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How to have a health body, how to support and maintain a healthier body, improve your physical health, increase physical wellness and physical fitness levels. Achieve optimum health, peak performance. The right healthy exercise, the correct yoga exercises, increased flexibility, effective physical therapy. Benefits of an osteopath, massage, bodywork, Bowen, pilates, sports massage, physiotherapy

Best Essential Oils For Flu

Eileen Burns healthy body, alternative medicine, aromatherapy, natural medicine, wellness , , , 7 Comments
essential oils for flu symptoms

Best Essential Oils For Flu Symptoms And Prevention

How to choose the best essential oils for flu, the prevention, and treatment of flu, influenza. Why flu can be hard to treat. Why essential oils can reduce the risk of flu and cold and be useful in reducing the most common symptoms of flu.

What Is Influenza?

Influenza is a viral infection an infectious disease that attacks your respiratory system, your throat, nose, and lungs. Influenza is viewed as an unpredictable virus. The flu has common symptoms to the cold and although it usually clears up on its own with proper rest and self-care.

But in those with a vulnerable immune system, it can develop into further complications including death. Especially those living with a compromised immune system; young babies, children, sick and elderly. Those already living with a chronic health condition such as diabetes, auto-immune disease, cancer… We know some strains of flu can be more serious than others.

As someone who has lived with a compromised immune system for over 30 years. I was so glad to be introduced to essential oils many years ago and then become a qualified aromatherapist. Most of my family and my extended family all use essential oils for basic first aid in the home. We use essential oils for burns, bites, colds, flu, inflammation, headaches, fibromyalgia, PMS, Sleep Issues. The kids love lavender to help them sleep, as a compress when they have a bump or bruise.

Benefits Of Essential Oils For Influenza

 The benefits of using essential oils, is that pure essentials can help prevent and reduce the risk of flu. As well as reduce many of the common symptoms of flu. Such as sore and achy muscles, sore throat, fatigue and weakness, headache…

Quality pure essential oils are completely natural and have fewer side-effects of many pharmaceutical drugs if used correctly. Essential oils are extremely versatile and can be often used alongside other medications with correct usage. But make sure you always check with a qualified aromatherapist and or dr if you are on other medications.

Pure Essential Oils are extracted essential oils from plants, shrubs, flowers, trees, fruits even resins. They are highly concentrated extracts so one tiny little drop is highly potent so it should be used sparingly and not directly on the skin.

Today we have access to so many different companies selling essential oils but not all are of the best quality and concentration. As a qualified aromatherapist for over 20 years, the two companies I would only recommend and promote are NYR Organics and doTerra. Both companies source ethically and organically in many cases.

But no matter where and who you buy from. Please remember that essential oils are extremely therapeutic and healing if used safely and effectively. And no matter how good quality these essential oils are from these companies do not add pure essential oils directly to the skin, do not drink internally.

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Use Essential Oils Safely For Symptoms Of Flu

Each essential oil has its own unique components and therapeutic qualities. Some essentials oils have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties, some are more sedating, more calming and relaxing. Some oils are immune-boosting and mood-lifting. Others are extremely potent and should be used so sparingly that only 1-Drop of essential oils should be added to 100ml of carrier oil.

Some essential oils such as eucalyptus should never be used on children if you have epilepsy, diabetes, high blood pressure or are pregnant. That is why you should make sure you are buying essential oils or getting advice about essential oils only from a fully qualified aromatherapist.

I have lost count the number of stories of sales consultants of essential oil companies recommending oils that are extremely dangerous for the consumer. Parents being told that it was safe to put essential oils directly on to an infant’s skin, oils highly toxic and irritant for a baby. People adding a combination of essential oils to their drinking water that can burn and inflame the esophagus.

Aromatherapy Oils For Flu

Essential Oils For Flu

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Bergamot is an uplifting essential oil that is used in many types of aftershave. Known for its anti-depressing and anti-viral activity as a vapor, bergamot is helpful for the treatment and recovery of flu.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus is also known for its ant-viral activity a well known essential oil for flu and cold remedies and chest rubs. But it is extremely potent so it must be used with caution. Use highly diluted, smaller doses of essential oil to the ratio of carrier oil or water is recommended. Avoid in the use of children and for those with sensitive skin. Adding one or two drops of eucalyptus to a basin of water is an effective steam inhalation to clear up chest and sinus congestion. 1-2 drops of eucalyptus with lavender, frankincense or sandalwood to the bath, (disperse) can help reduce flu symptoms.

Frankincense (Olibanum)

Frankincense is a great winter essential oil. Other than being deeply grounding and calming frankincense has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and expectorant properties. It is a useful essential oil to help soothe the chest and bronchia tubes, frankincense is also helpful for asthma sufferers. It is widely used as an aid to meditation and as a rejuvenator, preservative of the skin. Very useful to prevent dry cracked skin in winter.

