Mornings are the most essential part of your day and if your morning starts on the wrong foot, that bad mood can last for the rest of the day. This can inhibit your tasks and to-do lists, making it harder to be patient and present with yourself and with your loved ones. Sometimes your busy schedule just can’t afford to be thrown off by a bad mood. Sometimes a bad mood is unavoidable but, in most circumstances, there are ways to prevent or diminish them.
To avoid morning stress, follow the tips below to build the healthy habit of keeping your morning anxiety free. Keeping this habit up can lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. It can allow you to have the mental space to appreciate the world and your loved ones, as well as focus on the tasks of the day. Implementing this seemingly small habit can improve weeks, months and years of your life to come, and it’s never too early to start!
Some simple tips for a stress free day
Thinking Ahead
Planning an outfit the previous evening can help save time. If you are focused on remembering everything you need for work or have kids who need help getting ready for school, trying to figure out a cohesive outfit on top of that can be a pain. When the clock is ticking and you have a deadline, the looming fear of missing a button or having to hunt for a misplaced accessory can throw your entire routine off. So, take some time the night before and choose an outfit to set yourself up for success the next morning.
Express gratitude
Take a few minutes after you wake up to either be mindful of or write down a few things you are grateful for, no matter how big or small, improve your mood. Life can be difficult and overwhelming so remembering to be grateful for the things and people you love helps keep you calm and puts a smile on your face. When you are connected to your own body and mind as well as the world around you, life becomes more manageable. Starting the day with a positive state of mind can lift your mood and provide residual benefits throughout the day.
Organize
Arrange and assemble what comes with you when leaving the house. Designate a specific place for each person where they can consistently keep essential items they need to take when they leave the house. This could look like a backpack, purse, briefcase or gym bag. When you return home at night, empty used or unneeded items and replace them so you can grab them before you leave in the morning. Then be sure to put the items in the same place you will remember to grab them from in the morning so everything you need will all be in the same place every day.
Heathy Breakfast
Boost your breakfast routine. Be someone that is proud of the way they eat and the types of food they start their morning with. If you are crunched for time or have trouble choosing what to eat in the morning, having easy but healthy meals ready can take some of this stress out of your morning. For example, yogurt and granola with some fruit and/or chia seeds, a breakfast protein smoothie, or some eggs and avocado toast are all quick but healthy options to start your morning. That said, don’t sacrifice healthy and natural for convenience. Making sure that your meals are balanced not only improves your physical but also mental health. Thinking about your long-term goals of both living more stress free and feeding yourself healthier, more nutritional food can empower you to keep up these healthier habits. Starting your day off with a balanced meal can set you up for a clearer, more conscious day.
Avoid Technology
Steer clear of distractions. If you’re like most people, you reach for your phone immediately after opening your eyes. However, this trap can suck you into answering emails, scrolling through your newsfeed or falling into a social media rabbit hole. This wastes precious time you could be devoting to more productive activities, such as cooking a healthy breakfast. Force yourself to leave your phone and other distractions out of your regular morning routine to more efficiently get out the door.
Applying these five tips into your morning routine can help you set yourself up for both short- and long-term success. No one wants to start the day in chaos. Having some forethought and planning ahead can help you tackle your mornings and start your day stress free. Preparing ahead of time, practicing gratitude and eating a healthy breakfast are all great ways to calmly begin your day. Developing these stress-reducing habits and regularly practicing them will enable you to be more relaxed and bring more joy into your life.
References:
20 easy breakfast ideas for kids to make themselves (care.com)
The post 5 Tips for a Stress-Free Morning appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. This is not a substitute for standard treatment. Rather, it is an option that allows patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient's family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the five alternative medical systems?
Ayurveda acupuncture and homeopathy are the five alternative medical systems.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow (qi) of energy throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic Medicine refers to an ancient system that balances three of the most important elements of health care: water, fire and air. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known by EFT, Rolfing (emotional touch), Reiki, Rolfing, Rolfing, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch and many other names. This therapy is based on the belief that each person is connected to a universal life force called Ki. When this Ki flows freely through us, we feel well. Energy healers use touch, intention, and touch to restore harmony between our physical and emotional, as well as spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There isn't consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
Many studies show that acupuncture may help relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. Alternative medicine can take many forms, but most of them are rooted in the belief that healthcare should be rooted more in natural remedies and practices than in chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims can not be supported scientifically as the evidence supporting alternative medicine has been largely ignored by mainstream medical authorities.
What is Alternative Medicine?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn't use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
cam.cancer.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
The internet offers guidance for those caring for a loved one with a mental illness. But there is little information out there to help when it comes to dealing with someone who believes in alternative medicine.
It seems like there is a big divide between the two. There are two types of people: those who doubt conventional medicine and those who are open to its benefits.
What happens if you meet someone who believes in alternative treatment for mental health problems?
