health during menopause The challenges of overcoming sugar addiction Why it's so important to tame your sugar addiction How to reduce your sugar intake and make more informed food choices Rachel's favorite personal wellness practices How overcoming personal adversity led Rachel to nutritional therapy Rachel's advice to her younger self The importance of prioritizing skin care and using SPF How Rachel finds meaning in life Connect with Rachel Graham: Rachel Graham's Website Book: MENO-MORPHOSIS COOKBOOK Rachel Graham  on LinkedIn Rachel Graham on Facebook Rachel Graham on YouTube Rachel Graham on LinkedIn   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #126 Food As Medicine for Menopause with Rachel Graham appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #125 Prevent & Treat Heart Disease with Dr Paddy Barrett

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2023 32:45


    Dr. Paddy Barrett is a preventive cardiologist committed to helping patients optimize their health, extend their lives, and discover the deeper meaning of life. He has 20 years of experience in world-class medical centers in California, New York, Sydney, and Ireland. Dr. Barrett has realized that true well-being encompasses more than just the treatment of diseases and promotes extending life span, health span, and soul span through leading a purposeful and meaningful life. He shares insights from his career in his Substack newsletter—where he provides readers with valuable information on optimizing health and discovering meaning—and on his podcast, The Dr. Paddy Barrett Podcast. Today, Dr. Paddy and I discuss preventive cardiology and the risk factors leading to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and dementia. Dr. Paddy highlights the need for lifestyle medicine and positive health practices and details how his work in preventive cardiology and medical innovation continues to significantly impact the field. We discuss how understanding metabolic syndrome and its role in chronic diseases can prevent the early onset of major illnesses. We explain why it's never too late to make positive changes to our health. Dr. Patty also shares his insights on meditation and stoicism and details how those tools can improve emotional resilience and well-being.  ”If you want to be a kick-ass 90-year-old, you cannot settle for being an average 50-year-old.” – Dr. Paddy Barrett This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Why Paddy is so passionate about preventive cardiology The importance of focusing on risk factors to prevent disease The leading causes of death in the developed world What we can learn from healthy centenarians The importance of lifestyle medicine and positive health Strategies for reducing burnout in the medical profession Paddy's experience hosting his podcast The role of medical innovation in preventive cardiology The good news about metabolic syndrome How Patty celebrates patient wins Why some patients resist statin therapy How stoicism and meditation build resilience   Connect with Dr. Paddy Barrett: Dr. Paddy Barrett Website Dr. Paddy Barrett on Substack Dr. Paddy Barretton on Instagram Dr. Paddy Barrett on LinkedIn Dr. Paddy Barrett on Twitter   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #125 Prevent & Treat Heart Disease with Dr Paddy Barrett appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #124 Ask the Right Questions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 10:15


    How do you let go of petty resentments and destructive ideas holding you back from reaching your goals? I look to Benjamin Franklin, one of my favorite historical figures, because of his brilliance and his ability to hold himself accountable for his personal growth for guidance. Every day, Franklin would ask himself a series of introspective questions about the good he could do and what he could give back to the world, which nurtured his curiosity about the world around him and led him to be one of the most prolific thinkers the world has ever known. Today, I guide you through a series of questions meant to help you develop a growth mindset and learn how to ask yourself the right questions to find your personal truth and foster your curiosity about the world around you. I help you identify your strengths and share some surprising traits that strong people have. I discuss the importance of gratitude and how focusing on abundance is more important than focusing on what you don't have. I explain how you can incorporate these questions into your daily routine and how this practice can increase your well-being and relationships. I also discuss the benefits of incorporating appreciation into your life. “A foundational habit brings perspective to the past, a sense of peace to the present moment, and a profound sense of hope and realistic optimism for a brighter, better future.” – Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair: How to ask yourself the right questions to foster health and well being The questions I recommend asking yourself daily The positive effects of being curious about the world around you What Benjamin Franklin can teach us about the growth mindset How letting go of negativity can help you re-charge and recenter   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #124 Ask the Right Questions appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #123 Kindness – A Key For Vitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2023 18:43


    Today, we live in a society where kindness is often looked down on as a weakness. But in reality, kindness–which stems from the Golden Rule–has benefits that are spiritual, physical, and mental. In this episode, I talk about why kindness is an essential part of a lifestyle of vitality. I share the concrete benefits of being kind and compassionate toward others, benefits which are mental, physical, and spiritual. I share research on why, when you're kind, you actually make the world a better place. I explain why, contrary to being a sign of weakness, kindness increases your resilience. Finally, I share a poem on kindness. “When you seek to find the best in others, you also bring out the best in yourself.”– Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair The concrete benefits of cultivating kindness and compassion in your everyday life The benefits of kindness Why kindness is good for your heart How kindness can change your worldview The contagiousness of kindness Kindness on social media Kindness as a choice In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #123 Kindness – A Key For Vitality appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #122 When Men Delay Seeking Healthcare: The Dire Consequences of Not Asking For Help

