Cultivating Calm Amid Health Challenges

“The greatest wealth is health.” - Virgil

At some point in our lives, we are faced with health concerns, whether for ourselves or our loved ones.   The emotional toll of a diagnosis, or the uncertainty of not having one, can be overwhelming. When we are stressed about a health issue, our bodies often go into “fight or flight” mode, driven by the sympathetic nervous system.  In contrast, the parasympathetic nervous system promotes a state of calm and relaxation.

Here are some practical ways to activate this calming system:

• Deep Breathing: Stimulate the relaxation response by practicing slow, deep breathing exercises.
• Meditation: Explore different types of meditation to find one that works for you.
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and then relax each muscle group in your body from head to toe.
• Yoga: Practice gentle yoga poses, especially those focused on relaxation and deep breathing. Yoga Nidra is a favorite practice of mine.
• Nature Walks: Spend time walking outside in your favorite places. Enjoy the beauty of these natural surroundings.
• Warm Baths: Take a warm bath to help relax muscles and calm the mind. Consider adding Epsom salts or essential oils for added relaxation and aromatherapy.
• Massage Therapy: Receive a massage to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
• Mindful Eating: Enjoy a healthy meal, eating it slowly and savoring each bite.
• Laughter: Seek out activities that bring joy and laughter into your life.
• Social Connection: Spend time with loved ones or engage in activities that foster social connection and support.

One of my favorite ways to engage the parasympathetic nervous system is with EFT Tapping, a stress reduction technique involving gentle tapping on specific points on the face and body.  Consider exploring my tap along videos on YouTube, including the one for a Health Concern.

Good health is important to us for many reasons.  It improves our quality of life by giving us more freedom to engage in the activities we love and to pursue our goals and aspirations.  Our physical health impacts our energy levels, moods, cognitive function, productivity, and longevity.  Maintaining good health can prevent the financial strain of significant medical expenses and lost income resulting from poor health.  Let’s invest in the activities that promote good health!