Search this site

Focusing intently while practicing at the piano, immersing himself in the music. When I was a kid, I took piano lessons. There was a time I got bored, the lessons got harder, and I started to really dislike the piano. I wanted to quit. This was a difficult situation because my mom was insistent that I not quit. Now I am an adult and I am so glad my mom invested in my piano lessons and did not let me quit. Why? Piano playing is a form of relaxation for me now. It is a stress reliever. Sticking with the piano also taught me life lessons in discipline. In life, there are often things that we do not like, but if we stick to it and don't quit, we will benefit. This is the case for exercise, academics, learning new skills, and more. Sometimes showing up when you don't like something will actually give you the skills to get good enough to have a breakthrough and actually begin go enjoy what you initially didn't like. Learning to play music can have many benefits, including improved memory, creativity social skills, stress management, coordination, and empathy. In terms of memory, learning to play any instrument requires remembering notes, rhythms, and sequences. This can improve short-term and long-term memory. Music builds creativity. Music is a language, and the more you learn, the more you can express yourself. Music is an artform. Music can build a child’s confidence when they find something they are good at. Music can help children develop social skills because in an orchestra or band, making music together promotes teamwork and collaboration. Also, learning and playing an instrument can reduce stress and anxiety. Music requires hand-eye coordination, breathing, and rhythm so it develops whole-body coordination. Additionally, learning to play an instrument can help develop patience and discipline. Lastly, music can contribute to a more well-rounded individual. Learning music from other cultures or historical times can build empathy and knowledge.

There are many benefits to kids and adults spending time in nature. Studying the seemingly insignificant details of tiny bugs opened my eyes to the intricacy of design of our Creator where form defines function. Wading in cold streams to catch dragonfly nymphs or setting up black lights in a field at night to attract night bugs were exhilarating college experiences for me. It was nature at it’s best. That’s why I recommend kids get out into nature and if that means catching bugs, there are actually many physical benefits of this. Going on a bug hunt can: Sharpen a child’s observational skills. Develop hand-eye coordination Develop gross motor skills: lifting heavy rocks, sprinting to catch flying bugs Develop fine motor skills: using forceps Learn Magnification Counting & sorting Even if you decide not to do a bug hunt, there are so many benefits of being outdoors. Getting out into nature has so many benefits. I encourage kids and adults to get one hour of sunshine a day.  Sunlight is the primary source of Vitamin D which helps with strong bones and a powerful  immune system.  For mood and mental health, sunlight increases the production of serotonin, which can elevate mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and promote happy feelings. Sunlight also helps regulate the body’s internal clock, our circadian rhythm, which helps sleep quality & patterns.  Getting sunshine helps to reduce stress too because sunlight triggers the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural stress relievers. There are even studies that show that morning light may help people keep weight off.  Moderate amounts of sunlight can even prevent against certain cancers.   Everything in life is balance. Unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause damage to the skin, eyes, and skin cancer.  To protect your skin from the sun, you can:  Limit exposure during peak sunlight hours Wear sunscreen with a high SPF Wear protective clothing and sunglasses Seek shade periodically

Reconciliation brings healing. There are various root causes of disease. The most overlooked one may be the spiritual roots of disease. According to the book by Dr. Henry Wright, Exposing the Root Cause of Disease, three areas of reconciliation are often needed for healing: reconciliation with God, with self, and with others. How does this pertain to pediatrics? Children may be raised by parents who may be struggling with disease and the healing of parents leads to a much better environment for children. This book discusses root causes for many diseases and is a great read. God bless you on your health journey. -Dr. Tina Wong