Finding a Better Way

Don't Ask Why Things Can't Be Different, They're Perfect

2017-02-16T15:51:00.000-08:00

It has been over a month since I've written a blog post. I find this frightening. Okay, that's a wee bit dramatic. I guess time really does fly when you're having fun and being more personally reflective. But, today I want to publicly share something I've been reflecting on this week.

Lately, I've become more aware of how I compare myself to my peers, my classmates, my friends. Don't get me wrong, I have always known that I have done this. I mean, I live in our society, and I'm 99% sure a side-effect of that is social comparison. I suppose it is more accurate to say lately I have observed the thoughts more rather than getting completely consumed by them.

I am going to be completely openly honest and fearlessly authentic here, so buckle up your seat belts. In the past two years, I have felt as if my life has been in a stand-still. The majority of my closest friends have been married and now have children or are pregnant. They are getting homes and becoming more established in their careers. I feel no where near any of that. Admittedly, these are things I thought we all would experience together. See, up until a couple of years ago, we had gone through so many major life events together - college, first boyfriends, horrid breakups, etc. I guess I just subconsciously assumed we'd all experience these "adulting" stages in life together.

I have come to understand and accept that medical school puts you on an interesting timeline. I have often heard it said that here (in med school), "the days are long but the years are short". Considering that I'm already more than halfway done with my first year, this certainly rings true. It's like time is flying by yet your life looks very similar to the way it has for years: the life of being a student. Uncertain of where you will end up at the next step, in our case, for residency or thereafter. It's not like a "regular job" for a while. You are learning and working, but you're not really making money. You're accumulating loans. It's all very psychologically intriguing really. Especially when you're a "nontraditional" student like me and enter medical school at 25 rather than 22.

But, I've come to understand that I really need to slow down these comparison-types of thoughts in order to logically process them. I have to continually understand that my path is uniquely my own. There are no right or wrong turns unless the ones I deem so. We all have the privilege of writing our own story, so we should strive to embrace that rather than trying to apply the plot twists and characters of someone else's.

That brings me to the line in one of my favorite songs that prompted me to pen these thoughts. From Minnie Driver's "Everything I've Got In My Pocket":

"When you're staring out into the sky, see what you have & don't ask why things can't be different. They're perfect."

Being here in Lubbock, I have begun to truly appreciate the sky, the sunrises, and the sunsets. I don't think I really ever have in life. Not like this. With the wide open west Texas sky, it's majesty is impossible to ignore. It is just so clear & obvious here.

Live Life from an Open-Hearted Space

2017-01-16T13:02:00.000-08:00

Happy Martin Luther King Day Monday, y'all! It's been a while since I've posted a purely Music Monday post. Today's song is an old favorite of mine by The Shins, "Simple Song".

My favorite line pretty much sums up why I love the song:

I think that last word is technically "home", but let's just roll with the hope theme.

I've been thinking lately about authenticity. Interestingly enough, it was the topic of a Bible study just last week when it was on my mind. I pondered what it meant to me for me to live from an authentic head-space the majority of the time. And, I discovered that oftentimes that means taking a nuanced approach to circumstances and decisions that might not seem like the logical choice to outsiders looking in.

Authenticity made me think about being open-hearted. I quickly Googled an official definition for this, and thefreedictionary.com describes openheartedness as 'showing or being motivated by sympathy and understanding and being freely communicative'. I love this definition. It reminds me that when we do approach seemingly difficult decisions in our lives, we should lead first with a heart of understanding for those involved and for ourselves.

Which brings me to the song lyrics. We literally need one another to make it through. I can't tell you how much just in the last couple of days I've texted my best friends for advice and encouragement and daily ridiculousness. We really don't have to go it alone.

Similarly, I like the idea that hope is something critical, an essential component to getting along in this life. With openheartedness, the hope is that we can be true to ourselves and others in a liberating way.

I like to think that the legacy of MLK and others like him reinforce this concept of openheartedness. Striving first to come from a space of sympathy and understanding before discrimination. So, in the spirit of his legacy on this day, and in the spirit of openheartedness, I encourage you all to liberally be your truest self in this life! Stay golden, my friends.

Continuous Contentment

2017-01-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well, happy new year to you all!

The new year is such an inspirational time period. I know there are statistics about how people don't maintain their resolutions and whatnot, but the mere making of resolutions is exciting enough to me. I love seeing everyone's new year's eve epic snapshots accompanied by a suitable caption for starting fresh in the new year.

It's funny because usually not much drastically changes in your life from December 31st to January 1st. Change happens over time. But a change in perspective happens in an instant.

I think that's what I experienced yesterday. It was a combination of good talks (and texting conversations) with some good friends, the sermon I heard Sunday morning, and self-reflection contemplating it all. My perspective towards moving into the new year shifted towards contentment. Before progressing in my other goals, my first step is to be content where I am.

The thing that I realized is this: I will likely continue to evolve and accordingly resolve to do certain things throughout the year (and, let's be real, throughout my lifetime). Therefore, I should not think that happiness/success/peace/etc awaits me in the future. I have to understand how those elements exist within my life even now, in the present moment. There's this quote by Lao Tzu that I have always loved and it certainly rings true for me still today:

"Always we hope someone else has the answer, some other place will be better, some other time it will all turn out. This is it; no one else has the answer, no other place will be better, and it has already turned out. At the center of your being, you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want. There is no need to run outside for better seeing. Nor to peer from a window. Rather abide at the center of your being; for the more you leave it, the less you learn. Search your heart and see the way to do is to be."

