The UAB Department of Neurosurgery is spotlighting staff to focus on the importance of hobbies for stress relief, wellness and self-care.
The goal of the series is to connect individuals across the department by highlighting their hobbies as they relate to mental, physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, social and financial wellness.
 
Global Neurosurgery Program Manager II Martina Gonzalez Gomez, M.D., MSc, has been working in the Department of Neurosurgery for six months. Gonzalez is a physician from Colombia and recently completed her Master of Science in Global Health with Global Surgery at King’s College London in the United Kingdom. 

What hobby do you currently focus on in your downtime?   
My hobbies revolve around travel and photography, driven by a genuine interest in history, culture and food. I love making new friends while exploring new destinations. I also enjoy travelling with my friends and family. Currently, I use some of my downtime learning French.

What inspired you to explore this hobby?
My interest in photography stems from a deep curiosity about the world around me. I use my camera to capture moments, convey emotions, and document my experiences. This hobby complements my professional career and my thirst for knowledge as I continually seek to understand and engage with the world.

Have you noticed a change in your well-being since beginning this hobby?  
Traveling and photography are my preferred ways to relax and find tranquility, serving as my form of meditation and stress relief. They bring immense well-being to my life. Photography has become an integral part of my daily routine, extending beyond travel. Exploring the world has broadened my perspective, fostering a greater understanding of diverse viewpoints. 

What are you most proud of?  
Photography is my means of preserving moments and emotions, sharing them with the world to inspire happiness, serenity, or a deeper connection with the world's intricacies. Some of my favorite destinations include Scotland, London, Marseille, and the captivating landscapes of Colombia.