August marks National Wellness Month—a timely reminder to prioritize self-care, tackle life's stressors, and promote our daily health regimens. While nurturing your wellness should be a daily commitment, this particular month is dedicated to amplifying our dedication to these routines. And who better to get insights from than our Haute Beauty/MD experts? Here they graciously share the wholesome practices that they have acquired over time, allowing them to sustain a harmonious life balance. So, as you read through their suggestions, make sure to take notes. It's time to embark on your own journey towards holistic well-being!
Dr. Brian K. Machida | Face | Los Angeles, CA
My commitment to my family always takes precedence in my life. While maintaining an exercise routine would certainly be nice, my family is a priority. Additionally, rooted in my Christian faith, I pursue my studies and engage in volunteer work to keep my life and priorities balanced.
For more information, visit Dr. Machida's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Julia Bifulco, Bellagena Med Spa | Day Spa | Bradenton, FL
Wellness is a holistic concept, and what works best for one person might not work as well for another. It's important to listen to your body, pay attention to your needs, and adjust your routine as necessary. Regularly assessing your well-being and making intentional choices to prioritize your health can contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling life, not just during National Wellness Month, but throughout the year.
Here are a few practical and effective strategies I use to maintain a healthy balance in my life.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall health.
- Healthy Diet: Fueling your body with nutritious foods can have a positive impact on your mental and physical well-being.
- Adequate Sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for mental and physical restoration. Aim for a consistent 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
- Engage in Hobbies: Pursue activities you enjoy, whether it's painting, gardening, or any other hobby that brings you joy and relaxation.
- Practice Gratitude: Regularly take time to acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. Keeping a gratitude journal can help shift your focus toward the things that bring you joy.
The most important part of your wellness journey is finding what works best for you.
For more information, visit Bellagena Med Spa's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. S. Alexander Earle | Body | Miami, FL
Wellness is a priority in August as we recognize National Wellness Month, but it is also something I focus on throughout the year. Plastic surgery can be physically and emotionally taxing. Exercise, such as paddle boarding with my dog, Roxy, bike riding, and traveling with my family are ways I keep myself healthy and fit. In terms of mental health, I surround myself with positive people, make sure I get a daily dose of laughter, and focus on the positive blessings I continue to receive in my personal and professional life.
For more information, visit Dr. Earle's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Jay Arora | Vision | Scottsdale, AZ
Mental health is by far the most critical component of my abilities as a physician. My job is to give patients my utmost dedication to their overall health, and that starts with prioritizing my own mental wellness above all else. If you pour from an empty cup, you won't be able to satisfy the demands of those depending on you for guidance, health, and compassion. In order to give the best to my patients, I must treat myself with respect, kindness, and compassion. For me personally, the key factors in my balance come from exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones and friends. Exercise can help release key endorphins which aid in mental clarity and focus. Meditation can come in many different forms other than sitting in silence including reading and writing, yoga, or whatever else allows you to singularly focus on a task without distraction. In my case, it's playing piano daily. Lastly, spending time with loved ones and friends allows for the release of critical neurotransmitters such as oxytocin which naturally lower stress levels and promote mental calmness. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it serves your own mental health needs to allow you to be the most elevated version of yourself for others.
For more information, visit Dr. Arora's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Peter Andrade, Beautique Concierge| Medical Spa | Brooklyn, NY
I think it’s important that overall physical and mental wellness become a lifestyle rather than a short-term goal. I strongly believe staying active, regardless of method, is vital for health and longevity. Whether it’s cardio, strength training, or stretching, I believe sweating at least three times a week is paramount to a healthy lifestyle. It’s also important to keep in mind that even sweating for as little as 10 minutes is better than not sweating at all. Staying active also translates into better mental health as it provides an outlet and can be cathartic at times. It can also motivate you to eat healthier and live an overall healthier lifestyle. As long as you prioritize staying active, it will be the catalyst to guide you into a healthier life.
