Positive Mindset: Rewiring the Brain

“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis

 

Positive mindset has shown to boost mood, improve confidence, while also being an effective tool for stress-management. People who practice positive thinking are more likely to cope with stressful situations and reduce the harmful effects of stress on the mind and body. positive mindset

Thinking positively does not mean ignoring or avoiding any negative situation. It simply means approaching it from a different angle. For example, after making a mistake, rather than thinking “I’m a horrible person,” you can instead learn something from the situation and approach it differently in the future.

Learning to think more positive takes time and practice. Our thought processes, whether negative or positive, depend much on our daily habits. Being mindful of our day to day habits, such as our physical activity, eating habits, and how we’re spending our time, can help to see patterns that may be contributing to our state of mind. positive mindset

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is used to target depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. It is a form of therapy used to replace dysfunctional thoughts with more healthy ones. CBT has shown to improve symptoms by strengthening healthy brain connections and changing thought patterns.

One study was conducted on patients with psychosis who were given brain imaging before and after CBT. The scans showed a heightened connection between the amygdala (the part of the brain responsible for fear and threat response) and prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for rational thinking). According to clinical psychologist Liam Mason, these findings show psychological therapy such as CBT can “lead to changes in the mechanics of the brain.”

Thus, when dealing with mental illness, rather than simply taking medications alone, it is vital to include a form of psychological therapy to strengthen brain connectivity to enable a more positive mindset – literally rewiring the brain. Consider other daily habits that contribute to a positive mindset.positive

Tools to Encourage Positive Mindset

• Positive Affirmations – Think of positive things about yourself, and practice positive self talk. Dwelling on things you are grateful for will encourage a positive outlook and reduce stress and worry.

• Be Mindful – Being mindful and present in the moment, avoiding a critical or judgmental attitude, will allow positive thoughts to fill your mind.

• Exercise – Aim to exercise 30 minutes a day to positively affect your mood and reduce stress.

• Healthy Eating – A healthy diet will help fuel your mind and body, improve cognitive function, and give an overall sense of well-being.

Improving your state of mind takes time and practice. Don’t expect change to happen overnight. Practicing positive self-talk will help you to be less critical of the world around you over time.
positive mindset

Makin Wellness offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Nutritional Counseling, and other therapies to promote a positive mindset, helping to reduce stress and improve overall wellness. Contact us today for a free 15-minute consultation!

 

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling.

Spring Cleaning: Emotional and Mental Detox

Winter months have passed, with new life sprouting and feelings of renewed energy in this spring season. It’s the time for clearing out clutter and spring cleaning. Perhaps you’re planning on cleaning windows, clearing away cobwebs, or getting out in your garden. The feeling of a fresh clean home, with sunshine pouring through the windows may come to mind.  No doubt, a feeling of satisfaction follows after completing these chores…..even feeling therapeutic!

What about decluttering the mind?

After a long winter cooped up inside, spending some time outdoors can clear the mind, and renew the spirit. This may be difficult for some who have suffered seasonal depression, making transitioning to a new season a challenge as well. Mental and emotional detox, also called emotional pruning, may be necessary to allow for healing of the mind and body. emotional detox

Sun exposure in small doses promotes healing, helping the body make vitamin D, which is vital for functioning of blood cells, bones, and the immune system. Lack of sun and low levels of vitamin D pose risks of serious health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

The sun also promotes a good nights rest, which is essential to mental and emotional well-being. Taking a short walk outside in the sun while breathing in fresh air, has an array of benefits. Scientists believe the sun’s rays may even shrink fat cells!

Spending time to self-evaluate and realign priorities is the perfect way to start fresh this season. Self-care and positive thinking supports overall wellness. Letting go of negative thought patterns and behaviors, and replacing them with more positive ones allows for personal growth and healing. Reflecting on where you are and where you would like to see yourself is also a positive step to move in the direction you would like to go. emotional detox

Emotional detoxing, sometimes referred to as emotional pruning, is much like pruning a tree or shrub. Pruning away negative patterns reduces risk of developing further physical and emotional complications, creating room for positive growth and healing. When pruning a shrub, or taking away the dead part, the plant can grow and thrive at its best.

Emotional wounds take time to resolve, and at times, enlisting in the help of a therapist is a necessary step toward healing. Being mindful, and embracing the present, is a helpful approach to letting go of past hurts – leaving more room for improvement. Other wellness activities like journaling or deep breathing can reset the mind, helping reduce stress.

