August 2010 -My Sleep by a Naturopath
Sleep for many people comes naturally – for others including myself, sleep can be a challenge. Often disturbed sleep can be blamed on external factors – babies, children, worrying about the whereabouts & safety of teenagers, the neighbours, snoring partners, the cat, dog, birds and anything that goes bump in the night. Even when all the external factors are eliminated - it can be that busy mind, hot sweats and vivid dreams that frequently wake and can leave one tossing and turning throughout the night only to fall into a deep sleep when it is time to get up.
In Chinese Medicine, insomnia can be related to deficiency of yin which is associated with a busy and hectic lifestyle and ‘ living life in the fast lane’, worry and anxiety all damage the yin. In modern western society when, stimulants such as caffeine, sugar, nicotine, alcohol and drugs are used as a quick fix - the body’s reserves of yin energy are depleted. Similarly, in western medicine – it’s the adrenal glands which become depleted and can manifest as insomnia.
So – how to achieve that deep undisturbed sleep and awake with that ‘feel good factor’...
Firstly, have a day with no stimulants at all – eliminate all caffeine, high sugar snacks or drinks, alcohol and drugs – if you have withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, tiredness or foggy mind – just rest & drink plenty of water. Optimum nutrition is essential to provide essential minerals /vitamins and to balance blood sugar levels. For me its my daily fix of 'good quality coffee' that has to go..
Ensure some daily physical exercise in the fresh air - make it relaxing & meditative - yes even the running - slow it down....& and be mindful of nature...
Then start the bedtime wind down 2 hours before you plan to go to sleep – switch off all electronic stuff –computers/television - plan some ‘me time ‘ relaxation – what ever works for you – relaxing music, meditation, warm salt bath with lavender or chamomile....
Try a herbal teas containing vervain, chamomile or hops or if it is more than 2 hours since you have eaten have a milky drink with a small carbohydrate snack.
If all this fails – there are natural herbal supplements which can be recommended and occasionally hormonal imbalances need to be addressed.
Late Summer 02.08.2010
As we approach late summer –it is no surprise to me that in Traditional Chinese Medicine – this time of year is associated with the earth energy, the colour yellow, sweetness, singing, transformation and digestion. As yellow fields are harvested and later the earthy small of freshly ploughed soil fills the air, we are reminded of the changing seasons and the essence of our energy.
Digestive symptoms and low energy are increasingly common, usually caused by nutrient deficient processed food and stress. So, enjoy the abundance seasonal fruit, and vegetables, local food, prepare with love and take time to relax and eat - not only your digestion but your energy and well being will benefit.
July 2010-07-18
How quickly the summer passes –already the blossoms of a few weeks ago have gone to seed and hips, haws, sloes, elderberries and black berries are adorning the hedgerows in readiness for ripening in the late summer sun. The fields are abundant with golden wheat, barley, oats and rape- soon to be harvested. How essential to our wellbeing that we appreciate the present and have gratitude for all of Natures gifts. So much time and energy is lost by dwelling on regret, resentment or anger from the past or feeling anxious or worried about the future. A few moments each day connecting with Nature and being grateful and appreciative for all that we have will only bring more of what we need and that is good for us. So just for today- listen to the birds, see the changes in Nature, taste some freshly picked fruit or vegetables, feel the natural touch of grass or sand between your toes......and breathe fresh air... enjoy the Summer.
Summer by a Naturopath
Longer days, warmer temperatures, blue skies, flowers and green countrside fill me with energy and joy. It is no surprise that in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Summer is associated with the Heart energy, the emotions of joy, sounds of laughter, growth and heat. It's time to energise and enjoy the abundance of seaonal fruit and vegetables, as well as the great life out doors.
The hedgerows are abundant with flowers thet are good for our health. Dandelion leaves can be infused to make a refreshing tea which will help to eliminate excess fluid, nettle leaves are full of minerals, and will relieve hay fever, support immune system and healthy joints. Elderfowers are beginning to bloom- and it's time to be thinking about making a cordial - elderflowers contain bioflavenoids and will regulate excess mucus production.
And as Ossie Osbourne says (Sunday Times 06.06) if you want to go organic - grow your own - its easy, fun and even a window sill or a small patio will provide a small harvest!
Have gratitude and appreciate for all that Nature provides for us...
