Episode 91 | Engaging Holistically in Self Care with Chris McDonald, LPC, RYT

Welcome to another episode of the Soul Care for Therapists Podcast! In this episode, Dawn Gabriel and her guest Chris McDonald have an insightful conversation on holistic self-care. Chris is a therapist, yogi, podcaster, meditation teacher, and author. Chris shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting her passion for holistic care and helping therapists incorporate holistic practices into their work. They discuss their shared experiences as podcasters and the importance of practicing what they preach.

Personal and Professional Journey

Chris McDonald is a therapist, yogi, podcaster, meditation teacher, and author. She shares her experience of juggling various roles in her life, acknowledging the challenges that come with it. Despite the occasional chaos, Chris finds fulfillment in her work. She runs a small group practice and hosts the Holistic Counseling Podcast, which has been nurturing for two years. Her podcast aims to grow its audience and provide more offerings for therapists. Chris particularly enjoys helping therapists with self-care and teaching them holistic practices to use with their clients.

Passion for Yoga and Meditation

Chris's journey into yoga and meditation started gradually. As a school counselor, she initially learned about breathwork during a teacher retreat. She noticed the positive impact it had on her students, allowing them to calm themselves. However, Chris realized that breathwork alone wasn't always sufficient. She discovered the power of combining breathwork with movement, which deepened the healing experience. Alongside this, Chris began exploring meditation by joining a local Buddhist group. Through consistent practice, she learned valuable lessons in maintaining daily practice and incorporated these practices into her personal lifestyle and therapeutic work.

Teaching and Practicing Self-Care

Dawn and Chris discuss the common tendency among therapists to teach mindfulness and self-care skills while neglecting their own practice. Chris emphasizes the importance of therapists actively engaging in the practices they teach. She admits that even as a teacher, she often uses practices as a band-aid, only turning to them when he's having a bad day or trouble sleeping. However, Chris encourages therapists to develop a regular self-care routine and integrate mindfulness, yoga, and meditation into their daily lives. By practicing what they preach, therapists can experience the transformative power of these holistic practices and better support their clients.

Holistic Practices in Session

As a therapist, Chris integrates various holistic practices into her sessions. She considers breathwork, meditation, and yoga as the trifecta of holistic self-care. Dawn states being mindful and present is difficult. “It's like we are asking people to slow down and get mindful, and that's so different than. Level up and hustle and do this thing next.” These practices help ground clients and promote mindfulness, slowing down the fast pace of their lives. Chris clarifies that the yoga she teaches isn't focused on fitness or flexibility but centers on calming the nervous system through mindful movements. She also incorporates brain spotting and polyvagal theory into her work, recognizing the importance of psychoeducation in helping clients understand and benefit from these practices. People do not realize how fast they are going and the permission and skills to slow down can be life-changing. 

Conclusion

Dawn and Chris conclude their conversation by emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself. Chris's decision to have a small group practice, despite external pressure to expand, exemplifies her commitment to her own well-being and soul care. They discuss how holistic practices challenge the culture of constant hustle and encourage individuals to slow down, be mindful, and find balance in their lives. By embracing holistic self-care, individuals can discover the transformative power of mindfulness, yoga, and meditation.

Ways to Engage Holistic Self-Care

Prioritize self-care: Develop a consistent self-care routine that includes mindfulness, yoga, and meditation practices. Make time for these activities daily to experience their full benefits.

Practice what you preach: As a therapist, actively engage in the holistic practices you teach your clients. By integrating these practices into your own life, you can better support your clients and lead by example.

Educate yourself: Explore books and resources on topics such as polyvagal theory and holistic approaches to therapy. Expand your knowledge and incorporate new techniques into your practice.

Be true to yourself: Don't feel pressured to conform to societal expectations or follow the path that everyone else is taking. Listen to your own needs and desires, and make choices that align with your values and well-being.

Slow down and find balance: Challenge the hustle culture and prioritize slowing down, being mindful, and finding balance in your life. Take breaks throughout the day, avoid rushing, and savor the present moment.

 

By implementing these action steps, you can engage holistically in self-care and create a more balanced and fulfilling life for yourself and your clients.

Links and Resources

Book: Self-Care for the Counselor: A Holistic Guide for Helping Professionals

Podcast Episode Holistic Self-Care Boundaries for the Therapists: The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard/Mustard Consulting LLC

The Holistic Counseling Podcast: Home - Holistic Counseling Podcast

Show Notes and Podcast Production by James Marland