Tips for Emotional Detox

• Let go of negativity – Reliving past traumas or continually thinking over negative scenarios can be harmful to the mind and body, preventing positive growth. Talk to someone you trust and practice letting go of past hurts, by focusing on positive solutions.

• Embrace positive relationships – Spend time with those who make you feel loved and encouraged. Negativity can bring your energy down, making it difficult to move in a positive direction.

• Effectively manage time – Effective time management is essential to stress reduction, so that you may live a higher quality of life, and maintain more positive relationships. Carve out time to sit and have a healthy meal, grab coffee with a friend, or take a moment in your day to do something you enjoy. We make the most of our time when we’re not overly stressed.

• Practice positive self-talk – Be mindful of how you are speaking to yourself. The way we speak to ourselves affects interactions with those around us. Carefully consider the messages you are saying to yourself – this will reflect in your relationships with others.

• Create a wellness routine – Choose activities you enjoy doing to positively impact your mental health and wellness. Cooking a nice meal, spending time in nature, or getting together with a friend are all positive ways to support wellness, helping to reduce and weed out negativity.

Makin Wellness is happy in supporting you on your wellness journey. Please contact us if you would like support in setting wellness goals with a holistic approach in promoting harmony between the mind and body. Mindful eating habits, spending time in nature, and aromatherapy are a few of the ways we help our clients support their overall wellness. Spring into wellness by calling now free 15-minute consultation and begin your wellness journey today!

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling.

What do Allergies & Anxiety Have in Common?

Spring is in the air, and many are looking forward to enjoying the outdoors. Others though, may be a bit anxious over the excess pollen that will soon be in the air, causing coughing, sneezing, itching, and much discomfort to say the least. Living with allergies puts stress on the body and the mind. While anxiety and allergies are independent of one another, allergies may make anxiety worse, and vice versa. allergies and anxiety

Seasonal allergies, food allergies, or skin allergies can all create some amount of anxiety. Anxiety in turn, may weaken the immune system, making allergy symptoms worse. Under stress, the body releases cytokines, which effect the severity of an allergy attack. Anxiety and stress weaken the immune system further, making symptoms of allergies worsen. Physical symptoms coupled with decreased quality of life can heighten anxiety. Therefore it becomes cyclical. How can we nip these issues in the bud?

Holistic treatment options are helpful in supporting overall wellness, providing support to various body systems, and helping the mind and body to work in harmony with one another. Allergy medications can provide temporary relief, yet there are natural and effective ways to avoid relying solely on medications.

Exercise is one of the best ways to alleviate anxiety and support the immune system. Endorphins  are released through exercise, promoting a positive mood, while cortisol is lowered and toxins are released. Thus, allowing the body to function more as it should and reducing allergies and anxiety.

Therapy can also be a positive way to manage anxiety. Learning coping skills and ways to promote more positive thought processes, while releasing negative patterns can all be achieved through therapy sessions. Lifestyle and diet change are also an essential aspect in supporting the mind and body.

Whole foods have multiple benefits in giving the body what it needs, enabling us to function at our best. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and aromatherapy can help relieve anxiety while supporting the immune system, so that allergy symptoms may be lessened. Lavender, lemon, and peppermint essential oils can help soothe allergies, giving both a calming and uplifting effect. Learn more about therapeutic grade essential oils for emotional support by clicking here!  allergies and anxiety

Here at Makin Wellness we are happy in providing support through a holistic approach. Contact us today to begin your wellness journey!

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling.

Holistic Nutrition & Addiction Recovery

“As one goes through life, one learns that if you don’t paddle your own canoe, you don’t move.” – Kathryn Hepburn

Addiction recovery takes hard work, dedication, and introspection. A little determination coupled with adequate support, can provide the needed tools to successfully recover from addiction. It is a day-to-day, continuous effort.

Finding a recovery center that supports holistic nutrition with other holistic treatment options is especially helpful in reducing severity of withdrawal symptoms and prevention of relapse.

Nutritional deficiencies are common through addiction recovery, as well as junk food cravings and at times, forgetting to eat due to withdrawal symptoms. Low levels of folic acid, B6, and thiamine are often seen in those recovering from addiction.