Lemon (Citrus limon)

Lemonis a natural immune-boosting essential oilthat has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. We know lemon supports detoxifcation, it is refreshing and uplifting. Both lemon and lemon essential oil has been widely used in traditional and ayurvedic medicinef or treating cold and flu. It is widely used in hot and cold drinks, smoothies and juices to prevent and treat flu.

Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Sandalwood is another winter essential oils useful to reduce respiratory and viral issues. A natural anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory sandalwood is used as a throat and chest rub. Like Frankincense, sandalwood is deeply grounding and calming. Useful for those who struggle to stop and rest or feel overwhelmed by the exhaustive fatigue and stress of flu.

Tea – Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Tea-Tree in one clinical study, Melaleuca Alternifolia, Tea -Tree demonstrated destroying the influenza virus within 5 to 10 minutes of contact. Tea- tree was first used by the Australian Army, it is now a massively popular ingredient in health and skincare products

Important Cautions and Contraindications Using Essential Oils

As a qualified aromatherapist, I would suggest you always check for contra-indications of essential oils you are using in relation to other medical conditions you have. Or medication you are presently on. For adults, you can normally add up to 5 drops in 2 tbsp bath oil or massage/ carrier oil. For children over 2 years old or adults with sensitive skin, reduce the amount to up to 2 drops per 2 tbsp. The essential oils above are not recommended for children only use Chamomile or Lavender for young children.

For more information on clinical research using essential oils for flu check out this

Influenza Table from the Tisserand Institute

Eileen Burns is a highly qualified stress management therapist, coach, and healer. A qualified aromatherapist and holistic therapist who has been studying holistic wellbeing for over 30 years. Eileen runs Stress Coach Training, online training for coaches, healers and therapists. And self-care programs for empaths and highly sensitive people.

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Vitamin D Deficiency Causes And Treatment

Anusha Ganesan nutrition, health, healthy body, healthy eating, wellness , , , , 16 Comments
benefits of sunshine vitamin d deficiency

Common Vitamin D Deficiency Causes And Treatment

The most common Vitamin D Deficiency causes and recommended treatment. Are you wondering if you should be taking vitamin D supplements? The truth is most people today are deficient in this essential vitamin. The biggest reason for low levels of vitamin D is reduced exposure to the sun. According to Van Schooler (2017), people all over the world are deficient in this essential vitamin. 

How is vitamin D made in the body?

So how is vitamin D produced in the body? Ultraviolet (UV) B radiation penetrates uncovered skin and converts cutaneous 7-dehydrocholesterol to pre-vitamin D3. Pre-vitamin D3 is then converted to Calcidiol (i.e. 25-hydroxycholecalciferol) in the liver. Calcidiol is converted to active vitamin D, vitamin D3 (also called Calcitriol 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) in the kidney. 

What does Vitamin D do? 

Vitamin D3  acts at the genetic level, in this sense, it can turn specific genes on/off thus regulating the cell’s activities. It does so by binding with the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), which is present in most cells in the body. 

By now we all know that Vitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D, is required for building and maintaining bones. It also has an impact on the intestines, immune and cardiovascular systems, pancreas, muscles, brain, and the control of cell cycles. (Nair et al.)

 An adequate amount of vitamin D is  required to aid in:

  1. Calcium and Phosphorus absorption from the gut
  2. Maintain immunity, 
  3. Stimulate insulin production, 
  4. Cognitive functions

The Sunshine Vitamin has been demonstrated in clinical studies to-

  1. Help prevent cancer and CVD
  2. Act as an Anti-hypertensive
  3. Reduce the risk of Type 2 Diabetes
  4. Alleviate depression

So, we can keep mostdiseases at bay by maintaining normal levels of this vitamin.

Vitamin D Deficiency Causes:

According to the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN), low serum levels of vitamin D, (below 25 nmol/l (10ng/ml)) increases the risk of poor musculoskeletal health. Vitamin D deficiency is when the levels are below 20 ng/ml. 

VDD poses health risks such as loss of bone mineral density leading to fractures and osteoporosis in adults, rickets in children, the risk of developing CVD (Judd et al.). Moreover, Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is correlated with Parkinson’s disease, Autoimmune diseases (type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Rheumatoid arthritis, and auto-immune thyroid disease).

Groups at risk of vitamin D deficiency (VDD):

  1. Breastfed infants and  Children, 
  2. Older adults,
  3. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, 
  4. Those suffering from fat malabsorption in the following diseases: Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, liver cirrhosis, obstruction of the bile duct by gallstones, chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, gastric bypass (bariatric surgery), short bowel syndrome (after surgical removal of a large part of the small intestine), and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). 
  5. People with limited sun exposure
  6. People with dark skin -Due to a large amount of melanin which results in darker skin, this type of skin takes relatively more time as compared to a lighter skin tone to produce vitamin D. 
  7. Obese people: People with BMI ≥30 have lower serum vitamin D levels in comparison to non-obese people. Obesity may call for a higher intake of vitamin D than usually required since a higher amount of subcutaneous fat captivates more of the vitamin altering its release into the circulation. (Nair et al.)

