What if the root cause of burnout, inflammation, and hormone dysfunction isn't just physical—but energetic?

In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Pedram Shojai—Taoist monk, doctor of Oriental medicine, and author of The Urban Monk—to explore how ancient wisdom meets modern health. We unpack why true healing requires addressing your qi (life force), how emotional stagnation leads to physical disease, and why regulating your energy is just as important as optimizing your bloodwork.

From the microbiome to meditation, Dr. Pedram shares how restoring energetic flow can radically shift your metabolism, mood, and even your fertility. And we go deep on what most functional medicine still misses about the connection between spiritual vitality and long-term health.

Dr. Pedram Shojai is a former Taoist monk, acclaimed filmmaker, and best-selling author who's helped millions reconnect with their body, breath, and purpose. His work bridges ancient healing systems with today's most pressing health challenges.

We Also Discuss:

How blocked energy leads to chronic illness
The missing layer in functional medicine
The ancient view of fertility and hormones
Why energy management is the new stress management
The true purpose of breathwork and meditation
How to reclaim your life force in a modern world
Why we can't separate emotional and physical healing
The nervous system patterns that keep you sick

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Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Dr. Pedram Shojai

Instagram: @drpedramshojai
Website: www.theurbanmonk.com

72. Dr. Pedram Shojai: Why Your Physical Symptoms Are a Spiritual Wake-Up Call

Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

72. Dr. Pedram Shojai: Why Your Physical Symptoms Are a Spiritual Wake-Up Call