Living & Practicing by Design™

Living & Practicing by Design™ is the weekly Podcast by John Hayes Jr MD, Family and Lifestyle Medicine Direct Primary Care Physician practicing in Marshfield Massachusetts. His passion is improving patient access to Primary Care with lifestyle medicine and non-invasive pain treatment measures wherever possible. John is an Author, Speaker and Consultant. For more information go to https://drjohnhayesjr.com Call or text 781-659-7989 email john@drjohnhayesjr.com

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Episodes

Spring Exercise Cautions

Wednesday Mar 18, 2026

Wednesday Mar 18, 2026


While Spring is a great time to get outdoors and engage in physical activities, this is also where many of us can into trouble with injuries, insect bites, and more. Today let's review some of the most important spring exercise cautions.
 
Allergies: Spring is often associated with an increase in pollen, which can trigger allergies. If you're prone to allergies, Sometimes simple measures like using a saline nasal spray after being outside goes a long way towards reducing symptoms and less need for medication.
 
With regard to physical activity, the temptation in nicer weather is to do too much too soon. The tips below can save us all some grief.
 
Proper Warm-up: Cold weather may still linger in the early spring. Ensure you warm up adequately before engaging in vigorous exercise to prevent strains and injuries...
You can learn much more about this on our blog HERE
 

Wednesday Apr 01, 2026


Habits and Routines: Powerful Weapons
It is a well-known fact that our daily habits contribute more to our long-term wellbeing than any other single activity.
Of course, this includes things like exercise, drinking soda, tobacco usage, drug usage etc.
It also includes our mental activity. We have a choice to regularly have active mental stimulation such as reading, meditation and prayer versus passive activities such as long periods of playing on our phones and social media!
Unfortunately, most of us never take a hard look at our daily activities, and the impact they’re having upon our health, life satisfaction and finances.
Now when we’re younger, these are easy to ignore. But throw in advancing age, and some health challenges and it becomes a different ball game!
With chronic pain especially sticking to good daily health habits becomes much more difficult task...
You can read more by going to https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/habits-and-routines
 
 

Wednesday Apr 08, 2026


The bad news: Negative self-talk can be very damaging to your health. The good news: You can quickly learn to transform negative self-talk into positive thinking that can actively help you in healing chronic diseases, from diabetes to cancer.
What is negative self-talk?
This is the term for the kind of demeaning, insulting, or belittling internal messages that we give ourselves when we are frustrated by our perceived failings. “I’m so stupid.” “I always mess up.” “Nobody could ever love me.” These messages are so hurtful because they are based on labeling and judgment. They tell you that there is something wrong with you as a person.
When your goal is healing chronic disease, negative self-talk tells you that instead of getting better, you ought to BE a better person. You wouldn’t allow your best friend to talk this way to herself. It’s time to become your own best friend and intervene in negative self-talk. All you have to do is learn to break the pattern and replace negativity with truly healing actions that support you in healing chronic disease...To read more visit https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/blog-old

Daily Stretching Does What?

Wednesday May 27, 2026

Wednesday May 27, 2026

Daily Stretching Does What? Those of you who know me personally know that I harp on this all the time in my Marshfield Direct Primary Care Practice! Incorporating daily stretching into our routines offers numerous health benefits, both physical and mental. Here are some of the better-known ones that often don't get discussed in physician's offices on a regular basis:
1. Improved Flexibility - Regular stretching helps improve the flexibility of muscles and joints. This increased flexibility can enhance your range of motion and make daily activities easier. It's also well known fact this can improve exercise and sports performance sometimes dramatically well until later life.
2. Reduced Muscle Tension and Stiffness: - Stretching can help alleviate muscle tension and reduce stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or sitting for extended periods.
3. Enhanced Blood Circulation: - Stretching promotes better blood circulation to various parts of the body. Improved circulation can contribute to better nutrient delivery to muscles and organs. It also can help us both warm up and stay warm throughout the course of our day.. 
 
Read more at https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/daily-stretching-does-what
 
 

Wednesday May 27, 2026

When Was Your Last Check-Up? Your Health Deserves Top Priority. Your health is your power, and prevention is one of the most important tools you have. In the middle of life’s busy pace—between work, family, and endless responsibilities—it’s easy to push your own needs to the bottom of the list. But your well-being deserves top priority. Taking time for routine care isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential act of self-respect and long-term health.
Why Prevention Matters
Life is full—between work, family, errands, and obligations, it's easy to put off that doctor’s visit or delay scheduling that test. But preventive care isn’t just another task—it’s a foundation for long-term vitality and peace of mind.
Routine screenings can catch issues early—often before symptoms even appear.
They’re not just appointments. They’re acts of self-respect and self-love... 
 
To read more visit
https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/when-was-your-last-check-up-your-health-deserves-top-priority
 

2 days ago


Direct primary care is changing how we think about visiting the doctor. Instead of the traditional insurance-based model, it offers a membership-style service. You pay a flat monthly fee, and in return, you get unlimited access to your primary care provider. This means no co-pays, no surprise bills, and more time with your doctor.
One of the biggest direct care advantages is the focus on prevention and wellness. Doctors can spend more time with you, getting to know your health history and lifestyle. This personalized attention helps catch problems early and tailor treatments that fit your unique needs. For people dealing with chronic pain, neuropathy, or musculoskeletal issues, this approach can be a game-changer.
 
Here’s what makes direct primary care stand out... to read more visit https://www.drjohnhayesjr.com/why-direct-care-advantages-matter-to-you
 

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