The Healing Power of Animal Therapy

by Liz Espe | Sep 26, 2023 | Therapy, Animals, Blog, Healing, Life, Well-being | 0 comments

The Healing Power of Animal Therapy: A Path to Emotional Well-Being

In the fast-paced and often stressful world we live in, finding solace and healing has become an essential part of maintaining emotional well-being. While traditional therapies have long been relied upon for mental health support, a new and innovative approach is gaining recognition – Animal Therapy. This form of therapy is based on the belief that interactions with animals can significantly improve emotional, mental, and even physical health. In this blog, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of animal therapy and explore the ways in which our furry friends are helping us heal.

What is Animal Therapy?

Animal therapy, also known as pet therapy or animal-assisted therapy, involves using animals, such as dogs, cats, horses, and even smaller animals like guinea pigs and rabbits, as a part of a therapeutic treatment plan. The presence of these gentle creatures helps create a calming and supportive environment, facilitating emotional healing and personal growth for individuals of all ages.

The Benefits of Animal Therapy

Stress Reduction: Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Interacting with animals releases oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, which can help lower cortisol levels and induce a sense of calm and relaxation.
Improved Mood: Animal therapy can boost mood and combat feelings of loneliness and depression. The simple act of petting an animal can trigger the release of endorphins, promoting a positive emotional state.
Enhanced Social Skills: For individuals struggling with social interactions, animals can serve as a bridge, helping them build confidence and improve their communication skills. The non-judgmental nature of animals allows people to feel accepted and understood.
Increased Empathy and Compassion: Taking care of animals cultivates a sense of responsibility and nurturance, fostering empathy and compassion towards other living beings.
Physical Benefits: Animal therapy has been associated with various physical health benefits, such as lowered blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and improved motor skills in certain cases.

Applications of Animal Therapy

Mental Health: Animal therapy is used as a complementary approach in treating a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The soothing presence of animals can help individuals cope with their emotions and improve their overall well-being.
Hospital Settings: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities have introduced animal-assisted therapy to aid patients in their recovery process. Visits from therapy animals can provide comfort and motivation for patients undergoing treatment or rehabilitation.
Schools and Education: Animal therapy programs are implemented in schools to improve students’ social skills, reduce stress, and create a positive learning environment.
Assisting Special Needs Individuals: Animal therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with special needs or disabilities. The bond formed with animals can contribute to improved emotional regulation and social interactions.

Animal therapy is more than just a passing trend; it is a scientifically-backed method of promoting emotional well-being and healing. The bond between humans and animals is a powerful force that transcends language barriers and connects us on a profound level.

If you find yourself in need of emotional support or simply seeking a way to reduce stress and improve your mood, consider exploring the world of animal therapy. Whether it’s cuddling with a friendly dog, taking a leisurely horseback ride, or simply observing the antics of playful rabbits, the healing power of animals can be a transformative experience. Embrace the companionship of our furry friends and embark on a journey of emotional growth and healing.

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Disclaimer: We are an affiliate of many companies, which means that we may receive a commission if you click on our affiliate link and make a purchase. However, this does not affect our reviews and comparisons. We strive to provide honest opinions and recommendations based on our own experiences and research. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider, or party in question.

10 Natural Ways to Maintain a Healthy Heart

by Alisa Rose | Sep 26, 2023 | Advice, Blog, Body, Cardiovascular Health, Healing, Holistic, Life, Natural, Nutrition, Stress, Well-being, Yoga | 0 comments

10 Natural Ways to Maintain a Healthy Heart

The heart is an incredible organ that tirelessly pumps blood throughout our bodies, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to keep us alive. Taking care of your heart is crucial for overall well-being and longevity. While modern medicine has made significant strides in heart health, there are also natural ways to maintain a healthy heart. In this blog, we’ll explore 10 effective methods to promote heart health naturally.

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

One of the most impactful ways to care for your heart is through your diet. Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid or limit processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt intake. Incorporate heart-healthy foods like berries, nuts, fatty fish (e.g., salmon), and olive oil, known for their cardiovascular benefits.

2. Stay Active

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and cycling can help strengthen your heart and improve circulation.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight through a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce this risk. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on achieving and maintaining your ideal weight.

4. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can have a negative impact on your heart health. Find stress-reduction techniques that work for you, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature. Reducing stress can help lower blood pressure and improve overall heart function.

5. Get Adequate Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. Poor sleep can lead to increased inflammation and higher blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for heart disease.

6. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for cardiovascular health. Drinking enough water helps maintain blood volume and circulation. Limit your intake of sugary and caffeinated beverages, and opt for water, herbal teas, or infused water for a heart-healthy alternative.

7. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or smoking cessation programs to kick the habit.

8. Limit Alcohol Consumption

While some studies suggest moderate alcohol consumption may have cardiovascular benefits, excessive alcohol intake can harm the heart. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation (one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men).

9. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease. If necessary, work with your healthcare provider to manage these risk factors through lifestyle changes or medication.

10. Embrace a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Adopting an overall heart-healthy lifestyle can make a significant difference in your cardiovascular well-being. This includes avoiding recreational drugs, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and staying up to date with vaccinations and preventive healthcare.

Maintaining a healthy heart is essential for a long and fulfilling life. By making conscious choices in your diet, physical activity, stress management, and other lifestyle factors, you can promote natural healing and reduce the risk of heart disease. Remember that consulting with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance is crucial in your journey to heart health. Start today, and your heart will thank you for years to come.
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Disclaimer: We are an affiliate of many companies, which means that we may receive a commission if you click on our affiliate link and make a purchase. However, this does not affect our reviews and comparisons. We strive to provide honest opinions and recommendations based on our own experiences and research. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider, or party in question.

From Western to Eastern Medicine

by Alisa Rose | Mar 17, 2023 | Advice, Blog, Herbs, Life, Monthly Blog, Thoughts, Vitamin, Western Medicine | 0 comments

From Western to Eastern Medicine

“Unlocking the Secrets of Eastern Medicine: How Ancient Practices Can Revolutionize Your Health Today”

Hey there, Lovely! If you’re here, you are probably researching ways that you can take back control of your body, your mind, and your health! I’m so glad that you made it!! I pray that this information will travel to your heart and make an impression on you so that you may use it to become a happier and healthier you! I pray for guidance and restoration and above all, I pray that you love yourself!

Western Medicine. What is it? Well, in a nutshell, if you see a physician in the United States, you are taking part in Western Medicine. The definition of Western Medicine, according to Cleveland Clinic is as follows:

“Western medicine has its roots in the Western part of the world, namely Greece. Experts credit the Greek physician Hippocrates as being the father of Western medicine. Hippocrates and Hippocratic physicians believed that illnesses were the result of imbalances between blood, black bile, yellow bile, and phlegm (what they called “the humors”). These physicians looked for bodily causes of illnesses. Their treatments focused on restoring this humoral balance.”

This was the beginning of Western Medicine! It spans millennia and many plants and herbs were used to treat conditions. You can even find many of the remedies used throughout The Holy Bible! Of course, with growing technology, Western Medicine does not have the same holistic approach as it did at one time. More and more synthetic drugs are being manufactured by pharmaceutical companies and used for the treatment of patients. This has been shown to bring along more side effects in patients which, in turn, will be treated with more synthetic drugs. It seems to be a never-ending cycle!

Eastern Medicine also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has its roots in the Eastern part of the world, mainly China. TCM is still strongly rooted in holistic approaches to healing and concentrates on ancient remedies that Western Medicine used. While Western Medicine focuses on using a specific drug to treat a medical condition in millions of patients, Eastern Medicine focuses on treating the person as a whole instead of just the symptoms. TCM does not only tackle the physical body but also looks at the mind and spirit. It consists of treatments such as massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, and herbal remedies. Eastern Medicine does not have as many evidence-based findings as Western Medicine does, so it is not looked at as much in the Western World. However, some western physicians do incorporate TCM, more commonly known as “complementary medicine”, along with their prescribed antidotes.

So, which route are you taking now? Do you want to change it? Add it? Which medicine is better? For me, it seems the more I study Eastern Medicine the more I am drawn to the concepts behind it. I have seen chiropractors for years and have also practiced physical therapy and deep tissue massaging to help with my inflammation and pain and I absolutely love it! These things have helped me more than anything else I have encountered such as medications and surgeries. So I’m leaning more toward the East at this point in my life.

And that brings me here, writing my first blog “From Eastern to Western Medicine!” I am researching, learning, and applying it for myself at this very moment. I bring you, Lovely, on this journey with me and hope that, together, we may learn so many refreshing concepts about the earth and how it can heal. What do we have to lose? Let’s find our happier and healthier selves together!
Be sure to check out our Community Area. I would love to connect with you and share in your journey.
-Alisa

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Disclaimer: We are an affiliate of many companies, which means that we may receive a commission if you click on our affiliate link and make a purchase. However, this does not affect our reviews and comparisons. We strive to provide honest opinions and recommendations based on our own experiences and research. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider, or party in question.

Where Life Begins

by Alisa Rose | Mar 17, 2023 | Advice, Blog, Body, Life, Monthly Blog, Thoughts | 0 comments

Where Life Begins?

Life.
What is the meaning of it?
When does it begin?
When does it end?
Am I living it now?

Hey there, Lovely! If you’re here, you are probably researching ways that you can take back control of your body, your mind, and your health! I’m so glad that you made it! ! I pray that this information will travel to your heart and make an impression on it so that you may use it to become a happier and healthier you! I pray for guidance and restoration and above all, I pray that you love yourself!