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2023 17:52


    The ideology that manly men never show weakness and never ask for help is a dangerous stereotype of masculinity that has profound health consequences. Far too often, I see men delay healthcare and lose out on years that they could have spent living healthier lives and enjoying time with their families. I even wrote a book, The Men's Health Book: A Guide for the Irish Man, about the distressing gap in life expectancy between men and women. When I wrote the book in 2009, women lived, on average, 6 years longer than men. Since then, the gap has shrunk to 3.6 years, but it has led me to further study how men approach healthcare and why they delay seeking it out. Today, I discuss men's health and why it's important for men to work with their doctors on a partnership approach to healthcare. I highlight why men often delay seeking medical attention and neglect their health, which can have negative consequences. I emphasize the need for men to take action and be proactive in caring for their health. I explore the reasons behind men's health issues, including biological factors and societal beliefs, and encourage men to overcome their fears and seek help when needed. I also provide tips on how to have a productive doctor-patient relationship and stress the importance of being informed about one's own health, including knowing the numbers related to blood pressure, cholesterol, belly fat, and other health markers. “Become more of an active participant in your own well-being as opposed to simply a passive consumer of healthcare.” – Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair: The importance of a partnership approach to healthcare How men's health affects partners, wives, children, and friends Why men so commonly delay seeking medical attention How men can take action to look after their health How testosterone can contribute to men's health risks Why it's important to know your family history and basic health data How lifestyle choices affect men's health Resources Mentioned: Book: The Men's Health Book: A Guide for the Irish Man by Dr. Mark Rowe   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #122 When Men Delay Seeking Healthcare: The Dire Consequences of Not Asking For Help appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #121 The Magic of the Subconscious Mind with Keith Barry

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2023 48:12


    Keith Barry is the world's foremost TV hypnotist, mentalist, and Brain Hacker who has been dubbed the Wizard of the Western World. He has captivated audiences across the globe on over forty international television shows including his latest groundbreaking series, The Keith Barry Experience. He's also appeared on ITV's You're Back in The Room, the CW's Hypnotize Me, and the Irish TV series, The Keith Barry Experience. Keith has also crafted a mesmerizing corporate show. As a mind coach, Keith has worked with esteemed athletes, influential business figures, and renowned actors, helping them to unlock their subconscious potential, harness their inner capabilities, and achieve remarkable success. Today, Keith and I discuss gratitude, the importance of being curious and open-minded, and how to introduce children to different experiences and ways of thinking. Keith shares his experiences of working odd jobs before achieving success and encourages people to stop blaming others for their circumstances in life. We discuss the power of the subconscious mind and how it is often overlooked or misunderstood. Keith explains how he can help people make permanent changes within themselves and eliminate fear, anxiety, and other mental blocks. We also discuss how Keith's technique can be used to help people build new habits and make healthier choices. “With just one small shift in your habits daily, you can actually make a significant change to your life.” – Keith Barry This week on In the Doctor's Chair: How Keith discovered magic The importance of introducing children to new experiences The power of the subconscious mind How Keith helps people unlock the power of the subconscious mind The techniques Keith uses to help others overcome their fears How to build new habits The power of defining your personal purpose Visualization techniques for stress relief The value of cold water therapy Resources Mentioned: Book: The Klutz Book of Magic by John Cassidy Book: Practical Hypnotism by Ed Wolff Connect with Keith Barry: Keith Barry's Website Keith Barry on Instagram Keith Barry on Facebook Keith Barry on YouTube Keith Barry on Twitter In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #121 The Magic of the Subconscious Mind with Keith Barry appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #120 Cultivating Sisu And Accessing Inner Strength with Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2023 33:17