Because you don't know the right way to respond, you might feel confused or frustrated. You might feel confused and frustrated if your partner tells you that he'd rather see an acupuncturist than his physician. Or when she suggests she would rather eat glutenfree than take antidepressants.
Asking questions is important. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
These are difficult questions to ask without offending the patient. What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? Do you tell him he shouldn’t trust anyone?
What if she claims that antidepressants don't work? Should you tell her that she's wrong?
This is where the conversation becomes tricky. It can cause further irritation if you point it out that she is wrong.
Alternativly, you might suggest that she sees an psychiatrist. This may cause more problems than it solves. She might get angry at you for suggesting this. Perhaps she thinks you are trying her to control the rest of her life.
So, what can you do now?
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you're experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: 5 Tips for a Stress-Free Morning
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/lifestyle-2/5-tips-for-a-stress-free-morning/
Published Date: Tue, 19 Sep 2023 19:59:23 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on drugs and surgery. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. This is not a substitute for standard treatment. Rather, it is an option that allows patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare.
Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. It focuses on treating the whole body, mind, and spirit. There are many kinds of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. For example, herbal remedies can be prescribed by doctors and naturopaths alike. However, naturopaths prefer lifestyle changes to prescription medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths could prescribe medication, if needed.
There are some differences between naturopathic and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths will work with the patient's family medicine and may refer patients outpatients to specialists, if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths are very conscious of lifestyle factors. They emphasize nutrition, sleep and stress management as well as exercise and mental health.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient's needs.
- Regulation bodies such as the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issue licenses to Naturopaths.
- Naturopatrists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies.
- Naturopaticians may be registered with Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia licenses Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one's health. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the five alternative medical systems?
Ayurveda acupuncture and homeopathy are the five alternative medical systems.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points of the body to stimulate the flow (qi) of energy throughout the entire body.
Ayurvedic Medicine refers to an ancient system that balances three of the most important elements of health care: water, fire and air. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.
Homeopathic Medicine derives its name from the Greek homoios which means similarity and pathos which denotes disease. Homeopaths believe in natural causes for all diseases, but not necessarily symptoms. They prescribe small doses of substances to treat symptoms similar to those that are experienced when a person is ill.
Energy Healing is also known by EFT, Rolfing (emotional touch), Reiki, Rolfing, Rolfing, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch and many other names. This therapy is based on the belief that each person is connected to a universal life force called Ki. When this Ki flows freely through us, we feel well. Energy healers use touch, intention, and touch to restore harmony between our physical and emotional, as well as spiritual selves.
Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe scents have the ability to affect mood and behavior. Lavender essential oil is the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary Medicines are treatments that add to the treatment of conventional medicine. They may also be used in combination with it. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
There isn't consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. However, clinical trials over the past 20 years suggest that some of these therapies might work.
Many studies show that acupuncture may help relieve pain. Preliminary data also show that acupuncture may help to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Other studies suggest that acupuncture may improve symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, migraines, tension headaches, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Other CAM methods may have therapeutic effects on conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and rheumatoidarthritis.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What is another name for alternative medicine?
Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. Alternative medicine can take many forms, but most of them are rooted in the belief that healthcare should be rooted more in natural remedies and practices than in chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine may include acupuncture, homeopathy or herbalism, naturopathy, traditional Chinese medicine, osteopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine and reflexology.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims can not be supported scientifically as the evidence supporting alternative medicine has been largely ignored by mainstream medical authorities.
What is Alternative Medicine?
It's a method of healing that focuses more on prevention than treatment. It also encourages people to become informed consumers actively engaged in improving their health and well-being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn't use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
Statistics
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
nccih.nih.gov
liebertpub.com
- Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. publishers
- Acupuncture for Treatment of Insomnia: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
cam.cancer.gov
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING, TENSION-TYPEHEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
How to deal when your girlfriend trusts an alternative medicine.
The internet offers guidance for those caring for a loved one with a mental illness. But there is little information out there to help when it comes to dealing with someone who believes in alternative medicine.
It seems like there is a big divide between the two. There are two types of people: those who doubt conventional medicine and those who are open to its benefits.
What happens if you meet someone who believes in alternative treatment for mental health problems?
Because you don't know the right way to respond, you might feel confused or frustrated. You might feel confused and frustrated if your partner tells you that he'd rather see an acupuncturist than his physician. Or when she suggests she would rather eat glutenfree than take antidepressants.
Asking questions is important. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
These are difficult questions to ask without offending the patient. What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? Do you tell him he shouldn’t trust anyone?
What if she claims that antidepressants don't work? Should you tell her that she's wrong?
This is where the conversation becomes tricky. It can cause further irritation if you point it out that she is wrong.
Alternativly, you might suggest that she sees an psychiatrist. This may cause more problems than it solves. She might get angry at you for suggesting this. Perhaps she thinks you are trying her to control the rest of her life.
So, what can you do now?
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