PWG WellChat

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PWG WellChat is a podcast series that is intended to establish a platform for discussion about realistic parenting in today's modern world. Our podcast series provides curated content from the latest research, best practices, and safe integrated healing techniques to empower our audience with useful…

Dr. Niki Saxena and Dr. Eileen Chan

  • Mar 31, 2020 LATEST EPISODE
  • monthly NEW EPISODES
  • 30m AVG DURATION
  • 13 EPISODES


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Latest episodes from PWG WellChat

What Can You Do When You Are Stuck At Home?

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2020 35:16


Sleep: Get the recommended amount. You have the time now! Exercise: Check out indoor workouts online or stream them, come up with your own Jump rope, planks/burpees, free weights, resistance bands Be creative and try to get 60 minutes per day of increased physical activity.Go Outside (without crowds) Walking, with your dog, rain walk with your kids (puddle stomping)go hiking/snowshoeing still practicing social distancingBiking Gardening, grow vegetables/herbs Self Care: Take care of yourself so you can better take care of others Time to work on a healthier diet, real food you have time to prepare, get rid of the junk (see #4) Try giving yourself the perfect pedicure, doing a hair mask, reevaluating your closet to have a capsule wardrobe Cook up a storm. Try new recipes and include your kids. Use Every Single Gadget You HaveEveryone gets to pick a meal they like to sharelook at cooking shows and try out some of their ideasUse cooking as a history lesson/learning opportunity The h/o the noodleHot dogs Get an earthquake kit together, emergency pack, disaster plan Have a what-if bag? Get your photos onto digital hard drive Sort through old photos Make an inventory of your house Don't try to take on the teacher role Things you can do which are educational but are not curriculum based This is an amazing opportunity to reconnect with the "real" world if you look at it that way Harness compassion for other people rather than feeling sorry for yourself Meditate Make playlists/share them, listen to something new, have an indoor dance party Read a book, audiobooks, start a series (as a family): Harry Potter, Little House on the Prairie, Percy Jackson Creative Writing: journaling or start writing a story or graphic novel Socializing/ Reconnection: Facetiming Organizing: maybe now is the time to finally get those photos organized, scanning files, getting tax info together Let your inner child out: encourage your kids to pretend play and then join them in doing that! Make a tent inside with a blanket thrown over a table, tell spooky stories by lantern light (as long as this is age appropriate) camp type dinner, S'Mores with your toaster oven/oven Picnic inside or in the yard, Candlelight dinner, Breakfast for Dinner Wear pajamas all day Make a fort with old delivery boxes or a fancy house for your cat Puzzles, real board games Start to learn a new language. See if your kids pick it up faster than you do! Teach yourself a new skill Practice on that piano, learn to play the guitar DIY projects at home Learn a new language Sewing, knitting [start a virtual knitting circle] Hardware stores are open, think about a repair project, DIY paint project, some spring cleaning, TONS of ideas online. Start an art project or craft: painting, homemade playdoh, beading, friendship bracelets. Be creative! Now that we are making do with less, are there permanent changes you can make to help save our planet?

The 7 stages of COVID-19

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2020 20:30


How to move past unproductive and stressful stages into acceptance and creative re-imagining? Go over 7 stages of griefAcknowledge fear and panic and griefThis is an amazing opportunity to reconnect with the "real" world if you look at it that way Re-connect Re-define Re-imagine You can do that by RecognizeResourcefulRelianceNews blackout: Turn off TV/radio Sign up for alerts, set times to check information for critical updates Balance what you are watching See episode 1 notes for some trusted sources Harness compassion for other people rather than feeling sorry for yourself Be grateful Keep a journal [video, pictures, written] Offer to help someone that is less able/more vulnerable Needs a meal Needs meds or errands run that can't do that themselves Social distancing doesn't mean social isolation Check in with friends Call Write letters Video chats This is an amazing opportunity to reconnect with the "real" world if you look at it that way Re-connect with what is importantRe-define what "normal" looks likeRe-imagine the possibilitiesYou can do that by Recognize what is happeningbe Resourcefulcultivate self-Reliance

It's a pandemic, where do I get information?

