Mindfulness: “The End of Suffering”

Abstract

A recurrent principle in this book is that in order to properly care for our patients, we must first take care of ourselves. Rejecting our own needs for the benefit of our patients may seem like a noble intention, but it is inherently dysfunctional. The consequences—burnout, damaged relationships, and illness—are real (Shanafelt et al., Arch Intern Med 172:1377–1385, 2012) and have been well-publicized (Farber and Heifetz, Prof Psychol 13:293, 1982). Failure to manage our own emotions and relationships contributes to professional dissatisfaction; leaves us vulnerable to divorce and social isolation; and increases risk of depression and substance abuse (Judge and Bono, J Appl Psychol 86:80–92, 2001; Judge et al., J Appl Psychol 90:257–268, 2005; Shanafelt et al., Arch Intern Med 172:1377–1385, 2012). We simply cannot give to others when our own emotional well is dry (Farber and Heifetz, Prof Psychol 13:293, 1982).

Attaining awareness of a problem is only the first step; we must be willing to change our ways rather than adopting the dismissive mantra of “that’s just the way it is.”

In this chapter, I elaborate on a key component of attaining resiliency and balance, mindfulness, defined as the practice of living in the moment. Mindfulness can be practiced at home, in the office, and even in the operating room and is a proven “game changer” in attaining a more peaceful, satisfied, and resilient life.

Tomorrow, Try This

• For surgeons, at the scrub sink, consciously feel the soap and water trickling down your hands. Be present to the rinsing of the stream of water as it washes away dirt and your endless mind chatter.

• During office hours, take three diaphragmatic breaths between each patient encounter and focus on one patient, one problem, one exam at a time.

• When you return home after a long day, turn off the ignition in your car before you enter your home, pause briefly and take a few slow, deep breaths. Create some space between the residual thoughts on the stressors of the day and the present moment. Decide to be the observer of those thoughts and leave them in your car.