This series dives into the transformative power of self-care as an essential tool for managing chronic illness. As a pharmacist and self-care strategist, I’m here to explore how intentional self-care can reduce stress, support physical and mental well-being, and help you feel more in control of your health. We’ll discuss practical, everyday self-care strategies tailored to the unique challenges of chronic illness, from nutrition and movement to mental wellness and setting boundaries. Each episode will leave you with actionable tips that empower you to prioritize yourself, improve your quality of life, and manage your condition with greater confidence.

In this episode, I am joined by Tamika Smith, a medical gaslighting survivor, a dedicated community health advocate and public speaker. She founded Mone’s Healthy Eats, which promotes holistic alternatives for preventative care and chronic health issues, offering solutions without harsh side effects. While not discounting the value of traditional medication regimens, Tamika’s personal experience with unsuitable treatment plans—leading to multiple mild to life-threatening side effects—drove her to explore alternative approaches.

Her frustration with one-size-fits-all treatments and being medically gaslit, even after diagnoses of Endometriosis and Lupus, fueled her determination to find better solutions. Tamika’s journey has made her a vocal advocate for health and healthcare equality.

She has recently been featured on the Tamron Hall Show “Medical Gaslighting,” The Grio’s segment "Life Hacks," BlackDoctor.org’s "Better Together," and in notable magazines, where she inspires others to advocate for their health. Tamika is recognized for her collaborative efforts with clinicians, providing valuable insights from a patient’s perspective.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:
-Tameka Smith's Journey with Endometriosis
-Medical Gaslighting and Misdiagnosis
-Struggles with Treatment and Seeking Help
-Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
-Living with Multiple Chronic Conditions

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com

"Self-care is attainable for everyone. It just might look different for each individual." -Summin Dinsa

This episode dives into the transformative power of self-care as an essential tool for managing chronic illness. As a pharmacist and self-care strategist, I’m here to explore how intentional self-care can reduce stress, support physical and mental well-being, and help you feel more in control of your health. We’ll discuss practical, everyday self-care strategies tailored to the unique challenges of chronic illness, from nutrition and movement to mental wellness and setting boundaries. Each episode will leave you with actionable tips that empower you to prioritize yourself, improve your quality of life, and manage your condition with greater confidence.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:

-The importance of self-care beyond medication

-How to identify and manage stress triggers

-Making Self-Care Realistic and Attainable

-The role of social workers in promoting health equity

-Practical tips for regulating your nervous system

Guest bio:

Summin is a social worker and psychotherapist with The Counseling and Wellness Boutique. She has worked in the social work field for 8 years and has a passion for pursuing social justice. Summin is opening her own private practice, Balance Counseling Collective, in October, which will focus on working with clients with chronic illness(es)

Summin's own history with chronic illness motivated her to support others in their chronic illness journey. Summin's struggles with her diagnosis impacted her identity, lifestyle, relationships, and so much more. She now supports others in navigating the journey of looking inward and redefining what life looks like post-diagnosis.

Self-care was not a common term in Summin's life until her early 20s. After her diagnosis of fibromyalgia, she was forced to learn self-care and lean into what it means to relax and regulate her nervous system. Through this journey, Summin has grown closer to herself and learned what it means to truly love herself. Summin believes that a holistic approach to wellness is the true path to healing.

For more info about her or if anyone wants to connect her Instagram handle is (@therapybysummin)

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com

“Your pharmacist can make sure you're staying on track, not just with medications, but with your overall wellness routine.” -Dr. Alisha Reed

It’s Pharmacy Week and in this episode, I will be highlighting the crucial role pharmacists play in health and wellness. As a licensed pharmacist and self-care strategist, I’m excited to share insights on why your pharmacist is not just a medication dispenser but a vital self-care expert.

What You’ll Lean:
-The comprehensive role of pharmacists in managing your health.
-How pharmacists assess your medications, supplements, and lifestyle for personalized care.
-The importance of self-care and preventative health strategies.
-REFILL method for long-term wellness: Rest, Exercise, Fuel, Invest, Love, and Live intentionally.
-Actionable tips on how to build a relationship with your pharmacist and leverage their expertise for your health goals.

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com.

“Aging is a privilege. It's something that we should embrace and not dread.” -Dr. Alisha Reed

In this episode, I’m sharing how I celebrated my 45th birthday and talking about grown woman wellness and healthy aging. I’ll introduce my REFILL system, which covers six key self-care strategies. Tune in to learn how to live well, age gracefully, and thrive in this beautiful era of life.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:

-Embracing the Transition: Moving into a New Age Bracket
-Overcoming Challenges: Navigating Life's Unexpected Events
-Guilt-Free Fun: Prioritizing Self-Care
-Shifting Mindsets: Embracing Aging as a Privilege
-Cultivating a Grown Woman Wellness Mindset

Subscribe to the email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com.

