Tag: mind

  • Tapping into the mind-body magic (and science) of EFT

    Tapping into the mind-body magic (and science) of EFT

    Tapping into the mind-body magic (and science) of EFT

    The surprising power of a simple, gentle technique

    “I wish I could just press a button and make this go away!” Whether “this” is physical or psychological (or both), many have wished for an easy fix. While the magic button doesn’t exist, proponents of EFT (emotional freedom technique) have found a method that often yields impressive results.

    A simple but powerful intervention

    EFT, also known as tapping, blends cognitive therapy with acupressure principles from traditional Chinese medicine. Practitioners tap on specific points on the body while focusing on particular issues or emotions. The more specific the focus, the more effective the process, though multiple sessions can address complex problems. This mind-body approach aims to reduce stress and promote emotional and physical healing.

    What’s going on when we tap?

    Tapping appears to calm the amygdala, the brain’s stress response center, decreasing cortisol production—the hormone linked to stress. Studies suggest EFT benefits mental health by reducing anxiety, PTSD, depression, and overall stress.

    In addition to psychological benefits, EFT has shown effectiveness in alleviating physical pain. Focusing attention on pain while tapping seems to decrease brain activity in pain-processing regions, leading to reduced pain severity and interference. This can enhance quality of life, especially for chronic pain sufferers.

    The body as messenger

    EFT trials also demonstrate the deep connection between mind and body. The body often signals subconscious issues through physical sensations. For example, a neck ache might symbolize frustration or annoyance, while foot pain could reflect an inability to tolerate certain life circumstances.

    Understanding the language of the body allows somatic therapies like EFT to help interpret and address these messages more effectively. Recognizing physical sensations as signals from the subconscious can guide healing and emotional release.

    While EFT may not instantly resolve all problems, it is a proven, accessible tool for managing both emotional and physical discomfort. Whether using simple steps or working with a certified practitioner for more complex issues, EFT offers a promising approach for those seeking relief.

    By Heather Burt

    Article Courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • 4 Tips for Cultivating Mental Resilience

    4 Tips for Cultivating Mental Resilience

    4 Tips for Cultivating Mental Resilience

    Top tools for forgiveness and self-care

    Over the last few years, we’ve been severely challenged as a global society. While living through fear and uncertainty, we comforted each other with acts of kindness, and then kept plodding on toward the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel.

    Redefining mental well-being

    The simplest definition of mental well-being? Our ability to cope well with whatever life throws at us, to appreciate our own potential under challenging circumstances, to work productively, and to contribute to our communities.

    It sounds straightforward enough, as far as definitions go. When it comes to real life, though, we might find ourselves having to bypass some textbook definitions or at least having to constantly readjust them so they fit our needs and coping mechanisms.

    Resilience is an important concept

    In the engineering world, resilience is defined as the ability to absorb energy and resist shock and impact.

    When it comes to us humans, though, resilience is as complex as we are. It means being able to care for ourselves so we can also care for others, remembering to focus not just on the stressful events unfolding but on what comes afterward. It also means being flexible and willing to learn, grow, and adapt.

    Here are four strategies to help us become more resilient:

    1. Eat well to boost mental immunity

    Whole foods are loaded with nutrients, including antioxidants, minerals, and fiber, that arm our gut with microbiota important for improving overall health, including mental health, through a connector known as the gut-brain axis. Certain probiotic strains also produce compounds that, through this connector, influence our mental state, reducing stress and anxiety and improving our mood.

    2. Get moving for better resilience

    Being physically active will help boost your mood almost immediately, but when done regularly, it protects you from long-term stress and reduces your risk of cognitive decline down the road. Anything works. Go for a walk (exercising outdoors plus sunshine equals increased resilience), turn up the music and dance, or do a yoga session at home.

    3. Practice compassion as a stepping stone to resilience

    When people are faced with stressful situations, there is fear of course, but there is also the urge to help others. When we act with kindness and compassion toward our fellow humans, we increase our own mental resilience.

    Regardless of how we get there, cultivating positive values and beliefs can improve our adaptability and strength as we go through life, allowing our resilience to grow as we traverse through challenges.

    4. Adopt the new “F” word: Forgiveness

    You may have heard it said that forgiveness does more for those who give it than for those who receive it. It’s true. Forgiveness increases self-esteem, emotional stability, and resilience. When we forgive and let go of resentment, we make it easier for ourselves to recover from stress and trauma.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine, By Daniela Ginta, MSc, NNCP

  • Nourish 2018

    Nourish 2018

    Every year, we strive to make a change in our lives and ourselves. This is often things that will improve our lives, like exercise, diet, or getting more sleep. Maybe you are looking to start painting again, or traveling more- all these things are a part of what you hope will eventually give you the life you dream of.

    These notions are statistically known to fail. Only 8% of people will stick to their plan- the rest of us try to pretend we never said anything.

    So, should we NOT strive to make goals for ourselves in the new year?

    Perhaps there’s an idea out there thats broader, and more likely to bring success.

    NOURISH yourself this year.

     

    Instead of resolutions, goals or challenges- how about an outlook that will feed your entire life? This is where the word “nourish” comes in.

     

    Here’s 3 ways to Nourish yourself this year:

     

    #1 Feed Your Body

    Instead of simply forcing yourself to choose salads and cutting out cupcakes, look to increase the nutrition of every single thing you eat.

    Nutrient dense choices aren’t always the easiest foods to grab, but they are out there. Here’s some easy swaps:

    • Spaghetti Squash instead of Pasta

    • Mashed Avocado in stead of mayo on a sandwich

    • Kombucha instead of Soda

    • Cauliflower in place of potatoes.

    Check out this months Featured Smoothie, aptly named “Nourish Smoothie”– featuring a superfood ingredient that takes this simple, fresh smoothie to another nutritional level.

    Also, take advantage of this month’s supplement sale! See our favorites here.

    #2 Feed Your Mind

    Look at your life and find places where you can engage that amazing brain of yours. Seek out new skills and subjects: browse bookstores, sign up for e-classes and step out there. Your brain needs exercise as much as your body, and getting your mind flexible will give your whole world to expand.

    #3 Feed Your Spirit

    Carve out time to connect with something spiritual. This can mean anything from meditation, to mass, to a long walk along the ocean. Write down your thoughts, light some incense- make it feel spiritual even if you don’t know how. This kind of practice can go a long way and help cement all the good you are doing in the rest of your life.