I wanted to share with you the profound connection I've found between exercise and emotional well-being, and why it's especially relevant for us in healthcare.

Exercise is more than just a way to stay fit or maintain a certain body shape; it's a powerful tool for processing and managing our emotions. Just like the patients we care for, we too experience stress, uncertainty, and a whirlwind of emotions in our lives.

I've personally found that exercise can be a sanctuary where we dive into our thoughts, confront our fears, and emerge stronger. It's a protected, judgment-free space to let it all out, to explore the depths of our emotions while we physically move through them.

Think about a day when you felt weighed down by negative thoughts and stress. Then, you laced up your sneakers and went for a run or hit the gym. By the time you finished, you felt lighter, more at ease, and clearer in your mind. That's the magic of exercise.

Over time, this exercise has helped me rebuild and find a level of clarity I'd never seen in myself. Emotions are not meant for overthinking but for feeling.

Exercise has taught me that it's okay to feel discomfort, both physically and emotionally. It's taught me to walk headfirst into pain, feel it all the way through, and emerge stronger. This practice can transform your life, making you not only physically but also mentally stronger.

As women in healthcare, we often bear heavy burdens, both professionally and personally. I encourage you to use exercise as a holistic tool to process your emotions, improve your mental resilience, and find strength in vulnerability.

If you're interested in learning more about how exercise and emotional well-being intersect, please reach out. I'm here to support you in your journey towards a healthier, stronger you, inside and out.

In health,

Shani Esparaz M.D.

Double Board-Certified Ophthalmologist, Lifestyle Medicine Specialist, Certified Health & Wellness Coach