Podcast Summary: "Why Your Soul Is Starving & How to Nourish It | John Eldredge"
The Dr. Josh Axe Show
Host: Dr. Josh Axe
Guest: John Eldredge, Bestselling Author and Counselor
Release Date: March 13, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Dr. Josh Axe engages in a profound conversation with John Eldredge, a renowned author and counselor. Together, they delve into the pervasive impact of digital technology on our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The discussion centers on understanding why many feel "soul-starved" in today’s hyper-connected world and explores actionable strategies to nourish the soul amidst constant digital distractions.
The Impact of Technology on Mental and Spiritual Health
Dr. Axe opens the dialogue by highlighting the staggering statistic that the average person checks their phone nearly 100 times a day, with excessive screen time leading to decreased happiness and increased anxiety. He introduces the conversation by emphasizing the correlation between constant digital engagement and feelings of stress, burnout, and disconnection from a meaningful life.
Notable Quote:
Josh (00:00): "If you feel like you're always stressed out, burnt out, overwhelmed or disconnected from living a deeper and more meaningful life, we're going to have a conversation today."
Being Disciples of the Internet
John Eldredge introduces the concept of being "disciples of the Internet," explaining how our reliance on digital devices shapes our behavior and thought processes. He asserts that this dependency is not a personal failing but a societal shift ingrained from childhood.
Notable Quotes:
John (00:17): "We're not asking people to abandon their technology. We're inviting people to create some sacred space, create a little bit of breathing room."
John (07:29): "We are all, every last one of us, disciples of the Internet. ... we've been mentored into this way of living."
Strategies to Nourish the Soul and Reduce Digital Dependency
The conversation progresses to actionable strategies for reducing the detrimental effects of excessive technology use. Both hosts emphasize the importance of creating "sacred spaces" and incorporating pauses into daily routines to foster mental and spiritual well-being.
Key Strategies Discussed:
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One Minute Pause App: John Eldredge introduces an app designed to encourage brief moments of stillness, helping individuals detach from constant digital engagement.
Notable Quote:
John (10:34): "We just teach people to get still for 60 seconds. ... They just learn to let it go a couple times a day."
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Limiting Screen Time Before Bed and Upon Waking: They recommend avoiding phones before bedtime and immediately upon waking to enhance sleep quality and reduce anxiety.
Notable Quotes:
John (15:05): "Do not take your phone to bed. ... Do not pick your phone up first thing in the morning."
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Engaging with Nature: Emphasizing the healing power of nature, they advocate for regular outdoor activities to reduce cortisol levels and promote peace.
Notable Quote:
John (09:25): "Nature heals. Nature heals the body, it heals the soul."
Importance of Nature and Physical Activity
A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the intrinsic benefits of spending time in nature. They discuss how modern lifestyles, characterized by indoor activities and technological engagements, have distanced humans from their natural habitats, leading to compromised immune systems and increased mental health issues.
Notable Quotes:
John (06:24): "Children need to play in the dirt to develop healthy immune systems."
John (14:00): "What you're suggesting are not hard steps...walk outside, collect sticks, pick up pine cones."
Creating Sacred Spaces and Rituals for Spiritual Growth
The hosts explore the concept of sacred spaces—quiet, personal environments where individuals can disconnect from external stimuli and connect deeply with their spiritual selves. They discuss practical ways to incorporate such spaces into daily life, enhancing emotional resilience and spiritual growth.
Notable Quotes:
John (32:08): "Your soul is designed to have a little sanctuary every day."
Josh (33:40): "I'm thinking about the contrast...a sense of security and safety."
The Role of Community and Discipleship in Spiritual Awakening
John Eldredge touches upon the resurgence of spiritual awakening post-COVID, attributing it to the collective realization of unsustainable lifestyles. He emphasizes the importance of community and authentic discipleship in fostering a deeper relationship with God and sustaining spiritual health.
Notable Quotes:
John (50:43): "We are in the midst of a great spiritual revival...the human soul is created for a rich intimacy with God."
Josh (62:35): "By their fruit, you will recognize them."
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The episode concludes with both hosts summarizing the critical insights discussed. They reinforce the necessity of reducing digital dependency, embracing nature, creating sacred spaces, and fostering authentic spiritual relationships to nourish the soul effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- Limit Digital Engagement: Implementing practices like the one-minute pause can significantly reduce anxiety and improve mental health.
- Embrace Nature: Regular interaction with the natural environment is essential for both physical and spiritual well-being.
- Create Sacred Spaces: Allocating time for quiet reflection and prayer enhances spiritual resilience.
- Seek Authentic Discipleship: Building relationships with those who have a deep, experiential knowledge of God fosters personal spiritual growth.
Final Notable Quotes:
Josh (65:58): "Searching out the real thing and spending more time in the real thing, spending time in nature, less time on devices."
John (63:11): "If you need a mentor, I'd love to be one of those voices in your life."
Recommended Actions for Listeners
- Download the "One Minute Pause" App: Integrate brief moments of stillness into your daily routine to begin detaching from digital distractions.
- Establish Screen-Free Zones: Avoid using phones before bedtime and immediately upon waking to improve sleep quality and reduce morning anxiety.
- Engage with Nature Regularly: Incorporate daily walks or outdoor activities to lower stress hormones and reconnect with the natural world.
- Create a Personal Sacred Space: Dedicate a quiet area in your home for prayer, meditation, or reflection to strengthen your spiritual connection.
- Seek Authentic Mentorship: Find mentors or join communities that foster deep, experiential spiritual relationships to support your growth.
By addressing the intricate relationship between technology and spiritual well-being, Dr. Josh Axe and John Eldredge provide listeners with valuable insights and practical tools to nourish their souls in an increasingly digital world.