Making Meditation Doable: Tips for Stressed-Out Professionals (and the People Who Rely on Them)
Meditation can be powerful. It can also be frustrating, confusing, and easy to abandon—especially in fast-paced, high-pressure work environments like healthcare. In this short, compassionate video, Certified Mindfulness Instructor Liz Korabek-Emerson offers three simple ways to meet meditation differently: not as something we succeed at, but something we return to. If you’re a clinician, educator, or healthcare worker, these practices may offer new ways to reconnect with purpose and presence. Suppose you’re a patient or someone receiving care. In that case, this video might offer insight into the hidden emotional labor healthcare workers carry—and a gentle glimpse into how healing can go both ways. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RS8dY7yIGcU This interview was part of a larger conversation and body of work in Medical Improv, 3 Paths into Practice — self-paced train the trainers designed to bring medical improv, relational presence, and mindful awareness into healthcare and education. It invites professionals to stay grounded in their humanity—not just for themselves, but for the people they care for. Meditation doesn’t have to be another task on your to-do list. It can be a gentle anchor. A pause in the noise. A practice that adapts to you. “You don’t have to go to the Himalayas to meditate. You just have to be where you are.”—Liz Korabek-Emerson
Mindfulness or Meditation? Here’s What Helped Me Understand the Difference
When I first met Liz Korabek-Emerson, MFA—more than 20 years ago—I was working in direct care, and honestly? I didn’t see how mindfulness or meditation could help with the kind of stress I was facing. But Liz didn’t push. She listened. We had conversations. We experimented. And somewhere along the way, something started to shift. Her insights started to sink in—not as a technique, but as a way of being-with. In some ways, very much like Medical Improv! Now, as a Certified Mindfulness Instructor, Liz brings so much clarity to a question many of us have: What’s the difference between mindfulness and meditation? In this short video, she breaks it down with compassion and precision. 🎥 Watch the video This conversation is part of a new self-paced learning experience: 3 Paths into Practice—a medical improv toolkit that explores how relational skills, emotional awareness, and presence can be nurtured through playful yet profound practice. Whether you’re in healthcare, education, or another helping profession, mindfulness and meditation are not just buzzwords. They’re tools. They’re medicine. They’re part of how we stay with ourselves and others—especially when things are hard. Image by 🆓 Use at your Ease 👌🏼 from Pixabay Stay tuned—Liz will be back in an upcoming post to offer practical ways to build your own mindful practice, wherever you are.
The Heart Behind Hoarding
Have you ever walked into a space so cluttered with things that you could barely breathe? That happened to me when I went to visit a friend who had just had surgery. I can’t even imagine how my face must have looked when I walked in and saw her two dogs and a cat crawling not only on everything — but on me as well! I couldn’t find a place to sit, and I was so distracted that I don’t even remember what I was saying. My friend, however, was completely relaxed on what might have once been a bed in her living room— now covered with so many things — smiling at me, clearly happy to see me! As soon as I saw the cat, I came up with an excuse and told her I was allergic. I left her place quickly and walked straight home. Once I got back to my clean, tidy space, I started cleaning again. I’m not sure what kind of trauma my mind went through during those ten minutes, but I couldn’t stop until that uneasy feeling finally left my system. We all pile up things in our homes at times, and that clutter can weigh us down. When the piles are finally cleared or the papers are sorted, we feel better — lighter, even, on an energetic level. But this behavior isn’t about laziness or a lack of desire to be organized. The source goes deeper. Hoarding is not about collecting things — it’s a cry from the soul. Its emotional pain bundled with fear, often rooted in unresolved trauma. When our inner world feels out of control or we experience loss in any form, we tend to try and control our outer world. We hold onto objects that make us feel safe, comforted, and loved — creating the illusion that the loss hasn’t happened. When we lose someone close to us — or even a part of ourselves — anxiety and fear about the future and its uncertainty can take over. Depression can creep in, showing up as intrusive thoughts, dark moods, or heightened control. I remember when I lost my father ten years ago — my first