On this week's episode, we have a wide-ranging conversation with Patricia McLelland. 

Patricia is a physician, but does more than merely meet bodily symptoms. She coaches and guides her patients to understand the whole person, beginning with what is going on within. She's been on a mission to help women for years, but over the years she's learned how to communicate processes and how to begin where you're at. She also asks: Where do you want to go? 

She gives insights into how to manage stress, and fight back against overwhelm. It's not always easy to let go of the many things we feel we have to do, but among the things to let go is NOT self-care. 

McLelland is also a voracious reader of the latest literature on sleeping, stress and wellness. Check out some of the surprising things she has to say about what's important, and how to make the best decisions to lead a big and sustainable healthy self. As she says, "You don't have to listen to me, but I've spent the past few weeks reading all the world's literature on sleep studies." 

Thanks for tuning in to the Big Self Podcast. We are a learning community for people at a career crossroads ready to rejoin their soul and their role. We have long-form conversations about self-awareness, relationships, tapping into your inner genius, and building sustainable habits. 

Time Stamps:

2:52 Patricia tells us about herself and how contracting a terrible illness in Africa when she was 16 shaped her decision to be a doctor.
10:46 How Patricia's love of Math influences how she practices as a leader in women's health
14:04 Patricia talks about the role of valuing yourself in overcoming health challenges
18:23 The important distinction between self-care and self-indulgence
21:35 Patricia talks about the two types of stress we face and tells us which type is most insidious
24:04 We have an in-depth conversation around the importance of sleep. Did you know sleep-deprivation is akin to being intoxicated? Also, the magic "sleep" hour when we should call it a night and go to bed.
33:32 Patricia talks about how critical proper nutrition is to being healthy and whole
38:50 We ask Patricia the age-old question: "what diet do you recommend?" Hint: it's probably different for me than for you.
46:52 The best place to start when you're striving for better health.
49:20 We wrap up with the three questions we ask each of our guests

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