Change is the only constant in our lives. We are empowered to heal ourselves naturally with healthier behaviors, thoughts and choices at anytime. The body strives to sustain homeostasis, or equilibrium between all the systems within the body. Small lifestyle changes can easily be incorporated into our daily routines that promote self healing and assist the state of balance in the body and mind.
Eat Organic
There has been recent controversy bringing into question if organic foods have more nutritional value than conventional foods. No matter which side you believe, eating organically can be self healing because it reduces your exposure to pesticides and other toxic products known to be used in conventional agricultural practices.
Consider yoga
The practice of yoga leads to balance, physically and emotionally, and allows the mind and soul to find stillness in the movement. According to Timothy McCall, M.D., author of "Yoga As Medicine," there are 40 ways yoga heals the mind and body. A few ways include: improves immune function, improves joint health, increases oxygenation of tissues, lowers need for medication, conditions the cardiovascular system, and lowers level of stress hormone cortisol.
Drink Water
Water helps to dilute the concentration of toxins in the blood and flushes the system. In fact, often when you think you are hungry, your body is really thirsty. Mild dehydration leads to headaches, lack of energy and constipation. It can also increase urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Only water fully restores the body fluids; the amount consumed makes all the difference in the wellness of the body system. According to Cherie Calbom, author of "Juicing, Fasting, and Detoxing for Life," for good health drinking at least eight to 10 8-ounce glasses of water a day is recommended.
Get Enough Sleep
The body is able to rejuvenate, restore and heal naturally with sleep. It is recommended adults get 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Not getting enough sleep weakens the immune system and according the Harvard Women's Health Watch "serious sleep disorders have been linked to hypertension, increased stress hormone levels, and irregular heartbeats."
Practice Meditation
The mind is a thought-producing organ and what happens in the head is responsible for 30 percent of the body's daily energy expenditure. Meditation is a balance between relaxation and alertness. The technique of shifting from your thoughts to your senses automatically softens the mind as usually racing chatter thoughts tense the mind and body. Meditation can reverse the effects of chronic stress which can lead to high blood pressure, muscular tension, poor circulation and disruption to digestion.
References
- "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Micheal Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D., with Lara Pizzorno, M.A., L.M.T.; 2005
- "Yoga As Medicine"; Timothy McCall, M.D.; 2007
- "Juicing, Fasting, and Detoxing"; Cherie Calbom, M.S.; 2008
- Harvard Health Publications: Importance of Sleep
- "Teach Yourself to Meditate"; Eric Harrison; 2001
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