In addition to dietary changes and supplements, there are four basic lifestyle changes we should integrate, as well.
Exercise
Relaxation
Improved Sleep Patterns
Brain Exercises
Each of these has been scientifically proved to improve mood and all brain functions.
RELAXATION
Each of us must find a way to bring meaning, purpose, peace and serenity into our lives in an active and deliberate way. The odd paradox is that one must “actively” relax. There are hundreds of ways to turn on the relaxation response, and no one way is right or wrong. But to thrive, protect your brain, and heal the damage from a chronically activated stress response you must find the ones that work for you.
Healing, repair, renewal and regeneration all occur in a state of relaxation. Relaxation is something ancient and familiar in all cultures – except ours. Deep relaxation is activated with human connection, community, love, sex, celebration, music, dancing, laughing, chanting, and meditation. The simplest is often the best.
Here are two suggestions:
Deep Breathing Exercise
1. Put your hand on your belly and allow your abdomen to relax.
2. Close your eyes.
3. Inhale through your nose.
4. Exhale through your mouth.
5. Breathe deeply into your abdomen and feel it expand to the count of five.
6. Pause for a count of one.
7. Exhale slowly to a count of five, allowing your body to relax and release tension.
8. Repeat for five breaths or until you feel relaxed.
Relaxing Epsom Salt Bath
Just fill a bath with hot water and add:
Epsom salt (two cups)
Baking soda (half a cup)
Lavender oil (10 drops)
Then get in and soak for 20 minutes. It is both relaxing and detoxifying. If you want to enhance your experience, light a candle and put on some music.
Next up: Improved Sleep Patterns