    Emilia Elisabet Lahti, PhD, MSSc, MAPP, is an internationally acclaimed presenter specializing in positive psychology, courage, leadership, and high performance. Emilia's groundbreaking research at Aalto University School of Science and Technology focused on sisu, an ancient Finnish concept representing courage and determination in the face of extreme adversity. Her research paper garnered widespread attention, featured by prestigious publications such as The New Yorker, Business Insider, Scientific American, BBC, Spirituality and Health, and Forbes. Emilia holds a master's degree in Social Psychology from the University of Tampere in Finland, and a master's in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied under the guidance of Professor Martin Seligman. Her master's thesis on sisu in 2013 was advised by research professor Dr. Angela Duckworth. Additionally, Emilia is the founder of the Positive Psychology Association of Finland and the driving force behind the non-profit organization Sisu Not Silence, which promotes nonviolence and active compassion across all domains of human life. Today, Emilia Elisabet and I discuss the concept of sisu, how she found it helpful in healing and rebuilding after an abusive relationship, and how it can heal you. We discuss how sisu can help you overcome adversity and how to develop sisu in your own life. Emilia Elisabet shares how her Finnish heritage helped her find her own sisu and the courage to move forward. She discusses why sisu is not only a way to heal but also a way to give her gift to the world and find her own unique place to serve. She also explains how she learned that sisu is a life philosophy and has grown in her understanding of how to use it to overcome adversity and help others. “Everything, to me, starts from awareness.” -Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Emilia Elisabet's definition of sisu How sisu impacts every facet of your life Sisu and inner strength How sisu helps you grow as a person Why Emilia Elisabet ran across New Zealand The benefits of cold therapy and saunas Why discomfort isn't always a bad thing Resources Mentioned: Book: The Energies of Men by William James Rhadi Ferguson YouTube Channel Connect with Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti: Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti's Website Book: Gentle Power: A Revolution in How We Think, Lead, and Succeed Using the Finnish Art of Sisu Podcast: Sisu Lab Podcast Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti's Research Paper Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti on LinkedIn Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti on Instagram Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti on Facebook Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti on Twitter Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti on YouTube   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #120 Cultivating Sisu And Accessing Inner Strength with Dr. E. Elisabet Lahti appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #119 It's Probably Your Hormones: Balancing Your Hormones to Improve Your Health with Dr Mary Ryan

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2023 36:55


    Dr. Mary Ryan is a consultant physician, endocrinologist, and Senior Lecturer with the Post Graduate School of Medicine. She lectures to GPs nationwide as well as to the general public on preventing Heart Disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and its complications. She is a member of the Women's Heart Advisory Group for the Irish Heart Foundation and the National Lipid Steering Committee, as well as provides public lectures on behalf of the Irish Heart Foundation on heart disease prevention. She has made regular contributions to radio and television shows throughout her career and shared her expert views on Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Endocrinology. As an active advocate for heart health and heart disease prevention as well as a wonderful Soprano singer, she has produced a CD entitled “The Next Chapter,” where she raised well-needed funds for the Irish Heart Foundation. She is a graduate of Trinity College with an MB, BCH, BAO, and Honours in the Foundation Scholarship. She later went on to obtain a MA and MD from Trinity College, where she specialized in Diabetes, Obesity, and Insulin Resistance. Today, Dr. Mary joins me to discuss the importance of taking care of yourself and how stress and lifestyle affect hormones. She shares the story of how she became a doctor and some of the professors who inspired her to become an endocrinologist. Dr. Mary explains the role of the pituitary gland and what happens when hormones become imbalanced. She shares her suggestions to help balance hormones, how to listen to your body, and how to recharge from stress in order to prevent burnout. We discuss the vicious cycle of stress that we see our patients get caught in, how education is the key to understanding how to take control of your health, and discuss how you can best educate yourself. We also discuss the writing process and the surprises Dr. Mary encountered while writing her book It's Probably Your Hormones: From Appetite to Sleep, Periods to Sex Drive, Balance Your Hormones to Unlock Better Health. “Hormones control everything – they control your moods, your desires, all your muscles, your immune system – they control every single organ in your body.” – Dr. Mary Ryan This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Dr. Mary's journey to becoming an Endocrinologist The mentors that inspired Dr. Mary along the way How your hormones affect your physical, mental, and emotional health How stress levels affect your overall wellbeing The benefits of counseling How to prevent Type 2 Diabetes through diet Why spending time in nature leads to better health Connect with Dr. Mary Ryan: Dr. Mary Ryan's Website Podcast: Empowering Women Book: It's Probably Your Hormones From Appetite to Sleep, Periods to Sex Drive, Balance Your Hormones to Unlock Better Health Dr. Mary Ryan on Instagram Dr. Mary Ryan on Facebook   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #119 It's Probably Your Hormones: Balancing Your Hormones to Improve Your Health with Dr Mary Ryan appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #118 The 4 – 7 Zone – Become Your Own Psychotherapist