Depletion of nutrients and lack of calories may result in weight loss, poor muscle tone, weakness, electrolyte and hormonal imbalances, and increased risk of developing other life-threatening diseases.

Stress management techniques, exercise, nutrition, and rest are all part of the recovery process and in helping to reduce relapse. Holistic nutrition gives consideration to the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, providing a comprehensive approach to long-term recovery.

Benefits of holistic treatment for addiction recovery includes repair and healing to damaged tissue and organs, immunity boost, improved energy and mood, management of withdrawal symptoms, reduced relapse, and stress management. Stress plays a large role in addiction, therefore learning effective coping mechanisms helps in reducing relapse.

A healthy diet provides essential nutrients to the mind and body, giving one better ability to manage stress and increase happiness. Other holistic treatment options such as aromatherapy and supplementation can support the healing process, while reducing relapse. Digestive enzymes, magnesium, and other supplements may be recommended to improve sleep, promote calming, and refuel the mind and body.

Makin Wellness offers a holistic approach to addiction recovery through stress management techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), holsitic nutritional counseling, medical marijuana assisted treatment, aromatherapy, and other natural treatment options.

If you or a loved one are looking for holsitic treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, contact us for a free consultation and begin your journey to recovery today!

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling.

Social Anxiety: Causes, Affects, & Tools to Cope

We all deal with degrees of social discomfort at times. Fear of judgment and feelings of self consciousness are felt by many in social situations. Giving a presentation or meeting new people may cause us to have sweaty palms and the common “butterflies in the stomach”.

Social anxiety disorder however, presents a stress that is more than shyness, possibly causing one to avoid social contact entirely. It can be experienced in various ways, such a as fear of being judged, feeling embarrassed or humiliated, or fear of offending someone.  Symptoms include stomach trouble, rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, and dizziness to name a few.

What are the Causes? 

Genetics are likely part of it. For example, if a close family member has social anxiety or social phobia, you are more likely to experience it as well.

An over active amygdala may also play a part, as this is the part of the brain controlling fear response.  History of bullying, teasing, or abuse can be linked to social anxiety.

What Affect does it have on Your Life? 

Avoiding social situations affects personal relationships, preventing one from fully living and enjoying their life. It may lead to depression, low self-esteem, negative thought patterns, and poor social skills.

What are some Tools to Cope?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide positive changes to thought processes and patterns of behavior. A trained professional can help one work through social anxiety in practical ways. Support with building self-esteem and positive self image are some of the benefits of therapy.

Aromatherapy is another tool to reduce social anxiety. Essential oils can be used to provide feelings of confidence and promote a calming effect. Vanilla, lavender, and orange have shown to soothe nervousness and stress. Using pure, therapeutic grade oils will provide the best results.

Exercise and diet are also essential to promoting harmony between the mind and body, helping reduce anxiety by boosting endorphins and releasing toxins.

Makin Wellness is happy in providing support to anyone dealing with social anxiety or social phobia. Our trained professionals will provide holistic options and therapies to promote healing for the mind and body. Contact us today for a free 15 minute consultation!

 

Anxiety: Types, Treatments, and Tools to Cope

“In any given moment, we have two options: To step forward into growth, or to step back into safety. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.” – Abraham Maslow

We all experience times when we feel stressed, worried, anxious, or nervous. We worry about family responsibilities, finances, health, work, and other obligations. As we discussed in our previous post, there are a variety of holistic options for anxiety relief. However, we must first identify the source of our anxieties and its severity in order to take steps in correcting it. Recognizing the root cause is the first step toward positive change and healthier ways of managing stress and anxiety.

Types of Anxiety

The most common types of anxiety are generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, specific phobias, and panic disorder. Anxiety is also present in other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Symptoms of more than one type of anxiety are commonly experienced. It’s vital to seek support as early as possible before anxiety begins to take over your life. Talking to a trained professional can provide resources and tools to cope.

Anxiety overload may show itself in the form of irritability, anger, inability to concentrate, stomach problems, panic attacks, muscle tension, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, and sleep disturbances.

Start by asking yourself these questions:

• Is anxiety and worry affecting my quality of life?
• Is the dread and fear I’m experiencing robbing me of joyful moments?
• Am I feeling stuck with the belief that drugs are my only option, or that I have no other option than to live this way?