Is that not just the most refreshing insight on living life? I just love it. Maybe more now than when I first stumbled upon it about 6 years ago in college.

The first couple of lines is what really resonates with me now. This is it. Everything is already as it should be in the present moment.

So, that being said, I gazed out from my balcony, and truly appreciated the view this morning. Lubbock is by no means a vacation get-a-way, but then again, isn't that just a state of mind?

Just look at the expansion of the sky, the calmness of the water, the stillness of the barren trees. This view from my balcony is not a common awe-inspiring snapshot of nature's beauty, but it's actually not far from it when you think about it. It's all about perspective. Keeping life's little wonders in perspective keeps me content.

Lastly, in the spirit of Music Monday, I'd like to share Jack Johnson's "Banana Pancakes". That one line says it all: "we got everything we need right here and everything we need is enough".

Stay golden, my friends!

The Quote that Solved by Existential Crisis

2016-12-29T00:42:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this quote on Pinterest about three months ago. I instantly liked it, but as I was going through saved pins on my phone, it resonated even more with me today.

Quote by Erin Hanson

Leading up to the New Year, I always have an existential crisis pondering the direction my life is going. I just love how this simple yet profound quote calms the mental chatter.

I can't tell you how many times I have made decisions and doubted myself about them. Or questioned whether or not someone feels a certain way about me. The latter one is particularly exhausting. And though I can logically see there are no benefits of keeping those cognitive wheels spinning, it seems that it is almost inevitable. But the thing is, I may not be able to completely stop by natural tendency to overthink, but I can make peace with this beast so that I can tame it.

I need to keep this truth in mind: I can think of a million what-if's to every situation I am presented; I just need to be sure to include the positive, hopeful possibilities, as well. Even just one positive perspective can silence a multitude of negative ones. And all of the mental conjectures are equally true. They have equal chances of occurring or not. Oftentimes life yields a slightly different outcome that we didn't 100% anticipate. And, in a way", even this is the spice of life,"

So, going forth into this new year my friends, keep in mind the positive possibilities. We can't even begin know what 2017 might hold. Might as well get excited. Stay golden, my friends, and a happy new year to you all!

When all Else Fails, Just Strike a Pose & Smile

2016-12-23T07:12:00.000-08:00

So, clearly I just had professional pictures done again like I did back when I turned a quarter of a century. And, I 100% enjoyed it. In fact, I think everyone should go to Groupon and find good deals to have your own personal photo shoot. Because, really, why not? That portraits session really got me thinking about the concept of smiling.

I think we have all at some point in our lives slapped a smile on our face in spite of feeling worried or stressed or frustrated about something going on in our personal lives. I think it's important to have people in your life that you can share those difficult things with, but I think that smiling-in-spite-of is a good practice, as well. Is this "faking it 'til you make it"? Perhaps, in a way, but I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing. If you can find something to genuinely smile about, I think it helps you get to a better-feeling mental space to better deal with the personal challenge.

So, often, we are in our heads too much. We over-analyze how we're being perceived by others while simultaneously trying to process the perceptions we are being given. I know that in the last few months, I have definitely fallen victim to this cycle. It can be exhausting. But, maybe the smiling-in-spite-of principle can be applied here, as well.

I am coming to accept the fact that I tend to have an overly analytical mind. Especially when it comes to school/career, personal growth or ever-evolving relationships, which is basically, just life. I think as long as I strive to find the middle, some sort of balance, then that's about all I should expect for myself. To just try. So, sometimes you just have to smile at the situation, confusing as they may be.

This reminds me of a quote I heard and once wrote about on this blog from a short-lived TV Show Emily Owens MD:

"It's hard trying not to judge yourself, because we are aware of every mistake. We know our inner doubts, our hidden motivations, our failings. So, my wish for next year is to be easier on myself, focus less on the bad and more on the good. Really, just give myself a break"

Those words resonated with me four years ago, and they ring even more true to my life today. As we move into 2017, I encourage you all to just strike a pose (even if just in front of yourself in a mirror), smile, and give yourself and others a break more often than not. Stay golden, my friends!

We must not simply survive, we must THRIVE

2016-12-19T12:32:00.001-08:00

Hey guys!

The title of this blog post has two separate inspirations.

First of all, the image is courtesy of my new Almond Butter that I got for free (minus the shipping) from Thrive Market. I saw it advertised on Chelsea Houska's Instagram. So, I enjoy free things, so I almost never miss an opportunity. The cool thing about this though - besides the natural food promise which you can read about on the website - we got to donate a portion of our savings. I just thought that was the coolest thing. It's small, but it's something. Moreover, they have a blog with a Well-Being sub-section, so I'm pretty much sold.

Naturally, the the name "Thrive" is the direct inspiration. But, this next anecdote shares why I feel that we're not just supposed to "get by" and survive in life. Rather, we should really flourish and do things that fuels our souls to do so.

So, I am coming off week of 3 exams in Neuroscience, so I'm PRETTY beat. What's more, the last two weeks have been full of greasy, fried food. It's just easier to study nonstop and grab something quick instead of whipping up something healthy. I do not advocate this, but I am jus' sayin' - the struggle gets REAL. But, this time I noticed random blemishes on my face. This was evidence verifying the statement, "you are what you eat". So, this week for me is all about getting back on track - with my diet, my workouts and restorative sleep where I don't have nightmares about the mechanism of action for various psychiatric drugs.

