Do you find that your thoughts drift away from the task at hand and wander onto something else? You’re not alone. A popular Harvard study found that people’s minds tend to wander over 50 percent of the time and usually focus on unpleasant topics.
There are healthy habits to adopt to daily life to help improve one’s mental state. Whether you’re working at the office, taking online courses, or creating a project at home, there are natural ways to clear the mind to refresh creativity and boost motivation.
We drift off thinking about things such as; paying bills, work stress, traffic, family problems, etc., which boils down to our high-stress lifestyles making us, think negative thoughts. This prolonged negative mind wandering contributes to a host of other potentially harmful health effects. Stress and worrying are not only bad for our brain, but risk factors for digestive disorders, cardiovascular issues, a weak immune system and loss of ability to concentrate and focus.
Luckily there are several natural botanical extracts (herbs) and lifestyle changes we can make to help calm down, recover from stressful events and even help improve our ability to concentrate and focus.
Our first herb comes from the specific South African succulent, Kanna or Sceletium tortuosum, now available under the name Zembrin. We learned about Sceletium from indigenous people known as the San Tribe. The San people have been chewing certain succulent leaves for hundreds of years to relieve pain, stave off hunger, and enhance mood during long hunting trips. Yes, you can stay calm, relaxed, and focused without feeling drowsy. Research shows it takes only one small dose (25 mg) of Sceletium in the morning to achieve these benefits. As an added bonus, that same small, morning dose can help you sleep better at night. You can feel it working in as little as 2 hours. I learned about Sceletium a little over a year ago and now work with the company that brought this ingredient to the US.
A second herb, rhodiola, originated in Siberia. Rhodiola has been used for centuries by the native population to help cope with the physical and mental stressors of living in the harsh environment of Siberia. Rhodiola works as an adaptogen, meaning that it acts in nonspecific ways to increase resistance to stress, without disturbing normal biological functions. A number of studies have shown that rhodiola can reduce mental and physical fatigue under stressful conditions by increasing the body’s energy levels. Rhodiola can take a few weeks to notice the effects, so stick with it for at least a month.
Last, look at passion flower. This herb has been used for centuries by local tribes in Polynesia or the Aztecs in Central America. Use of passion flower for insomnia and hysteria continues through today. One caveat: passion flower can cause drowsiness and therefore needs to be used with caution. In fact, I often associate its effects on the body as being similar to drinking a cocktail. Just like after an alcoholic beverage, you may get drowsy and not as sharp. My favorite uses for passion flower include instances where stress creates trouble falling asleep. It does work quickly, and if taken 30 to 45 minutes prior to bedtime, it can often help you fall asleep. Keep in mind though, that its effects can last until mid-morning, which means you may have difficulty waking up or being functional at work. I suggest trying this herb for the first time on a night when you do not have to get up in the morning or drive so you can see and feel how your body reacts to it.
In addition to these herbs, several other strategies can help relieve stress and contribute to improved, overall health. A quick list includes:
Prayer or mediation. In those moments that you catch yourself focusing on things you shouldn’t, try praying about or meditating on things in your life that make you feel thankful or grateful. This technique teaches you to identify times when your mind wanders or focuses on negative things and to helps reprogram your thoughts in a positive light.
Exercise. Science has shown that increased exercise has multiple health benefits. Stress management and mental-health relief represent teo of the most prominent. I suggest 30 minutes of brisk walking per day.
Diet. You are what you eat. Avoid processed foods (boxed and canned primarily) and focus on whole foods. These choices fuel your body and brain to be more adaptable to stress. Most of all, avoid caffeine and alcohol at all cost. You may feel better in the short-term, but these two are evil for those with stressful lives.
Time management. Help yourself to learn a new lifestyle by using your reminders app or your calendar to schedule specific times to pray, meditate, and exercise. If you don’t have a smartphone, leave notes around your work and home environments to remind you. Be willing to say no to friends, family, and coworkers so your day doesn’t become hectic.
Sleep. Make sure you get enough rest each night. The average person gets about 6 to 7 hours per night, which is not even close to the 8 to 8.5 hours we really need.
As you can see, several lifestyle changes and supplements can help you decrease the stress you feel and keep your mind from wandering. Remember that it may take you some time to learn new habits, and in the meantime the use of supplements like Sceletium, rhodiola, and passion flower can help.
The post Three Herbs That Keep You Calm and Focused appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate 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 include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they are not compatible with conventional medicine’s treatment and diagnosis, CAM practitioners may use alternative treatments. Many CAM treatments also include elements of traditional medicine. Some forms, such as acupuncture with needles, involve heat and moxibustion.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. They may also improve your general sense of well-being and reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. 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 that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- The belief that illness results from an imbalance between the individual and his/her environment
- Focus on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Methods that treat mind, body, spirit in a holistic way
- Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
In addition to its potential benefits, there are risks associated with certain CAM therapies. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. 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.
What is complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine encompasses any medical treatment that adds to the mainline. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medications are not to be used as an alternative to conventional medicine. They are sometimes called “alternative”, and “integrative”, as they combine Western science methods with other healing approaches.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. There are also alternatives that may be more effective.