“Self-care is not a reward; it's a right.” -Dr. Asha

In this episode, I am thrilled to have my guest Dr. Asha Gibson, a therapist from New Orleans. We had a heartfelt conversation about the evolving nature of self-care and its profound impact on our lives. We delve into the critical theme of self-care, exploring its significance, the evolution of its perception across generations, and actionable strategies to integrate it into daily life. This episode is a powerful reminder that self-care is a continuous journey requiring patience, self-compassion, and vulnerability.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:
-Self-Care as a Necessity, Not a Luxury
-Generational Shifts in Self-Care
-Redefining Self-Care
-Influence of Upbringing
-Therapy as a Tool for Everyone
-Vulnerability and Connection

Guest bio:
Dr. Asha Gibson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Board-Approved Supervisor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and is certified in Trauma Informed Leadership. Her expertise spans across various sectors including hospitals, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and community agencies. She’s a clinical consultant, assisting clinical professionals, and organizations, in building equitable systems and effective processes, improving care practices, and prioritizing workplace wellness within organizational infrastructures. She is the author of two wellness journals, “Boundaries Are Self-Care” and “Free Yourself from Emotionally Immature Parents,” and a wellness blog and podcast entitled, ‘Prioritized on Purpose’ that focuses on helping millennials and women heal the relationship with themselves, feel good about themselves, and unapologetically be first in their own lives.

Find out more about Dr. Asha
https://shespeakstherapy.substack.com/

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com

“Even in the midst of stuff that seems impossible, we find a way to shine.” -Faith Broussard Cade

In this episode of the "Your Self-Care Prescription" podcast, I am joined by Faith Broussard Cade. We talk about self-care, emotional well-being, and the importance of being vulnerable. I opened up about my own experience with loss and how Faith's inspiring notes helped me find comfort during a tough time. Faith shares her journey of healing after a traumatic accident, which led her to create those notes. This episode is all about encouraging you to embrace vulnerability and focus on self-care because sharing our struggles can help us build connection and resilience.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:
-The power of vulnerability in fostering connection and understanding.
-The role of inspirational messages and notes in promoting self-care.
-The challenges of motherhood and the pressures of social media.
-The creation and purpose of the book "Shine Bright Anyway."
-Acknowledging pain as a crucial step in the healing process.

Guest bio:
Faith Broussard Cade has almost 15 years of experience as a professional school counselor and mental health counselor and also worked as a baker and a food blogger, before shifting to writing inspirational affirmations on pieces of handmade paper and publishing two guided journals on the transformative power of self-care and self-love. Her work on personal healing, wellness, and self-care advocacy has inspired over 305,000 people and counting via social media to choose introspection, gratitude, and finding peace in things most take for granted. As a mental health counselor and coach, Faith helps others discover and appreciate that everything they need to step into their power and to create the lives they desire is already inside of themselves. She emphasizes self-exploration, kindness, and gratitude as the tools that equip us to live out this necessary truth. Faith holds a B.A. in English and French Studies from The University of the South: Sewanee, and a M.Ed. in Human Development Counseling from Vanderbilt University. She was born and raised in the heart of Cajun country in New Iberia, Louisiana, and currently lives in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband, daughter, and son.

Find out more about Faith at https://www.fleurdelisspeaks.com/

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com

“Self-care is not about perfection but about finding what works for you and making it a priority.” -Dr. Alisha Reed

As back-to-school season begins, parents often feel overwhelmed by busy schedules and responsibilities. In today’s episode, I will be sharing my personal experiences and tips to help mothers prioritize their well-being during this hectic time.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:
-Establishing a morning and evening routine
-Addressing limiting beliefs
-Utilizing PTO days for self-care
-Practical tips for integrating self-care

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com.

“Self-care is not selfish, it is essential.” -Dr. Alisha Reed

In today’s episode, I’m going to start with a question: How do you take care of yourself? Do you really know what that means?

Join me for a chat as I define self-care and why it’s so important. Learn the 6 types of self-care and how to make it part of your life.

In this episode, you can expect to hear:

-Understanding Self-Care in the Face of Grief

-Definition of self-care

-How to manage anxiety and PTSD

-Types of self-care

-Tips for starting a self-care

Subscribe to email list at Dr. Alisha Reed and send questions to podcast@dralishareed.com.