I woke up this morning, with the goal of drinking tons more water than I have been and to walk at least a mile. Starting off nice and easy. Then it dawned on me that this was like a New Year's Resolution. So, then I thought how cool is it to get started on those resolutions two weeks early?! Maybe that's the secret to success in maintaining them? Takes that "January 1st" pressure off.

Welp, whatever you do, do it well. Happy Monday, my friends!

The Joys of Multi-tasking

2016-12-12T17:46:00.001-08:00

Lubbock recently opened up a Panera Bread, so my friends and I wanted to go! It is the little things in life, after all, that you just take for granted until you can't enjoy them anymore. When we got here, we ran into one of our other classmates and decided to join him for dinner. Sidenote: I love my medical school class. My Class of 2019 in particular. We all just have a way of being so friendly and congenial. Everyone says so. But, I digress. The title reflects how I saw this trip to Panera. I got to hang out with friends, eat good food, and study afterwards all in one. I just love feeding multiple birds with one loaf of bread. I think there is much benefit to receive from seeing things this way. When we allow all of our to-do's and want-to-do's in life to be integrated into one synergistic unfolding, it's quite simply, bliss. Welp, that's the thought for today. No music, just mental musings. One exam down, and two more to go this week! Happy Monday, y'all! Stay golden.

Just a Bit of Wisdom from Regina Spektor

2016-12-05T17:56:00.001-08:00

I'm going to make this post short & sweet since I've knee-deep in Behavioral Sciences information right now. But, I just wanted to share this little reminder I just received. I like to mix it up when I study, in terms of the music I listen to. Tonight at Starbucks I decided to jam to an old playlist, and Regina Spektor's "On the Radio" came on. When I tell you guys that this used to be MY JAM, I mean it. 20 year-old Jasmin at Duke was a Regina Spektor fiend, and this song was my absolute favorite. My favorite line remains:

It's just another one of life's simple truths, and it's just always made me smile. So, maybe it'll do the same for you! Welp, gotta keep trudging through the material, so I won't be able to make this post super-insightful, but if nothing else, treat yo'self to a mini-dance-party to this upbeat tune:

Happy Music Monday!

Stay Young, Stay Free, Stay You & I'll Stay Me

2016-11-29T15:18:00.003-08:00

There's this song I used to absolutely love running to called "Young Blood" by The Naked and Famous. It serves as today's Tuesday Tune (since I was driving the majority of the day Monday and missed out on Music Monday). The upbeat and melody is enough reason to love it, but for me, per usual, it's the lyrics that really captivate me. My favorite line goes as follows:

"We're only young and naive still
We require certain skills."

I give you permission to have a dance party of one to this song right now.

Isn't it great?

I recently bought this poster from Holstee's Poster Sale last week. It's a nice addition for my growing wall of inspiration. "Foolish" is a bit provoking. I'm not by any mean advocating we all act a fool. But, for me, it reminds me to stay silly. A reminder I appreciate. And, then, I thought about this song.

I first heard this song when I had just recently graduated from college in 2012, and these words rang so true for me. Trying to navigate post-grad life totally felt like I was out of my element - missing the skills I needed to cope with the transition from that cookie-cutter K through college plan into the this-is-adulthood-do-whatever-you-want-in-the-sequence-you-want plan.

I know I'm not alone with these "am I adulting right?" thoughts, These thoughts are most prevalent when it comes to thinking about our career paths and relationships. We are all too often critical of ourselves, of our actions. At least I know I am. I wonder how I come off to others, how they are perceiving me, how I perceive myself. I think a healthy dose of self-reflection and introspection is necessary, but there must be a balance.

There must be a healthy dose of love and acceptance for ourselves and for others. For all of their idiosyncrasies and charm. Children have this quality. To be silly and make their own fun. It's an amazing quality that we quickly unlearn in a world full of rules and order. Again, I feel there needs to be balance. Especially when we're interacting with others. We could pore over the research about social contracts and even the unspoken rules of "playing it cool" while dating in the modern age.

Or we can just be ourselves? Whatever that means for you. I feel like when we are honest about who we are and present that, ever-changing, dynamic individual to others, we have nothing to lose but fear and anxiety. We gain freedom.

I wrote the title of this blog off the top of my head because I just wanted it to rhyme. But, I really kinda like it. Isn't it liberating to feel that you're free to be you and I can be free to be me without the fear of judgment? So, just a simple reminder to you, my friends. Stay you! Whoever that happens to be at the moment.

Another reason I just love Holstee!

Fridays with Friends: Supporting Local Businesses

2016-11-29T14:41:00.000-08:00

See the impromptu video below!
(This is what happens when my friends take me on errands...)

Check out Royal Event Consulting at:

https://www.facebook.com/royal.eventconsulting?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/royalballoons.ndcakes/?hc_ref=SEARCH
https://www.instagram.com/royalballoons.ndcakes/

Home.

2016-11-21T10:38:00.000-08:00

I'm home!

Being home for a whole week for Thanksgiving break is quite the privilege. It's kinda awkward because I still have classes that are recorded online, so technically I'm still in study-mode. But, I will tell you it is refreshing to study in a new space. Well, a new yet familiar place. White Rhino Coffee. So, turns out writing and studying in coffeeshops at home is just as effective as when in Lubbock.