For more information, visit Beautique Concierge's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Amir Mortazavi | Medical Spa | Orange County, CA
Prioritizing self-care amid life's challenges is crucial. While internal dialogue often pushes us to multitask, setting boundaries is essential. Overcoming personal struggles, I've explored solutions to improve well-being. Setting adaptable goals, disconnecting from technology, delegating tasks, and embracing continuous learning aid personal and professional growth. Monitoring self-talk, shifting negativity to encouragement, and regularly assessing balance to maintain equilibrium. Customizing strategies is vital, as the balance is individual and evolving.
Most importantly, reshaping our inner voice with positive self-talk is key. Positive self-talk is integral for mental health, shaping thoughts, feelings, and actions. It boosts self-esteem, reduces stress, and fosters resilience, promoting coping skills, optimism, and self-compassion. It supports goal achievement and healthy relationships, enhancing well-being and the mind-body connection. Practicing positive self-talk aids in challenges and cultivates a positive outlook. Overall, prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and nurturing positive self-talk are transformative steps toward improved mental health, well-being, and life satisfaction.
For more information, visit Dr. Mortazavi's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Jeffrey Lisiecki | Nose | New York, NY
Mental and physical wellness is so essential for all of us, and surgeons are no exception. Regular exercise is one of my most important strategies to clear my mind, manage stress, and keep my body healthy for those long days in the OR! Aside from that, healthy eating, making sure I get quality sleep, and making time to unwind with friends and family are also essential.
For more information, visit Dr. Lisiecki's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Nilay Shah | Breast | New York, NY
As a plastic surgeon in the vibrant city of NYC, I understand the demands of a busy professional life and the importance of prioritizing wellness and mental health. Beyond National Wellness Month, I have embraced strategies that help me maintain a healthy balance. Regular exercise, whether it's a morning jog in Prospect Park or near Brooklyn Promenade, energizes me and clears my mind. Exploring NYC's diverse culinary scene allows me to indulge while making mindful choices. Connecting with friends over a leisurely brunch or attending cultural events enriches my social life.
Setting clear boundaries for work and personal time is crucial. I allocate moments throughout the day for relaxation and reflection, often enjoying a walk along the Brooklyn Promenade or doing Vipassana meditation at home. Prioritizing sleep and practicing mindfulness techniques have proven effective in managing stress. Regularly seeking professional development and engaging in philanthropic activities fosters a sense of purpose.
While the city's energy can be exhilarating, maintaining balance is my priority. By integrating these strategies, I ensure that my overall wellness and mental health remain steadfast, not only during National Wellness Month but throughout the year.
For more information, visit Dr. Shah's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Husam Almunajed | Smile | New York, NY
Balancing work and life is an obstacle both personally and professionally, because each day brings new challenges and opportunities. You need to make choices wisely and stay positive. As I grow older, I realize stress is just the result of pressure and uncontrollable factors. Many things happen beyond your control; your best approach is to manage and embrace them with your readiness and experience.
With more life experience, you'll reach a point where external things won't shake you, and you'll adeptly navigate tough times. This mindset needs nurturing and begins within you. Taking time for your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being is crucial to handle life's ups and downs – with or without a work-life balance.
For more information, visit Dr. Almunajed's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Dina D. Strachan | Skin | Midtown, NY
Wellness is a long-term game. It's about returning to the foundations of diet, sleep, exercise, and community. I have started intermittent fasting which works well for me. I am mindful not to consume excess sugar and alcohol. I've been a vegetarian for decades. I have been more intentional about getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, even if I'm not always successful. Living in New York City makes it easy to be active and have a community.
For more information, visit Dr. Strachan's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Daisy Ayim | Body | Houston
Wellness has always been a top priority although the path of medicine often derails or limits the ability to do wellness as I imagine. However, outdoor running is a frequent practice that keeps me balanced both physically and mentally. Sunday mornings are the best time for me to run as it is generally quiet and less crowded. Another major aspect of my wellness journey is only consuming water and avoiding all alcoholic beverages or sodas. Pairing my frequent exercise and water consumption invigorates a sense of calm and clarity. I find this simple living practice is the best therapy for mental health that is lifelong.
