Self-Care Tip: Taking a Timeout

Written By Holly MacKenna, MD

On my September 13th, 2023 segment for Fox 8 NOLA Morning Edition, Shelby Latino & I talked about how hard it can be as a parent & the dangers of becoming burned out. We also touched on the importance of knowing YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Self care as a mom or dad can feel like a joke, so we need to be creative.

  • JUST BE when the kids are napping or otherwise occupied. It’s ok to take a moment to play your favorite song or watch a show you enjoy.

  • Take a MINUTE. Just 60 seconds of being in the moment can help resettle your brain. That’s using breathing or focusing on just what’s in front of you!

  • MOVE your body! Have a dance party or take your littles outside for a walk. You can also check out tai chi or yoga for kids and do it together.

  • FIND COMMUNITY. Being a parent is tough, so having a tribe can be a game changer. If your kids are in school, follow their lead and make a fun play date to meet their friends’ grown ups. Go to your local library for free programming. Check out the children’s museum and others for community programming (bonus use your NOLA library card for free museum access!).

I am excited to report that Fox 8 NOLA has invited me to become a regular contributor during their new third hour of Morning Edition (10 AM hour). Please check it out next Wednesday at 10:30 AM CST (link to Live Stream below)!

I will be on Fox 8 NOLA biweekly on Wednesdays talking about stress reduction, integrative psychiatry, and brain health.

To make sure you don’t miss a minute, subscribe to my newsletter to receive updates and replays of the segments! Look out for an email to confirm your sign-up before the videos can be sent.

 
 
Holly MacKenna, MD

Holly MacKenna, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been in practice for over 20 years. She is fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine and specializes in providing whole person care to those who have experienced psychological trauma and traumatic brain injuries. Dr. MacKenna is certified in auricular acupuncture and distance Reiki. She is also a Facilitator trained by the Center for Mind-Body Medicine.

Dr. MacKenna spends part of her time developing her new integrative psychiatry private practice, Dara Wellness, which is based in New Orleans and serves patients throughout the Gulf Coast utilizing both in-person and telemedicine experiences. She is a speaker with #SameHere Global Mental Health Movement and has spoken for organizations such as The Golden State Warriors and Chicago Wolves. She is a regular contributor to Fox 8 NOLA TV in New Orleans.

Dr. MacKenna is a published contributing author and is currently writing a book about bringing the Divine Feminine back into medicine as a healer.

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