Mindful Dentistry: Eddie Starr's Vision for Holistic Healthcare
It's more about just being present-minded, bringing our conscious attention, what we're thinking about right now, to the current state of being, to that point where you're at right now in time, and I think throughout our days and throughout our lives, our minds like to wander so much.
Imagine visiting the dentist and leaving not just with cleaner teeth, but also with a sense of calm and well-being. In this episode of 'Whole Body Mental Health Radio', host Dr. Jose Calderon-Abbo chats with Eddie Starr, a second-year dental student at LSU School of Dentistry, who is on a mission to revolutionize healthcare with mindfulness and sustainability. Eddie has spearheaded two new student organizations at LSU Health Sciences Center: Students for Sustainability and Mindfulness in Medicine. His goal?
To bring a mindful approach to dentistry that benefits both patients and practitioners. Eddie shares how being present-minded and paying conscious attention can transform patient care, making visits less stressful for everyone involved. He delves into the challenges faced by medical and dental students in the current healthcare system, emphasizing the mental health impacts and the need for a more holistic approach.
Eddie's advocacy for a 'triple bottom line'—considering financial, social, and environmental impacts—offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a responsible healthcare provider. Throughout the episode, Eddie provides practical tips for integrating mindfulness into daily routines, from simple breathing exercises to mindful stretching. His passion for sustainability and holistic care is evident as he discusses the broader implications of these practices for the healthcare system.
Whether you're a dental professional, a student, or someone interested in the intersection of mental health and healthcare, this episode offers valuable insights into creating a more compassionate and sustainable medical practice.