deeply personal loss. I started checking all the doors in the house before going to bed and double-checked the stove multiple times to make sure it was off. Because of my ADHD, I often wouldn’t register what I was doing during these routines, so I’d end up repeating them over and over just to feel safe for the night. I want to emphasize again: that people who struggle with hoarding are not lazy or careless. In fact, many feel deeply abandoned or unloved. The clutter becomes a kind of fortress — a way to feel safe and protected from further hurt. When we’re also dealing with physical issues — like respiratory problems, asthma, chronic lung conditions, or allergies — clutter becomes more than just emotional weight. It becomes a health hazard. Too many items prevent proper cleaning, allowing dust, allergens, and mold to accumulate. The air we breathe becomes polluted — and emotional distress begins manifesting as physical illness. There are many diseases and disorders caused by bacteria, dust mites, mold, and stagnant energy in untouched corners of our homes. Our living space is sacred. It’s a place where our body and mind should feel calm and safe. Our physical surroundings are deeply connected to our energetic field. How can we relax in chaos? When our space feels blocked, our mind does too. Because I suffer from respiratory issues, I’ve learned to declutter every few months. I walk into my walk-in closet and make sure I can actually walk into it — not just squeeze between bags and items. I donate clothes, shoes, purses, and books that I no longer use, knowing someone else might benefit from them. Sometimes, it’s hard to let go of my favorite things. But if they no longer serve me — emotionally or physically — I know it’s time to release them. Even with items I’m emotionally attached to, I’ve learned to let go with love, reminding myself that the memory of the person lives in my heart, not in the object. When we let go, we create space — not only to breathe easier but to move stuck energy. For growth to happen, we need free space — both around us and within us. Our minds reflect our environment. It’s up to us to choose today what kind of space we want to live in — and how we want to feel in it. Nameste, Shab
Can Learning “YES AND” Help with Saying “No”?
The Answer is YES! Learning how to say “No” requires self-awareness and confidence. These are emotional intelligence competencies that help us to set limits, compromise, delegate tasks, and at times, say “No”. They are super important for healthcare professionals as well as patients and families to have to ensure the safest, most compassionate, and patient-centered care. Surprisingly, a “YES AND” mindset adapted from the world of applied improvisation, theatre education, and medical improv can be used to develop and practice such competencies. Consider two conversations: Person 1: There is a cow in my kitchen. Person 2: Yes, there is a cow in your kitchen. Or Person 1: There is a cow in my kitchen. Person 2: Yes, and that cow is speaking French. In the first conversation, Person 2 is validating Person 1 and following a say ‘YES’ philosophy. Such listening is one-way Medical Improv can help healthcare professionals, leaders, and teams. The second conversation reveals how valuable the learning potential of the ‘AND’ is. To appreciate this, ask yourself what you might say using “YES AND”. Also, consider how you might feel to add to this or some other unexpected statement on the spot! Image by Leopictures from Pixabay The “AND” of “YES AND” Truthfully, I can feel a little anxious when called upon to add something to an improv story. A little bit of a fight, flight, or freeze response is going on. Yet, practicing improv has helped me to trust my ability to move through the stress response, access creativity, and share an idea. YES, AND that cow is making pancakes! YES, AND this is a great way to make sure we have fresh milk! YES, AND there is an old farmer looking at it through your window! In an improv scene, this is much more interesting and fun to watch than me saying, “I don’t see any cow.” More importantly from a learning process, when I add an idea, I’m developing and practicing essential expressive skills and competencies like self-awareness, confidence, and speaking up. What might you say as Person 2 in the second conversation? “YES AND” & “NO”! One of the biggest myths Medical Improv, is that we are teaching people to agree on everything. It certainly can look that way when we are accepting ideas that aren’t true. However, adding to stories (the AND) nudges us to develop self-awareness, confidence, and assertiveness. It is in this space where we grow the skills and competencies necessary for developing healthy boundaries, setting limits, delegating tasks, and when necessary, saying “No”!
Are We Quick to Judge?