So, there's this shirt that I bought when I was a the thrift shop, and it's super comfortable. I also love that it has the outline of Texas on it. And, I like it's time-tested truth: "Home is where my heart is". I absolutely love being around my family. And, the older I get, the more I appreciate being home to spend time with them altogether. I drove from Lubbock to Dallas for the first time all by my lonesome this break and it was glorious! I love the company I've had over the years on mini-road trips, but there was something particularly spectacular about traveling for a substantial distance solo. One of the magical moments was turning in to the street where my parents live. It's like each time I return, the trees are more majestic, the skies are more expansive. And, since it's Fall, the mix of colors were absolutely amazing. (Sorry I didn't take a photo, I'm a responsible driver *wink, wink* - no but really! I don't know why I winked). Then, I drove into the driveway, opened the door, and was greeted by these wonderful humans who I'm lucky enough to call my family.

Home truly is where you heart resides. And that means that no matter where you go in the world, if you can tap into your heart and find comfort in memories, then you're home. No matter if your childhood home is still the place where you parents reside or not, wherever the people you grew up with are, is home. This is a simple truth. I'm not blogging anything ground-breaking epiphany. I just thought I'd share the reminder because in this hustle-bustle society, it's so easy to forget life's simple truths.

That somewhat brings me to today's selection for Music Monday, the most beautiful cover of Pat Benetar's "We Belong" that I have ever heard. It's done by an artist named Today Kid.

Click Here for Song

I first heard it from the Chase commercial (below). Which is an absolutely precious commercial.

(I'll address another one of my favorite topics - interracial dating in another post, by the way!)

I chose this song for today's post because the style in which he does this cover is very centering to me. My favorite line remains the same as when it is the original rendition and it comes towards the end/resolution of the song, after the potentially sad lines: "We can't begin to know it, how much we really care". I love this line. I feel that it can apply to so many different areas of life. In this song in particular, it's a romantic relationship that continues to unfold. With family, we can come to learn how much we really care for those once super-duper annoying little brothers. Similarly, in the spirit of connecting with others, it can even apply to how much you can come to care for those people who you've only just met. For me, that line represents all of that, and this song just makes my heart feel super happy.

Welp, that's all I've got for today, folks! Hope you enjoy the song, and if nothing else, the sentiment.

Stay golden, my friends

Finding a Better Way to Pursue Passions

2016-11-16T13:02:00.003-08:00

So, I have a confession to make. Here's the confession of a second-year medical student with a Masters degree in Public Health and a desire to take this blog to the next level. There are some days where I seriously question whether or not I will continue this journey towards becoming a physician. I have battled the feeling of academic inferiority ever since my sophomore year in high school when I got my first C as a final grade on a report. It was in Honors Geometry. The thing is, school work has never come easy to me. Contrary to popular belief, I actually am not a genius. I have pulled all-nighers to understand difficult material ever since middle school. I always had the take advantage of extra problem sets and tutors to really grasp challenging material. So, you can imagine that this struggle of academic confidence has amplified almost a thousand-found here in med school.

But, then I think about getting past all of the exams and the grueling late-night study sessions, and I envision a future where I'm working with a team of talented, healthcare professionals to improve the quality of life of our patients. That's when I remind myself that it is all totally worth it.

Dr. Zubin Damania (aka ZDoggMD)

About two weeks ago, we had a presentation by Dr. Zubin Damania, CEO and Founder of Las Vegas-based Turntable Health. He spoke of "Healthcare 3.0" - the idea that we can achieve a healthcare system in which everyone - patients, health care providers, and administration are empowered. It was such an inspirational reminder of what I envision for my future of a member of the healthcare system.

Similarly, he has a ton of videos on YouTube where he features his parodied songs hitting on important topics surrounding healthcare. So, here we have a physician who also makes music videos on the side. A serendipitous example of how you can eventually pursue a diverse array of passions. Check out ZDoggMD's personal shout-out to Finding a Better Way!

But, isn't that what life is all about folks? Being constantly inspired by different passions and pursuing them synergistically - honoring both without neglecting either. And, if your passion causes your path to change course, that's okay, too. I think Dr. Peter Prentice (not a real doctor) from The Mindy Project (a real show that I love): "You're allowed to change what you want in life, people do it all the time." And, I personally think that if you can try to stay as true as possible to your passions, you'll find that your path can align in such a magical way.

So, maybe I will succeed in maintaining this blog, the vlog on YouTube, and anything else that I can think up along the way as I journey this path of becoming a physician. It's definitely a better mental way for me to proceed, anyway.

On a different yet related note, I'm finding that studying in coffeeshops is so much better when I understand the material the first time around. Thank you, Behavioral Sciences unit, thank you. You're making this Psych major and MPH in Behavioral Sciences & Health Promotion master smile a little bit brighter.

Stay golden, my friends!

Humans of Coffeeshops

2016-11-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

I'm considering starting a new series inspired from my post yesterday. Or maybe I'll merge it with my previous Fridays with Friends video segment. I cannot express how delightfully random my conversations have been of late. People are so interesting and intriguing. So, possible new the blog series!

Humans of Starbucks

2016-11-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

I just had one of the most wonderfully random conversations with this guy I met at a Starbucks I've been frequenting lately. I know I literally just posted about how much I love studying at coffee shops (I looked it up, technically "coffeehouse" is more accurate, but literally everyone says coffee shops, so have at it), and for a girl who doesn't even drink coffee, I find this ironic. But, I just had to share my impression on this interaction.