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2023 31:12


    Dr. Colman Noctor is a Child and Adolescent Psychoanalytical Psychotherapist, who has worked at the Great Ormond Street Hospital, the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin, the Lucena Child Mental Health Services, and St Patricks Mental Health Service. He provides his patients with specialized treatment of various emotional disorders and possesses a deep interest in understanding the influence of contemporary media on child development and mental health, frequently sharing his insights through national media contributions. Dr. Noctor's book The 4-7 Zone: An Easy and Effective Way to Live a Balanced Life – and Become Your Own Therapist is expected to be published in April 2024. He holds a Post Graduate Higher Diploma in Child and Adolescent Mental Health from Dublin City University,  a Graduate Diploma in Psychoanalytic Studies from Dublin Business School, a Master of Science in Child and Adolescent Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from Trinity College Dublin, and a Doctorate in Psychotherapy from Dublin City University. Today Dr. Colman and I discuss the concept behind his book The 4-7 Zone and the importance of finding balance. We discuss the importance of maintaining a moderate mindset to achieve well-being and how to accept yourself for who you are today. He instructs us on how to be more present in our day-to-day lives and shares surprising statistics on how happy we truly are. We discuss the idea of having enough, what contentment really means, and how social media makes us feel like we're falling behind. We also discuss how we distort our perceptions of happiness and emphasize the importance of contentment and inner peace. “There is an aspiration that we would go through life without adversity. But through any growth, there has to be some degree of discomfort.” – Dr. Colman Noctor This week on In the Doctor's Chair: The definition of the 4-7 Zone How Colman discovered the 4-7 Zone The upside of feeling moderate How being vulnerable can help us grow The benefits of unstructured play on a child's development The benefits of drawing on parental wisdom Why well-being doesn't automatically equal happiness Dr. Colman's tips for navigating life The downside of medicalizing normal life struggles Why self-diagnosis could be harmful to your health Connect with Dr. Colman Noctor: Dr. Colman Noctor's Website Book: The 4-7 Zone: An Easy and Effective Way to Live a Balanced Life – and Become Your Own Therapist by Colman Noctor Dr. Colman Noctor on Twitter In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts I TuneIn I Google Play I Stitcher I Spotify The post #118 The 4 – 7 Zone – Become Your Own Psychotherapist appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #117 Authenticity in Lifestyle Medicine With Dr. Jessica Matthews

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2023 37:24


    Dr. Jessica Matthews is a renowned health and wellness educator, author, and speaker. She is an Assistant Professor and the creator of the Master of Kinesiology in Integrative Wellness program at Point Loma Nazarene University and the Director of Integrative Health Coaching in the Centers for Integrative Health at UC San Diego. She is also the lead faculty member in the area of health behavior change for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM), serves as chair of the ACLM Health and Wellness Coaches member interest group, and is a consultant and senior advisor for the American Council on Exercise (ACE). She regularly contributes to numerous publications and media outlets, such as CNN, The Washington Post, Women's Health, The New York Times, NPR, and Doctor Radio. Today, Jessica and I discuss how when we as practitioners adopt healthy habits in our own lives it leads to better outcomes for our patients. Jessica analyzes the results of studies showing that physicians who practiced healthy behaviors, such as resistance training, were more likely to counsel patients with authenticity and shares her personal experiences that led her to develop the Master of Science in Integrative Wellness program. Jessica also explains what ‘whole person health' is, how it helps practitioners provide better care to their patients, and the healthy habits she recommends to her patients.   “When you have experiences in life that are challenging, it's an opportunity to further evolve your perspective.” – Dr. Jessica Matthews   This week on In the Doctor's Chair: Why it's important for healthcare professionals to adopt a healthy lifestyle How patients benefit from their doctor's healthy lifestyle How doctors can model authentic health behaviors for patients How doctors can have more authentic conversations with their patients How to overcome setbacks on your journey to a healthy lifestyle What whole person health is and how it helps practitioners provide better care Jessica's recommendations on how to navigate through life The power of giving back and serving others Connect with Dr. Jessica Matthews: Jessica Matthews' Website Jessica Matthews' TedX Talk Jessica Matthews' on LinkedIn Jessica Matthews' on Instagram Jessica Matthews' on Facebook Jessica Matthews' on Twitter   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify The post #117 Authenticity in Lifestyle Medicine With Dr. Jessica Matthews appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    #116 Bittersweet: Why Sugar Might Not Love You Back