For more information, visit Dr. Ayim's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Reana Myers PA, Careaga Plastic Surgery | Body | Miami, FL
During National Wellness Month and throughout the year, I focus on keeping both my mental health and overall well-being in check. It's amazing how feeling good on the inside reflects on the outside. I swear by three pillars: eating well, staying active, and getting good sleep. But I also make it a point to set aside time just for myself. Taking a day or even two to do things that relax and make me happy works wonders. And when it comes to a boost, traveling does the trick for my mental health. These habits aren't just for the month; they're my go-to strategies for maintaining a healthy balance in life.
For more information, visit Careaga Plastic Surgery's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Melissa Pulcini CEO & Founder, ELIVATE MedSpa Wellness | Medical Spa | Stamford/Greenwich
Maintaining balance is very important for a busy entrepreneur and mom. Sometimes it is easier said than done and it's definitely easy to get off balance. But be easy on yourself and just regroup and get back on track. Tomorrow is always a new day. For me what has helped the most is being on a scheduled routine for my exercise and wellness treatments. I found that if I don't put these things into my daily schedule just like I would patients I will put them off and maybe never get to it. Yoga and meditation have been a vital component to my mental health and well-being. These are things I can even do while traveling. Prioritize yourself and understand that self-care is important and not selfish because if you are running optimally you are in a better state to take care of others and conquer your daily busy lives feeling more energized and with a smile on your face.
For more information, visit ELIVATE Med Spa Wellness's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Mara Weinstein Velez | Skin | Rochester, NY
I love that August is National Wellness Awareness Month because we all need a good reminder to check in with ourselves and make sure that we are well!
Wellness looks different for everybody. Wellness could be taking an evening walk every day. Wellness could be taking your favorite fitness class or yoga class weekly. Wellness could be staying on top of a healthy diet. Wellness could be prioritizing your mental health and seeing a therapist. Wellness is prioritizing yourself in general!
Wellness for me includes special time with my girlfriends. Whether it’s a monthly meet-up for dinner and dessert or a getaway once a year with my friends, especially the ones who live out of town. I love taking walks with my family. There’s something about the fresh air that helps to clear the mind. And I also take care of my skin on a regular basis with great skincare and treatments. As a board-certified dermatologist, my job is to take care of my patients. Through this care, I have the opportunity to enhance their overall wellness by boosting self-esteem and confidence. Whether it involves addressing concerns such as acne, scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, or simply supporting the maintenance of healthy skin, I am dedicated to making a positive impact. It's worth noting that I am equally committed to prioritizing my own skin health.
For more information, visit Dr. Weinstein Velez's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Thomas McNmear | Face | San Francisco, CA
I prioritize my overall health, believing that self-care enables me to better care for my family and patients. A structured routine is key, helping me maintain consistency and success while indulging in activities that bring me joy and vitality. This begins with ample sleep and early mornings dedicated to meditation, prayer, and preparation.
Nurturing my mental well-being involves cherished moments with family, strong bonds within my church community, and my unwavering faith, bolstered by a dose of comedic relief during leisure.
My physical health thrives on nourishing foods, a low-sugar diet, family-oriented activities, sauna sessions, and a dynamic array of physical pursuits such as golf, jogging, skiing, and tennis. Walking our spirited Black Portuguese Water Dog and lively Apricot Standard Poodle with my wife adds to our invigorating routine.
Through these practices, I am empowered to contribute to my family, church, patients, and community. Amid life's demands, setting aside time for loved ones and treasured activities remains paramount.
For more information on Dr. McNemar visit his website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Jamie Caruso CEO & Founder, Salon Lusso of Naples | Day Spa | Naples, FL
Wellness and mental health are paramount in my daily life. I start my day at 5 am by drinking a cold glass of water and splashing my face with cold water. No cell phone use for the first hour as I prioritize meditation using headphones, either outdoors or in my home office. After meditating, I write down and vocalize my goals, visualizing how I want my life to be. I read and edit a life script, along with reading 10 pages of any book I’m currently into. Then, I dive into work, answering emails and checking my calendar for the day and week ahead.
Exercise and nutrition play a vital role in my life. Working out 4-6 days a week, depending on my schedule, gives me motivation, concentration, and energy, pushing me to my maximum potential. I focus on whole foods, avoiding chemicals, and consuming minimal alcohol and sugar while prioritizing hydration. This daily routine empowers me to lead a fulfilling and healthy life, emphasizing the significance of mental well-being and overall wellness.