Here's the thing about people. We're so human, and we sometimes forget. Let me explain.

I feel as if so often we feel that we are disconnected from each other. The whole concept of other, someone being different and a part from me, creates an unconscious disconnect in social settings. For example, when we're standing in the unofficial designated area where we wait for our order, don't we just look at our phones or talk to the people we came with and generally avoid eye contact with the person right beside us? I'm not saying this is a bad thing, necessarily, I'm saying it's a natural thing. And, that's why we get caught off-guard when someone says hello. At least I was caught off-guard today when the guy said, "Hey I'm waiting for my tea to steep, so lucky you, you get to chat with me while I wait." And, no, this was not a pick-up line or him hitting on me or anything like that. Not that kind of funny story. That's for another post I'm working on. But, it was literally just that. A chat because, why not?

And, my friends, if anyone is a good candidate for a random chat, I'm your girl. I live for these kinds of study breaks. I actually live for any type of study break, really. I'm taking one right now. It helps me focus.

Semi-staged photo to prove I was actually studying before writing this post

In the past couple of weeks, I have had random chats in a coffee shop with a law student about how I wanted to act as a witness for their mock trial and met a girl in the same program as one of my friend's girlfriend. It's a small world, y'all. I know being in a college-y town greatly increases my ability to proclaim that it's a small world, but even in the big city of Dallas, I've had similar experiences.

Quote I saw on Pinterest a while ago that I realized pretty much sums up the paragraph below

Every one has a story or some insight or perspective on life that we don't share. In learning their point of view, some things make us go, "hmm" or "whatever" or "me, too!". I think I just wanted to share this to encourage everyone to strike up random conversation every now and then. It might be good for our mental health. (I am unofficially saying this, I have no idea what the research is on this). Speaking from experience, it has definitely made my days more interesting, if nothing else. I've been telling my friend Courtney that these types of experiences are the spice of life. I have literally used that phrase about 10 times in our text messaging thread over the past couple of weeks. (I wonder if I can turn it into a hashtag. How do I get that permission? Will find out later...) So, share a smile, a wave/head nod, kind word, whatever. In short, as one the great poets of 90's pop music The Spice Girls once said, spice up your life.

Studying at Coffeehouses

2016-10-24T00:23:00.000-07:00

So, about three weeks ago, I decided that I was going to start studying at various coffeehouses throughout the week instead of studying in my usual solitude in the study area in my apartment complex. A bit of background, last year during the first year of medical school I learned that I actually really didn't enjoy studying in the school's library or at any of the school study spaces. I think the school environment stressed me out. I also learned that I couldn't study if I felt like I was surrounded by other health professional students. I do not know how their mere presence stressed me out, but it totally did. So, some time in the spring semester last year, I just started studying in my apartment. It was glorious. I could eat whenever with food I had already paid for. I could take naps and not feel awkward if someone saw me because no one would. If I needed human interaction, I could just pop in the kitchen when I heard my roommate grabbing a snap. Jackpot! It was wonderland. However, this was a gig I could only keep up during the sunny time of spring and the end of summer. As we progress through autumn, that gloomy shorter days longer nights mood is starting to set in, and I need to be around more energy to keep mine up. But, I definitely didn't want to go to school or any school's library for that matter...what to do?

Signature Wall at Sugar Brown's Coffee

Cut to coffeeshouses! It's almost as if this idea had never occurred to me before this year. I studied at a couple of coffeehouses last year, but it just didn't stick. But, now, I was determined. Luckily, there's a bunch of cool spots around Lubbock for me to hop about. And, in the past weeks of me doing just that, I have discovered what love I have for this study setting. I really like the artsy feel of places that sell coffee. It's as if they only higher the hipster-est looking baristas, and I love it. They also usually have other things going on like performances or cool art hanging around that just makes you feel like, "hey man, I'm immersed in this community." I love it. AND, the best part - aside from the cute designs they put in your drinks and pastries of course (see below) - is that the constant movement of people in and out is the perfect amount of distraction for me. There's a certain steady hustle and bustle quality with the drinks being made, people greeting and chatting with friends, people studying super diligently - I am obsessed with the energy. It's an extra added bonus when I see a few of my classmates, too. It's like, "hey, we're cool, we're not merely med students, we are a part of this vibrant community, man!"

Compliments of Yellow House

I'm not sure everyone shares this same sentiment, but I'm sure glad I've found my niche. I'm telling, it has revolutionized my studying. So, naturally, I just had to share. And, since coffeehouses are always playing cool, indie, coffeehouse music, today's Music Monday selection is one that I heard in Xcelente (which is also a smoothie bar, so they get extra cool points from me): Cake's "Tougher Than It Is". Actually has a really simple yet powerful message, in my opinion.

Favorite line:

"The more you try to qualify, the more it all will past you by"

So, just be in the moment, guys. Don't justify your life away with the minutia of it all. Go study at coffeehouses! Happy Monday, folks.

Aloha means Love (Music Monday is back too! ...

2016-10-18T21:27:00.001-07:00

...Although technically it's not Monday, let's just roll with it!)

Why hello there my friends!

Don't give me that look. I know. I know. I haven't posted on here for a while. Well, that's what the second year of medical school does to a person!

But, lately. I've been feeling really out of balance. I've found that when I diversify my attention, I'm more efficient with my work and more balanced with my emotions.

So, I bought a ukulele. It made me think about how the word 'aloha' actually translates to love. Here's a quick story below!

