Neurological Notes and Music as Medicine with Dr. Gary Simonds

In this conversation, Gary Simonds, a former neurosurgeon turned writer, discusses the therapeutic benefits of playing musical instruments, the neuroscience of music, and the importance of creativity and self-reflection in preventing burnout. He emphasizes the role of music in providing an escape and promoting mental health. Simonds also highlights the fragility of life and the need to appreciate it, drawing from his experiences in the medical field. He shares insights on building resilience and self-compassion to combat burnout, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's energy and attention with personal values and goals. In this conversation, Kevin and Gary discuss the concept of burnout and how it affects individuals. They explore the fluctuating nature of burnout and the importance of self-awareness and self-reflection. They emphasize the need for individuals to understand themselves and their motivations in order to prevent burnout. They also discuss the role of the system in contributing to burnout and the need for both individual and systemic changes to combat it. Practical steps include periodic debriefing, self-compassion and self-care, discussing stressors with trusted individuals, collecting uplifts, and fostering meaningful connections with others.

Takeaways

Playing musical instruments can provide an escape and promote mental health.
- Music engages various areas of the brain and affects mood and reward systems.
- Engaging in creative activities, such as playing music, can help prevent burnout and promote brain health.
- Self-reflection and understanding one's values and goals are essential in building resilience and combating burnout.
- Burnout is not a permanent state and individuals fluctuate in their levels of burnout.
- Self-awareness and self-reflection are crucial in preventing burnout.
- Both individual and systemic changes are necessary to combat burnout.
- Practical steps include periodic debriefing, self-compassion and self-care, discussing stressors with trusted individuals, collecting uplifts, and fostering meaningful connections with others.

Find Dr Gary Simons here:
https://garyrsimonds.com/