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2020 10:25


Remember we will get through thisYour health care community wants to be there for you, be thoughtful about how you use healthcare services right nowBe kind to each otherModel the behavior you want your kids to haveSources we trust: CDC https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.htmlAmerican Academy of Pediatrics https://www.healthychildren.orgWHO coronavirus information https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirusSan Mateo County Health Department https://www.smchealth.org/coronavirusSanta Clara County Health Department https://www.sccgov.org/sites/phd/DiseaseInformation/novel-coronavirus/Pages/home.aspxSan Francisco county health department https://www.sfdph.org/dph/alerts/coronavirus.aspAlameda County Health Department http://www.acphd.org/2019-ncov.aspx

Exercise Part 2: Keep Moving

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 35:05


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here is our outline for episode 8:What are the different types of Physical Activity? Exercise with Developmental Disabilities Weight training guidelines Contraindications/PrecautionsRest is important How do I start a program? Take mine to the next level? Benefits of organized sports Do I need a trainer? Expensive equipment? How to get around time challengesSpecific exercise routines for different agesWhen can I run a 5K? 10K? Marathon?Pay attention to pain Patellofemoral syndromeSever's syndromeOsgood SchlattersIliotibial band syndrome Adequate Hydration/Young athletes guidelines Consider Air Quality Weight Management: Some examples of Staying Active What is the Key to getting Kids to Exercise?

The Elephant in the Room

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 50:07


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline for episode 10: note this is the longest episode of season 1 [about 50 minutes] so feel free to listen in small amounts.We need to address anxiety Types of Anxiety: Pathogenesis: unknown What does this look like at different ages? Different types of professionals: Psychiatrist psychologistLicensed mental health counselor Licensed Clinical social worker [LCSW] Psychiatric or mental health nurse Difference between counseling and psychotherapy Anxiety vs. depression vs. mental illness [bipolar, schizophrenia]Is there something else going on? Learning difference? Substance use and abuse?Should I get some testing? What is commonly ordered?The role of electronics

Mind Over Matter

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 30:24


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline for episode 9: “Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space lies our freedom and power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom” – Victor Frankl Mind Body MedicineNon-pharmacological way to improve concentration, help decrease pain, control discomfort, or ease anxietyIncludes biofeedback, yoga, hypnosis and guided imageryMeditation vs. mindfulness Mindfulness: Paying attention with moment-to-moment awareness, On purpose, In a particular way, Without judgmentNoticing what is happening right now --> focus more deeply, pay attention to your sensesScience behind it Clinical benefitsPsychosocial benefitsReally about emotional health and well being Mindfulness: How do I start? How much do I have to do? What if I hate it?What are the ways I can do this? Apps How to boost the effects of mindfulness ResourcesKabat-Zinn J. Mindfulness for Beginners: Reclaiming the Present Moment—and Your Life. Boulder, CO: Sounds True, Inc.; 2016.https://www.aap.org/en-us/professional-resources/Stress/Documents/private/Guided_mindfulness_handout_final.pdfhttps://solutions.aap.org/DocumentLibrary/pcowebinars/Mind%20Body%20Therapies.pdfhttps://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/pages/Mindfulness-Training-in-Urban-Public-School-May-Help-Ease-Effects-of-Toxic-Stress.aspxhttps://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Pages/Just-Breathe-The-Importance-of-Meditation-Breaks-for-Kids.aspxhttps://www.developgoodhabits.com/best-mindfulness-apps/https://blissfulkids.com/what-is-mindfulness-and-how-to-explain-it-to-kids/

Exercise Part 1: I like to move it

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 32:19


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of episode 7:Why is it important? Benefits for children .Benefits in adultsWhat are the different types of Physical Activity? Cardio/aerobic activity: Muscle Strengthening/Strength training: Bone Strengthening: (discussion in Episode 8)How much do you need? Guidelines for Preschool Age (3-5 y/o) Guidelines for School Age (6-18 y/o) Exercise with Developmental Disabilities Weight training guidelines Contraindications/Precautions: (Discussion in Episode 8)