What do we do when someone who is sick decides to hide her diagnosis from everyone around her? When my friend was diagnosed with a late stage of a rare cancer, we all noticed her behavior changed. She changed from a social butterfly to an isolated individual from her closest friends and loved ones. Not only did her new behavior make things more challenging for herself by leaving her with little support, but it also denied her family members—who had become her caregivers—the support they needed. Most of the time, she was in good spirits and acted as if life was normal. However, on bad days, pain and fatigue drained her energy. She is an intelligent person with more knowledge about the medical field than the average person. She had always followed a healthy diet, exercised regularly, and supplemented her body with herbs and a holistic lifestyle. She was probably more shocked than anyone by her diagnosis! Why was she hiding her experience from others? What was going through her mind? This behavior continued for months after her diagnosis. No one could call or visit her. She refused all contact. Only her primary caregivers were allowed to help her with treatments and doctor appointments. Caring for a loved one who is sick is not an easy task. It comes with a flood of emotions and guilt. Watching her deteriorate took a toll on her children. They decided to share her diagnosis with close family members, such as cousins and aunts/uncles, under the condition that no one contact her directly. Instead, they would receive updates about her progress to ease their worry and sadness. This act of sharing provided much-needed support for her children. Even if it was just phone calls, they felt loved and cared for. They began having honest conversations with their mom. Without overwhelming her with the prognosis, they expressed their concerns about how the disease was progressing despite treatments. They spent quality time with her, showing their true love and care. Weeks later, my friend found the courage to call some of her best friends. She talked for hours, explaining her situation in the positive light she chose to see. She later told her daughters that talking about her illness helped her return to reality and confront the harsh truth. She had created a bubble for herself to stay calm and collected. The thought of dying scared her. She knew she might not beat this monster, but she was trying to live as normally as possible by continuing her routine. We can all judge her behavior endlessly. But the fact remains: it is her right to choose how she wants to cope with her disease. This is a journey that no one can walk for her, and she knows it. A journey where she rethinks every experience, questions her lifestyle, feels guilt for roads not taken, and seeks forgiveness. She is going through so much on her own; who are we to expect more from her? Why can’t we let her be in these final moments of her life? Most likely, her worries are far greater than whether others know about her diagnosis. Let’s give her the space and respect she deserves. She has already lost her independence and privacy. What more could we demand of her? Let’s show her love and compassion by abiding by her rules. Maybe ask her: What can we do to ease her burden on this journey? If she doesn’t seek companionship, what else might bring her joy? The next time you hear about someone’s diagnosis, put yourself in their shoes. Ask yourself: If this were me, how would I react? The next time you hear about someone’s diagnosis, put yourself in their shoes. Ask yourself: If this were me, how would I react? Namaste, Shab
Psychological Support – The Role of Mental Health Professionals in Your Care
In our last discussion, we explored the emotional impact of breast cancer treatment, emphasizing the importance of addressing these feelings as part of your recovery. This week, we’ll focus on the vital role of psychological support and how mental health professionals can enhance your overall well-being during this challenging time. Cancer treatment is not just physically demanding—it can also take a significant mental and emotional toll. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress are common and understandable responses to the uncertainty and demands of treatment. Mental health professionals, including psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists, are trained to help patients navigate these challenges. They offer a safe and supportive environment where you can express your fears and concerns without judgment. According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), incorporating psychological support into your care plan can significantly improve your quality of life and treatment outcomes. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used approach that helps you identify and reframe negative thought patterns, replacing them with more constructive and empowering perspectives. This can be particularly helpful when managing anxiety or feelings of helplessness. In addition to individual therapy, many cancer treatment centers provide access to support groups facilitated by mental health professionals. These groups allow you to connect with others who understand your journey, share experiences, and learn from each other. Knowing that you’re not alone can bring immense comfort and strength. If you’re unsure about where to start, consider speaking with your healthcare team. They can connect you with counselors or support groups tailored to your specific needs. Online directories and organizations, such as the Cancer Support Community, also offer resources to help you find the right support. Addressing the emotional side of cancer is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step toward healing. By integrating psychological care into your treatment plan, you can build resilience, improve your emotional well-being, and approach each stage of your journey with greater confidence. Next week, we’ll shift our focus to the role of family dynamics and explore how your loved ones can support you—and themselves—throughout your treatment.
