Life Changing Moments – Coaching Physician Moms: Small Shifts, Big Impact with Dr. Cindy Van Praag

Many physicians today carry a quiet but persistent tension—trying to meet the demands of medicine while also showing up for their lives outside of it. And often, it can feel like no matter how much they give, it's never quite enough. In this insightful episode of Life Changing Moments, host Dr. Dael Waxman sits down with Dr. Cindy Van Praag—anesthesiologist, integrative health and wellness coach, and the newest addition to the MD Coaches team. Cindy shares her personal journey from practicing anesthesiology to discovering coaching at exactly the right moment in her life. She explains what drew her to focus specifically on physician moms, the themes that show up again and again in her coaching work, and how small, intentional shifts can lead to profound change. Together, Dael and Cindy explore the difference between surface problems and underlying drivers, the power of neuroplasticity and small steps, and practical tools like breath work and the "dichotomy of control" that any physician can start using today. Key Topics Discussed: Cindy's pathway from anesthesiology to integrative medicine to health and wellness coaching. The serendipitous moment she agreed to "help a colleague with her coaching hours"—and ended up being transformed herself. What drew Cindy to focus specifically on physician moms as her coaching niche. The internal factors (sleep, exhaustion, feeling out of control) and external factors (work systems, relationships, schedules) that bring clients to coaching. The underlying drivers beneath the surface: self-criticism, fear, guilt, and the struggle for control. How inner conflicts show up in daily life: stopping activities you love, not recognizing yourself, constant doing for others. The power of neuroplasticity and the field of grass metaphor for laying down new neural pathways. Why small, achievable steps are the key to sustainable change. How to prioritize what matters most by connecting choices to your values and sense of purpose. Practical small shifts listeners can try today: breath work to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. The dichotomy of control: focusing energy on what you can control (thoughts, words, responses) and releasing what you cannot. What integrative health and wellness coaching actually means: a whole-person approach addressing relationships, environment, spirituality, purpose, and physical health. Cindy's powerful takeaway for physician moms: "You are enough." Guest Information: Dr. Cindy Van Praag, MD – Anesthesiologist, Integrative Health & Wellness Coach, MD Coaches Podcast: Inspired Mom MDs Website: inspiredmommds.com LinkedIn: Cindy Van Praag MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com Relevant Links: MD Coaches: mymdcoaches.com Follow Life Changing Moments for more conversations on physician growth and transformation Companion podcast: Rx for Success with Dr. Randy Cook