Hay-fever....... by a Naturopath April 2010
The emergence of Spring with flowers, tree blossom, green shoots and singing birds will I’m sure uplift the spirit and bring joy to all. However, for some (including myself) it can also bring sneezes, itchy eyes and a runny nose.
Determined to treat these symptoms naturally and resist OTC anti- histamines and nasal steroid sprays and eye drops, - I look for natural alternatives.
First it is essential to address the diet and eliminate all mucus forming and intolerant foods such as dairy, wheat, caffeine and alcohol.
More important is an abundance of foods rich in minerals and anti –oxidants to prevent inflammation. So lots of coloured fruit and vegetables, and natural grains are essential.
I include bee pollen and local honey for extra minerals, vitamins enzymes and a possible homeopathic effect.
Green food powder which contains barley grass, spirolena, chlorella, and chlorophyll can be added to water to support an alkaline diet.
Nettles contain quercetin which has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine effect. Fresh nettels can be picked and made into an infusion. It never ceases to amaze me how Nature provides fresh nettles at the time when we need them most!
I always take Euphrasia as a tincture (available from Neal’s Yard) to prevent redness and itching of my eyes.
New Era tissue salts blended for Hay Fever containing magnesium phosphate, sodoum chloride, and silica will always stop those sneezing spasms of runny nose.
As for nasal congestion –well daily saline nasal washes help to clear the sinuses and maintain a clear nose.
I'm looking forward to happy and healthy Spring and Summer with lots of outdoor fun.
Easter 2010.... .. .....by a Naturopath
As a Naturopath, my connection with the seasons and Nature is very close to my heart and essential to my wellbeing. The extreme Winter has delayed the onset of Spring to coincide perfectly with Easter. So the death of Winter and emergence of New Life relates so closely with the death of Christ and the resurrection.
Naturopaths work closely with the healing power of Nature – yet we recognise that death is a natural experience for us all to face. In my work I hope to support people in that transition when the body can no longer heal itself.
Personally, this Easter makes me feel uplifted spiritually as the transition of Nature from Winter to Spring colours my world with flowers, blossom and green leaves. It brings new energy and life which I hope to share with all those in my life.
Successfully fighting a virus naturally – by a Naturopath!
- it’s that familiar feeling of slightly aching glands, shivers, sneezes and feeling tired that makes me aware of an imminent ‘cold wind invasion’ as they say inTraditional Chinese Medicine, especially when associated with runny nose and white coated tongue...... so determined to fight the invasion – I start taking 1000mg Vit C 2 hourly and 0.6mls of A Vogel Echinacea 3 times a day , some Chinese herbs from www.acumedic.com and a hot toddy with an early night and some positive affirmations- I’ve won the battle – the next morning I’ve regained most of my vibrant energy. Well enough to work , go for a swim & sauna – nothing like a stretch & a sweat to warm & move some qi!
20.01.10
Running by a Naturopath
Well, running has always been an important part of my life. I always enjoyed sports at school but like many people did not really continue after I had left. It was around 30 that I felt the need to get fit and regain my body after pregnancies and breast feeding. It was a real challenge at first. As I gained fitness and stamina - I became aware my competitive nature. I was soon counting miles and clocking the times and began to enter local 10 K’s. The running continued becoming a very important part of my life – there was even a time when I would make sure that I ran as many miles as units of alcohol I drank – my way of controlling – I guess.
Through difficult times, I used my running to run away, create my own space, process my thoughts and find my inner strength. Like many people, I realised that I should make something positive come out of all that running. So I raised £2,000 doing a marathon run in 4h 23m – not really a club runner time but not bad for a lonely runner.
Since then my running has become as essential to my mental wellbeing as to my as my physical wellbeing. It’s much more meditative- a time to think, have my own space and appreciate nature.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine – cold and damp will settle in vulnerable place like joints and ligaments causing pain and stiffness, so it’s important to stay warm. Exercise will move qi so that one feels energised but over exercising will deplete qi – causing long term exhaustion, so I l don’t push to my body if I am really tired. Adequate nutrition is essential particularly minerals to eliminate lactic acid and maintain alkalinity. An awareness of these principals has kept me free of injuries and I hope to continue running for many years yet.
I aim to make running more fun & plan to run with my darling daughter who is just realising the joys of running – and we are going to have a laugh!!!!
18.01.2010
Is the winter over......
Well, I know it’s not exactly spring but the days are getting longer, and I can feel the energy rising.
It’s great to be running again after all that snow. There’s an awful lot of water around but according to Traditional Chinese Medicine winter is associated with water, cold, the colour black and the kidney element. It’s important for us to restore our kidney qi by resisting overwork and stimulation. It never ceases to amaze me how nothing has really changed since those wise sages wrote the ancient texts thousands of years ago.
However, after all that snow, it’s a joy to see the green shoots of spring flowers and to hear the birds singing. I’m really looking forward to the first snowdrops & early daffodils.
As I become energised by more daylight and signs of spring, I can feel the urge to clean, tidy and move forward. Of course, letting go of l clutter is important at a mental & emotional level as well as practically and physically.
So, even if the winter is not really over I am looking forward to Spring and achieving new goals.....
Health of a Naturopath 08.01.10
As a Naturopath I believe that physical or emotional symptoms are our body’s way of telling us to make some changes.
So when I suffered epigastric pain with loss of appetite & disturbed sleep five days ago, I knew I had to make some changes. I realised that this was due to a little festive over indulgence and some anxiety.
Digestive enzymes, slippery elm and some lemon in hot water with manuka honey soon relieved to acute symptoms. However, I knew that I needed to make some more changes for a long term healing and health.
I was also feeling a little bloated and foggy headed and knew that detoxification at a cellular level would be beneficial. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, I certainly would not recommend a juice fast or raw food diet at this time of year, especially if like me you are intolerant of cold. However, a regular diet of wholegrains, vegetables, pulses and lentils with lots of warming spices will restore alkalinity and cleanse the body.
I also drank lots of alkaline herbal teas & added mineral powder, as well as colon & liver support. Bentonite clay is not my favourite so I take with hot water & juice to really help the elimination of toxins.
I also reminded myself of The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change:
Courage to change the things I can;
And the wisdom to know the difference.
Again my appreciation of mind – body connection has been re- inforced – I recognise that by simply cleansing the physical body – the mind and emotions also become more clarified and positive.
I am now feeling healthy happy and energised........
31.01.2009
New Year by a Naturopath
Wow – New Year is even more exciting this year as it’s a ‘Blue Moon’ – the second full moon this month!
Christmas, for me this year, has been lovely but particularly busy – and I’m choosing to spend a quiet New Years Eve with my favourite food, drink, a special person and log fire...
.. I’m really looking forward to 2010 – can’t believe it’s 10 years since all those millennium celebrations.. hoping I’m finally going to get some ‘me ‘time .. some country walks and hopefully get to the beach..
New year fills me with new enthusiasm hope and passion to full fill everything that I believe is important not just for myself but for the world. This has got to be the year that we all become aware of the chemicals and toxins to which we are exposed and which are affecting our health and the health of the planet. We are all becoming victims of 21st century diseases which are caused by the increased toxicity to which we are exposed and to which our bodies are not adapted.
More about detox later - but please make a New Year’s resolution to make your life as naturally healthy as possible - just begin by eliminating all chemicals and material junk!
Love and Best Wishes for a Healthy and Happy 2010
12.12.2009
Christmas by a Naturopath
Yes – I love Christmas – I love the traditions, the preparations, the feeling of good will and all the twinkling lights which lift the spirit at this dark time of year. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, cloves, cinnamon, the fresh green pine of the Christmas tree and log fires bring nostalgic feelings of festive fun. I also love the winter sunsets, the cold crispness of winter and above all the stillness and peace of the night on Christmas Eve when I feel the true spirit of Christmas.
I love this time of showing appreciation and gratitude with gifts and good wishes to all those friends, family and work colleagues who are special in our lives.
For me traditional Christmas food made with love (or even bought last minute in the Christmas rush) and shared with loved ones is the essence of the spirit of Christmas.
A few days to relax and reflect, to feel warmth and energy and to spend quality time with loved ones and to renew our faith.
24th Nov 09
Seasonal Changes by a Naturopath
As darkness falls in the afternoon and the days become shorter, I look for home comforts and warming food. Seasonal winter casseroles, soups, warming spices such as cloves, cinnamon and ginger, log fires, and glowing candles become essential to my wellbeing. I love to use the colour red to warm my heart and lift my spirit.
It is important to resist the temptations of the 24 hour material society in which we live, with fluorescent lights, shopping and internet access made possible by excessive stimulation of drugs, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and quick sugar fixes.
Remember that in Nature, winter is the time for hibernation and sleep. For health and wellbeing, it’s important to listen to our bodies and embrace the seasons.
Yet, in day light hours it’s really important for me to spend time out of doors. Wrapping up warm in winter woollies, scarves and boots makes me feel good in all weathers. I love the light of winter sun, the black silhouette of winter trees at dusk, the flocks of roosting birds and the winter sky especially in the Fens.
I still need my running – not particularly for fitness but more importantly to give me space & a feeling of freedom – the bridal paths are muddy so it’s easier on the road.
It’s no surprise that in ancient Chinese Medicine, winter is associated with kidney energy which is the water element and associated with the colour black and cold. I translate this as adrenal energy in which so many people become deficient, as they work and play too hard.
So, winter is a time of hibernation when replenishing energy stores and conserving qi are really important for our wellbeing. Embrace the seasons and enjoy!!
September 09
Sep 08
Well, I’m old enough & wise enough to realise that life is not a ‘bed of roses’ - having lived through the idealism of youth- the experience of raw foodism in the 80’s and subsequent vegetarianism – I now recognise that healthy eating depends on recognising one’s own genetic constitution and providing nutrition which supports one’s metabolism.
An ability to eliminate the toxins and acidity of the world in which we live is essential to vibrant health.
However, even more important, is the ability to promote positive energy when challenged by the stresses which are perceived from life’s crisis such as relationships, pain, ill health, financial or work fears and insecurities.
So – I would like to share a day in my life……….
In accordance with Traditional Chinese Medicine, I wake at dawn to sound of the dawn chorus and when I open my eyes I become aware of the changing seasons by the trees out side my window.
Hot water with lemon or nettle tea stimulate my metabolism – positive affirmations, deep breathing and stretching a great way to move ‘qi’.
Straight into work-out clothes ensure the morning exercise ritual – which includes body toner & abs followed by running, tai chi in the garden and yoga stretches – having experienced marathon & competitive training – I can now endorse the benefits of meditative repetitive exercise to clear the mind and stimulate endorphins!
Of course the domestics and laundry have to be fitted in as well - I only use natural products.
Tending my plants and herbs is essential to my wellbeing - I grow wheatgrass which I juice for super nutrition.
I then enjoy a wonderfully relaxing & hydrating green tea followed by my 'designer' nourishing breakfast – a muesli type mix of natural grains, maca, wheatgerm, flax seeds, bee pollen, goji berries cranberries, maple syrup & natural organic fat free yogurt - scrummy…
Skin brushing and my morning shower are my wake up to the day - note only natural organic products!
Every day, I focus on doing what I really want to do- my work is my life and fills me with joy and satisfaction. If I’m working at home – it’s e- mails, phone calls , research admin etc.. If I’m going out to work – and this may involve whole days out – I always take a flask of herbal tea and a packed lunch of salad, cous cous, vegetables, quinoa, rice, pasta, feta, nuts, seeds.
My weakness is my 11.00 coffee fix - if this can be a really good quality coffee, with a quality news paper or chat with friend - I consider it to be a luxury – occasionally , I admit to a take away coffee on the run ( a recognition of my addictive personality)
Lunch is a necessary break in my day – and I truly believe that the secret of longevity is regular eating habits - even more important is the ability to relax while eating in order to facilitate digestion & absorption.
An appropriate lunch is essential to avoid those mid afternoon sugar cravings or energy slumps – I have a mid afternoon snack of cereal bar, nuts, seeds and more herbal tea.
At 7.00, I am very aware of switching off in order to relax – I strongly recommend a change of clothes, relaxing music, lighting candles and burning incense to promote a feeling of true relaxation. Cooking for me is an emotional experience when I can relax and give love and energy through the preparation and sharing of food. I really enjoy wine but again have an awareness of how addictive this can become.
I relax spending time reading, listening to music, practicing yoga, reiki or meditation but am truly appreciative of special time spent with close friends and family and am always the last to leave a party!
Sleep is vital to my wellbeing & as I have advised many of my patients – a relaxing
I do take herbal & nutritional supplements - but am very much in tune with my own body and vary according to my needs. I also practice regular fasts & detox .However I recomend that fasting & detox is only practiced under supervision and will advise and support as part of therapy.
I truely practice all that I preach .
I hope to inspire and motivate you to achieve the health and well-being that you that you deserve.
Best in Health
Glenys