The Emotional Effects of a Parent’s Cancer on Children
The emotional toll of cancer extends far beyond the patient, significantly affecting their children. As reported by CNN, children whose parents are diagnosed with cancer often face a range of emotional and behavioral issues, reflecting the profound impact of the disease on their young lives. When a parent is diagnosed with cancer, the family dynamic shifts dramatically. Children may experience fear, anxiety, and confusion as they struggle to understand what is happening to their parent. The stability and security they once knew can feel shattered, leading to feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. In my years of practice, I have observed children exhibiting various behavioral changes, such as withdrawal, aggression, or academic decline, as they cope with their new reality. A notable case from my experience involves a patient named Lisa, a mother of three young children. When Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer, her children reacted in different ways. Her eldest, a teenager, became withdrawn and sullen, struggling to process his emotions. The middle child displayed increased anxiety and clung to Lisa, fearing any moment without her. The youngest, still in elementary school, acted out in school, unable to articulate his feelings. The family’s story exemplifies how a parent’s cancer can manifest in diverse emotional responses among children, each requiring unique support and understanding. It’s crucial to provide children with age-appropriate information and reassurance, helping them feel included and secure. Counseling and support groups specifically for children of cancer patients can be invaluable, offering a safe space for them to express their feelings and connect with others facing similar challenges. Schools can also play a supportive role by being aware of the child’s situation and providing additional emotional and academic support as needed. As we continue this blog series, I aim to bring attention to the stories of those affected by cancer, advocating for comprehensive care that addresses not only the medical but also the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. By sharing these experiences, I hope to foster greater awareness and inspire changes that will support the well-being of all those touched by cancer.
Cancer’s Impact on Mental Health
In the previous blog, we delved into the devastating effects of childhood cancer on families, highlighting how the emotional and financial strains can disrupt their lives profoundly. As explored in the New York Times, families are often overwhelmed by the multifaceted challenges that come with a child’s cancer diagnosis, leaving them grappling with fear, uncertainty, and significant financial burdens. The mental health impact of a cancer diagnosis extends beyond the individual patient, deeply affecting their entire family. In my 25 years as a radiation therapist, I have seen firsthand how the psychological ramifications ripple through families, creating a complex web of emotional struggles. The anxiety, depression, and stress experienced by patients are often mirrored by their loved ones, who feel helpless in the face of such a formidable foe. According to a Washington Post article, cancer diagnoses can trigger profound psychological effects, not just for patients but also for their families. The constant presence of fear and uncertainty, combined with the exhausting demands of treatment and caregiving, can lead to significant mental health challenges. Patients may experience anxiety and depression as they confront their mortality and the grueling journey of treatment. Meanwhile, family members, especially primary caregivers, often endure chronic stress, guilt, and emotional fatigue. In the clinic, I have witnessed these mental health struggles up close. Families come in with a brave face, but beneath the surface, the emotional toll is evident. Spouses and parents often express feelings of helplessness and isolation, struggling to balance their roles as caregivers with their own need for support. Children of cancer patients may develop anxiety or depression, grappling with the fear of losing a parent and the changes in family dynamics. One particular family that stands out in my memory is that of a patient named John, a middle-aged father diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. John’s wife, Sarah, became his primary caregiver while trying to maintain her job and care for their two young children. The psychological strain on Sarah was immense; she often confided in me about her sleepless nights, constant worry, and feelings of isolation. Their children, too, exhibited signs of anxiety and behavioral changes, reflecting the stress within the household. John’s journey and his family’s struggles underscore the need for comprehensive mental health support as part of cancer care. Unfortunately, mental health services are often insufficiently integrated into oncology treatment plans. Families need more than just medical care; they need counseling, support groups, and resources to help them navigate the emotional labyrinth that cancer creates. As we continue this blog series, I aim to shine a light on the stories of those affected by cancer, advocating for a more holistic approach to cancer care—one that includes robust mental health support for both patients and their families. By sharing these experiences, I hope to foster greater awareness and understanding, encouraging changes that will support the emotional and psychological well-being of all those touched by cancer. In the upcoming entries, I will explore further aspects of the cancer journey, including the vital role of caregivers and the broader implications for our healthcare system. Through these reflections, I aspire to honor the incredible resilience of those I have been privileged to serve and to inspire action toward a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to cancer care.