Nutrition Part 2: What to Eat

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 30:36


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of episode 5:Vitamins vs. minerals vs. herbals vs. probiotics vs. prebioticsWhat do vitamins do? What do minerals do? probiotics vs. prebioticsHow to shop for themDo I have to take them?Too much can be bad for youDifferent eating plans: are they okay? Safety for children and adolescents? Nutrient Risks in a Vegetarian/Vegan DietGeneral principles Resourceshttps://michaelpollan.com/https://www.healthychildren.org/

Nutrition Part 3: Quality vs. Quantity

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 33:20


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of episode 6:Organic versus Non-organic: Is Soy a Bad Thing? How much water do I need? Talking about Diet: negative emotions around the word "diet"How to have a healthy relationship with food: Parents to show that you are eating a well balanced dietProduce grown at home, getting kids involved with food, food prep, making fun shapes, dipsFood is culturally precious: someone put effort into growing our foodFood waste is a hot topic: food doesn't have to look perfectAllow kids to have a choice about the treat that they want so they can begin to develop some self-moderation.Food Allergies: just briefly touching on... Nutrition Help/Seek an RD opinion Avoiding Breakfast: some kids just don't like to eat 1st thing in the morning Probiotics: live bacteria and yeast that are good for you Prebiotics are like fertilizers to help healthy bacteria grow in your gut Take Home Points: Tying in Wellness to Sleep (the first pillar) and now this discussion of Nutrition is the second pillar Quality of your food: organic versus nonorganic is importantHow you model your relationship with food has a big impact on your children's relationship with food Food has a psychosocial element you shouldn't ignoreTeenagers trying out different options and Vegetarian/Vegan options are important to know aboutDifferent eating styles can mean more work in making sure you get adequate nutrientsGut microbiome is important Try to avoid making food a source of power struggles

Nutrition Part 1: What is Nutrition?

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 31:08


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of episode 4:Link with wellness General principles Avoid battling about food: With toddlers you won't win this one Need to be intentional about good eating. Parents take this opportunity to be more motivated to eat well because now it isn't just for you it is also for your child!Nutrition basics Limit sugar intake and discourage drinking sweetened beverages. No recommendation for sweetened beverages: drink milk and water AAP recommends: < 2 y/o avoid added sugars Or 2 y/o and up limit to 25 grams or 6 tsp/day Reassurance for parents: Talking about nutrition from Day 1. "normal kids will eat enough to grow normally"Nutritionally Complete Diet:Recommendations can vary by age and even by gender in the teen years.Avoid battles with foodChooseMyPlate.gov What to do for the picky eater?Whole Grains: Proteins: Fats/Cholesterol: Snacking can be an essential component of the young child's dietResourceshttps://www.healthykids.nsw.gov.au/kids-teens/choose-water-as-a-drink-kidshttps://www.choc.org/programs-services/urology/how-much-water-should-my-child-drink/ http://depts.washington.edu/shsi/article/hydration-in-the-heat-for-young-athletes-medical/ https://learn.truesport.org/how-much-water-should-youth-athletes-drink/ https://familydoctor.org/athletes-the-importance-of-good-hydration/

Sleep Part 1: The Biology of Sleep

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 31:18


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services.This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of our second episode:What does it do? How much do you need? Varies according to age Biology and science of sleep 2 basic stages: REM [rapid eye movement] and non-REM sleep [which has 3 different stages] and you cycle through these several times per night Non-REM Stage 3 is the deep sleep you need to feel refreshed in the morning, usually have longer periods of this during the first half of the night Circadian rhythm [or body clock] controls timing of sleep Chemical signals or neurotransmitters GABA is associated with sleep, muscle relaxation, sedation Norepinephrine and orexin keep brain active while we are awake Acetylcholine, histamine, adrenaline, cortisol and serotonin all impact sleep and wakefulness Genetics How can you tell you are getting good sleep? When should I worry about not getting enough sleep? Resources Matthew Walker at UC Berkeley Center for human sleep science Why We Sleep NIH WebMDMayo Clinichttps://www.sleep.org/articles/sleep-quantity-different-sleep-quality/