Everyone has a tipping point with various triggers that bring about anxiety. Taking inventory of ourselves and having self-awareness gives better opportunity to manage stress and anxiety. Be mindful of your day to day habits. Keeping a log or journal at times you’re feeling worried or anxious can help sort out your thoughts, allowing you to take more control over the situation. Understanding the trigger, or root cause of your anxiety will better equip you in being able to manage it.

Remaining in a perpetual state of anxiety is detrimental to physical and emotional wellness. Finding a professional trained in holistic treatment methods can provide safe, effective options for managing anxiety.

Treatments and Tools to Cope

Whether you suffer from a mild anxiety or more chronic form, you may be inclined to think the only option is anxiety medication. Prescribed medication may be necessary for a period of time for some people. However, clinical studies have shown various herbal remedies and botanicals to significantly decrease anxiety. Lavender oil is even being used to calm patients in hospice care.

According to a study published in Phytotherapy Research, Echinacea extract showed significant relief of anxiety in only three days. While this isn’t considered a cure all, it may provide natural relief, without the side effects of prescription drugs. And, it is always recommended to talk with your doctor when making any changes to your wellness routine.

See our previous post for more natural, holistic options for coping with anxiety. Exercise, eating well, and getting plenty of rest are essential tools to managing anxiety and overall wellness. If you are interested in more natural treatment for stress or anxiety, contact us today for a free 15-minute consultation!

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling. 

Holistic Remedies for Anxiety

Anxiety, stress, worry, and fear are all too common in today’s world. In our hurried lives we’re all looking for a quick fix to stress and anxiety. Finding calm in the chaos is a much more holistic process, though. It takes looking inward with an honest self-evaluation. Being mindful, self-aware, and present with ourselves is the first step in finding healthy approaches to reducing anxiety. The more in tune we are with ourselves, the more ability we have to promote healing.

“Holistic medicine gently works on correcting an underlying condition, and requires a high level of participation on the part of the patient.” – David Crow 

In our last post, we defined wellness as “the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.” This is therefore a day-to-day effort that often requires breaking old habits, and moving outside of our comfort zones. As we open ourselves to change and become more adaptable, we move into growth and become better versions of ourselves. anxiety

Fear of the unknown may cause us anxiety, making us move back into comfort, in turn making change more difficult. Techniques to promote positive thinking are especially helpful in taking action toward positive change, allowing us to move out of our comfort zones.

In some instances, other health conditions such as food sensitivities, or an overactive thyroid, may be the culprit of anxiety disorders. Excess sugar and caffeine is something else to consider. Finding the root cause will provide the resources and tools necessary to gain control over anxiety, before it gains control over you. anxiety

While anxiety medications may provide temporary relief, it is like a band-aid versus getting to the root cause, and does not come without side effects. To bring balance to the mind and body, daily wellness habits need to be incorporated.

Consider the following holistic remedies for anxiety relief:

• Deep Breathing – Deep belly breathing is a quick way to reduce cortisol and promote a calming sensation to the mind and body. Diaphramatic breathing is a relaxation technique shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

 

• Walk Barefoot – A term called “earthing” is a natural technique used to reduce anxiety by stimulating the mind and body. It may improve sleep by improving circadian rhythms, improve mood and energy, boost immunity, and reduce stress. In warmer months, take a walk outside in the grass, breath deep, and feel the healing effects of nature!

anxiety

• Eat Whole Foods – Fueling our mind and body with nutrient dense foods provides the needed vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep our bodies functioning at its best. A whole-foods plant based diet has shown to be the optimum diet for wellness, vitality and longevity. Eating a variety of fresh foods is best.

 

• Exercise – Exercise is one of the best tools for wellness. Walking outside and exercising in nature has even more added benefits with oxygen from fresh air, greenscapes raising serotonin levels, and sun exposure increasing vitamin D levels.

 

• Aromatherapy – Essential oils are the lifeblood of plants, steam distilled from leaves, stems, and flowers. They provide support to each body system, helping to relieve stress, boost immunity, and promote restful sleep. Inhaling lavender has shown to produce a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. Bergamot may help reduce the stress response, along with chamomile. Lavender and chamomile have long been used as a sleep aid – calming the mind and helping you let go of worries. Contact us at Makin Wellness for your very own custom blend of therapeutic grade essential oils! Incorporating massage with essential oils is the perfect way to relieve tension!

anxiety

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT is a form of talk therapy that may be used by a mental health counselor to promote positive thought processes. It focuses on improving emotional regulation and developing coping skills. This technique helps find new approaches to problems, helping boost happiness and positivity.

