Episode 40 - Heart Health and Mind Wellness: A Holistic Approach with Dr. Whitaker-Brown

In this episode of the Realign Your Life Podcast, host Vivian Smith Richardson welcomes Dr. Whitaker-Brown, a seasoned clinical professor and nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology and mental health. Throughout the episode, Vivian and Dr. Whitaker-Brown emphasize the interconnectedness of heart health and mental well-being, offering practical tips for listeners. 

They discuss the importance of integrating mental health assessments into routine healthcare, stress the benefits of a holistic approach to healthcare, and provide insights into maintaining both physical and mental wellness. Dr. Whitaker-Brown also shares strategies for maintaining heart and brain health, including exercise, journaling, and following a Mediterranean diet. 

Vivian and Dr. Whitaker-Brown address the impact of work stress, post-COVID mental health concerns, and the need for greater kindness and self-care. The episode concludes with Dr. Whitaker-Brown offering crisis response resources and inviting listeners to connect with her for support. This informative and engaging episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to realign their approach to overall health and wellness.

 

Key Moments: 

06:29 Transitioned from holistic nursing to psychiatric nurse practitioner.

09:35 Healthcare practices now implementing depression and anxiety screenings.

13:40 Self-awareness in healthcare for mental wellness.

16:48 Health facilities integrating mental health into primary care.

19:16 Breathing and mindfulness practices mentioned in podcast.

24:23 Mediterranean diet, seek help, connect with others.

25:26 Valuable insights on journaling for mental health.

29:53 Crisis help lines for emergencies and support.

About the Guest : 

Dr. Whitaker-Brown is a mental wellness expert and advocate for mental health. With a passion for helping individuals establish and maintain a healthy mindset, Dr. Whitaker-Brown understands the importance of having a solid foundation for mental well-being. In a constantly changing world, she emphasizes the need for individuals to take time to process their thoughts and emotions. Through her speaking engagements and discussions, she shares invaluable insight on how to realign oneself and navigate through the challenges of the modern world. Dr. Whitaker-Brown captivates audiences with her genuine enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to promote mental wellness.

About Vivian : 

Vivian’s lifetime desire has been to impact the lives of both women and men. As a critical thought leader and strategic thinker, her passion is to help women and men develop their best quality and place in life. Knowing that regardless of what season of life they are in – they are valued. As a community builder and masterful networker, she values and welcomes every person she encounters. Through her interactions with various cultures and backgrounds, the realization that there needed to be a platform for them to express and share their concerns, shame, disappointments, desires, and experiences in a safe, non-threatening environment without judgment led her to establish Vivian Richardson Resources and the non-profit God’s Kind of Woman, where women are empowered to know they are Powerful – Prepared – and –Purposeful! You can visit https://realignwithvivian.com/ for more.