Why We Need To Breathe…And Then Push…When It Comes To Another Election With Trump In It

The Flashbacks of 2016

As I witness the unfolding of the primaries, I can’t help but experience intense flashbacks. Not only do I remember the sheer horror of 2016 when all the sexist, racist, homophobic, and xenophobic Americans felt empowered to abandon any pretense of caring about equal human rights, but I also recall feeling like a stranger in my own country. I even contemplated becoming a political refugee and seeking refuge in a safer nation. These flashbacks remind me that while I, as a privileged individual, have these thoughts, my BIPOC sister lives in fear of being lynched by individuals who dehumanize people like her.

A Glimpse of the Women’s March

The memory of the Women’s March comes rushing back, where I witnessed elderly individuals donning pink pussy hats and holding signs that read “Are We Really Still Protesting This Shit?” In that moment, the fear of being a woman in a country led by Trump overwhelmed me. I also feared for my queer daughter, growing up in a nation where people willingly ignored Trump’s immoral actions to maintain their unearned privileges and financial gains.

Flashbacks to 2020

Then there’s the memory of 2020, when we were already traumatized by the pandemic. The thought of enduring four more years of dehumanization and oppression under Trump’s leadership loomed large. I only realized the extent of my trauma when Biden finally won. It felt as if I, a survivor of domestic abuse, had finally escaped the clutches of a violent partner. However, the freedom was bittersweet, knowing that the threat of violence always lurks beneath the surface of our daily lives.

The Terrifying January 6

January 6, forever tainted as my daughter’s birthday, remains etched in my mind. The footage of foaming-at-the-mouth insurrectionists threatening the lives of senators and the Vice President left me in terror. Equally terrifying was witnessing “spiritual” individuals on my Facebook feed claiming that these events were God’s will and that Trump was some kind of lightworker. The gaslighting was not only confusing, but also deeply unsettling. It made no sense to me how someone who claimed to be “spiritual” could endorse racism, sexism, classism, xenophobia, homophobia, and the separation of children from their parents at the border. Any spirituality that does not unequivocally stand for human rights is nothing more than brainwashing.

The Ongoing Threat

Now, as our former Abuser-In-Chief continues to pose treasonous threats, even after an $83 million judgment against him for defaming a woman he raped, I shudder to think of what lies ahead. The pending lawsuits and the uncertainty of the future fill me with dread. There are moments when I want to escape the country, disconnect from the internet, and seek solace in a remote village until it is all over, giving me the opportunity to decide whether I want to return or not.

Staying and Fighting

However, I recognize that even considering such an escape is a testament to my privilege. Instead, I choose to remain in my country and utilize my influence to encourage people to vote. Our democracy is under siege, and despite my frustration with the denial of racism, genocide, and corruption that underlie our nation’s history, I still believe in the experiment of democracy. It is essential to brace ourselves for what lies ahead and resist the urge to hate our fellow countrymen. While I like to believe that they are brainwashed and not inherently bad, I am uncertain at this point.

The Illusion of Depolarization

I am tired of hearing calls for depolarization, as I find it to be unrealistic. There was no way to depolarize our country before the Civil War, just as there was no way to depolarize Nazi Germany. Sometimes, there is only one right side of history, and meeting in the middle is impossible when the other side is unequivocally wrong on matters of human rights. If they continue to double down on their wrongness, peace will remain elusive.

A Cold War of Ideologies

Therefore, we find ourselves in a cold war, where the cold-heartedness is what I find most disheartening. As we staunchly advocate for human rights, we must also maintain warmth in our hearts for each other. It is crucial not to dehumanize those who dehumanize others. Despite some individuals’ refusal to acknowledge and respect human rights for all, we must remember that we are all human beings.

Embracing Humanity

I am reminded of the words of the late Paul Farmer, MD from Harvard: “The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world.” I have no desire to engage in debates with those who do not agree with this statement. Therefore, I conclude with a wish for nervous system regulation in the upcoming months. For those of us who have survived narcissistic abusers in the past, these months will be grueling. The PTSD flashbacks are real. So, find respite when you can, not as a means of bypassing our political reality, but as a temporary reprieve.

Engage in activities that bring you solace and comfort:

Take a breath.
Take a walk in nature.
Cherish the beauty around you.
Read poetry.
Sit in meditation.
Listen to the wind.
Do a yoga pose.
Sing, dance, beat drums, and enjoy music.
Create art and write about your feelings.

While part of me feels cowardly for doing so, I have accepted an invitation to teach an IFS & Memoir writing retreat on a beautiful island in Malta just before the election. It won’t be a political workshop, but it will provide a safe and brave space to process whatever emotions arise. If you have the privilege and feel called to join us, applications are being accepted for a very limited number of spots.

Until then, breathe… And then, push.

Apply for the IFS & Memoir Malta retreat here.

Posted on Lissa Rankin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in holistic medicine and alternative medicines?

Holistic medicine treats the whole person – mind, body, spirit, and soul. Holistic medicine examines every aspect of a person’s health. It also considers spiritual, physical, and environmental factors that may be overlooked by traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.

Is holistic healthcare the same thing as alternative medicine?

Holistic Health Care is different from Alternative Medicine in that it treats the whole person and not the symptoms.

Holistic Health Care addresses all aspects of an individual’s life: mental, physical, psychological, spiritual, occupational, cultural and family.

Alternative Medicine doesn’t address these issues. Alternative Medicine focuses on the body, mind and emotions.

Who uses alternative medicine and why?

Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.

