Dr. Evan Rudd shares a deep dive into resilience, health, and the philosophy of perseverance. In this episode, Dr. Evan shares his journey through the challenges of running an ultra marathon, his path to becoming a chiropractor, and his thoughts on health, wellness, and community.
Listen to the episode here:
Welcome to Palm Harbor Local, the podcast dedicated to celebrating the inspiring stories and people who make our community a better place. I’m your host, Donnie Hathaway, and today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Evan Rudd.
Running the Ultra Marathon: Lessons in Resilience
Starting Strong, Facing Challenges
When Dr. Evan embarked on his first ultra marathon, he anticipated it would be difficult, but the reality far exceeded his expectations. By mile 10, his legs were cramping intensely, despite being well-hydrated and prepared with electrolytes. The pain escalated, culminating in a profound mental and physical struggle.
“I never thought I would do something this hard in my life,” Dr. Evan admitted. At the marathon mark (mile 26), he was physically and mentally depleted, but with the support of experienced runners and some pickle juice, he pushed through.
The Mental Game of Endurance
The latter miles were not just a test of physical stamina but of mental fortitude. By mile 36, he found himself resenting the very environment he cherished. “I’m a nature lover, but at that moment, I hated the trees. It was a reflection of how I felt inside,” he said, describing the mental breakdown that mirrored his physical exhaustion. Despite these challenges, Dr. Evan finished strong, sprinting the last mile at an incredible pace. Crossing the finish line brought an emotional release, highlighting the magnitude of the accomplishment.
Key Takeaway
For Dr. Evan, the ultra marathon was a reminder that “anyone can do anything.” He emphasized that if others have achieved something, it’s proof that it’s possible. The run also illustrated how much untapped energy and potential we all possess.
Discovering Chiropractic: A Journey of Purpose
The Turning Point
Dr. Evan’s path to chiropractic medicine was unexpected. During his time at UCF, he felt lost and unmotivated, leading him to explore deeper questions about life and health. A chance encounter with a chiropractic professor, Dr. Daniel Warner, changed everything. “He adjusted me, and I felt a profound shift—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally,” Dr. Evan recalled. This experience inspired him to explore chiropractic as a career, leading him to enroll in Palmer Chiropractic School.
Effortless Effort
Dr. Evan believes his journey to chiropractic exemplifies the concept of “effortless effort,” where the right opportunities align seamlessly. From the initial adjustment to enrolling in chiropractic school within a semester, everything fell into place.
The Philosophy of Chiropractic
Empowering Through Education
For Dr. Evan, chiropractic care is about more than just pain relief. It’s a way to empower individuals by teaching them how to care for their bodies. He likened it to providing a “user manual for the most complex technology in existence—our bodies.” Chiropractic care focuses on the nervous system, the control center of the body. By ensuring the nervous system is functioning optimally, patients can unlock their potential for healing and wellness.
A Human-Centered Approach
Dr. Evan envisions a future where chiropractic care moves beyond a doctor-patient hierarchy to a more collaborative and human-centered approach. He emphasized the importance of “being present with patients and validating their experiences.”
Foundations of Health: Dr. Evan’s Pillars
Dr. Evan’s personal health philosophy centers around five key pillars:
- Movement:
“Motion is lotion.” Regular activity, even as simple as swinging a kettlebell for 10 minutes, keeps the body functional and healthy. - Mindfulness:
Positive thought patterns can influence overall health. Dr. Evan incorporates meditation, breathwork, and self-reflection into his routine. - Nutrition:
Emphasizing organic, whole foods, Dr. Evan’s go-to meals include staples like eggs, sweet potatoes, and ground beef. He also enjoys daily smoothies packed with fruits, spinach, and protein. - Recuperation:
Recuperation extends beyond rest. It includes engaging in activities that bring joy, like spending time with loved ones or indulging in hobbies like video games. - Community:
Building strong connections is vital. For Dr. Evan, relationships fuel motivation and resilience.
The Future of Chiropractic and Health Care
Shifting Toward Preventative Care
Dr. Evan hopes the future of health care moves from a reactive model to a proactive one. He believes true health care involves maintaining wellness rather than fixing issues after they arise. “It’s easier to keep you healthy than to fix your pain,” he explained, emphasizing the need for education and a mindset shift in how society views health care.
Where Chiropractic Fits In
With its holistic approach, chiropractic care is well-positioned to lead this shift. Dr. Evan highlighted the importance of integrating practices like mindfulness, movement, and proper nutrition into care plans to address the root causes of health issues.
Closing Thoughts
Dr. Evan’s story is a testament to perseverance, purpose, and passion. Whether running an ultra marathon or empowering patients through chiropractic care, his journey exemplifies the incredible potential within all of us.
CONNECT WITH EVAN:
- Website: www.thesourcedunedin.com
- Instagram: @drevanrudd
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