In the fast-paced and demanding world of veterinary medicine, the welfare and self-care of veterinarians can often take a back seat. However, in a thought-provoking episode of the “Care for the Healer” podcast, hosted by Dr. Steve Kruzeniski, features Dr. Jyothi V. Robertson discussing the significance of mindfulness in this profession. Through sharing her own experiences and offering practical insights, Dr. Robertson’s episode titled “Mindfulness & Veterinary Medicine” offers valuable wisdom and viewpoints that resonate with both veterinarians and the wider audience.
Click here to listen to the episode.
Dr. Robertson sheds light on the pressing challenges faced by veterinarians, including financial pressures and the need to unlearn certain aspects of their training. She advocates for introducing mindfulness practices early on in veterinary education to help students navigate the mental and emotional challenges that arise within the field.
Moreover, Dr. Robertson discusses the transformative power of meditation in various settings, including animal control facilities and shelters. Grounding practices can be applied by anyone, and she encourages individuals to embrace the accessible healing potential of mindfulness.
Dr. Robertson emphasizes the trauma experienced by veterinarians and underscores the significance of consistency and holistic healing. She suggests that incorporating self-care practices, such as meditation and yoga, can foster increased success and productivity within the veterinary field.
“There is a pressure that’s placed on veterinarians to make ends meet… Flipping it and demonstrating that grounding practices, contemplative practices, self-healing, self-inquiry, meditation, yoga, all of that, taking care of ourselves, will lend itself to you actually being more successful in your work from a financial and productivity standpoint,” she explains.
The episode is a powerful reminder that prioritizing self-care is essential for everyone, regardless of their profession. Dr. Robertson invites veterinarians, veterinary students, and the general public to embark on a journey of exploring the transformative power of mindfulness practices. Her insights offer a compelling argument for embracing mindfulness and promoting healing, not just in veterinary medicine but in all aspects of our lives.