 

• Cannabidiol Oil – Cannabidiol or CBD, has shown to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoative, meaning it does not get the user “high,” rather it promotes a feeling of calm and focus. Ayurvedic medicine believes CBD to be most beneficial with the combination of other herbs. A naturopathic doctor can recommend what would work best with your unique wellness goals and circumstances. NuLeaf Naturals is an all natural, organic brand made in Colorado.

 

Makin Wellness is happy in providing an individualized and customizable approach to support optimal wellness. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Nutritional Counseling, Aromatherapy, and stress management techniques are just a few of the ways we help our clients heal and become happy again. Contact us for a free 15 minute consultation and begin your wellness journey today! wellness

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling. anxiety

Bipolar Disorder – Causes & Alternative Treatments

Mental illness is becoming more and more common among all ages. According to the World Health Organization, over 450 million suffer from mental illness worldwide. Suicide rates have increased by 60% in the last 45 years, with 90% having a diagnosable mental disorder. Anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders like bipolar disorder have similarities, yet require different treatments. A person with depression often has some type of anxiety, while a person with anxiety often shows some symptoms of depression.

Brain health plays an integral part in all types of mental disorders. Bipolar disorder in particular, is unique in comparison to anxiety and depression. Manic episodes of bipolar may include high energy, reduced need for sleep, and loss of touch with reality. Depressive episodes of bipolar may include low energy, decreased motivation, and loss of interest in daily activities. Treatment typically is lifelong, involving a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Lets look further at the causes and complexities of this disorder. bipolar disorder

Causes

Most researchers agree there are physical and environmental factors that contribute to bipolar disorder. While a person may have been born with a predisposition, for many a stressful life event or upbringing triggers the illness. Studies show a low or high level of a particular neurotransmitter such as serotonin, norepinephrine or dopamine is involved in mood disorders – affecting the overall balance of how these chemicals work together. Stress levels also play a role with increasing stress causing cortisol levels to rise. In turn, these high cortisol levels alter brain function and communication.

The Prechter Bipolar Research Program at the University of Michigan performed a study which found more people with bipolar disorder have a history of childhood trauma than those without the disorder. These traumas were associated with changes in self-control and attention. Childhood traumas such as emotional abuse or neglect has shown to affect mood, impulse control, cognitive function, and feelings of self-worth – all of which are associated with bipolar disorder. bipolar disorder

The study showed higher levels of saturated fats had an association between certain levels of fat molecules in the blood and mood. Patients taking an antipsychotic also showed less diversity of microbes in the gastrointestinal tract. Bad microbes in the gut can create gut inflammation, which may cause depression and other brain ailments and imbalances. It has been noted that those who have daily mood swings have food allergies or hypoglycemia. With brain health being so dependent on gut health, it is essential to provide the body with proper nutrients to provide greater harmony between mind and body. Lets look further at some alternative treatments to support mental health and overall brain health. bipolar disorder

Alternative Treatments

Dr. Drew Ramsey, author of “50 Shades of Kale,” says omega 3’s, vitamin D, B vitamins, zinc, iron, and magnesium all play a vital role in brain health. Ramsey notes that kale provides 134% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, 684% of vitamin K, 206% of vitamin A, and more. It is of utmost importance to eat nutrient rich foods to help support a healthy gut such as, cruciferous vegetables, bananas, beans, artichokes, blueberries, polenta, kimchee, saurkraut and tempeh. Slow digesting foods that are high in fiber such as beans, oats, brown rice, and other fruits and vegetables are all supportive to brain health. Folic acid, B12, and glutathione has shown to be deficient in manic depressive patients. Diet changes, supplementation, and alternative treatments can be used in conjunction with other therapies. Bipolar disorder can be successfully managed through a strong support system, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. It is always best to discuss any treatments with your health care provider. Consider some practical ways to support mental health.

Tips to Support Mental Health

• Take care of your body – Eat nutrient dense meals, avoid excess alcohol, drink plenty of water, exercise, and get enough sleep.

• Spend time with others who support you – People who have strong family or social connections are generally happier and healthier.

• Learn coping skills – Take a walk in nature, journal, and practice self-care by spending time doing something you enjoy.