Navigating Anxiety: 6 Habits to Dodge for a Lighter Mind
This article delves into common behaviors and thought patterns that contribute to anxiety while offering practical strategies to address them. The comparison is drawn between anxiety and a smoke alarm, signaling potential danger but sometimes going off unnecessarily. Natasha Reynolds, a psychotherapist, suggests that when the anxiety “smoke alarm” activates frequently for non-threatening situations, seeking support and developing coping tools becomes crucial. The first identified behavior is black-and-white thinking, where situations are perceived as either entirely good or bad without acknowledging gray areas. Avoidance is highlighted as a counterproductive habit that exacerbates anxiety, contrary to the common belief that it provides relief. Instead, therapists recommend incrementally approaching challenging situations to build resilience. Seeking reassurance, a behavior involving constant validation from others or online searches is identified as a contributor to long-term anxiety. Catastrophizing, imagining worst-case scenarios, is addressed by challenging these thoughts and considering practical coping mechanisms. Negative self-talk, characterized by harsh self-criticism, is highlighted as a significant factor in increasing anxiety. People-pleasing, prioritizing others’ needs over one’s own, is recognized as a common habit that leads to anxiety and poor self-worth. The article suggests grounding skills like going for a walk and mindfulness practices to alleviate anxiety. Belly breathing is recommended as a technique to promote calmness. Naming negative thought patterns when they occur and being mindful of them can help individuals distance themselves from these unhelpful patterns. Lastly, the article emphasizes seeking professional help, such as psychotherapy, as a powerful tool to understand deeper emotions underlying anxiety. It suggests that anxiety may be a secondary emotion covering up others deemed unacceptable, and therapy can provide valuable insights into one’s emotions and behaviors. Overall, the article encourages individuals to recognize these anxiety-inducing habits, develop coping mechanisms, and seek support when needed.
Navigating Holiday Travel with Wrapped Gifts
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in Christmas plans, but holiday travel remains significant, with the Transportation Security Administration screening over 2 million passengers daily, nearly double compared to the previous year. Flying during the holidays presents challenges, especially when it comes to carrying gifts. Logistical concerns include finding space in suitcases, securely packing gifts to avoid damage, and whether it’s acceptable to fly with wrapped presents. According to travel preparedness expert Cheryl Nelson, while there are no explicit restrictions on gift wrapping, TSA advises against it. Wrapped gifts may be unwrapped during security inspections, causing delays and potential issues for both carry-on and checked luggage. To avoid complications, travel experts suggest alternative packing methods, such as gift bags or boxes that TSA agents can easily open if necessary. It is recommended to save the actual gift wrapping for the destination to prevent delays. Those who insist on wrapping gifts before air travel might consider sending them separately via mail to the destination to avoid potential inconveniences at airport security. Travelers should know TSA regulations for all packed items, including gifts. Checking the TSA homepage and the “What can I bring?” section provides the most up-to-date guidance on permissible items. Considerations extend to packing supplies, with craft scissors only allowed in checked luggage. If needed at the destination, borrowing scissors is a viable option. Considerations extend to packinSpecial attention is given to snow globes, considered liquids by TSA. Snow globes larger than 3.4 ounces may be confiscated, so packing them in bubble wrap in checked luggage is recommended. Additionally, travelers are reminded to adhere to COVID-19 precautions, including wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, maintaining distance, and avoiding travel if unwell.g supplies, with craft scissors only allowed in checked luggage. If needed at the destination, borrowing scissors is a viable option. Special attention is given to snow globes, considered liquids by TSA. Snow globes larger than 3.4 ounces may be confiscated, so packing them in bubble wrap in checked luggage is recommended. Additionally, travelers are reminded to adhere to COVID-19 precautions, including wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, maintaining distance, and avoiding travel if unwell.