Connect to Nature: The Simple 'Medicine' Doctors Forget
In this episode of the Fieldnotes podcast, Dr. Rob Downey is joined by Dr. Michael Blahut, a family practice physician with integrative training, to discuss his philosophy that the life you live is your medicine. Dr. Blahut emphasizes that lifestyle and our connection to the natural world are the most potent forms of medicine, going beyond supplements and testing. The conversation centers on restoring the body’s original biological blueprint by tapping into nature’s wisdom through simple practices. They explore the critical roles of natural light and the circadian rhythm in health, discussing the benefits of sun exposure and the use of tools like blue blockers. Finally, they delve into the power of sound and frequency for nervous system regulation and the profound importance of belief, purpose, and community as fundamental, root causes of health and well-being.
(01:05) Lifestyle is the wellspring of health.
(03:04) Life you live is medicine.
(04:51) Get outside; get natural sunlight.
(26:54) Sound shifts nervous system state.
(33:20) Purpose, community matter most.
Michael Blahut, DO
Integrative Family Physician, Lifestyle-as-Medicine Advocate, Circadian Rhythm & Natural Light Expert, Mind-Body-Community Wellness Educator, Foundational Health & Stress Resilience Coach
Dr. Michael is an osteopathic and integrative family medicine physician. He believes in the connection between our personal health and the health of our planet. After graduating with a bachelors degree in environmental science, Michael joined the Peace Corps and lived in the Fiji Islands for 27 months, working with local villages and NGOs to improve the management of their natural resources.
He graduated medical school from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, and completed family medicine residency program at UCLA affiliated hospital in Northridge, CA.
During his training he has trained with other great mentors in osteopathic manipulation and biodynamic osteopathy. He has integrative medicine training at the University of Arizona center for Integrative Medicine, mold and toxins treatments, PANS / PANDAS treatments, Chronic Lyme, medicinal cannabis, and getting to root cause medicine. His background and training also includes studies in Yoga therapy, Shiatsu, herbal medicine, and permaculture, which all help to open to a greater perspective in health and educate on what we can do to be empowered in healing ourselves with Everyday-Medicine.
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