When you think about health, do you define it as the absence of illness, or as overall well-being ? How might that definition influence the way you care for patients?

Think of a person who was medically cured but emotionally unsettled or one who was not cured but felt supported and at peace.  How did your approach influence whether that person experienced curing alone or true healing?

As you move into your next clinical encounter, consider: What would it look like to aim for both curing and healing — even in a brief appointment? That question alone can shift the quality of presence you bring.

In your current practice, do you focus more on “What is wrong ?” or “What is the person experiencing ?”  How might shifting that question change the conditions you create for healing ?

Think about a recent interaction with a patient or family member.  Did your presence ease suffering or unintentionally add to it and what might have shifted if your intention had been more deliberate?

Think about one interaction you had today—how did your words, tone, or presence affect the other person’s experience?

What self-care or mindset practice could help you stay present and intentional in your next encounter? How can you consciously use your orientation to support healing today?

3.7 prompt