The Element Minute
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We teach best what we most need to learn
July 26, 2020
Lifestyle Medicine in Practice
“We teach best what we most need to learn.” – Richard Bach
My first glimpse of the concept of lifestyle medicine was about 10 years ago at a conference. The first words of Dr. Phillip’s lecture were, “Half of you will die of a lifestyle choice you made.” Those words are imprinted in me. I’d spent most of my career in the Emergency Department caring for patients for very short periods of time, which I loved, until I didn’t. I knew there was more, but I didn’t know what until that very moment.
The practice of Lifestyle Medicine does not mean those who provide it have it all figured out. Their lives are not a beacon to follow. Their lives are real and challenging and sometimes overwhelming, just like yours. We’re all in this together.
The foundation for me is attention, what I like to call: minding your life. Am I moving when my body wants to move? Am I getting out to the woods when they call? Am I resting when I’m tired? Am I eating food that feels good? Am I prioritizing sleep and taking time out to destress or connect with my tribe? Have I taken a few deep breaths today? Have I relaxed my shoulders? My face?
My life’s work is to help you mind your life, while learning along with you to mind my own.
Wendy Pecoraro
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