The Middle Way: Reimagining Rest for Therapists and Healthcare Workers

In this episode of 'The Practitioner's Heart Podcast,' host Poh Gan delves into the pervasive habit among therapists and healthcare workers of treating rest as a reward that needs to be earned. Drawing on Buddhist teachings and personal experiences, Poh discusses the concept of the Middle Way, a balanced path between extreme discipline and indulgence, to illustrate how rest should be considered an essential resource rather than a luxury or reward. The episode offers practical advice on integrating rest into daily routines, thereby enhancing the capacity for presence and compassion both in personal and professional life. Poh encourages listeners to rethink their approach to rest and provides insights on cultivating self-awareness and self-compassion.00:00 Introduction to The Practitioner's Heart02:26 The Habit of Earning Your Break04:55 The Middle Way: A Buddhist Perspective10:09 Practical Tips for Integrating Rest14:28 Final Thoughts and ClosingLet us know what you took away from this conversation! Bodhi Inner Path Circle is a contemplative membership community for therapists who long for a regular, supportive, spiritually grounded place to practise, learn Buddha‑Dharma in reflective practice, and connect with dharma friends. We meet every second Friday starting from July 2026 — and the founding member rate is just $55/month.