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Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency:

Signs of low vitamin D are non-specific and include frequent infections, muscle weakness, tiredness, tooth decay, and backache. So, it’s wise to get your Vitamin D levels checked if you see these symptoms occurring more often. Supplemental Vitamin D: D3 (cholecalciferol) can help restore vitamin D levels to normalcy (>=20ng/ml). It is more efficacious than D2 (Ergocalciferol).

 

best sources of vitamin d infographic

Sources of Vitamin-D:

Sunlight: Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D you can get. If you live in a place that receives abundant sunshine, you can get all the vitamin D you need, provided you sunbathe for a few times per week. Exposure to sunlight for 5 -30 minutes sans sunscreen (face, arms, legs, etc.) between 10 am to 3 pm in Summers helps the body synthesize the required amount of vitamin D. Caution: Avoid overexposure to the sun as this may cause sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer.

Vitamin D Food Sources: Make sure you include natural vitamin D rich food sources such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, cod liver oil) and egg (with yolk). Vitamin D-fortified foods such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are some other sources of vitamin D.

If you are a vegan, then you can go for sun-dried mushrooms and microalgae. Sundried mushrooms contain the D2 form of vitamin D. If consumed when fresh, the D2 levels will likely be above 10 μg/100 g fresh. Note: The vitamin D2 levels decrease with storage and cooking. [Cardwell et al.]

Freshwater microalgae were found to contain 80 μg of D3/100 g besides ergosterol, D2, and &-dehydrocholesterol. [Japelt et al.]

This means we can still get some vitamin D in winter, a time when the levels are generally found to be low. And when many people suffer from (SAD) Seasonal Affective Disorders.

If your vitamin D levels are below 20ng/ml, you should consider taking a supplement because the food sources of vitamin D alone are not going to be enough to maintain normal serum levels of this vitamin.

How much  Vitamin D should you supplement?

According to the British Nutrition Foundation, 10 mcg/day of supplemental vitamin D is sufficient for most people. 

For babies, 8.5 to 10 mcg per day is recommended only if the baby is taking less than 500 ml of formula per day. 10 mcg is recommended for children aged 1-4 yrs. However, for adults higher doses of the vitamin can confer a lot more benefits. The upper safe limit is 4000 IU or 100 mcg. The required dosage depends on the level of deficiency. 

Consult your physician to find the right dose to normalize your vitamin D levels.

VITAMIN D Deficiency Treatment:

Even though sunlight is the best source of Vitamin D, it is not available to us throughout the year. Besides, including Vitamin D rich foods alone is not capable of restoring the serum levels of this vitamin to normalcy. Hence the need for vitamin D supplements, especially in winter. 

According to an interesting article I read, vitamin D supplementation has shown a preventive role in respiratory tract infections. Given that vitamin D has an impact on immune responses, it may act as an anti-infective agent as well. But, this is yet to be proved clinically in large populations. 

When it comes to choosing Vitamin D supplements, Biocare has variants for different conditions and age groups. Children can benefit from a flavored-liquid and bioavailable form of vitamin D3. While adults with malabsorption can go for Nutrisorb Liquid Biomulsion D– it can be taken as a sublingual vitamin D spray, under the tongue or as a drop as well They also have Vitamin D drops for babies.

Nutrisun is another company that offers a Vitamin D spray. This is a good choice for vegetarians since they source their vitamin D from lanolin which comes from sheep’s wool. 

Vegan Vitamin D: If you are a vegan, then you would be happy to know that there are vegan sources as well, such as the one that Protea Wellness offers. In their case, vitamin D (cholecalciferol) comes from Lichen (a combination of algae or cyanobacteria and fungi living together). 

Risks of overdosing:

The clinical symptoms of Vitamin D toxicity (VDT) are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, apathy, confusion, excessive thirst (polydipsia), excessive urination (polyuria) and dehydration.

Prevent overdosing on vitamin D as it may lead to too much absorption of calcium leading to hypercalcemia. This happens due to excessive long-term intake of the vitamin. Serum levels of Calcitriol higher than 150 ng/ml (375 nmol/ml) is an indication of vitamin D overdose. (Suchowierska et al.)

Always make sure that you buy a vitamin D supplement from a reputed manufacturer to lower the risk of overdose.

Summary:

The Sunshine Vitamin may play a role to help prevent or reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, CVD, hypertension, and cancer; alleviate depression apart from aiding the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. 

Vitamin D deficiency is when the serum levels of this vitamin are below 20 ng/ml. 

Limited sun exposure, old age, fat malabsorption, dark skin, and obesity are some causes of Vitamin D deficiency (VDD). 

Signs of low vitamin D levels are frequent infections, muscle weakness, tiredness, tooth decay, and backache. It is best to get your serum vitamin D levels checked if you experience these signs more often. 

