08/27/24 Season 3 | Episode 3: dr. KIM HARMS talks “Managing Greif, Stress & Crisis in the Dental Office"!!!
Caitlin Parsons on the "Women in Dentistry" Podcast
In a recent episode of the "Women in Dentistry" podcast, Dr. Mary Jane Hanlon hosted Caitlin Parsons, a registered dental hygienist with 15 years of experience, a certified yoga therapist, ergonomic consultant, and founder of "The Aligned Hygienist." Caitlin shared her transformative journey in the dental field, highlighting her struggles with workplace pain and stress, and her mission to support other dental professionals in achieving better well-being. This blog post delves into the key themes and actionable advice from Caitlin's story, offering valuable insights for dental professionals seeking to improve their health and career satisfaction.
Caitlin's Journey into Dental Hygiene
Discovering Dental Hygiene
Caitlin's entry into the dental field was serendipitous. Without any family background in dentistry, she discovered dental hygiene in high school through a conversation with her dentist's hygienist. Encouraged by her father, who saw it as a stable career, Caitlin pursued a dental hygiene program at the University of New England.
Early Career Challenges
Caitlin quickly entered the workforce after graduating with an associate's degree and significant debt. However, she soon faced chronic pain, a common issue among dental professionals. This pain, coupled with feelings of isolation, led her to consider alternative careers.
The Turning Point: Embracing Yoga and Ergonomics
Discovering Yoga
Caitlin's journey towards healing began with yoga. Initially attending hot yoga classes, she noticed some improvement in her pain. However, she felt the need for a more tailored approach to address the specific physical demands of dental professionals.
Deep Dive into Therapeutic Yoga
Determined to heal herself, Caitlin quit her job and completed her first yoga teacher training. Moving to California, she furthered her studies in therapeutic yoga and ergonomics. This education allowed her to understand the importance of posture and movement in managing pain.
Overcoming Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While waiting for her California hygiene license, Caitlin developed carpal tunnel syndrome. Refusing pain medication and surgery, she applied her knowledge of therapeutic yoga, significantly improving her symptoms within weeks.
Transforming Her Career and Helping Others
Founding "The Aligned Hygienist"
Caitlin's experiences led her to establish "The Aligned Hygienist," a platform dedicated to helping dental professionals manage pain and stress through yoga and ergonomics. Her mission is to create a supportive community and provide resources for well-being.
Improving Patient Care
As Caitlin prioritized her well-being, she noticed a significant improvement in her patient care. Her communication and education with patients became more effective, highlighting the importance of self-care in professional performance.
Actionable Tips for Dental Professionals
1. Prioritize Self-Care
Caitlin emphasizes the importance of self-care for dental professionals. Chronic pain and stress can significantly impact job performance and overall well-being. Incorporating practices like yoga and mindfulness can help manage these issues.
2. Focus on Ergonomics
Proper ergonomics are crucial in preventing workplace injuries. Dental professionals should be mindful of their posture and body mechanics. Caitlin's programs offer tailored ergonomic advice to help professionals maintain healthy habits.
3. Build a Supportive Community
Isolation can exacerbate stress and pain. Caitlin encourages dental professionals to seek out mentors and build a supportive network. Sharing experiences and learning from others can provide valuable support and motivation.
4. Continuous Learning and Skill-Building
Caitlin's journey highlights the importance of continuous learning. Engaging in ongoing education and skill-building can boost confidence and improve patient care. Dental professionals should seek opportunities for professional development.
5. Trust Your Intuition
Caitlin advises dental professionals to trust their intuition and stay true to their mission. It's easy to become overwhelmed by others' opinions, but focusing on one's own path is essential for growth and success.
Caitlin's Programs and Resources
Online Yoga Membership
Caitlin offers an online yoga membership program with over 150 therapeutic yoga classes designed specifically for dental professionals. These classes focus on different areas of the body and can be done in the operatory or at home.
"Hygiene Well" Coaching Program
Her "Hygiene Well" coaching program is a three-month deep dive into ergonomics and yoga for dental hygienists. It includes one-on-one and team assessments, providing personalized support for managing pain and improving well-being.
Conclusion
Caitlin Parsons' journey from struggling with chronic pain to founding "The Aligned Hygienist" is a testament to the power of self-care and continuous learning. Her story offers valuable insights and actionable advice for dental professionals seeking to improve their health and career satisfaction. By prioritizing self-care, focusing on ergonomics, building a supportive community, engaging in continuous learning, and trusting their intuition, dental professionals can enhance their well-being and provide better care for their patients.
🔗 *Connect with Caitlin Parsons:*
- Website: http://thealignedhygienist.com
- Instagram: / thealignedhygienist
- Email: hello@thealignedhygienist.com
- Podcast: @The Aligned Hygienist
- YouTube: @thealignedhygienist5048
