Makin Wellness

Category Archives for Anxiety

Mental Health and Nutrition

“I haven’t had an anxiety attack in months. I’m completely off my antidepressants, which I 100 percent attribute to diet and lifestyle changes.” – Jane Green

We love hearing stories like these, where behavior changes are made to improve diet and lifestyle and positive results are clearly seen. While everyone is different and there is no one size fits all approach, research has shown the many benefits of diet and lifestyle changes for mental health. mental health

Fueling the body with nutrient dense foods supports enzyme function and serotonin levels (the happy hormone). Reduction of sugar intake improves mood and energy, while an abundance of sugar has been found to decrease a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is connected to anxiety and depression. Consider one study showing the benefits of reducing sugar intake.

In 2017 a study showed those who ate 67 or more grams of sugar (17 teaspoons) had more anxiety and depression. Those who had less than 40 grams of sugar (10 teaspoons) exhibited less anxiety and depression. Reducing sugar in the diet can be difficult at first with symptoms of headaches, feeling tired, and flu-like symptoms. It’s the body’s way of detoxing.

Nutritional counseling can be a great addition to traditional therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Diet and lifestyle is an important part of self-care and self-love, which is key in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). We are all worthy of self-care and incorporating tasty, nutritious foods is a great self-care habit to form.

Increasing healthy habits and reducing unhealthy ones can seem difficult at first, and does take a bit of discipline and behavior change. If you are interested in professional support in making positive changes to support your mental wellness, contact us today for a free consultation! mental health

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 assisted treatment and relationship counseling.

Laura Stewart Makin Wellness Nutrition Pittsburgh

Laura Stewart, B.A., CHN – Certified Holistic Nutritionist

Cannabinoids: A New PTSD Treatment Paradigm

The PTSD treatment paradigm, currently reliant on a spectrum of medications, has been increasingly challenged for the dependence it facilitates and its artificial approach to healing a complex, integrated system. Emerging from this has been a cry for increased research on holistic alternatives, namely cannabis and/or CBD use. Legal complications have tied up the field for a while but new research should be emerging soon as a Phase 2 study on the safety and efficacy of smoked marijuana for PTSD symptoms in US veterans is completed. cannabinoids

In the meantime, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine recently published the first study investigating the clinical effects of CBD for people with PTSD. It does need to be supported by randomized, controlled studies, as it was performed on a small sample of 11 patients who were also exposed to psychiatric medications and psychotherapy at the same time, but it is an optimistic opening for this field of research.

Over the course of 8 weeks, the study participants took CBD orally (either in pills or a liquid spray) once or twice a day. They completed the PTSD checklist (PCL-5) at the beginning of the study and again after 4 weeks and 8 weeks. The PCL-5 assesses symptom severity on a scale of 0 to 4, which allowed the researchers to study both the overall impact as well as the effect on specific symptoms.cannabinoids

The average baseline score for the participants was 51.82, which then dropped to 40.73 after 4 weeks and 37.14 after 8 weeks, showing an overall decrease in the severity of symptoms. Of the 11 participants, 10 experienced a decrease in their score by the fourth week, with an average of a 21% drop. While 3 of the 11 participants experienced increases in their symptom severity (an average increase of 8 points) from weeks 4 to 8, 10 of the 11 still experienced an overall decrease from the baseline, with an average of a 28% drop.

One of the symptoms most impacted by the study was sleep. Of the participants who responded to the question assessing “repeated, disturbing dreams of the stressful experience” with a score of 3 or higher, 50% reported an improvement in their nightmares. In all participants, 38% remarked improvement in the quality of their sleep. Other symptoms for which participants expressed benefits were anxiety, focus, and mood.

While more clinical studies are necessary to investigate the intricate effects of different types, dosages, frequencies, and conditions of cannabis usage on PTSD symptoms, this research sits on a strong foundation of theory. In fact, we are beginning to understand that there are innate systems in the body designed to respond to compounds found in cannabis as well as to regulate symptoms associated with PTSD.

The connection between PTSD symptoms and the effects of cannabis seems to be based on the compound anandamide – the “bliss molecule”. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid, meaning that it is produced internally (“endo”) and stimulates a system of cannabinoid receptors in the body. These receptors, along with the cannabinoids that stimulate them, comprise the endocannabinoid system, which maintains homeostasis through regulating appetite, immunity, memory, mood, motor control, pain, reward, fertility, and temperature regulation. Interestingly enough, there are compounds in cannabis with similar structures that can also trigger cannabinoid receptors in the body. THC, responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis, activates the same receptors as anandamide.

