By creating community and nurturing our innate sense of curiosity, we can improve our health and increase our longevity. I’m joined by the remarkable Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum, who started her Functional Medicine Coaching business at the age of 65, about how finding your passion, purpose, and community has helped her stay young and vibrant when others around her are slowing down.

About Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum

As the founder and CEO of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, a collaboration with The Institute for Functional Medicine, Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum is a leader in the field of health coaching education.

A clinical psychologist for over 35 years, she is an expert in blending relaxation techniques with cognitive-behavior therapy, taught the psychology of eating and mind-body medicine courses, and ran clinics for treating attention deficit disorders, panic, and anxiety.

Dr. Sandi is the author of Functional Medicine Coaching, Stop Panic Attacks in 10 Easy Steps, and How to Give Clients the Skills to Stop Panic Attacks.

Key Takeaways

You can find your purpose and meaning when you dedicate your life to serving your communities, whatever that looks like for you. [14:00]
A virtual connection is as powerful as an in-person community. Make sure you’re finding connections as often as possible. [18:45]
Create a fitness routine that you enjoy. It should include some kind of strength training element so you can live a long and healthy life. [34:00]

Quotes

“We often find our mission and purpose through community, when we are not isolated. Then, if you dig a little deeper, it is related to love.” [14:19]

“Curiosity allows us to have well-being. We all have curiosity, all we have to do is think back to when we were younger and exploring everything. That’s what curiosity is: An excitement to take it all in.” [24:08]

“Focus on what’s right with you, not what’s wrong with you, as well as focusing on this with other people you encounter.” [37:38]

In This Episode

Why you need to consider functional medicine for health and longevity [5:55]
What power there is in finding and living a life of meaning and purpose [12:30]
What having a sense of belonging and community can look like [17:10]
How older adults can build community and prevent loneliness [20:30]
How curiosity keeps us vibrant and healthy [24:00]
What other emotions and traits we need to allow ourselves to feel so we can increase our longevity [26:00]
Some techniques you can use to reduce your anxiety [32:00]