Tips from a neurosurgeon: How to lead a balanced life
12/05/2021
Dr. Scott Sanderson shares what he does to recharge his body and brain so he can stay sharp for neurosurgery
Neurosurgeons have years of extensive and intense training to learn how to diagnose and treat brain, spine and nervous system conditions. They continuously learn new techniques to bring the latest care options to patients. They need to stay alert for emergencies and traumas and hyper-focused during complex and intricate surgeries.
So, how do neurosurgeons stay at the top of their game?
Neurosurgeon Dr. Scott Sanderson, chief of neurosurgery at Danbury Hospital, said finding a way to relax outside of work is key to leading a balanced life.
Dr. Scott Sanderson, Neurosurgery
Exercising outside
“As a neurosurgeon, I feel fortunate to have a stimulating job and the honor of helping my patients maintain their quality of life and overcome life-threatening neurological conditions,” said Dr. Sanderson. “To stay alert and sharp for the daily excitement my job brings, it is important to find ways to recharge outside of work.”
Dr. Sanderson continued, “I enjoy trail running and mountain biking through the beautiful parks in our communities. It is an amazing way to appreciate and explore the beauty of southwestern Connecticut.”
Spending time outside has many benefits including promoting mental health, reducing stress and getting vitamin D from sunlight, which can boost the immune system, bone health and mood.
Cooking
“I enjoy cooking with my two young sons to calm my mind. I feel like we can make something amazing when we throw on our aprons and experiment with recipes,” says Dr. Sanderson. “Then, we get to sit down and enjoy the fruits of our labor together. If it does not work out, we can always throw it away and order pizza — which is fun, too.”
Cooking and spending time with loved ones both contribute to boosting creativity and self-esteem, reducing stress and making lasting memories.
Dr. Scott Sanderson specializes in the surgical treatment of brain tumors and trauma, and degenerative and traumatic spine diseases. He is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon who trained at New York University, one of the most prestigious academic neurosurgical programs in the country. He uses his expertise to give back to his community and provides personalized state-of-the-art care in a local setting.
Dr. Sanderson cares for patients in Connecticut by contract through Nuvance Health Medical Practice CT, Inc.
Recent Blogs
Your questions about spinal stenosis treatments, answered
Your questions about spinal stenosis treatments, answered08/14/2025 Here’s your guide to spinal stenosis causes, symptoms and treatments — from home care to the newest surgery options for nerve pain relief. By Joshua Marcus, MD, Chief of Neurosurgery, Norwalk...
A neurosurgeon explains arteriovenous malformations in the brain
A neurosurgeon explains arteriovenous malformations in the brain08/11/2025 Learn about arteriovenous malformation causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for these abnormal blood vessels in the brain. By Jon Lebovitz, MD, Chief of Neurointerventional Surgery...
Your questions about scoliosis, answered
Your questions about scoliosis, answered08/15/2024 Get the full scoop on scoliosis, including what it is, how to identify it and the most effective ways to treat it — from natural remedies to medical treatments. By Jeffrey Gilligan, MD, Neurosurgery, Nuvance Health...
Cervical kyphosis: causes, symptoms and treatments for ‘tech neck’
Cervical kyphosis: causes, symptoms and treatments for ‘tech neck’ 08/13/2024 Don’t let your devices be a pain in the neck! Find out how tech neck affects your spine and the prevention and treatment methods for cervical kyphosis. By Jeffrey Gilligan, MD, Neurosurgery,...
Stroke 101 and why it’s critical to call 911 for symptoms
Stroke 101 and why it's critical to call 911 for symptoms05/01/2024 Are there different types of strokes? Can you have a stroke and not know it? When should you call 911 for symptoms? And what exactly is stroke first aid? Find out and save a life! By Joshua Marcus,...
How to recover from spine surgery
How to recover from spine surgery12/04/2023 Knowing what to expect after spine surgery will set you up for a successful recovery. By Dr. Scott Sanderson, Chief of Neurosurgery, Danbury Hospital, part of Nuvance Health Knowing what to expect after spine surgery can...