VDD gives rise to health risks such as Osteoporosis (in adults), rickets (in children). Research correlates vitamin D to the risk of CVD, Type 2 diabetes and other health disorders.

There are some vitamin D rich foods, such as cod liver oil, sun-dried mushrooms, microalgae, and some vitamin D-fortified foods. But these decent sources of vitamin D cannot help you reach normal vitamin D levels if you are deficient in this vitamin.    

Sunlight is THE BEST SOURCE of Vitamin D. It is enough to get all the vitamin D your body needs if bare skin is exposed to sunlight 5-30 minutes. 

If for any reason you are unable to get enough sunlight, resort to Vitamin D supplements, especially the sublingual vitamin D spray. To avoid overdosing, it is best not to take beyond 4000 IU or 100 mcg of vitamin D supplement per day. This is because long term consumption of excess vitamin D leads to toxicity.

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Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu

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natural remedies for colds and flu

Natural Remedies That Help Fight Colds And Flu

Natural remedies for the treatment of colds and flu. We all know flu and colds are symptoms of a low immune system. Both can have very similar symptoms. But while a cold is not viewed as a serious health condition. Flu can if not addressed, develop into further health complications. Especially if the body is not allowed to rest and heal appropriately.

Now, what are the main differences between colds and flu?

Both cold and flu are respiratory tract infections caused by dissimilar viruses. Although cold and flu have some similar symptoms. Generally, flu symptoms are more severe than the common cold. If you have a cold you will normally have a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing and sometimes a sore throat. Colds generally come on gradually. Flu is a bit different it comes on more abruptly, symptoms usually include fever, fatigue and weakness, general aches and pains. Sore throats, chills, and chest issues are also very common. Flu can if not treated appropriately lead to a variety of linked health complications, for example, bacterial infections, pneumonia, and sometimes hospitalization.

Natural Flu Remedies for colds and influenza

Recommended Medical Treatments For Cold And Flu

According to doctors within the National Health Service here in the UK, there is no recommended medical treatment for colds. A cold is regarded as a mild viral infection that usually heals itself over a few weeks. But they do advise you to drink enough fluids, make sure you eat healthily, and get plenty of rest. For symptoms, of a blocked nose, decongestant sprays are recommended. For a sore throat, they suggest gargling with salt water and using menthol sweets.

Recommended treatments for flu by the NHS here in the UK are to get plenty of rest, sleep, stay warm, and be hydrated with plenty of fluids. The NHS does recommend the use of paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce any fevers or temperatures. And to make sure you do what you can to not spread it to others. If you are elderly, pregnant, or already have other chronic or serious health challenges, you are told to check with your Dr.

 

Natural Remedies For Colds

If you prefer a more natural, less toxic, and fewer drugs approach. In the world of tradition and holistic medicine, we treat the body from a holistic perspective. So it is not just about treating the symptom but it is about reducing or eliminating the cause of the illness or disease which today is usually STRESS.

We look at the whole body and use natural remedies to support the whole body back into balance. In herbalism or naturopathy, this often includes helping support the body’s own natural healing and immune system. There are many alternative and natural remedies used to alleviate and help treat the common symptoms of colds and flu.  Such as naturopathy, herbal remedies, essential oils and foods that heal or are packed with nutrients.

 

Most Common Remedies For Colds And Flu

The most commonly used natural remedy for colds and flu in the West is a hot honey lemon drink. In the East ginger is often used for these types of ailments.

So hot ginger and lemon drink are becoming increasingly popular, and back into fashion.

The Medical Medium suggests Lemon Honey Ginger Water for many things including colds, flu, and sore throat.

  • Garlic is widely used at helping fight many viruses and bacteria. Medical research has demonstrated Garlic (Allium sativum) when crushed has strong antimicrobial properties due to allicin (diallylthiosulfinate). In one clinical study, we see how how the allicin in crushed garlic “Kills Human Lung Pathogenic Bacteria, Including MDR Strains, as a Vapor.”
  • Lemons are packed with vitamin C and their sharpness is said to help cut through heavy catarrh and congestion. Honey even recommended by the NHS is widely known to soothe your throat and coughs.
  • Ginger is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacteria it helps warm the body up in Ayurvedic Medicine ginger has so many uses that it is regarded as a wide medicine chest by itself. Ginger has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine

Over The Counter Natural Remedies For Colds

Natural remedies are now becoming increasingly available, online in our local stores and even local pharmacies. More and more consumers want to use natural and organic remedies to support their and their family’s well-being.

When you have a cold or flu, a sore throat or cough can prevent you from getting the deep rest your body needs.

Natural throat pastilles without a lot of toxic nasties such as these Eucalyptus Pastilles can help soothe the throat.

An immune-boosting throat spray, such as this Organic Elderberry and Propolis Throat Spray. Or this Organic Honey And Thyme Syrup to help soothe any throat irritation, this is suitable for any adult or child over 12 months. Including garlic in your cooking is also a well-reputed way to b

Over The Counter Natural Remedies For Flu

In holistic and traditional medicine again we treat flu holistically. And like mainstream medicine, we encourage the person to give the body enough time to heal and rest.

