Mindfulness Lessons from My Dog Daisy's Recovery

10/08/24 • 15 min

In this episode, I share a personal story about my dog Daisy, a 60-pound mixed breed we rescued from Boulder, Colorado. Recently, Daisy underwent surgery for a torn cruciate ligament, which is essentially the canine equivalent of an ACL tear. The recovery process has been quite an experience, involving baby gates, the cone of shame, and even spoon-feeding her meals. Through this journey, Daisy has taught me several valuable lessons about mindfulness and living in the present. Despite her discomfort and the unfamiliar situation, Daisy has shown adaptability and resilience. She has also strengthened our bond through trust and connection, accepting help without resistance. I reflect on how Daisy's behavior can teach us about living in the moment, being adaptable, nurturing relationships, and starting small. For instance, Daisy's willingness to eat from a spoon after initially refusing food from her bowl highlights the importance of taking small steps and being open to change. Additionally, I discuss the significance of listening to our bodies and addressing our emotions rather than reacting impulsively. This mindfulness can help us manage stress, improve our well-being, and make more thoughtful decisions. To encourage mindfulness, I announce a 30-day mindfulness walking challenge starting on Monday. The goal is to be present during your walk, whether outside or indoors, and to engage your senses fully. I conclude by expressing my gratitude to the listeners and sending thoughts of joy, peace, and love. I invite everyone to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments and to subscribe for more insights. Thank you for joining me, and I look forward to sharing more lessons from Daisy in the future. To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/ A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors: If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services. To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen

Previous Episode

Understanding Menopause: Myths vs. Reality

Today, we delved into the topic of menopause and debunked seven common myths surrounding it. As a board-certified family and lifestyle medicine physician with decades of experience, and someone currently going through menopause myself, I felt it was crucial to address these misconceptions. Key Points Discussed: Menopause Happens Suddenly: Contrary to popular belief, menopause is a gradual process that begins with perimenopause, which can start several years before the final menstrual period. Menopause Only Affects Older Women: While the average age of menopause is around 51, it can start earlier due to factors like genetics, smoking, and certain medical treatments. Menopause Always Causes Symptoms: Symptoms vary widely among women. Some may experience intense symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, while others may have mild or no symptoms at all. Weight Gain is Inevitable with Menopause: Although common, weight gain is not unavoidable. Hormonal changes can contribute to weight gain, but lifestyle adjustments like diet, exercise, and stress management can help. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is Dangerous: HRT can be safe and effective for many women. The misconceptions stem from the Women's Health Initiative study published in 2002, but recent evaluations have shown that HRT can be beneficial when personalized to the individual's needs. Menopause Marks the End of Your Sexual Life: Menopause does not mean the end of a sexual life. While it can bring changes like vaginal dryness and decreased libido, there are treatments and lifestyle adjustments that can help. Menopause Means You'll Be Less Feminine: Menopause does not define your femininity. It's a natural biological process that can lead to personal growth and self-care. I emphasized the importance of understanding that menopause is a natural phase of life and encouraged women to seek personalized treatment and support. I also highlighted the need for more open discussions about menopause to help women navigate this transition more comfortably. To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/ A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors: If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services. To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen

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The Pros and Cons of a Plant-Based Diet: A Doctor's Perspective

Good morning, everyone! In today's episode, I delved into the pros and cons of a plant-based diet, drawing from my extensive experience with thousands of patients across the United States. Pros of a Plant-Based Diet Improved Heart Health: Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and low in saturated fats, which significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Weight Management: Many patients have experienced significant weight loss, ranging from 5 to 350 pounds, by adopting a plant-based diet. Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers: The antioxidants and phytochemicals in plant foods help the immune system detect and eliminate cancer cells. Diabetes Prevention and Management: A plant-based diet can dramatically lower blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. Environmental Sustainability: Plant-based diets have a lower environmental footprint, requiring less land, water, and energy to produce. Digestive Health: High fiber content in plant-based diets promotes a healthy gut microbiome. Animal Welfare: A plant-based diet eliminates the suffering of animals, which is a growing concern for many. Cons of a Plant-Based Diet Nutrient Deficiencies: Key nutrients like B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3s need to be monitored and supplemented if necessary. Protein Intake: While all plants contain amino acids, it's essential to consume a variety of foods to meet protein needs, especially for those with higher requirements. Social and Dieting Challenges: Adapting to a plant-based diet can be socially challenging, but it's manageable with the right mindset and strategies. Processed Vegan Junk Food: It's easy to over-consume processed vegan foods, which are not necessarily healthier. Cost: Depending on your choices, a plant-based diet can be more expensive, but it can also be cost-effective with the right planning. Adaption Period: Transitioning from a standard diet to a plant-based one can take time, but the benefits are worth it. To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/ A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors: If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services. To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen