Each week, I will share three things on how to heal holistically. Drawing from my 28 years of experience as a practicing Naturopath, as well as what I am currently working on, exploring, and curious about. Make a pot of tea and give yourself the time and care you deserve.
- HEALING: Considerations for when you are experiencing XYZ.
- REVERENCE: A deep respect & attention to the things that truly impact healing.
- EXPLORING: A journey into the deeper work, meeting the parts, wounds, and survival strategies that keep us small, stuck, and suffering with persistent symptoms & feelings.
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1. HEALING: Bloating - consider bitters and sour foods
Modern diets tend to limit our taste buds to only salty, sweet, and umami (savoury). But what about bitter and sour? Bitter and sour foods, stimulate digestive juices, which can help improve overall digestive function and nutrient absorption. The bitter-sensitive taste buds in our mouth do more than just taste the food. They are connected to the nervous system in such a way that stimulation from these buds leads to the release of the hormone gastrin from the gut wall into the bloodstream, as well as increased hydrochloric acid and bile flow.. This helps digest proteins and sterilise any ingested pathogens, keeping our digestive system healthy and processing with ease. Bitter and sour foods include rocket, sorrel, radicchio, chicory, dandelion, and endive and citrus: skin, juice & zest.
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2. REVERENCE: Rest and digest
The "rest and digest" state, also known as the parasympathetic state, refers to the body's relaxed state when it focuses on digestion and restoration. This state is controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system and helps increase blood flow to digestive organs, slow the heart rate, and stimulate digestive enzyme production. It also promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels. This state can be triggered by activities such as deep breathing or meditation before and after eating.
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3. EXPLORING: How do you meet your symptoms & feelings?
With resistance, aggravation, intolerance, disdain, and distraction or with attention, reverence, care, curiosity, kindness, compassion, love, time, and space. The simple act of validating and tending to your symptoms & feelings with phrases such as ...
- I feel you
- I hear you
- I see you
- I am here for you
... can provide valuable insight and help regulate your nervous system which opens the window to restoration & recuperation. Remember, what we resist persists. Stay open and curious.
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An evolving definition of the word holistic...
#1 Holistic refers to an approach that considers the whole person and their unique circumstances, rather than just focusing on one specific aspect of their life. It takes into account the interconnectedness and interdependence of various key areas that impact a person's overall well-being, such as health, work, home, relationships, creativity, spirituality, nature/environment, self-care, health care, personal development, past experiences (including inheritance and upbringing), and the present moment. This approach recognizes that all of these areas are interrelated and can have a significant impact on a person's overall health and happiness. By considering the whole person and all of the factors that influence their life, a holistic approach can lead to a more comprehensive and effective understanding of an individual and their unique needs.
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Holistically yours,
Anthia
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