Teresa Buchanan, MBA, RN, and Pat Reilly, MSN, RN

The HeartMath class from March 11, 2016

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel weighed down by the many demands placed on you?

We all know that life can move at what seems to be lightning speed and deliver many surprises along the way. Add to that the fast and dynamic environment in which we work, and it’s not surprising that we may have these daunting moments.

Lama Marut, a Buddhist monk, noted that as human beings, we are either between disasters or in the middle of one. On the surface, this thought may seem discouraging, but upon reflection, it can enhance our ability to demonstrate compassion, understanding and appreciation, as well as inspire us to prepare for our own challenges.

We are in the unique position of being able to help our patients and their loved ones manage the challenges in which they find themselves. Someone who can do this with skill, empathy and kindness has provided a singular and exceptional gift to the recipient as well as to themselves. However, caregiving may exact a toll on those providing care as we witness and secondarily experience the pain and suffering of those for whom we care. Additionally, at any point, we may be dealing with our own crises. Therefore, being self-aware and learning to intelligently manage stress are crucial to maintaining physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health and wholeness.

A new course offered at BWH called “HeartMath: The Resilience Advantage” offers a possible solution. The one-day seminar provides strategies and the science and research behind stress management techniques to help participants build personal resilience. The course has been offered since September 2015 and participants report successfully using the techniques learned – not only for themselves, but with patients, families and relatives.

The free HeartMath class, which is held at One Brigham Circle, has openings in the June 3, July 21, Aug. 25 and Sept. 21 classes. If you are interested in attending, please contact Teresa Buchanan at tbuchanan@partners.org.