Clinicians are incredibly susceptible to burnout. If you own or operate a medical practice and don't take time out for yourself, you’ll inevitably drown in the demands of the job. Thankfully, preventing burnout is fairly straightforward. In fact, it’s as simple as attending periodic yoga retreats. Here’s how doing so will contribute to your overall mental health.

3 Psychological Benefits of Doing Yoga 

1. Less Stress

Research indicates yoga inhibits the secretion of cortisol, which is the “stress hormone.” Lower cortisol levels mean lower stress levels, which is something virtually all clinicians need.

Maintaining especially high cortisol levels, on the other hand, affects more than just your mental health. Chronic stress can also contribute to weight gain, sleep disturbances, digestive issues, and even heart disease. 

2. Reduced Anxiety

Clinicians face an overwhelming amount of anxiety. It’s perfectly natural to worry about your patients on occasion, but doing so excessively will do more harm than good.

If you’re feeling especially overwhelmed, book a yoga retreat. Studies have shown doing yoga regularly reduces depression and anxiety considerably. Therefore, you should look for a retreat that aims to foster yoga habits even after it’s over. 

3. Better Concentration 

Yoga trains your mind to focus during times of high stress. Instead of going into a fight or flight response, the practice’s deep breathing exercises allow you to maintain a clear head, thereby ensuring total clarity and concentration. Naturally, such focus is essential when handling medical emergencies.

Even if you don't typically treat patients facing emergencies, you can surely benefit from increased concentration when interacting with them. More focus will allow you to provide more attentive, comprehensive care. 

If you practice in New York, you’re invited to attend a yoga retreat hosted by Metro Collaborative™. This health care networking group caters to clinicians in the city by offering peer-to-peer dinners, business coaching services, and wellness retreats at a luxurious resort in the Dominican Republic. To learn more about their networking opportunities, visit their website or call (609) 876-9163.