As we currently understand it, there are two cannabinoid receptors in the body – CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and central nervous system and mediate emotional learning, stress adaption, and fear extinction. These receptors are understimulated in those with PTSD, for their signaling “deactivates traumatic memories and endows us with the gift of forgetting”. cannabinoids

The use of phytocannabinoids like THC and CBD to stimulate CB1 receptors shows promise in balancing the endocannabinoid system and restoring its ability to regulate fear, anxiety, and joy. By allowing the system to have breaks from the constant stress it finds itself in when experiencing PTSD symptoms, cannabis use can reeducate the body to respond to stress as it does to acute stress. While endocannabinoids are broken down under chronic stress, under acute stress they are actually released to allow for return to baseline stress levels. What this means in terms of concrete response to symptoms, only the clinical trials will tell us, but there is reason to believe that cannabis users will become better equipped to respond to the stressors and symptoms that come with PTSD. cannabinoids

Although alternative treatments like CBD and medical marijuana still need conclusive evidence, our current approach to PTSD treatment has also yet to show any meaningful, consistent impact. In fact, PTSD United has shown that “in the past year alone the number of diagnosed cases in the military jumped 50%”. Many movements have emerged to raise awareness and funding for the cause, but, as organizational theorist Kenichi Ohmae recognized, “rowing harder doesn’t help if the boat is headed in the wrong direction.” The structure toward which this increasing energy is being devoted must be willing to evolve. We must seek new methods, challenge our current understanding, and form a more nuanced approach to treatment that includes a variety of techniques and is responsive to individuals and their unique needs. We will never know what could be achieved unless we open our minds and try it.

“If you want something you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done.” – Thomas Jefferson

About Makin Wellness

Alex Brooks, Psychology Intern

Makin Wellness

Holistic Treatment for “Summertime Blues”

“Keep your eyes lifted high upon the sun–and you’ll see the best light in everyone.” – Tess Guinery

Summertime is full of outdoor activities, spending time with friends, cookouts, and more. Planning a weekend getaway or other summer events may be on your bucket list. While many find this season to be an exciting time of year, others may find themselves dreading the change of pace. Large crowds, extra socialization, and pressure to have that “summer body” may leave some feeling discouraged with unmet expectations of how things “should be.”

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common in the fall and winter months, but may also present itself in summer months. Anxiety about events in large crowds, or depression over unmet expectations may result from increase in activity during the summer. Medication is often prescribed for depression and anxiety, yet natural, holistic treatment options are also available! holistic treatment

Focus on Your Diet

Low levels of serotonin can increase the chance of developing depression. While antidepressants may normalize serotonin levels, simple diet change can help to increase serotonin levels. Avoiding excess caffeine and sugar is essential. Eating foods with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and greens work to improve mood, energy, and overall wellness.

Soak up the SUN!

Spending 15-30 minutes in the sun each day is the best way to get vitamin D, helping to boost mood and immunity. Remind yourself that it is good for your health if you find yourself struggling to get motivated. Grab an all natural sunscreen, sunhat, and spend a little time outdoors each day. Doctors are even treating depressed patients with a light box, or good ol’ natural sunlight.

Get Moving

Taking time to stretch in the morning is a great way to start your day. Deep breathing while stretching has shown to reduce anxiety, anger, and depression. Exercise releases endorphines, also known as “feel-good chemicals” which act as a natural antidepressant.

If you are interested in support with holistic treatment options, Makin Wellness offers a natural, holistic approach incorporating individualized, customizable therapy, nutritional counseling, aromatherapy and other holistic treatment options. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your wellness journey today! holistic treatment

About Makin Wellness

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

Daily Affirmations for Stress Management

“Being in a positive state of mind is more important than you might think, as the mind cannot be creative in a negative state. New ideas, thoughts and inspiration will only take place when the mind is positive.” – Joe Hinchliffe

Positive words of affirmation are often used in relationships. Friendships, intimate relationships, and parent-child relationships all need positive words of affirmation. Daily affirmations like, “I love you,” “I appreciate you,” “I believe in you,” and “I’m so thankful to have you” are all positive ways to strengthen relationships. Why is it easier to say those words to others, yet more of a challenge to affirm ourselves? daily affirmations

Often times, it is thought of as conceited when saying something positive about oneself. So, to avoid appearing like a braggart, one may use daily affirmations to promote positive thought processes. Simply stating things like “I am grateful for this day,” or “I am starting this day with an open mind, and looking for the good,” are examples of daily affirmations that can be used to crowd out negative thinking and promote positive mindset.

Writing out goals and then stating “I am….” followed with the things you would like to see happening in your life, can help bring them to fruition. For example, stating “I am going to study for my test and prepare in a timely manner,” can be used to promote efficiency and productivity.

New academic research shows positive affirmations lower stress levels in high-stress situations – with higher success rates in those who use positive affirmations versus those who don’t. Our thoughts create feelings, feelings create behaviors, and behaviors create thoughts. Positive thinking promotes more positive behaviors and outcomes.

