Mindfulness Monday: Mindfulness of Stress

Join Dr. Laura Smallwood as we move beyond the foundations of mindfulness practice and into practical applications, and explore mindfulness of stress. Mindfulness of stress involves understanding our differing stress responses to various circumstances or environmental triggers. We discuss "good" vs. "bad" types of stress, polyvagal theory, acute vs. chronic stress, the  importance of rest vs. deep rest, and the four states of mind as described by Elissa Epel: Red Mind, Yellow Mind, Green Mind and Blue Mind. Most of us spend too much time in a state of 'Yellow Mind', resulting from poor coping strategies, multi-tasking, and chronic hyperarousal from too much screen time or media consumption.

This episode is an invaluable resource for any veterinarian or other professional that wants to experience a more meaningful and joyful work experience, while reducing the risk of burnout.

Episode Resources:

The Stress Prescription: 7 Days to More Joy and Ease by Elissa Epel, PhD

The Upside of Stress: Why Stress is Good for You and How to Get Good at It by Kelly McGonical, PhD

Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory by Deb Dana