That being said, I leave you with a simple and sweet song for today.. It's Ingrid Michaelson's "You & I". I have always, always appreciated the cheerful sound of the ukulele. And these lyrics are so delightfully hopeful.

Favorite Line:
"Let's get rich and give everybody nice sweaters, and teach them how to dance."

Final Word.
Life really is about love, folks. Love for yourself, love for the universe, love for your Creator, love for others. When I focus my attention on love, that definitely helps to reduce the stress. So, aloha, my friends. Stay golden.

Views from Costa Rica

2016-07-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

"Poor Man's Umbrella"

Two weeks ago, I returned from my first study abroad experience in San Jose, Costa Rica. I will attempt to succinctly surmise my reflections on this yet another amazing experience of my summer.

First of all, check out the photos for all the natural beauty of the country. So much vegetation! Also, I was glad to truly immerse myself into the culture of 'pura vida'. The following video describes this further:

I can also honestly say it was interesting to not be able to speak the national language. I mostly felt lost and a little bit embarrassed when I could not communicate. It really opened my eyes to the vulnerability one could feel in any unfamiliar environment.

Hanging out with a toucan

Finally, the most intriguing phenomenon I experienced was that after only a little while, I felt like I could have easily been at home. Not because there are oh-so-many similarities between America and Costa Rica or anything like that, but because the saying "home is where the heart is" actually really rings true. Another phrase that comes to mind is the title of Jon Kabat-Zinn's first book, "where ever you go, there you are". See, the thing is I was in a new environment, but I was still me. Still Jasmin. With all of my memories carried over from past experiences and hopes for the future. Therefore, my internal environment was a very familiar one. This feeling also brought comfort when I longed to be with my family and friends back home. When I tapped into this inner, familiar feeling, I felt that they were there with me. Becaus

Sloths are a pretty big deal in the country

e the truth is I carry them with me wherever I go.

I hope to travel abroad again someday. Not sure I know where to next, but I'm sure it will be a uniquely enriching experience in and of itself. And, I look forward to that. Until next time, enjoy the views from Costa Rica below!

SO. MUCH. NATURAL. BEAUTY.

Great shadowing experiences

We got to stand in on a maxillofacial surgery!

Road trip to beautiful beach town Manuel Antonio

And I got to celebrate my birthday there!

Could not have enjoyed a better trip in a beautiful place.

Who can remain silent? Insights on Peace

2016-07-13T13:24:00.001-07:00

I've just come back from my adventure in Costa Rica a little over a week ago, and I was looking forward to sharing my insights and pictures from my travels.

But, then, all the tragedies of last week occurred. I'm posting on social media, so I don't need to rehash any of the specifics here. But I did want to say this.

Usually I don't speak on political or social commentary, mostly because things move way too quickly for me to keep up. But, then I thought to myself: how can I stand silent with sadness, frustration and fear?

I reflected: the name of my blog is Finding a Better Way. Currently, I'm personally trying to figure out how to find a better way to cope with the feeling of despair while trying to maintain hope for a better future. It can be tricky to remain optimistic in the face of tragedy, but I think I've found a way to invite peace into my heart. In doing so, I have to sometimes unplug from the news, from the Facebook posts, etc. Not to remain uninformed and ignorant, but to maintain my own sanity and peace of mind. For me, finding my own peace allows me to visualize long-term, effective solutions to the root of these issues. For me, peace delivers clarity that leads towards social change. The type of peaceful change that will ensure that the slain and their families are never forgotten and everyone's efforts towards change are not in vain.

I just wanted to share a few insights in case there's anyone else out there like me trying to find a better way to cope, a better way to process, a better way to heal and move forward.

Bearing this in mind, throughout the remainder of my summer, I hope to share more insights that were gathered in my travels and experiences. Until then, peace, my friends. :-)

Entering my summer of restoration, transformation and exploration

2016-06-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm finally back to my blog! It has been way too long! My goal this summer is to chronicle it. In a reflective and effective manner. So, let's get started!

As the title of this blog post suggests, this summer is one in which I want to restore myself physically. I feel as if my mind, body and soul got completely exhausted during my first year of medical school, so now is time for some much needed rest and relaxation. I also feel that I have already transformed so much as an individual over this past year, and that journey also continues. Finally, I have been blessed enough to be able to travel a bit this summer and explore parts of the world that I never have before. Title seems quite fitting now, huh?

First off, I want to share with y'all an amazing experience I had just last week. I wrote the following post while I was flying from Texas to Costa Rica:

Beautiful Mission Beach

Mission in Oceanside, CA

As I leave one transformative journey and embark upon the next adventure, I wanted to take a moment to reflect. I just attended a mentally, emotionally and physically restorative retreat in a lovely mission 45 minutes north of San Diego. While there, a group of other medical students and I surveyed the various layers of integrative medicine and healing, self-care practices to incorporate in our professional and personal life. Now as I sit above the clouds heading towards Costa Rica, I am reminded of mindfulness. Really taking in the moment-by-moments of life. It's so beautiful up here.

View from above the clouds

It's rare that I get a window seat. I don't think that I've had once since college, over 4 years ago. There's a certain serenity to it all. The way the sun peeked over the horizon as the rain clouds floated away. It's quite magical, really, if I could use that word to describe what is ever so common in nature. This stillness. This peace.