If you are someone who struggles to relax and rest, this Listen And Nurture Your Body guided meditation will help.

We also suggest you have plenty of fluids with hot drinks and healthy soups. And the use of a variety of natural remedies including essential oils to prevent, reduce and support the healing of influenza.

In a clinical study, Protective essential oil attenuates influenza virus infection. On Guard  is one of my favourite essential oil blends was shown to have an antiviral effect on a novel H1N1 influenza virus.

You can also use a variety of essential oils that reduce symptoms of flu, reduce muscle aches and pains,  fevers, and chills.

Pure lavender essential oil added to your bath to help will help relax and soothe achy muscles. Lavender oil is also used to help take the temperature down in young children.

Eucalyptus and rosemary are other great essential oils that can be used to reduce symptoms of flu and colds. But eucalyptus is very strong for the bath and skin, so should be used sparingly. Eucalyptus and rosemary are not suitable for children or if you are pregnant. Rosemary should be avoided if you suffer from epilepsy or high blood pressure.

 

Vitamin C Supplement For Colds And Flu

Supplements For Colds And Flu

Vitamin C  and Zinc are widely recommended to boost the immune system for colds and flu so is Echinacea. If you have been recently been run down a multi-vitamin and mineral is often helpful. In some studies, Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to act as a defense against acute respiratory tract infections. And to improve the immune system in the early stages of influenza. It is interesting that most of us suffer colds and flu in the darker, winter months when we have lower exposure to natural vitamin D.

As you can see there are a variety of natural remedies that can help treat cold and flu, above is certainly not exhaustive. But like all illnesses and dis-ease, we have to address the reasons we get sick in the first place.

 

The disease is a state of dis-ease, mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Are you pushing yourself too hard mentally, emotionally, or physically? Have you been getting enough sleep and rest? How much balance do you have in your life, remember all work and no play doesn’t just lower your mood it can increase anxiety and stress levels.

 

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Healthy – What Does Healthy Mean?

Jen Martin holistic, health, healthy body, healthy eating, lifestyle, wellness , , , , , 18 Comments
what does healthy mean - the world of health

What does Healthy mean?

Healthy means having good health. Is the opposite of sick, but also can mean “doing

well” in a general sense. Each of us strive to be healthy.

 

But many of us have illnesses, chronic disease, auto-immune disorders or just

symptoms that appear out of nowhere and don’t know where they came from. So, you

call your Dr. to evaluate what’s going on and he/she prescribes you medication to treat

the “symptom”. Not considering what is causing the symptom in the first place.  And of

course, we all know there are side effects to medications, which in some cases can be

worse than the actual symptom itself. 

 

The Wheel of Life; Wellness 360

Wellness 360 is a Holistic perspective.  Each of the tabs on the wheel interconnect

between all parts of ourselves. Each person has unique circumstances and needs.

Creating balance by making small changes – when we make changes in one area of our

life, we often notice it changes other areas….interconnected.

healthy what does healthy mean the wheel of life

In considering your Core foods (inner layer) and what areas might be out of balance, you

may find that there are many things affecting your imbalance.  It can be overwhelming

to look at all the areas where you don’t feel that you are achieving exactly what you want

to or realizing that each area has some percentage of “unfulfillment”. 

 

The Wheel of Life is a way to take a closer look at the whole picture, to really drill

down into what specific things are in or out of balance. 

 

The Inner Wheel

Represents activities and things that affect you DIRECTLY. The food you take in or the

fresh air you breathe.

Water

 Sunshine

 Air

 Food

 Movement

 Sleep

 

The Outer Wheel

Consists of indirect things that affect a person’s health and well-being.

Relationships

 Careers

 Finances

 Mindset

 Spirituality

 Purpose

Let’s take a closer look at the inner layers (CORE) to see how they directly affect us.

 

healthy what does healthy mean to you the world of health

Wellness 360 Food

Most conversations about taking good care of your body includes the emphasis on the

food you eat. At YOU Wellness, we know that our nutrition is a significant foundational

part of our wellness practice. healthy eating is crucial if we want to feel and look the

best we possibly can.

 

Talking about the element of Food is important when it comes to wellness for many

reasons. First, of course, is that nutrition is one of the hottest topics when it comes to

being healthy.

 

What we eat directly impacts how we look, how we feel, and how we do a lot of things.

It’s also one of the most confusing and ever-changing elements. When you use the

Wellness 360-wheel, Food becomes an element that is simpler than you think.

There are several aspects that make up the element of Wellness 360 Food.

 

These include things like:

 

The specific types of foods that we put into our mouths.

 The amount and quality of the food.

 How we eat that food, such as in a hurry or at a peaceful, slow pace.

 Noticing whether the food gives us energy or makes us feel tired.