Sleep part 2: Getting Good Sleep

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 31:43


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services.This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of episode 3:Medical evaluation can involve a sleep study, labsTips for better sleep: Routines Same bedtime every day An hour before bedtime, dim the lights and turn off all screens. Blackout curtains are helpful. Avoid caffeine after 1 p.m. and never go to bed tipsy. Alcohol is a sedative and sedation is not sleep. It also blocks your REM dream sleep, an important part of the sleep cycleCan use phrases or actions to cue your body for sleep Bath Herbal Tea Reading a story Audio cues: white noise, music Read a book Use essential oils to connect relaxation with sleep Heavy blanket or massage as tactile cue Snacks high in protein can help: warm milk, turkey, piece of fruit Gentle stretching Mindfulness Breathing exercises SNOO for infants Exercising right before you go to bed may make it harder to fall asleepAvoid caffeine and nicotine late in the day and alcoholic drinks before bedMake room conducive to sleep: keep it dark, quiet, comfortable or slightly cooler temp [65 per Dr. Walker], no TV or computerDon't lie in bed awake, if you can't sleep get out of bed and do something like reading a book or listen to music until you feel tired.Herbals/supplements Melatonin 5-HTP Gratitude [for the day, resets the mind chemistry, sets the tone for your rest, triggers a cascade of autonomic events that can help you get deeper sleep]Wearables--> do they work? Maybe, maybe notResourceshttps://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/melatonin-and-sleep https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-940/melatonin https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/5-htp-benefits https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-794/5-htp https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3415362/

Setting the Stage

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2019 26:22


Disclaimer: the views, information, or opinions expressed during the PWG wellchat podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Pediatric Wellness Group [PWG] and its employees. PWG is not responsible for and does not verify for accuracy any of the information contained in the podcast series available for listening on this site. The primary purpose of this podcast series is to educate and inform. This podcast series does not constitute medical or other professional advice or services.This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. You may not edit, modify, or redistribute this podcast. PWG and the developers of this podcast assume no liability for any activities in connection with this podcast.Here's an outline of our first episode:Episode 1 --> setting the stage We are located in Redwood City, CA near Silicon Valley aka tech mecca correction: in the recording we mention that we are south of Silicon Valley, actually we are north of the valleyHow we met PICU rotation story How we designed this practice Balthazar's in NYC with Tricia creating a vision for our ideal space and practice Warm, inviting Art, colors, flooring, etc. Not sterile, want to make a visit to doc less anxiety provoking because "no one likes to go to the doctor's" Snacks for kids --> apple, organic lollipops Coffee for parents "take a break" Books [for kids and adults], inspiring messages on screen, tactile toys, FISH TANK We knew we succeeded when a yelp review mentioned that their child is having a tantrum because she wanted to go to doctor's office! How we opened up the practice No one would lend us money we were 2 women doctors with no formal management training First Republic supported us, we love Greg Leando! Weren't sure how this would be received by people, really grateful that people followed us Why we are passionate about private practice Allows us to practice the way we feel is best for ourselves and our families Build relationships : People trust us and can open up to us, we can then have an impact esp with teens We *know* your child and can recognize when something is not right Important for you to be seen as a whole person, not just a number Integrate multiple tools for wellness Western medical tools such as vaccines Other healing traditions such as acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Ayurveda HPV vaccine story We are graded on this as a performance metric We have more latitude to craft an individual solution rather than strictly following algorithms Why a trifecta? Boston Cream Pie story Really at the heart of what we see every day What is wellness? We think it represents a healthy body, mind, and heart.Need a healthy body, mind and heart to live a joyous and fulfilling life Foundation of wellness: sleep, nutrition, exercise --> like the base of Maslow's triangle Trifecta for teens: balancing family with job/school and friendships/relationships Will come back to this idea of trifecta again and again How our episodes will work Set up some science, give you overview Deeper dives into specific areas Why are we talking about this?

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