Life, according to Webster’s Dictionary is defined as:

1. the quality that distinguishes a vital and functional being from a dead body
2. a principle or force that is considered to underlie the distinctive quality of animate beings
3. an organismic state characterized by the capacity for metabolism, growth, reaction to stimuli, and reproduction

1. the sequence of physical and mental experiences that make up the existence of an individual
2. one or more aspects of the process of living

As you can see, life has many meanings. And to top it off, these aren’t the only meanings listed in Webster’s Dictionary! Life means different things to different people. I know what it means to me. What is life to you? Is it the quality of it? Does it look happy? Healthy? Serene? Is it all based on your experience and growth? My life fits the definition of 2b perfectly. To me, it’s many aspects of the process of living. I want to live my life with the knowledge of how to make the process a most enjoyable one for me and the people around me. It may be something different for you and that’s A-okay! You do you, Beauty. Let’s explore this thing together!

You may be wondering where to start. I was in the same predicament and even though I wanted to do all the things to change my health at one time, I knew that would be impossible. And before I even started on this new journey I studied A LOT! I listened to podcasts, read blogs, followed health websites, read books, confided in others, and made some short and long-term goals. Once I had my thoughts on paper and a good foundation from researching I was ready to begin!

I have suffered from many ailments in my 47 years. Which, most of them have been over the course of the last 12 years of my life. It’s like I have been hit by one bomb after another! These things I’ll go into detail about later in other posts, but for now, I am just starting my journey to finding a happier and healthier me! I hope to find the exact combination that I need for my specific genealogy just as I hope you find yours as well.

I want to share with you how I started this journey. Feel free to follow the advice that I give but make sure that you take steps that are right for you. No two people are the same and we all must find our way ourselves.

Steps to begin the journey of healthy, natural living:

1. Find some podcasts about holistic living and/or ancient medicine
I had no idea where to start! All I knew is that I wanted to learn about other practices to maintain a healthy lifestyle and I wanted to conquer this naturally. So, I picked up my phone, opened my podcast app, and searched for “Living a holistic lifestyle as a Christian.” Since being a Christian is very important to me I added that to my search. I was bombarded with many podcast shows! I chose one and I started listening to it in the morning while I got ready for work and listened on the way to work. That was it. It was a small step, but it was one of the best steps I could have taken! We all have to start somewhere. No matter how small we start, it’s a movement toward something new and it has the power to manifest in our lives!

2. Figure out where you want to spend your focus on
I know, I know. Now you want to fix everything! After listening to some podcasts I’m sure you are feeling overwhelmed by all the poisons you’re putting into your body and you want them all out and replaced with nature! But, again, we have to start somewhere. So, choose just one or two things you want to focus on first. For me, it was gut health and inflammation because I knew that the majority of my issues came from the gut and my inflammation was causing me chronic pain in my daily life. Both were hindering my way of living. What’s yours? Brainstorm. Write down what is weighing on you. If you have it on paper, you’ll likely find THE THING that’s interfering with living.

3. Write SMART goals
Write short and long-term goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Making sure your goals are written with all of these objectives you’re more likely to reach those goals! Having short and long-term goals are imperative to success! We have to see our progress! Making goals too large and hard to reach will lead to frustration and oftentimes will end in giving up.

4. Put “Natural Healing” on the budget for the month
If you don’t put this new lifestyle expense on your monthly budget you will spend too much at one time. You’ll want all the things! Remember, we are starting small. One small step. Put the amount down that you know you can afford and don’t go over! Just do what you know you can do. If you don’t add the expense into your budget or you go over the budget you will tell yourself that you can’t afford to lead this healthy lifestyle and will quit in the end. By budgeting this and staying within your budget you’re also pacing yourself and not diving in too quickly.

5. Remind yourself every day of why you’re doing this
Make sure you do things throughout the day to remind yourself of what you are doing and why you’re doing it! Look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are worth the extra expense. Write down different materials that pertain to you and hang them where you will see them often like on your bathroom mirror or refrigerator. It’s good to journal your daily walk into this newfound life too and to list 3-4 things that you are thankful for every day (one being the new healthy you, of course). Do anything that is going to cause you to have a more positive outlook in your daily walk. A happy heart is a heart that will have empathy for yourself and be quick to forgive the slip-ups on this difficult journey.

By following these simple steps and tailoring them to your own, I know that you’ll be able to begin your journey to a healthy, natural life! If you’re frustrated, I GET IT! If you’re confused, I GET IT! If you just feel lost, I GET IT! Together, Lovely, we will make this life mean so much more than we would have ever dreamed it to be! Here is to living the life we are meant to live! Here is to the true definition of life….our own.

Come over to our Community Area to share your journey. We are creating a community where we can share our successes and our journeys in a supportive and productive way.

-Alisa

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Disclaimer: We are an affiliate of many companies, which means that we may receive a commission if you click on our affiliate link and make a purchase. However, this does not affect our reviews and comparisons. We strive to provide honest opinions and recommendations based on our own experiences and research. Any product claim, statistic, quote, or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider, or party in question.