 Checking in to see whether the food feels nourishing.

 Paying attention to whether the food makes us feel good after eating it.

 

Healthy Eating Is as Unique as You Are

Every person on the planet has specific biochemistry, environment, and lifestyle. When

combined, we are each quite unique. That means that each diet and nutrition plan out

there isn’t good for every person. It’s not a one diet-fits all. The food you eat needs to be

as unique as you are. Each person has specific individual needs. There are many factors

that influence which foods are best for you as an individual.

 

Wellness 360 Rest

Generally, it’s hard to improve your physical wellness for life when other parts of your

life might be under stress or unhealthy  One of the elements that can support you to gain

perspective on your life and see the connections between all the Wellness 360 elements

is the element of Rest.

 

The first reason it’s so important is that rest and sleep affect us on so many levels. When

we initially think of rest, we tend to think of sleep. And sleep is one of the biggest health

challenges that people in our culture face today.

 

Rest as a Wellness 360 element encompasses more than sleep, of course. The overall

American and western attitude toward rest is to try to minimize it as much as possible.

We put value on getting more done, being more productive, and being more efficient.

But we’ve lost our value for rest in our culture. Our quality and quantity of rest has

decreased, causing many problems ranging from minor health issues to major

challenges.

 

But when we’re talking about rest, we mean more than just sleep. Rest is a bigger idea

than that. It’s all about valuing our self-care practices. Rest also includes our downtime

and the ways that we intentionally slow down. It’s all about taking time to enjoy a

hobby, relaxing entertainment, or restful activities. Rest is about the things we can do to

release stress, calm our bodies, and power down our minds for a while.

 

Pay Attention to Your Energy Levels

You might be one of the lucky ones who sleep well and then wake up energized and

ready to start your day. Or you might wake up dragging from the first moment your feet

hit the floor. Notice your energy levels at the beginning of the day, but also pay close

attention to how they change throughout the day.

 

Do you feel exhausted by lunchtime? Are you loading up on caffeine just to get through

the day? Are you dragging all day long and then laying in bed wide awake at night? Keep

a journal to track your energy levels, then compare it to other activities and the food

you’re eating to discover patterns and correlations.

 

Check in With the Wellness 360 Wheel

Oftentimes, our quality of rest is directly affected by other aspects of our lives. If you’re

struggling through a bad patch with your partner, it might be really hard to sleep at

night. Lots of elements can be making it hard to go to sleep and to stay asleep. They can

also make us feel less motivated to engage in self-care, right during a time when we

might need it most.

 

Get Better Rest and Sleep

Taking good care of yourself is essential to achieving wellness. This includes focusing on

resting more, giving yourself better self-care, and ensuring that your sleep each nigh is

restful.

 

Wellness 360 Water

Water is an incredibly important part of your wellness routine and something to

consider when improving your overall health. There are many ways to look at Water and

ways to consider how it impacts our well-being.

 

Importance of Water for Health

One of the reasons we should talk about water is the fact that over half of the human

body is made of water. It’s an important element in our organs, our blood, and even our

bones. Water’s job in our bodies ranges from insulating our organs to lubricating our

joints, to forming the building blocks of cells.

 

Water is also an important part of the elimination system, carrying waste and toxins out

of our bodies. Water for health is always important to create a healthier body and a

more balanced wellness practice.

 

The simplest understanding of water for health is that we take in water through drinking

and eating. When we drink water, we are contributing a crucial element to our body for

its survival. We want to continually replenish the water in our bodies so it can support

our organs, joints and cells.

 

Without water, we become dehydrated and when that happens, our bodies can’t

function properly. Our cells become sluggish and too dry to perform their functions

optimally. We depend on water to live, way down to the cellular level. The quality of

water we’re drinking also greatly affects us. Dehydration can have a negative impact on

your wellness, so it’s important to balance water for health and well-being.

 

Here are a few ways you can get started with balancing your water element.

 

1. Keep track of your water intake.

Write down when you drink water and how much you’re taking in. Pay attention

to when you feel thirsty and make note of it.

 

2. Pay attention to the other beverages you’re drinking.

If you’re a big coffee drinker, notice what it does to your thirst and bathroom

visits. Caffeine tends to trick the body into eliminating water, which will leave you

dehydrated. Also, keep a close eye on other things you drink, such as sodas, diet sodas, teas,

juices and alcohol. Some of these liquids are hydrating and others are

dehydrating. Some of them will wreak havoc with your water fluid balance. Water

is always the best thing to drink for your health.

 

Wellness 360 Sun

It’s vitally important to get about 10 minutes of natural midday sunlight every single day

– and it’s crucial in the winter. This is true even if it’s overcast outside. We spend a

whopping 90% of our time indoors – and that’s where everyone else’s germs are

multiplying! Sunlight boosts the immune system by converting cholesterol to vitamin D.

It stimulates the thyroid gland; ensures sound sleep by triggering melatonin production at

night; and boosts the mood. Get outside for a walk and get your vitamin D for the day.

