As we reach the halfway point of 2025, I’m excited to share a new guiding motto for the rest of the year—and beyond: “Uplifting Ventures.”
This phrase captures the spirit of my journey so far in healthcare, community, and personal growth. It reflects my deep belief that every step forward—whether in healing, learning, or serving—is not just a task, but a meaningful venture toward something higher, healthier, and more wholesome…
What does “Uplifting Ventures” mean to me?
- Uplifting speaks to the emotional, physical, and spiritual support we offer one another—through encouragement, education, and empowerment.
- Ventures remind us that transformation takes courage and curiosity. For me, every patient encounter, community initiative, or mindful pause is an opportunity to explore new ways of restoring balance and health.
This motto is deeply inspired by the natural elements—air, earth, fire, and water—and how they mirror our path to healing through lifestyle medicine and functional medicine as followed:
AIR: Clarity and Calm in Every Breath
Our ventures begin with a deep breath. In Lifestyle Medicine, through breath-work, nature walks, and mindfulness, we uplift our nervous systems and mental clarity. Functional Medicine supports this with nutrients that improve brain function and reduce oxidative stress. Inhale peace, exhale pressure.
EARTH: Rooted in Nourishment and Movement
We’re grounded in real food, joyful movement, and strong gut health. Earth reminds us to be rooted in routines that stabilize us—like nourishing meals, daily walks, or time in nature. Functional Medicine helps us individualize nutrition. Lifestyle Medicine reminds us to stay connected to the ground beneath our feet and the purpose that fuels us.
FIRE: Energy, Passion, and Purpose
Fire is our drive—our metabolism, motivation, and mission. Through the lens of both Lifestyle Medicine and Functional Medicine, uplifting ventures means managing inflammation while keeping our internal flame alive through purpose, joy, and motivation. Whether it’s a 10-minute workout or a long-term goal, fire gives us the spark to keep going.
WATER: Flow, Flexibility, and Renewal
We uplift others and ourselves by staying hydrated, resilient, and emotionally present. Water symbolizes both detox and grace—the ability to release what no longer serves us and embrace what helps us heal. Functional Medicine supports the body’s detox pathways, while Lifestyle Medicine offers hydration, rest, and emotional flow.
A Journey Worth Taking—Together
To me, “Uplifting Ventures” is a call to action and a compass. Whether you’re a fellow clinician, a patient on your healing path, or a member of our broader community, I invite you to take part in this venture. Let’s breathe, nourish, move, connect, and grow—one grounded and graceful step at a time!
In the whirlwind of medicine and modern life, I’ve learned that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. May we all find the courage to pause, listen to our bodies, and walk in alignment with our purpose. Because when we align with nature, science, and soul—health becomes not just a goal, but an adventure… Let’s go!
Until next month, do check out my new Media Tab and LINKS to radio interviews if you haven’t already: https://nhimado.org/nhi-ma-do-on-the-radio-with-dr-durham/
~Nhi Ma Do, PA-C, IFMCP, DipACLM, RYT-200