Alternative medicines can also be dangerous if you don’t have enough information to make an informed decision. Vitamin supplements, for example, are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. It is easy to overdose on vitamins. Even worse, some alternative remedies contain toxic chemicals.
What does holistic actually mean?
Holistic is a holistic approach. Holistic refers to looking at the whole picture, not just one part. This can be hard because we are used seeing things as parts.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. But actually, there is an infinite variety of shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Consider it from every side.
You should try to see it all as one. How do its various elements interact with each other?
You should also ask yourself why the problem is occurring. And don’t forget to consider the impact of any change you make.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and Naturopaths can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths work with the patient’s family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for 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 is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- Naturobiotic therapists are licensed by the United States National Board of Medical Examiners.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one’s life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
- 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
webmd.com
How To
What are the qualities of a qualified holistic physician?
How can you find a qualified doctor who is skilled in holistic medicine?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. In this case, we talk about holistic medicine. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. They should understand holistic health and why you want to see a holistic doctor.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. NBOHMCA offers certification in many areas including naturopathic medicine and acupuncture, homeopathy as well as clinical nutrition, herbal therapy, aromatherapy, and clinical nutrition.
If you are looking for a holistic practitioner in your area, check out our directory. If there isn’t one, you may be capable of searching online for a holistic practitioner near you.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
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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: Three Herbs That Keep You Calm and Focused
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/brain-health/three-herbs-that-keep-you-calm-and-focused-2/
Published Date: Thu, 03 Aug 2023 06:00:55 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the health benefits of complementary and alternate 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 include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they are not compatible with conventional medicine’s treatment and diagnosis, CAM practitioners may use alternative treatments. Many CAM treatments also include elements of traditional medicine. Some forms, such as acupuncture with needles, involve heat and moxibustion.
Some CAM treatments can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, stress, relaxation, sleep disorders, or manage stress. They may also improve your general sense of well-being and reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. 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 that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief, that mind and body influence and interact
- The belief that illness results from an imbalance between the individual and his/her environment
- Focus on the whole person and not just the symptoms.
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Methods that treat mind, body, spirit in a holistic way
- Use of natural products rather than synthetic chemicals
- Touch of healing
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
In addition to its potential benefits, there are risks associated with certain CAM therapies. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. 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.
What is complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine encompasses any medical treatment that adds to the mainline. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medications are not to be used as an alternative to conventional medicine. They are sometimes called “alternative”, and “integrative”, as they combine Western science methods with other healing approaches.
Alternative medicine is important.
Alternative medicine is very popular, as they are often less expensive and more beneficial than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. There are also alternatives that may be more effective.
Alternative medicines can also be dangerous if you don’t have enough information to make an informed decision. Vitamin supplements, for example, are not regulated like pharmaceuticals. It is easy to overdose on vitamins. Even worse, some alternative remedies contain toxic chemicals.
What does holistic actually mean?
Holistic is a holistic approach. Holistic refers to looking at the whole picture, not just one part. This can be hard because we are used seeing things as parts.
Our default mentality is to see things in black and white. But actually, there is an infinite variety of shades of grey.
It is important to consider all angles when working on a project. Consider it from every side.
You should try to see it all as one. How do its various elements interact with each other?
You should also ask yourself why the problem is occurring. And don’t forget to consider the impact of any change you make.
What is the Difference between Naturopathic and Holistic Medicines?
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM is not meant to replace conventional treatment, but to help patients who are able to choose what is best for them.
Naturopathy, on the other hand is used to supplement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and Naturopaths can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths emphasize lifestyle changes more than prescription drugs.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths can prescribe medication when necessary.
There are differences between naturopathic medicines and other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths work with the patient’s family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are licensed by their respective provinces, while CAM practitioners are selfregulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths stress the importance of lifestyle factors. This includes nutrition, exercise and stress management.
- Naturopharmacists focus on the use of minerals and botanicals to treat certain conditions.
- Naturopodists are skilled in providing personalized care that meets the needs of each patient.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for 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 is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- Naturobiotic therapists are licensed by the United States National Board of Medical Examiners.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one’s life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will examine all aspects of your health, not just one.
Statistics
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (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)
- 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)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
liebertpub.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed: Randomized controlled trial examining the effects of foot reflexology on hospital anxiety and depression in female older adults.
webmd.com
How To
What are the qualities of a qualified holistic physician?
How can you find a qualified doctor who is skilled in holistic medicine?
Doctors who specialize in their chosen field are the best. In this case, we talk about holistic medicine. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. They should understand holistic health and why you want to see a holistic doctor.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. NBOHMCA offers certification in many areas including naturopathic medicine and acupuncture, homeopathy as well as clinical nutrition, herbal therapy, aromatherapy, and clinical nutrition.
If you are looking for a holistic practitioner in your area, check out our directory. If there isn’t one, you may be capable of searching online for a holistic practitioner near you.
Check with your local hospital to see if they offer holistic health care.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
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