A minimum of 20 minutes per day when the sun is high in the sky is ideal for optimum

vitamin D intake. You’ll also feel more energized once you soak up some sunlight.

 

Wellness 360 Air

One of the important elements of Wellness 360 is Air. At the most basic level, our body

is alive because of the air we breathe in. It’s literally our life force and the element that

makes it possible for all the cells in our body to thrive.

The air you breathe contains a lot of oxygen, which is an essential element for life. Every

one of your cells needs it in order to carry out their functions and keep you moving.

When you breathe in, air moves into your lungs, then oxygen travels to all the places it

needs to go through the bloodstream.

 

Understanding the Air Element

The element of Air focuses on the actual air coming into our lungs when we breathe in.

Since air is such a vital part of our life force, it’s important to consider the quality as it

will affect our physical health. Improving our wellness isn’t complete until we’ve

addressed the ways in which we take in air.

 

Air as Nature and Outdoors

As a Wellness 360 element, Air also represents the air outside and nature. This includes

our environment and how we treat it. That includes how the environment impacts our

air quality, which then affects our health. An environment that is treated poorly and has

become unhealthy will have negative effects on our health. On the flip side, when we

lovingly care for our environments, it can have a hugely positive effect on our mental

and physical health.

 

When we are exposed to air pollution for any length of time, it can harm our respiratory

system, lungs, and cardiovascular system (our heart). Long exposures to pollution can

lead to serious diseases and health effects that can be devastating.

 

Air as Indoor Environment

Your indoor environment is also important. The air quality of our homes has a huge

impact on the air we breathe in and our overall physical health. Our homes are our safe

havens, away from the outdoor environments that surround us. The quality of the air we

take in within our homes is an important consideration when balancing wellness and

health.

 

Air as Breath

While the quality of the air you breathe in is super important, it’s also crucial to consider

how you are doing the physical breathing.

 

Most people breathe in using just their upper chest, taking in very short and shallow

breaths. For ultimate health, we need to be breathing in deeper ways. Air should move

in your nose, down into your lungs, filling up so fully that your belly rises. It should

then make its way back out, leaving through your nose or mouth fully. Intentional

breathing brings in the most efficient levels of oxygen, bringing vitality and true

oxygenation to every cell in the body.

 

Learning how to breathe properly impacts our well-being at a deep level. Deep breathing

helps to calm our nervous system, and slower breathing can de-escalate panic and

anxiety.

 

Wellness 360 Body

Wellness 360 is a holistic philosophy that supports the integration of all areas of our

well-being. But it’s not just one-dimensional. It’s a three-dimensional, layered system

that supports the whole person. Each layer of Wellness 360 can be used to change your

health and life on different levels. Going beyond just our external health, Wellness 360

takes us to the inner layer of ourselves and can help us define and evolve our whole

being.

 

On the first layer – the physical, external layer, Wellness 360 continues to provide a

holistic framework for balancing our lives in the 12 elements of life we originally created.

On the second layer – the internal, inner layer, Wellness 360 goes to the next level by

integrating both the external and internal. We are not just physical bodies; we have an

internal world that plays a huge role with our health. What’s happening on the inside is

often as important as what is happening on the outside.

 

And finally, on the third layer – the symbolic, more “energetic” layer or that hidden

layer you can’t see – Wellness 360 provides greater meaning to the areas of our life that

are out of balance and provides a deeper understanding of our individual journeys.

I encourage you to really look at the Wellness 360 wheel and see what areas are out of

balance. Then rate them from 1-10. 1 being the lowest, 10 being the highest. If you rate

any areas at 7 or below then those areas are the main and biggest that need to be focused

on and fixed. As they are interconnected with other areas of your life and is not whole.  

 

Empowering You To Be More Healthy

I am a Master Certified Holistic Health and Wellness Coach, founder of YOU Wellness

and creator of The MS Energy Blueprint. On Facebook, I’m known as The MS Wellness

Coach. I specialize in empowering women with MS to combat fatigue and increase energy

levels naturally so that you can transform from existing to living life with vitality and

abundance.I am also an author of Blue Fingers Brass Knuckles – self-help book for those newly

diagnosed with MS.

 

If you would like to learn how to improve your overall health and manage your MS

symptoms naturally, click HERE to schedule your FREE strategy session with me!

 

 

 

Up-Level Your Mind For A Healthy Body

Laura Di-Franco health, fitness, healthy body, physical therapy , , , , , 11 Comments
7 to looks to uplevel your mind for a healthier body

Up-Leveling Your Mind For A Healthy Body with Laura Di-Franco

How to achieve a more healthy body with 7 tools that can up-level your mind. I was trained to help the body reach a state of peak performance as a physical therapist. But there was something missing from that traditional education. Something big. And it had nothing to do with what I did physically.

