A healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary ingredients for any weight loss program. Proponents of energy therapies believe the body's energy systems directly influence the physical and emotional condition of the body, and the manipulation of those energies helps to bring the body into a natural state of health, balance and function. Energy therapies include but are not limited to qigong, hypnosis, hands-on healing, meridian therapies, acupuncture and certain forms of massage. Some energy therapies encompass alternative and experimental approaches not sanctioned by the conventional medical community. However, many practitioners hold advanced degrees in traditional medical disciplines. As with all health-related matters, consult with a health care professional before using any alternative techniques.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu massage is an integration of Chinese, Japanese and Western theories of preventative health and wellness. Shiatsu massage can be used as a complementary or primary therapy to help balance the body's energy system, improve circulation and stimulate the lymphatic and hormonal systems; important aspects for weight management, according to the Women to Women website.
Meridian Tapping
Energy therapists who practice meridian acupressure techniques suggest tapping on the spleen acupressure points to raise the metabolism. The spleen acupressure points are located one rib down from the base of the breasts, a point in line with your nipples. The spleen point should be tapped firmly enough to feel the vibration, but not so hard as to cause discomfort. For optimum results tap the points for about 30 seconds before and after each meal.
Mental Practice
Athletes who engage in mental practice before an event improve their performance, according to "Psychology Today." Just as athletes use imagery to enhance their skills, creating a mental movie that includes completing an exercise routine and choosing a healthy snack to refuel your energy, may help to reprogram the mind to engage in healthy habits on a routine basis.
Affirmations
Positive statements that affirm an ideal body weight and image can be formulated and repeated several times each day. Phrases worded in the present tense are more effective than a reference to a future goal. For the best results, affirmations such as "I am at my perfect weight" should be repeated several times throughout the day.
Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe weight gain is the result of an imbalance of the spleen or liver organ systems. To facilitate weight management, an acupuncturist inserts needles at specific points along the body's energy pathways to stimulate the endocrine system and encourage optimal function of the kidneys, spleen and thyroid gland. It is important to work with a licensed, medical acupuncturist experienced with weight loss issues who is willing to provide acupuncture therapy in combination with other traditional methods.
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