Ep 213: All things cardio-pulm (those vitals!) with Dr. Rachele Burriesci

I’m thrilled to introduce today’s guest, joining me on SelfKind. Dr. Rachele Burriesci is a cardio-pulmonary specialist physical therapist, and a delightful human! She joins me today to talk all things cardio-pulm, and to share some ‘user-manual’ information about the heart, lungs and nervous system that we can all deeply benefit from. Rachele shares:What is the cardio-pulmonary system and how does it work and relate to the nervous system and our overall healthWhy proactive approaches to health are so valuableWhy simplicity rules when it comes to exercise and looking after our bodyThe benefits of walking - even in small amountsWHY raising your heart rate through cardiovascular exercise is so importantWhy exercise is the ‘magic pill’ we’re all looking for Why something is always more than nothing (5 minutes counts!)The impact of stress on our wellbeingThe vital and important role of breathing - not just to keep us alive, but to help us thriveThe impact of inflammation and the benefits of lymphatic drainage and vagus-nerve toning on reducing inflammation (plus the role of inflammation in long-covid)Why smiling, hugging and patting a dog is a very fine prescription indeed.Mentioned in this episode:Dr Perry Nickelston, Stop Chasing Pain: https://www.instagram.com/stopchasingpain/Vagal taping and lymphatic drainage (lots more on Rachele's Instagram, but here's one to start):  https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjCFqh8uzaB/Connect with Rachele:Website: https://www.allthingscardiopulm.com/homeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/all_things_cardiopulm/Twitter: https://twitter.com/allcardiopulmAbout Rachele:Rachele Burriesci received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from New York Institute ofTechnology in 2009. Rachele received her board certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) in Geriatrics in June 2013 and her board certification in Cardiovascular and Pulmonary in June 2015. Rachele practiced at the VA Ann Arbor Health Care System for four years post-residency where she was a primary mentor in the Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy Residency program, implemented and developed the Home-Based Cardiac Rehab program, and directed the facility-based cardiac rehabilitation and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Rachele is a former assistant professor at Rockhurst University. She is now the owner of All Things Cardiopulm, LLC and continues her acute care practice as a PRN PT staff member at the University of Kansas Health System.  She is passionate about physical therapy, the education of cardiopulmonary wellness across thelifespan and the benefits of cardiopulmonary interventions across many diagnoses.The content I share on this platform is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While I am a qualified counsellor, yoga teacher, and somatic coach, the information provided here does not constitute personal counselling, therapy, or a therapeutic relationship.If you're struggling with your mental health or need personalised support, I encourage you to reach out to a registered professional in your area.Always take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and prioritise your wellbeing.