As doctors, we know that laughter has a powerful role in health and our lives. Laughter is more than a diffuser of stressful situations and a distracter from negative emotions; it contains numerous physical benefits as well!  What is so sad is that many of us physicians are so bogged down with work, stresses at home and our patients’ health needs that we totally forget about ourselves.  We need to laugh just as much as our patients do! A Few Quick Reminders: Laughter increases the immune system. It literally keeps us healthy. You know that and I know that.   That’s...

Even advocates for health have a hard time avoiding the fudge squares, peppermint sticks and egg nog that the holidays bring. The season is full of temptation at every turn. I mean honestly… what are you supposed to do when a patient thanks you with a huge tin, full of 3 flavors of delicious popcorn? Throw it away?! The Christmas spirit seems to bring about people showing each other gratitude, often in the form of parties, sugary snacks and gifts. You don’t want to offend anyone by not accepting their offerings, but also don’t want to hinder the body’s health...

Have you ever heard of Pranayama? The word “prana” in sanskrit translates to life force, and “ayama” to control. With the breathing technique of Pranayama, we are learning to control our life force through the breath. It is very important for me, in my career as a physician, to have a clear mind which I can use to give my full attention to the patient at hand. Before I get all metaphysical, let me get back to the benefits of Pranayama, especially for physicians. Pranayama teaches us the proper way to breathe. Most of us are so used to breathing...