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2023 16:29


    Sugar is all around us. It occurs naturally in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. It's added to processed foods, like cookies, sodas, cereal, and flavored yogurt. Sweet foods are part of our social lives and are served at celebrations, from birthday parties to weddings. It is integral to life as it provides energy for our cells. But sugar has a bittersweet side, and overconsumption can lead to short-term discomfort and long-term health problems. Today, I discuss what added sugars to your body, health, and longevity. I explain the difference between naturally occurring sugar and added sugar and which type of sugar you should eat less. I discuss how to make simple changes in your diet and how to read labels at the grocery store. I caution you about the risks of too much sugar in your diet and explain which diseases your diet can put you at increased risk for. I also explain the science behind how too much sugar can cause inflammation and cite several prominent studies to illustrate how damaging sugar can be.   “Not only does added sugar increase your likelihood of gaining weight, it can increase your tendency to store visceral fat.” – Dr. Mark Rowe This week on In the Doctor's Chair: The difference between added sugar and naturally occurring sugar When sugar is good for you The adverse effects of too much sugar The impact of sugar overconsumption on your mental health How sugar impacts your brain health Simple ways you can reduce your sugar intake Your recommended sugar intake Resources Mentioned: American Institue For Cancer Research Sugar and Cancer Connection Article American Heart Association Sugar Guidelines       In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify The post #116 Bittersweet: Why Sugar Might Not Love You Back appeared first on Mark Rowe.

    Lifestyle Medicine Keynote Speaker Dr. Mark Rowe

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 15:59


    What is Lifestyle Medicine? Chronic health conditions are running rampant right now in the western world, and most medicine is aimed at treating the symptoms rather than the root causes. Today, I talk about lifestyle medicine and the power of small, incremental lifestyle changes. https://drmarkrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/004-In-The-Doctors-Chair-What-Is-Lifestyle-Medicine.mp3 In this episode, I share the four aims of lifestyle medicine and its six interconnected areas. I discuss why it seeks to knock out the root causes of many illnesses instead of just subduing their symptoms. I share the story of one of my patients, whose lifestyle changes turned his life around. I explain what a health IQ is, and I go into the specific biological effects that can come from positive lifestyle changes. Finally, I note that lifestyle medicine is fundamentally about education and empowerment. It is never too late to change. It's never too late to start to recommit to living a healthier lifestyle. I call it the power of thinking small. – Dr. Mark Rowe This Episode In the Doctor's Chair The power of small, incremental lifestyle changes Lifestyle medicine defined Looking at root causes rather than just symptoms The effects of positive lifestyle medicine The post Lifestyle Medicine Keynote Speaker Dr. Mark Rowe appeared first on Dr. Mark Rowe: Lifestyle Medicine.

    #115 Encore Episode: Dr Lisa Cunningham on Gratitude, Positivity, and What Makes a Strong Relationship

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 32:40


    Dr. Lisa Cunningham is a Consultant in Emergency Medicine and HEMS (helicopter emergency medical service) physician in Ireland. Lisa thrives under pressure and has learned to enjoy even talking and sharing about peak performance under challenging environments. A mother of three and wife to Bernard, Lisa believes that family is also very important. She credits the support from family and friends to help achieve a less stressful balance between working and family life. Her grá for Gaelic football cannot go unmentioned! Last year saw her appointed to the Mayo senior LGFA (Ladies Gaelic Football Association) as team doctor. A lifelong dream was fulfilled last year for Lisa when she got to walk on Croke Park with the Co. Mayo ladies! Today, Lisa joins me to share why she loves her job. She notes that we never stop learning, growing, or starting, and she talks about the satisfaction she gets from helping people. She offers some concrete tips for handling stress and emphasises the power of gratitude. She discusses the strong, supportive relationships in her life and notes their importance. She shares her thoughts on Imposter Syndrome, notes that it's good for children to see their parents supporting each other, and observes that what we say to others can have a huge impact. She offers her thoughts on gaining the confidence to pursue a certain field, shares her experience with her first panic attack and what she took from the experience, and emphasises the power of positivity.   “Positivity just breeds positivity.”– Dr. Lisa Cunningham This week on In the Doctor's Chair Why Lisa loves her job The satisfaction of helping people Tips and techniques for handling stress The power of gratitude The importance of strong, supportive relationships Lisa's thoughts on Imposter Syndrome The impact of our words The power of positivity   In the Doctor's Chair Thanks for listening to In the Doctor's Chair, the show where you'll hear conversations that share life lessons, health habits, and leadership practices that focus on positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, and ways for you to live with more vitality. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a comment wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more resources to help you to live with more vitality, please visit my website. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify The post #115 Encore Episode: Dr Lisa Cunningham on Gratitude, Positivity, and What Makes a Strong Relationship appeared first on Mark Rowe.

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