• Quiet your mind – Mindfulness and relaxation techniques helps improve your state of mind and promotes a positive outlook on life.

• Acupuncture – Symptoms of mood swings can be alleviated with acupuncture by helping to balance the energetic qi (chee) within various body systems and minimize the frequency and intensity of mood swings. Medical Wellness Associates offers acupuncture and other homeopathic therapies for a variety of conditions, helping to support balance between mind and body.

• Aromatherapy – Essential oils promote balance between mind and body. Oils like lavender, bergamot, frankincense, jasmine, and many others can be used to uplift mood. Contact Makin Wellness for a custom blend to support mental and emotional wellness!

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mood disturbances, contact Makin Wellness today for a free 15 minute consultation! Our services include a holistic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional counseling, and life coaching.

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling. bipolar disorder

Pros and Cons of Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana has shown benefits such as functional improvements in autism and severe pain conditions. Marijuana is an herb that has been used for thousands of years in traditional, ancient medicine such as malaria, rheumatism, gout, and absent-mindedness. Chinese medicine has used the plant for its medicinal value, versus the intoxicating properties we generally tend to associate it with. medical marijuana

Ayurvedic texts references to cannabis by one of its chief founders of Ayurveda, Dhanvantari. Cannabis is used medicinally only in very small quantities in Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda believes marijuana to be an addictive drug, advising it to be used in combination with other herbs, based on the toxic affect it may have on the mind and body. Herbs and plants, like any medicine, may be beneficial for some things, yet still presenting some negative side effects.

The endocannabinoid system is a delicate and complex system of the body, responsible for vital brain functions like appetite, mood, pain sensation, and memory. Endocannabinoids are the naturally occurring chemicals found in our nervous and immune systems. The endocannabinoids then act on various cells and attach to endocannabinoid receptors. While cannabis can work naturally with our endocannabinoid system, cannabanoid misuse can be harmful to our bodies and brain functions.

The Difference Between THC and CBD

Long-term use of cannabis with the active compound of THC has shown to affect the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is responsible for intellectual ability and decision making skills. THC is the psychoactive component found in marijuana known for creating the “high” feeling typically associated with its use. Immediate and long-term cognitive side-effects include, impaired thinking and reasoning, reduced ability to plan and organize, altered decision-making, and reduced control over impulses. Therefore it should be used with caution under the care of a doctor. CBD has the same chemical constituents as THC, but doesn’t produce the “high” feeling, making it a safer option for children since it doesn’t have the potential harmful cognitive effects of THC. CBD is used to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduce psychotic symptoms in Schizophrenia, and increase appetite while decreasing pain and nausea in cancer patients. Read more at: www.sepalika.com/living-well/pros-and-cons-of-medical-marijuana. medical marijuana

Benefits of Medical Marijuana

Medical ailments that have shown to respond well to medical marijuana include mood disorders, degenerative neurological disorders such as Dystonia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and seizures. Medical marijuana also has the potential to ease pain associated with multiple sclerosis, assist in symptoms of autism, ease tremors in patients with Parkinson’s Disease, and aid with sleep issues. People with nausea from chemotherapy, chronic pain, or those depending on harmful pain-relieving opiods can also benefit a great deal from medical marijuana. medical marijuana

Ethan Nadelmann, Executive Director of Drug Policy Alliance, notes, “New evidence now indicates that the proliferation of medical marijuana laws and dispensaries around the United States is strongly associated with fewer people dying from overdoses involving heroin and pharmaceutical opiods. the most likely reason is that people are finding marijuana more helpful than opiods in managing different types of pain. Doctors are recommended to us cannabis with caution in patients with a history of tobacco or other substance use, at increased risk for heart disease, or have a history of mood or anxiety disorders. Dr. Michael Dworkind recommends using no THC under the age of 24. CBD is a healthier alternative and has shown particularly beneficial in children with seizures. Dr. Dworkind believes it to be a myth that marijuana is a gateway drug, as it is much safer than other addictive drugs. The reason being, a person cannot die from overdose.

Medical marijuana is separated from the recreational use of it as there are not large amounts of THC. Different strains produce different effects and your doctor can decide with is best for your condition. It is safer since the dosage and kind of strain is regulated by the doctor and licensed producer. The doctor follows up every three months and makes any necessary modifications based on a risk/benefit questionnaire. Vaporizing is encouraged as a way of taking medical marijuana since it is a healthier option. Oils and edibles are also available. medical marijuana

More information about the pros and cons of medical marijuana can be found at medicalmarijuana.procon.org.

