Meditation is about exploring. It is not a destination. It's not possible to leave your head empty of thoughts and remain utterly unaffected. It is a place where every moment is important. Meditation allows us to explore the inner workings of our mind. We can feel the air blowing on our skin, or the harsh smell wafting through the room. We also experience our emotions (love that, hate that, crave that, loathe this), and our thoughts.
Do you need to focus on one thing or clear your mind? This is the Mindful definition for Mindfulness.
Mindfulness meditation requires us to let go of judgment and to unleash our natural curiosity about how the mind works. We are asked to approach our experience with kindness and warmth to others and to ourselves.
Here are some ways to meditate throughout the day.
A mindfulness practice: The basics
- You need to set aside some time. To access your mindfulness skills, you don't necessarily need a meditation bench or cushion. However, it is important to make some space and time.
- Mindfulness meditation allows us to suspend judgement and let our natural curiosity about the mind and approach our experiences with kindness and warmth–to others and ourselves.
- Pay attention to the present moment. Mindfulness is not about quieting your mind or trying to attain an eternal state of calm. Our goal is to be present in the moment and not judge. We know it's easier said than done.
- Let your judgments flow. We can take mental notes of judgments that arise in our practice and let them go.
- Remain present in the moment. Sometimes our minds get lost in thought. Mindfulness is the practice of returning to the present moment, over and over again.
- Your wandering mind is okay. Do not judge yourself for the thoughts that pop up. Instead, practice being able to recognize when your mind wanders off and bring it back.
This is the practice. Although it is simple, it is not always easy. It's important to keep at it. You will see results.
The article The Basics of Mindfulness Practice appeared originally on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a holistic doctor?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They aim to treat an illness rather than just treat symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
The term “holistic” refers to considering all aspects of one's life.
What is the difference between alternative medicine, complementary medicine and other medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. Examples include acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, herbal remedies, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and naturopathy. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and 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 is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. 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. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don't get enough from allopathic medicines. These therapies include herbs, mind-body treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy. CAM practitioners often use treatments that are considered “alternative” because they do not fit into conventional medicine's system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies include elements of conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM treatments may be just as enjoyable.
Although there is no clear definition of CAM, many definitions include at most one of the following:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind, body and soul interact and influence one another
- The belief that illness can be caused by an imbalance in the environment or between the individual and his/her environment
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- The healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
There are potential risks to certain CAM therapies, in addition to the potential benefits. If used incorrectly, some therapies can cause severe harm or even death. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Talk to your doctor if you are thinking about using any CAM before deciding whether to go ahead.
Statistics
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- 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)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
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. There is not much information available to assist those who believe in alternative medicine.
It seems like there is a big divide between the two. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens if you meet someone who believes in alternative treatment for mental health problems?
You might feel confused and frustrated because you don't know how to respond. What can you say to your spouse when he tells him he prefers to see an Acupuncturist over his doctor? Or when he suggests to you that he would prefer to eat gluten-free foods than take antidepressants.
It is important to ask questions. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
But how do you ask these difficult questions without offending him? What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? Do you tell him he shouldn’t trust anyone?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Do you need to 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.
You could also suggest she see a psychiatrist. This may cause more problems than it solves. She may be furious at you for suggesting such a thing. Then again, she may think you're trying to control her life.
So what are you supposed to do?
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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: The Basics of Mindfulness Practice
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/mindfulness/the-basics-of-mindfulness-practice/
Published Date: Thu, 05 Jan 2023 03:40:52 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a holistic doctor?
A holistic medicine doctor treats patients holistically. They may incorporate western medicine into their treatment, as well as traditional methods such acupuncture or herbs.
They aim to treat an illness rather than just treat symptoms. Patients should feel better after treatment.
Doctors should not just focus on treating the disease, but also helping to prevent future ones.
The term “holistic” refers to considering all aspects of one's life.
What is the difference between alternative medicine, complementary medicine and other medicine?
Alternative medicine refers to treatments not considered conventional by mainstream medical professionals but have been shown to provide benefits for certain conditions. Examples include acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, herbal remedies, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and naturopathy. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include vitamins, minerals and herbs, as well as amino acids, enzymes and 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 is no consensus among healthcare providers about the best approach to integrating CAM within patient care.
Many CAM techniques are based in theories that have been around since thousands of years. 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. A number of studies also suggest that acupuncture might improve symptoms like irritable and fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, migraines tension headaches, anxiety, and anxiety.
Some CAM methods also appear to have potential therapeutic effects on diseases like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Although there is still much to learn about the effectiveness and safety of CAM, experts are unanimous in their belief that it can be used to treat various conditions.
As a consequence, more people turn to CAM practitioners for relief of common illnesses.
Despite this growing popularity, many people remain confused about what exactly constitutes “alternative” or “complementary” medicine.
What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don't get enough from allopathic medicines. These therapies include herbs, mind-body treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy. CAM practitioners often use treatments that are considered “alternative” because they do not fit into conventional medicine's system of diagnosis and treatment. Many CAM therapies include elements of conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies address specific conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. Other CAM treatments may be just as enjoyable.
Although there is no clear definition of CAM, many definitions include at most one of the following:
- A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
- The belief that the mind, body and soul interact and influence one another
- The belief that illness can be caused by an imbalance in the environment or between the individual and his/her environment
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- The best treatment methods integrate mind, spirit, and body
- Use of natural products instead of synthetic chemicals
- The healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
There are potential risks to certain CAM therapies, in addition to the potential benefits. If used incorrectly, some therapies can cause severe harm or even death. Some may have side effects that should be weighed against the potential benefits. Talk to your doctor if you are thinking about using any CAM before deciding whether to go ahead.
Statistics
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- 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)
- An assessment of conventional treatments found that 41.3% concluded positive or possibly positive effects, 20% concluded no effect, 8.1% concluded net harmful effects, and 21.3% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The rise and rise of complementary and alternative medicine: a sociological perspective – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
doi.org
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
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. There is not much information available to assist those who believe in alternative medicine.
It seems like there is a big divide between the two. Both those who have doubts about traditional medicine and those who see the benefits.
What happens if you meet someone who believes in alternative treatment for mental health problems?
You might feel confused and frustrated because you don't know how to respond. What can you say to your spouse when he tells him he prefers to see an Acupuncturist over his doctor? Or when he suggests to you that he would prefer to eat gluten-free foods than take antidepressants.
It is important to ask questions. It's important to ask them early. This will save you many heartaches later.
But how do you ask these difficult questions without offending him? What if he says that he doesn't trust doctors? Do you tell him he shouldn’t trust anyone?
Or, what if she tells you that she believes antidepressants don’t work? Do you need to 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.
You could also suggest she see a psychiatrist. This may cause more problems than it solves. She may be furious at you for suggesting such a thing. Then again, she may think you're trying to control her life.
So what are you supposed to do?
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