They would prefer to avoid any surgery or harmful drugs.
They believe natural remedies work better.
They prefer non-invasive treatment.
They want to spend less.
Natural products are safer for them.
They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
They are ready to take charge of their health.
They desire a better environment.
They desire less stress in the lives of others.
They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
They seek safe, effective medicines.

What are the main advantages of holistic medicine over conventional medicines?

Many religions, cultures, and nations have used holistic remedies for thousands upon thousands of years. They were based on ancient wisdom and experience.

These medications are safe, affordable, effective, natural, as well as cost-effective. The side effects are minimal compared to those of pharmaceutical drugs.

They can help you attain better health, and overall wellness.

They can prevent disease and promote your overall well-being.

They can even treat diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease, arthritis, asthma or depression, as well as high blood pressure.

There are many traditional medicines available, with each having its own benefits.

According to the World Health Organization, around 80% of the population uses traditional methods to treat their illness or injury.

It has been reported that around half a trillion people rely on traditional herbs for their primary health care.

The global market in complementary therapies is expected to reach $22.2 Billion by 2020.

Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.

Complementary therapies are often used when other options fail to work. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.

There are many reasons people choose complementary therapies.

To improve quality of our lives
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To relieve pain
To enhance immunity
To support you in dealing with serious illness
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To deal avec chronic conditions

How safe is holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is safe because it does not contain harmful drugs. It is a natural treatment for people who have been using it for centuries.

Many illnesses have been treated with them, including arthritis, chronic pain and asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes (heart disease), obesity, depression anxiety, stress, insomnia, infertility, and sexual dysfunction.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal treatments, massage therapy, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, nutrition, counseling, physical fitness, exercise, and other complementary therapies. These therapies target the whole person and not just the symptoms.

What’s the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?

Alternative medicine is a treatment that is not commonly used by mainstream medical professionals, but has been proven to be beneficial for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary medicines are therapies that can be used alongside traditional medicine. These include supplements like vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino acids as well probiotics and other natural substances.

Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.

The best way to integrate CAM into patient care is not a consensus among health care professionals.

Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.

Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture can 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.

Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer’s disease.

Experts agree that CAM can help with many ailments, even though we still have a lot to learn about its effectiveness.

As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.

Despite the popularity of alternative and complementary medicine, many people are still unsure what they mean.

Statistics

In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (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)
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
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)
In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

How to Get a Job in Holistic Medicine

The field holistic medicine is expanding at an unimaginable rate. You have many options for this career path. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.

A number of schools offer holistic medicine programs. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. You can also find programs specifically tailored for medical professionals looking to enter the field.

Many online universities also offer holistic health classes. The Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) is an example of such a program. This college provides students with many holistic health education tools.

Another option is to enroll in a traditional four-year college. Many colleges now offer holistic health courses. A Bachelor’s Degree is offered by the University of California in Holistic Health Sciences.

If you plan on pursuing a career in holistic medicine, you should consider taking a course in nutrition. The NCCM recommends that students study nutrition before embarking on any professional training. They say that “a good understanding of nutritional science is essential for anyone practicing integrative medicine.”

Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not just symptoms. This requires more knowledge and skills than conventional medicine. Because of this, those interested in holistic medicine need to understand how to evaluate different types of illness from a nutritional perspective.

According to the NCCM, nutritionists often collaborate with doctors to offer dietary advice to patients. Some even go so far as to suggest specific diets or supplements based on their assessment of the patient’s condition.

Holistic practitioners need to be able to understand basic nutrition principles. This includes knowing what foods are healthy and what ones aren’t. This includes identifying nutritional deficiencies and other problems that could be causing them.

It is important that holistic practitioners are not all trained in nutrition. Some are primarily focused on herbal treatments while others rely solely upon acupuncture. Still, others combine these two approaches into one treatment method.

Holistic practitioners, however, recommend eating a diet rich with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. They also recommend that you eat plenty of seafood and fish. They discourage the consumption of processed food products and fast-food restaurants. Instead, they encourage people to eat organic produce whenever possible.

The one thing holistic practitioners can agree on is the importance of a balanced diet in helping to prevent diseases. There are however some things they disagree on. For example, they don’t believe gluten causes celiac. Instead, they believe that a lack in nutrients is responsible for the disorder’s onset.

However, they do acknowledge that some foods can cause allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis can also be caused by peanuts or shellfish. They also warn against consuming too much caffeine.

Although many holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various ailments, they prefer not to use pharmaceutical drugs. They feel such drugs only mask the problem rather than solve it. Because of this, they prefer to use natural remedies whenever possible.

In addition to offering a variety of alternative therapies, holistic practitioners tend to employ a number of complementary methods. These include:

Acupuncture – In Chinese medicine, this involves strategically inserting needles under the skin. This is believed to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms.
Herbal therapy: Holistic practitioners may use herbs to treat various conditions in addition to acupuncture. One common herb used for this purpose is ginseng.
Homeopathy – Another type of traditional Chinese medicine is homeopathy. It’s based on similar cures. You might experience a similar symptom when you are suffering from the same condition as someone else. You should seek the same ingredients in the original remedy.
Massage Therapy – Many holistic professionals offer massage therapy to help you relax and reduce stress. They claim that massage therapy can improve blood circulation and energy levels as well as ease muscle tension.

It is important to find a practitioner who meets your needs when choosing one. A nutritionist who has a degree will be able to provide nutritional counseling. If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture and the American Association of Oriental Medicine, (AAOM), certification is available.

Ask your doctor any questions you may have about holistic care. Your insurance provider may be able to provide information about which services you are covered.

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