From the desk of Dr. Belinda Castor
In December 2020, I stepped away from traditional fee-for-service primary care after 30 years of practicing medicine. I decided to hit the pause button and allow myself to take time to reflect on where I was in life and my general well-being. During this time, I learned quite a bit about myself. While I don’t have any regrets, I do have some moments where I wish I had done things differently. One of the first things I decided to do during this period of respite was to make some very basic lifestyle changes that I have learned by studying the Lifestyle Medicine approach. Another was to open Integra Direct Primary Care so that I could practice medicine the way I desired.
Lifestyle Medicine is an evidence-based practice that helps people adopt and sustain healthy behaviors to prevent, treat and cure chronic diseases. It is taking the steps towards taking control and restoring one’s health by replacing unhealthy behaviors with healthier, more positive ones. I personally see the benefits of this approach in my own life and those around me, and I plan to incorporate aspects of Lifestyle Medicine as part of the treatment plan for my patients.
This is not a pill to take or a quick fix – it isn’t always easy, but it is a journey towards good health and a goal of better life balance through healthier eating, increased movement, reducing/removing stress, avoiding risky substances, improving sleep, and taking time for connections with others. If you are interested, I encourage you to join me on this journey. I don’t expect perfection, as I am far from it, but working towards improvement in the right direction. Life is better together, and I want to be around for a while longer!
To follow along our journey and learn the ins and outs of Lifestyle Medicine, how it can improve your life, and how you can take steps towards living a healthier lifestyle, make sure to sign up for our Newsletter at integradpc.com. You can also follow our Facebook at Integra Direct Primary Care, PLLC and our Instagram at Integradpc to keep up with us!