The program I attended reminded me to interweave these same themes in my own life. To remember to be still, to restore, to contemplate in the quiet of your mind. To honor and enjoy the energy shared between yourself and others.

Just a portion of the most amazing people I've met yet!

After seeing how I could practically integrate alternative and complementary practices into my practice of western medicine has restored my faith in myself to become a physician. More specifically, it has reignited a fire in my soul to be a healing physician. To treat each patient as a whole person - mind, body and spirit.

One major theme I learned from hearing everyone's stories of their life's paths thus far is this: the universe always provides a way for everything to fall into place. So, I won't worry myself with the details of how I will approach Step 1. Rather, I'll take each step along this path towards becoming an MD one at a time.

And last thought, but certainly not the least - I will never forget the beautiful souls I came across along this part of my journey. It's sad yet powerful to accept that though some of our paths may never cross again, the 5 days we shared in each other's space of growth and restoration will never be forgotten. Just as matter is neither created nor destroyed, neither is that energy that was created when that unique group of individuals came together. Our lives are forever changed by that moment in time.

In the coming weeks I'm sure I'll reflect upon more aspects of this retreat as I digest it all more. And, there will be videos to come! Until then, I will also try to chronicle my experience in Costa Rica with the same level of reflection and entertainment.

Today's Music Monday selection is an oldie-but-goodie that beautifully sums up this past week for me:

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Favorite Line:

"I see friends shaking hands,

Singing, "How do you do?"

They're really singing, "I love you"

Sunny Songs on a Saturday #2: Cultivating Positive Vibes and Affirmations

2016-03-05T11:42:00.001-08:00

Hey y'all!

So, good news - another block of medical school down and 3.25 more years of medical school to go! Woohoo! My how time flies. Kinda. Sorta. Anyhoo! It's another beautiful "75 & Sunny" type of Saturday, so perfect time for another installment of Sunny Songs on a Saturday!

Today's video features a hit from 2012, Bruno Mars's "Treasure". I never really jammed out to this song much back then, but it came on this 8tracks playlist while I was studying this past week, and in that moment it captivated me. Find out more in the video below!

Bottom Line

1 - Have mini dance parties often

2 - Speak positive words about yourself out loud and often

3 - Smile, you're alive

Also, I found this quote on Pinterest, and I absolutely love it! Let's just say it may or may not be my anthem for the rest of 2016! Props to the pinner Phyllis Williams and the article from whence it came on This Little Street.

Image courtesy of Pinterest

Sunny Songs on a Saturday

2016-02-20T15:01:00.000-08:00

Aloha friends! It's been SO sunny and warm in Lubbock lately that visions of summer have been saturating my mind! So, I wanted to introduce a new segment for Finding A Better Way: Saturday Sunshine Songs! The idea is for me to share with you a song I really like (just as I do with Music Monday), but the caveat is that it specifically has to do with sunshine/summer/beach/happiness, and such like themes. And within the 5 minutes, I'll try to share a bit of "sunny wisdom" that I learned throughout the week.

I hope this ideas sounds as awesome as it feels!

I'm excited!

CAN'T YOU TELL?!

So, without further ado, please enjoy the video below, discussing the idea of "no trouble, no fuss" in approaching the fluidity of friendships in life, an idea inspired by this Holstee article.

Click above to hear the full song!

How San Francisco Helped Me Breathe Again

2016-02-10T16:06:00.002-08:00

Happy new year and welcome back to me! (SN: Welcome To Me is a fairly intriguing dramedy starring Kristen Wiig, on Netflix, check it out). Maybe needless to say, medical school got extremely overwhelming for me towards the end of last semester. Don't get me wrong, I expect medical education to be challenging and rigorous. It's a profession that comes with great responsibility. The sense of overwhelm, however, came from imbalance. Not prioritizing sleep on most days, not working out in a fulfilling way, not blogging - all of these things added to my own personal imbalance. Ruminating over the past and fretting over the future did not help equilibriate, neither.

Thus, so far this year, I have tried to find what my own personal balance looks like for me. How do I best rest? Best relax? Best study? All of these aspects of life are best when they are tailor-made for who we are at the moment. At the moment, I am a medical student processing a heavy load of content, therefore, time is of essence. I need to understand that taking as long as I need to study and sleep might mean a shorter workout regimen. At least for now. The point is to ensure that however you plan out those important aspects of life, make it work for you at the moment - continuously. As I'm sure I've said before in blog posts, we are ever-evolving, after all.

What boarding a 4-hr flight at 7 pm
after being up since 5 am looks like

So, let's get to the title - San Francisco. Another aspect of life that got out of balance was my social activity. Something about school amping up caused me to become quite reclusive. Which is understandable, but nevertheless, out of balance. So, as a way to ensure this stays in the mix, I agreed to go on a spur-of-the-moment-decision trip to San Francisco at the end of our 2nd exam of the semester. The round trip was only $100! That's a YOLO-worthy ticket price.

The trip was definitely final purge for me to understand that keeping life in balance - in body, mind and soul - is absolutely essential. The trip taught me exactly what I expected it to. Life is too short to sacrifice your ideas of your own health and happiness for the sake of some ideal from outside sources. The kicker is, this outside source that I speak of isn't friends or family but that nagging alter ego in your head, the prime suspect. The one that is constantly telling you should do this or that. I'm glad that taking the trip challenged this alter ego that might have said you should stay and study over the weekend. I'm also glad that it taught me so many other lessons that I can't wait to spread out over more blog posts to come.

