In keeping with Akron Children’s commitment to physician well-being, the Graduate Medical Education (GMEC) Wellbeing Committee recently hosted a Healing Breaths SKY program workshop. The event aimed to equip fellows with vital tools for managing stress and fostering resilience in their demanding roles. The one-hour session introduced participants to SKY Breath Meditation, a scientifically validated method designed to reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being.
Led by a certified instructor, attendees engaged in a 20-minute guided meditation that focused on breathing techniques and relaxation, reinforcing the transformative power of mindfulness in daily life.
A week later, fellows reflected on the workshop’s impact on their professional and personal experiences. One fellow noted, “The breathing techniques and meditation provided essential coping skills that have positively influenced my work and personal life. These practices help me maintain balance and reduce burnout, especially in complex patient care situations.”
Another fellow highlighted the significance of having dedicated time for wellness during a hectic workday: “The guided breathing techniques were invaluable before returning to service. I appreciated the chance to reflect and regroup during stressful moments.”
Dr. Sumru Bilge-Johnson, chair of the Medical Staff Health and Wellness Advisory Committee and co-chair of GMEC Wellbeing Committee, emphasized the common challenges faced by medical trainees, including work-life balance and academic pressures. “Helping our fellows recognize their emotions and stress levels while teaching them simple techniques to mitigate these effects is crucial,” she said.
One fellow expressed the struggle of maintaining balance amid long shifts and rigorous demands by sharing, “The recent session allowed us to practice mindfulness, something we often overlook due to our responsibilities.”
Looking ahead, Akron Children’s wellness curriculum will continue to evolve based on the fellows’ needs, offering sessions on meditation, mindfulness, and other therapeutic practices every other month. “Our goal is to foster a supportive community among fellows, helping them connect with one another and build a network of support,” Dr. Bilge-Johnson said.
Participants shared their enthusiasm for incorporating these wellness practices into their daily routines. One fellow remarked, “I’ve started using breathing techniques throughout my day, especially before entering stressful situations or meeting new patients.” Another highlighted their commitment to daily meditation: “I’ve been dedicating 10 minutes a day to meditate and maintain mental clarity. I plan to continue this and integrate smaller breathing techniques for high-stress moments.”
With these wellness initiatives, Akron Children’s aims to cultivate a healthier, more resilient group of physicians. “I hope to see our fellows thrive as healthy and resilient physicians, equipped to meet the demands of their profession without succumbing to burnout or depression,” said Dr. Bilge-Johnson.
Through programs like this, Akron Children’s is not only addressing the immediate needs of providers but also fostering a more compassionate and supportive hospital culture. For those interested in exploring these practices further, the Daily Breathers sessions offer guided breathing and meditation techniques three times daily via Zoom, open to all staff.
In consideration of the privacy of those in the Akron Children’s fellowship program, names and medical specialties are not identified in this story.