For more information, visit Salon Lusso of Naples' website or Instagram!
Dr. Sam Rizk | Face | Manhattan, NY
I've found that even my hobbies relate to the work that I do—I suppose that's what happens when you really love your job! I'm a very creative person and have always loved to sculpt, but it wasn't until I got to medical school and became interested in facial anatomy that I realized I could make a career out of sculpting faces. Outside of art, nothing beats staying active with my family. My kids are very accomplished in martial arts, and my wife and I love it, too. Not only does it keep the mind and body strong, but it teaches self-discipline, builds mental stamina, and cultivates a sense of inner calm and confidence. We really enjoy playing tennis together, too. I picked it up recently and discovered that it's a great way to keep my hand-eye coordination razor-sharp.
For more information, visit Dr. Rizk's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Bertha Baum | Skin | Miami, FL
To maintain overall wellness and mental health, both in the present and long term, I find success through a combination of strategies. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness and meditation have helped me maintain my physical and mental well-being. Engaging in hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, and seeking social support also play vital roles in my life and in most people's lives.
Setting realistic goals, managing time effectively, and practicing self-care helps maintain a healthy balance. Continuous learning, whether through reading, trying new activities, or pursuing personal interests, stimulates cognitive well-being. Regular check-ins with yourself and adjusting your strategies based on evolving needs will contribute to a sustainable and holistic approach to wellness.
For more information, visit Dr. Baum's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Alton Ingram | Body | Nashville, TN
As a medical professional, I often counsel my patients on the importance of overall wellness and mental health. As we recognize National Wellness Month this August, I would like to share my personal strategies for maintaining balance and well-being. First off: Get enough sleep! The rigors of being a surgeon often come with long hours, but I make it a point to get sufficient rest. Research consistently shows that adequate sleep is vital for cognitive function and overall health.
Nutrition also plays a significant role in my wellness plan. I adhere to a balanced diet, focusing on whole foods rich in vitamins and nutrients. I avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, knowing that a proper diet fuels both body and mind. Exercise is non-negotiable in my routine. Whether it's a morning run or a brief yoga session in between patients, physical activity helps me relieve stress and keeps me energized.
I also make room for mental health practices. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can provide a necessary pause in the chaos, allowing me to center myself and approach my work with clarity and focus. Finally, take time to cherish and nurture your relationships outside of work. Spending quality time with family and friends is not only personally fulfilling but also provides a support system that carries me through the most demanding times.
For more information, visit Dr. Ingram's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Refine Health | Medical Aesthetics | Coral Gables, FL & Miami, FL
Numerous small habits can significantly contribute to elevating your overall well-being and nurturing your mental health. Here at Refine Health, these are the ones we favor: maintaining self-consistency and prioritizing discipline over fleeting gratification. This entails embracing daily sunlight exposure, benefiting from IV Therapy, tending to your oral vitamin regimen in the comfort of your home, and engaging in a workout routine 4-5 times a week to stimulate those uplifting endorphins. Don't forget to incorporate daily stretches, especially post-exercise; consider performing them within a sauna environment, where the ambient heat and humidity gently relax your muscles, soothe your mind, and alleviate discomfort or soreness.
For more information, visit Refine Health's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Jose Rodríguez-Feliz | Eyelid Surgery & Face | Miami, FL
All my life, I've immersed myself in a diverse range of activities—martial arts, sports, and later, weightlifting. As I grew older and wiser I started to realize that focusing only on my body provided only a limited perspective on holistic well-being. Over the past two decades, I've dedicated myself to personal growth and leadership, largely through self-guided reading. More recently, I've come to recognize the benefits of working with a leadership coach, solidifying my firm belief in the power of coaching.
Over the past year, I’ve come to understand the power of working on the mind. I've also experienced an awakening that has significantly enhanced my overall state of mind—achievements that physical activity alone couldn't provide. As far as my routine, I try to wake up around 5 am. My mornings start with a spiritual awakening, followed by a breathwork session and a body alignment checkpoint. I do mixed martial arts training twice a day and I also work on my body with either functional movement or weightlifting. This lifelong journey of self-improvement has turned into a holistic pursuit—one that integrates the well-being of the mind, body, and soul.
