On the latest episode of Better Than a Pill, I had the pleasure of speaking with Chris Terzakos, an entrepreneur, self-healing coach, and author of three insightful books. Chris’s journey with hernias and his decision to manage his condition without surgery is truly inspiring. His story is a testament to the power of natural healing and resilience.

Chris shared how he first developed a hernia at the age of 52, a time when he was going through significant life changes and stress. Like many of us who hit the gym hard, Chris was lifting heavy weights to cope with his midlife crisis, leading to the development of an inguinal hernia. When his doctor suggested surgery, Chris decided to explore natural healing methods instead.

One of the key strategies Chris employed was the daily use of Epsom salt baths. He emphasized how soaking in these baths helped reduce inflammation significantly. As someone who has always been interested in natural remedies, I found this particularly fascinating. It’s a simple, accessible treatment that anyone can try, and Chris’s success with it is a testament to its effectiveness.

Another crucial aspect of his regimen was massage. Chris used essential oils to massage the hernia area, always pushing it in and never up. This technique, combined with the use of a hernia belt, helped keep the hernia in place. The hernia belt, which he wore for up to 18 hours a day, acted as a constant reminder to his body of where the hernia should be. This consistent practice helped reduce the size of his hernia from the size of a baseball to that of a walnut.

Diet also played a significant role in Chris’s healing journey. He highlighted the importance of avoiding foods that cause inflammation, such as dairy and fried foods. Instead, Chris incorporates anti-inflammatory foods into his diet, like fresh ginger and aloe vera. Every morning, he starts his day with four ounces of fresh ginger, which helps reduce inflammation and boost his overall health. Aloe vera, which he consumes daily, offers benefits such as detoxification, antioxidant properties, and anti-aging effects.

Stress management is another pillar of Chris’s approach. He uses natural supplements like ashwagandha to manage stress and anxiety. Stress can exacerbate hernia symptoms, so keeping it under control is crucial. Chris’s dedication to a holistic and natural lifestyle is evident in his commitment to organic foods and avoiding conventional medicine whenever possible.

Listening to Chris, I was struck by his determination and the practical steps he took to improve his health. His journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of taking control of our own well-being. If you’re dealing with a hernia or simply looking for ways to enhance your health naturally, Chris’s story offers valuable insights and hope.

Throughout our conversation, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own health journey and the small changes I’ve made that have had a big impact. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, managing stress through natural means, and staying active are all practices I strive to maintain. Chris’s story reinforces the idea that these small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements in our health.

For those of you interested in learning more about Chris’s methods, his book "Hernia Without Surgery" outlines his nine-step approach to managing hernias naturally. It’s a straightforward, easy-to-follow guide that anyone can use. Chris also shares additional content on his Instagram and YouTube channel, where he demonstrates the exercises and techniques he uses to manage his hernia.

Chris’s journey is a testament to the power of natural healing and the importance of taking control of our health. His story is full of practical tips and inspiration that could help you make meaningful changes in your own life. If you’re dealing with a hernia or simply looking for ways to enhance your health naturally, I highly recommend tuning in to this episode and exploring Chris’s methods.