About Makin Wellness

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy & coaching centers located in Downtown Pittsburgh and Downtown New Kensington. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again.  Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, medical marijuana assited treatment and relationship counseling .pittsburgh addiction

Spa Treatments for Stress Reduction

Imagine yourself walking into an appointment. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, as you’re warmly greeted and offered a small glass mason jar of strawberry infused water. While you quietly sip your water, the pleasant aroma of essential oils being diffused fills the air. A feeling of calm comes over you without a worry or care on your mind. This doesn’t sound like a visit to the doctor, does it? No. Instead, this is an appointment to receive a relaxing spa treatment. This describes a recent experience at a local spa right here in the Pittsburgh area.

Sage Organic Spa is a modern farmhouse boutique spa located in Upper St. Clair. The owner, Shannon Hindman, loves using all organic products, including therapeutic grade essential oils. She spends much of her time researching ingredients and finding the best products suited to her clients individual needs. Services offered include skincare, massage, body treatments, tinting and lash lifts, and waxing. They are the only spa in Pennsylvania to use the Indie beauty brands, Odacite and LILFOX. Whether you’re interested in a massage, facial, mud wrap, or other body treatment, feelings of renewal and rejuvenation are sure to follow.

Is the spa just a luxury though? You may be surprised to know the benefits go beyond just that of a relaxing atmosphere. Massage and other spa treatments have shown to support both physical and mental health, giving a feeling of overall well-being. Let’s take a closer look at the beneficial effects of spa treatments on the body and mind.

Popular spa treatments include massage, facials, and body wraps with massage being the most popular. According to mayoclinic.org, massage is a powerful tool for a wide range of medical conditions including, anxiety, headaches, fibromyalgia, digestive issues, sports injuries, stress related insomnia and temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ).

Massage improves blood circulation, sending oxygen and nutrients through the body and cells, stimulating the lymphatic system and ridding the body of excess toxins. Thus, lymph flow is increased as toxins are removed, in turn boosting immune function. Massage is excellent in reducing stress, pain, and muscle tension. Studies have also shown massage to improve sleep quality. spa treatments

Facials include massage around the neck, arms, hands, and feet. A facial helps to reduce puffiness and inflammation, promotes skin cell renewal, and reduce stress. Facials can also help reduce headaches by releasing tension from the head and neck. With the skin being the bodies largest organ, using organic products is an essential part of optimum skin health. Skincare products are absorbed into the skin and can get into our organs. The ingredients can either be helpful or harmful to our bodies. For clear, radiant skin, it is recommended to get facials four times a year as the seasons change, along with keeping a good skincare routine. This will help detoxify the skin from built up waste and bacteria, which is essential since the skin is the bodies first line of defense against environmental elements.

Mud wraps are another way to help detoxify the body. Indigenous people all around the world have been using clays and muds, for medicinal and aesthetic benefits as they have an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Mud wraps exfoliate and nourish the skin, help ease inflammation, flush out toxins through sweating, and relax and soothe the muscles. Anti-aging, skin toning, and cellulite reduction are some other noted benefits.

Hormones, pollution, stress, and other elements all impact our bodies and the health of our skin. Taking time to care for your skin and body will help reduce this stress. Regular spa treatments have shown a correlation with better sleep quality, fewer sick days, and an overall sense of well-being. Clearly, it is more than just a simple luxury. A little time at the spa is a perfect way to slow down and reflect, feel renewed, and support mind-body balance. Sage Organic Spa provides top notch services with knowledgeable, caring and professional staff who make you feel at ease and calm enough to fall asleep!

If you’re looking for further support with stress management, contact us today at Makin Wellness for your free initial consultation. Our therapists and coaches can aid you on your journey to wellness through a holistic approach with the use of essential oils as an effective way to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost immunity. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and other techniques utilized in helping clients heal and become the best version of themselves.

About Makin Wellness :

Founded in 2017 , Makin Wellness is Pittsburgh’s premier therapy and coaching centers located in Downtown, Pittsburgh and New Kensington, PA. The company’s mission is to help people heal and become happy again. Makin Wellness specializes in depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship counseling. Schedule your free consultation with Pittsburgh’s best therapists and coaches to begin your wellness journey today!

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