For more information, visit Dr. Rodríguez-Feliz's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Kiran Mian, Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Skin | New York, NY
Wellness is to me a state in which I feel well-balanced in my mental, physical, and spiritual mind. It includes doing things I love, like my job and seeing friends, as well as taking care of my body, being aware of how I nourish it, and taking care of my mind. Some practices I've included in my routine over the recent months include meditation and journaling. Both have helped immensely in my feeling of well-being. In January of 2023, I started using an app with guided meditations, just 5-10-minute meditations every morning. I gradually increased the length of time and started meditating on my own without guidance. I have seen a noticeable change in my state of ease and overall wellness.
For more information, visit Dr. Mian's website and Instagram!
Dr. Anna Chacon | Skin | Miami, FL
As a healthcare provider, I recognize the importance of prioritizing one's overall wellness and mental health. This is a continuous process that I personally strive to maintain, not just during a specific month, but throughout the entire year. Here's how I prioritize my wellness:
- Exercise Regularly: I make it a point to engage in physical activity regularly. Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a more intense workout, exercise helps me stay fit and boosts my mood.
- Healthy Eating: I maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This not only keeps me physically healthy but also supports my mental well-being.
- Adequate Rest: I ensure I get enough sleep every night. Quality rest is vital for my physical health and cognitive functions.
- Mindfulness Practices: I practice mindfulness and meditation. This helps me manage stress, stay focused, and maintain a positive outlook.
- Work-Life Balance: I strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Taking time off from work to spend with family and friends helps me recharge and keeps me motivated.
In terms of practical strategies to maintain a healthy balance in life, here are a few that I have found to be effective:
- Time Management: I prioritize my tasks and make sure to allocate time for relaxation and hobbies.
- Setting Boundaries: I've learned to say no when necessary and not overcommit myself, to avoid burnout.
- Self-Care: I take time out for self-care activities that I enjoy and that help me relax and recharge.
- Regular Check-ups: I stay proactive about my health by scheduling regular medical check-ups.
- Support System: I lean on my support system of family and friends when I need to talk or unwind.
Remember, maintaining a healthy balance in life is a journey, not a destination. It's about making small, sustainable changes that add up over time.
For more information, visit Dr. Chacon's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Vineet Sandhu | Concierge Medicine | New York, NY
Prioritizing wellness and mental health is not just a passing concern; it is a lifelong commitment. Recognizing the importance of my own well-being in providing quality care to patients, I actively make time to take care of myself. I understand that self-care is not selfish but rather an essential component in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Practical and Effective Strategies
- Time Management: The doctor values efficient time management. They allocate specific periods for work, personal activities, and rest. This helps prevent burnout and allows them to maintain a clear separation between professional and personal life.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporating regular exercise into my routine is crucial for me. Physical activity not only boosts my energy levels but also releases endorphins that promote positive mental well-being.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Adopting mindfulness and meditation practices allows the doctor to cultivate a calm and focused mindset. Taking a few minutes each day to be present in the moment helps reduce stress and enhances overall mental clarity.
- Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no and setting boundaries in both professional and personal spheres is a skill. By knowing my limits and avoiding overcommitment, I can maintain a healthier balance.
- Social Support: The doctor emphasizes the significance of social connections. They actively seek support from friends, family, and colleagues, creating a network of individuals to lean on during challenging times.
- Pursuit of Hobbies: Engaging in hobbies and interests outside of work is another way that I maintain a healthy balance. Engaging in activities I love brings joy and fulfillment to my life, promoting overall well-being.
My journey to prioritizing wellness and mental health serves as a testament to the importance of self-care for healthcare professionals. By actively adopting practical and effective strategies like time management, exercise, mindfulness, setting boundaries, and seeking social support, I have found a way to maintain a healthy balance in my life. My dedication to self-care not only benefits my own well-being but ultimately enhances my ability to provide compassionate care to my patients. As we look to these examples, we are reminded of the value of investing in ourselves to become better caregivers and individuals, not just for this month but for the rest of our lives.
For more information, visit Dr. Sandhu's website or Instagram!
