Mindfulness Practice

In 2021, I started practicing mindfulness every time I stepped into an exam room. Quickly, I realized I've been doing it my whole career, and I'll bet you have too.

What follows is my own personal twist on mindfulness.  I was inspired by the ancient practice of lectio divina, or sacred reading.

Try to engage this practice before you turn to the computer or even introduce yourself.  I believe that it can be practiced in a single breath, the first breath you take when you see your patient.

1. Read the room: Take in everything you see, without any judgement.
2. Reflect: what is your first thought? Bring a moment of awareness to what is in your mind.
3. Respond: Allow kindness to flow into your mind.  (I know it's there!  Just let it flow.)
4. Rest: Be there for a second or two before you open your mouth.

Here is a good article on the science and benefits of mindfulness :

https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-mindfulness/

Lectio Divina: A Simple, Four-Step Prayer to Enrich Your Quiet Time - Bethel University Blog https://www.bethel.edu/blog/lectio-divina/