After memorizing muscles and mastering the complex web of tissues that make up this amazing vessel we walk around in I quickly realized my teachers had forgotten about the mind. They neglected to teach us about how our thinking impacts our physiology. Thus began my quest to become a holistic physical therapist who would teach the importance of the mind, body and soul in the quest for healing and peak performance.

“Discipline the mind, the body will follow.” Master John Holloway

My martial arts instructor had the secret in that quote that’s one of the most powerful tools we can use for a healthy, strong, peak performing body. Get your mindset right and you can expect to feel and be healthier. Master it and you can expect to enjoy benefits that far outweigh just looking and feeling good physically.

We’re beginning to understand and embrace the mind-body as an intimately integrated unit. The work of Esther Hicks and Joe Dispenza is more mainstream now. Thoughts create. And positive thoughts raise your energy vibration to a state that helps you transform your physical body. It’s just that we aren’t yet making this part of our basic health education.

Until then it’s up to us to practice and teach our families, friends, clients, and colleagues how to think better, so they can enjoy the powerful effects of that important skill and discover the missing link they’ve been looking for.

mind for a healthier body

Here are 7 tools you can use to up-level your mind, thoughts, and beliefs, to improve your physical health:

Journal Every Day
“You can’t clean the house if you don’t first see the dirt.” Louise Hay. Writing is an awareness tool and any transformational practice must start by practicing the tools that will enhance awareness so that you have a choice to think differently. Start by writing a little every day about how you feel, what you’re thinking, how the day went, what you ate, your exercise routine, etc. When you write it down it serves as a record to track your progress, but it also serves as a way to move what’s on the inside in the form of thoughts to the outside on the paper. And that process will help you shift the energy.

Envision Health And Fitness
Practice visualizing the state of your body-mind that you crave. Can you see and feel yourself
moving and living in the body you desire? What is she doing? Who is she hanging out with? What is she eating? What exercise is she practicing? The more detailed you are with your vision of the you, you desire, the better. Try doing this for five minutes every day.

Meditate Every Day

Sometimes it’s hard to visualize that perfect body when you’re reality is far from it. Raising your energy vibration might require you get still and just breathe, with no agenda. If you’ve built a lifetime’s worth of negative thoughts about your body you may have to use meditation to take the first step toward clearing your mind and moving into neutral territory. Mindful meditation, where you clear your mind and connect with your body sensations, especially the breath, is the first step. Try to meditate for a few minutes every day.

Create A Positive Morning Routine

In your first waking hours, you have a great opportunity to set the rest of your day up for body-mind success. Creating a positive morning routine will boost your mood and raise your vibration. Start in bed, when you’re first noticing you’re waking up. Your eyes will still be closed. Practice reciting a positive affirmation, for example, “I can’t wait to see what this day brings!” After you get up you might choose several things as part of your positive morning routine, such as exercise, journaling, goal setting, meditation or visualization. Set your mind right and that will infuse into the rest of the day.

Practice Body Awareness

A state of mindful and embodied presence is a practice that will serve you well for the rest of your life. It’s a form of meditation but practiced in each moment of the day whenever we wish. You don’t have to sit on a pillow with your legs crossed, watch a candle flame, or chant to practice this. It’s more about the way you show up in your moments in a full-feeling state, observing what you sense and what you think. And then not attaching to those sensations, feelings or emotions, but just noticing them. With awareness you then have a choice to pick thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that serve your biggest goals or deepest desires.

Learn About Your intuition

A strong connection to your intuition will give you the clarity you want to make every decision you need to make in every area of your life. When you’re connected to your intuition you’ll receive messages about the next best step, whether it relates to your body, your relationships, your work or your purpose. Connecting to it requires learning the language of your body, the sensations, feelings and emotions, and understanding the difference between inner critic thoughts and intuitional messages. We all have intuition. It’s just a matter of learning, or re-learning how to connect with and use it.

Choose Better Thoughts

With all this awareness it’s time to take responsibility for everything in your life, including the thoughts you think about yourself and the world, the beliefs you hold and are living by, and the behaviors that are a result of those thoughts and beliefs. With awareness you choose what to think about your health, your body, your fitness level, and the next best step to take toward those things. With awareness and the ability to choose positive, high-vibe thoughts, you’ll be creating an energetic environment for whatever you desire to manifest. Consciously choosing things like health, wellness, love, joy, gratitude, empowerment, strength and hope is a practice worth mastering.

Remember, it is what you think it is. So think something good today!

Laura Di Franco Up-level Your Mind for a Healthier Body

Laura Di Franco, MPT won’t let you settle for a mediocre life. Your health, wealth and happiness is one Brave healing book, poem, workshop, strategy session or moment away. With almost three decades of expertise in holistic physical therapy, six published books and a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, Laura’s energy and method are contagious and unlike anything you’re experienced. Check out her newest book, BraveHealing, a Guide for Your Journey, her PODCAST, her badass programs and free
Facebook group for healers. www.BraveHealer.com

 

Access this simple but powerful Free Meditation Course Today