Nicci Levy CEO & Founder, Alchemy 43 | Medical Aesthetics | Dallas, Los Angeles, New York
I try to do one self-care service per week. As a single CEO and mama, there are so many things that require my energy and focus. Boss women need pampering too! I find that if I give myself one “treat” a week - like a massage, a Radically Radiant (microneedling) treatment at Alchemy 43, facial or pedicure, it refills my tank and makes me feel ready to conquer my day and the tasks ahead!
For more information, visit Alchemy 43's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Brian A. Levine | Fertility | New York, NY
Being a physician can be a busy and demanding profession, leaving little time for anything else. However, as a busy doctor, you must balance your work responsibilities with your personal life to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. As a parent, it can be especially challenging when you're trying to balance work with your family's needs.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial, not only for overall wellness and mental health but also to be a better doctor. As a physician with numerous responsibilities, how can you prioritize time for family and still manage to take care of your health and well-being? Below are some tips that can help busy doctors manage the work-family interface while taking good care of themselves.
1. Create a realistic work schedule.
As a physician, your work schedule can often seem overwhelming. Even if you work long hours, it’s important to set aside some time for your family and personal life. Creating a realistic work schedule can help you avoid burnout, and at the same time, ensure that you spend time with your loved ones.
2. Focus on self-care.
Self-care is vital for your physical and mental health. Being a physician involves a lot of stress, and it’s essential to find ways to avoid burnout and stay healthy. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep habits are some essential self-care practices that can help you maintain good health and well-being. I depend upon a Whoop to remind me about when I need to focus on sleep/recovery or I have the extra energy to push through a tough workout before work.
3. Embrace technology to stay connected.
We've all embraced technology for communicating with patients, but it also works for staying in touch with family! For instance, FaceTime can allow you to be available even when you're stuck at work finishing notes/charts.
4. Ask for help.
It’s crucial to ask for help whenever you need it. As a physician, you may feel like you need to handle everything alone. However, asking for help from family members, colleagues, or even a therapist, can help you manage the demands of your personal and professional life while prioritizing your health and wellness.
5. Prioritize what matters most.
Finally, it’s important to prioritize what matters most in your life. Your family and personal life should never come second to work. Learn to say no to opportunities that would interfere with your personal life and prioritize spending time with your loved ones. Conferences are fun but they come at a cost to your family.
Maintaining a healthy balance between your personal and professional life can feel like an uphill task, but it’s not impossible. By creating a realistic schedule, prioritizing self-care, embracing technology, asking for help, and prioritizing what matters most, you can find a healthy work-life balance and take care of your well-being while also being an exceptional physician. Remember, when you find a good work-life balance, you can perform your best at work while also building strong bonds with your loved ones and your patients.
For more information, visit Dr. Levine's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Munique Maia, Maia Plastic Surgery | Face | DMV
In this fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Daily responsibilities and commitments can take away time for self-care. It’s important to pause to take time for yourself — It doesn’t even have to be a grand gesture, it can be small things throughout the day: taking a deep breath, planning out your morning, sitting with a cup of tea, meditating. Give yourself time. We are all busy in our lives, and recharging every day helps you feel good, both physically and mentally.
My clinic is in the Washington D.C. area, the epicenter of politics and a highly competitive work culture. In my daily practice, I come across people who are stepping away from that stress, pausing, and making time for themselves. While I provide wellness services and quality-of-life surgery, I always remind my patients that their well-being can begin by taking their MEDS: Meditation, Exercise, Diet, and Sleep.
I live by that ideology in my own life. Prioritizing sleep and exercise is essential, not just for plastic surgeons but for anyone striving to optimize their performance and well-being. Just like high-performing athletes rely on their physical abilities, stamina, and energy, individuals in any field can benefit from nurturing various aspects of their lives to achieve their goals.
I firmly believe in long-term, holistic approaches to health and performance. I’ve fallen in love with yoga because it not only enhances mental clarity but also strengthens the body. Building and preserving muscle as we age contributes to a healthier life and provides a strong foundation for longevity. Wellness is ultimately about balance: maintaining a clear mind, nourishing your body with good nutrition, and consistently engaging in physical activity.
For more information, visit Dr. Maia's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