Hmm I forget what they call
the bridge...
Yes, that was an attempt
at a joke. I think you laughed.

Obligatory Tourist-y Photos

On a cable car!

On the curviest road, Lombard Street

In closing, today, I just want to re-iterate one thing: find out what works best for you in maintaining balance in your own life. If that changes, that's okay! Be flexible with your own growth and needs of the moment. And stay forever in peace and balance. Until next time!

Finding a Better Way to Hit the Reset Button

2015-10-03T19:50:00.004-07:00

Well, I haven't blogged in weeks, and I'm guessing you know why. Med school has completely taken over. Which, is not a bad thing by any means, but I am still a huge proponent of balance. I guess I've just been balancing in other ways. Like I went one full work-week working out every morning. It was great! But, then I kind of stopped that streak...but then I made A LOT of healthy meals the following week, so there's that. In the midst of all the attempts of maintaining balance outside of med school, I've also been trying to figure out how I best study in this environment. And, I think that I have figured it out. It took me hitting my own personal reset button.

Pretty sunrises - perks to waking up early to work out

There was a day about two weeks ago, when out of the blue, I just got so unbelievably overwhelmed with everything. Nothing in particular happened, but it felt like being encapsulated by a wave of emotion. Now, if you read my blog, these moments are not really new to me haha But, the thing is, I always glean new insight from them. That's what I want to share with you today.

On that day, I took a moment to reset. I was not tired, I had been sleeping pretty consistently (see this blog post, I learned my lesson). So, I didn't take a nap. I literally just sat. And, I breathed. I didn't make a plan or a to-do list or go for a run. I did nothing. For about 15-20 minutes. I just sat. Okay, granted, I sat in the jacuzzi in my apartment complex - but nothing more! No talking, no thinking, just breathing. I highly recommend taking some time to simply stop.

If this is a concept I got from some show like Grey's Anatomy, I apologize that it's not original, but it's the best analogy I can think of right now. It's like when you're on a high-speed train. You can't simply jump off the track. It's going, and you are on it, you are going. And, sometimes amidst the hustle and bustle of the fast-moving train, you might forget to catch your breath. The good news is, the solution is simple. Just breathe. Just breathe.

I know, I know, this is TOTAL Grey's Anatomy territory, I am not doing this on purpose just because I am in medical school, now. Grey's Anatomy premiered and soared when I was in high school, so I practically grew up with the show, along with a handful of others, even when I didn't watch a season all the way through. I am a product of my generation, so sue me. But, I cannot think of any better song to reiterate this point than Anna Nalick's "Breathe (2 AM)". And, that's why it's today's pick. It's a fairly melancholy song with a somber theme, BUT it conveys a solid point with my favorite line.

Anna Nalick's " Breathe (2 AM)"

Favorite Lines

"There's a light at the end of this tunnel...

You're just as far in, as you'll ever be out

***

Breathe, just breathe"

For me, these lines in particular encourage trudging forward in spite of a rough patch. Maybe you get hit by a wave of overwhelming emotion. Breathe, move forward. Maybe you get hit by a disappoint. Breathe, keep walking through. Actually, let's do it right now. Stop reading. Take a deep breath. In and out.

Okay, start reading again. You can always begin again. Start fresh, start anew. Just take a minute to reset, and, really, just give yourself a break every now and then. Until next time, (**cough, cough** after the test **cough, cough**), my friends!

Finding a Better Way to Thrive Academically

2015-09-18T13:42:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned last week, we had our first exams last week as first-year medical students. I was just so happy to merely survive it. I immediately hung out with my classmates and took lots of pics to celebrate getting over that hump.

Snapshots of Pure Bliss

Coming back to the next wave of material made me consider how often in school I have striven to just merely get by. As if I were just trying to stay afloat, trying not to get swept away by the undertow. These past few weeks have been no different. But, I know there is a better way. It's just a matter of finding a way that works best for you to thrive rather than struggling to survive in school, or in any life endeavor, for that matter.

Dr. John Pelley is a Professor of Medical Education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine (aka my school!). He and others at the institution have developed the Expert Skills Program in which they promote action and sleep as a way of enhancing learning. Take a watch at the TED Talk below!

Dr. Pelley's 2014 TEDxTexasTechUniversity Talk

If you've been following me for a while, you know how much of a fan I am of TED Talks, so it was very exciting to have the opportunity to interview someone who has given one. In our conversation, we discuss this idea of thriving in school rather than struggling to get by. Sometimes a fresh new perspective facilitates a brand new approach to life-long learning. Hopefully you'll find some of the nuggets of wisdom helpful!

Finding a Better Way to Cultivate Aequanimitas

2015-09-11T11:37:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Good news - I survived my first big-girl med school exams this week! Even better news - I've gained great insight into my study habits and approach to school this past week. Now, I'm ready to move upward and onward. You've got to keep looking forward and trudging ahead, no matter what. And, it's a beauty of life to be able to do so.

And now, I present to you a very special segment of Fridays with Friends. I got the awesome opportunity to interview the dean of the TTUHSC School of Medicine, Dr. Steven Berk yesterday! He shared wise words regarding, aequinimitas (the quality of remaining calm in intense situations) and mindfulness. I, personally, always enjoy reminders on remaining present in the moment. Hopefully, this quick video can inspire you, too!

Fridays with Friends: Dr. Steven Berk, TTUHSC SOM Dean

Happy Friday, my friends!