Daily affirmations can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by rewiring negative thought patterns and replacing “I can’t” with “I can” – turning fears and doubts into confidence and certainty. Affirming what you want, instead of what you don’t want allows you to focus your energy on those things and move in the direction you would like your life to go. In turn, flooding your mind with positive thoughts and affirmations, leaves less room for negative thought patterns. daily affirmations

Makin Wellness offers holistic therapies to promote positive mindset. If you would like support with daily affirmations, contact us today for a free 15-minute consultation!

About Makin Wellness

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

Though Field Therapy for Creativity and Mental Alertness

Thought Field Therapy (TFT) is a natural technique formulated by Robert Callahan. The therapy consists of tapping on certain pressure points (also known as meridian points) of the body, while affirmations are made. It is drug-free and has shown to have rapid results. thought field therapy

Gary Craig, a student of Robert Callahan’s, tweaked the technique and formed his own called “Emotional Freedom Technique” (EFT).

These techniques both help with phobias, anxieties, depression, addictions, and other mental related issues. In line with the principles at Makin Wellness, the basis of TFT and EFT is that our beliefs have a powerful impact on our behaviors. Thought field therapy (TFT) helps facilitate the belief that by accepting our current circumstances and being present in the moment, we are better equipped to focus on letting go of the old and building the new. Anyone can practice TFT in their own home or with a trained professional. Guidelines for practicing at home can be found in Roger Callahan’s book entitled, Tapping the Healer Within: Using Thought-Field Therapy. The best part is, this therapy can be done at no cost to you. thought field therapy

A positive outlook on life has shown to have many benefits. Being optimistic strengthens relationships, improves coping ability and protects your health. Research has shown people with an optimistic, positive outlook have lower levels of inflammation and heart disease risk. Thus, a positive outlook can have a profound effect on health.

Ultimately, we are individually responsible for maintaining healthy lifestyle practices. Quality sleep, regular daily exercise, and healthy eating habits are in our control. Meaningful connections and sense of purpose is also an essential part of wellness. Healthy lifestyle habits positively affect our mood and quality of life.

Though Field Therapy promotes positive thought patterns, increasing feelings of happiness, and overall wellness. Happy people are better able to solve problems, are more creative, and tend to have increased mental alertness. Optimists have even shown to live longer than pessimists!

Negative thought patterns sap energy levels, and lower the brains ability to function properly. Recent research in neuroscience has shown that repetitive, focused mental activity can affect changes in brain structure, wiring, and capabilities. Therefore, with time and practice, you can train your mind and brain to think more positively. Positive mindset, better quality of life, and improved overall wellness could be right at your fingertips!

If you would like support with thought field therapy to promote positive mindset, call now to schedule a free consultation with a trained professional! thought field therapy

About Makin Wellness

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

Medical Marijuana in Pennsylvania

Medical marijuana was legalized in the state of Pennsylvania in 2016. Patients with serious medical conditions may now receive safe and effective treatment through the state’s Medical Marijuana Program. To get medical marijuana there are four basic steps. medical marijuana

First, register for the program through the Medical Marijuana Registry. Second, get certified from a physician, showing that you suffer from one of the qualifying conditions. Third, pay for a medical marijuana ID card. And fourth, find an approved dispensary to receive medical marijuana in Pennsylvania. medical marijuana

Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Autism
Cancer (including remission therapy)
Crohn’s disease
Damage to nervous tissues of central nervous system with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, and associated neuropathies.
Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders
Epilepsy
Glaucoma
HIV/AIDS
Huntington’s Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease
Intractable seizures
Multiple sclerosis
Neurodegenerative diseases
Neuropathies
Opiod use disorder in which conventional therapeutic interventions are ineffective or contraindicated.
Parkinson’s disease
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Severe chronic or intractable pain of neuropathic origin or severe chronic or intractable pain
Sickle cell anemia
Terminal illness

Renewing Registration

Prior to your patient certification and ID card expiring, you will receive and email 60 days in advance. Renewing your registration involves a few simple steps. First, you will need to submit your renewal online. Then, you will receive an email .verification with steps to follow. Finally, you will get a patient certification through any registered practitioner and your card will then be mailed to you.

Medical Marijuana Approved Forms

Topical forms, including ointments, creams, and gel
Tincture
Liquid
Pill
Oil
A medically appropriate form administered by vaporization or nebulization, including dry leaf/plant form

Forms of medical marijuana are different for each patients individual needs. A physician and pharmacist can assist in choosing what is best for your condition.

Makin Wellness offers a holistic approach to wellness through medical marijuana assisted treatment for PTSD, professional counseling, nutritional counseling, aromatherapy, and other natural treatment options. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation!

For additional information regarding Pennsylvania’a Medical Marijuana Program, please refer to :

Department of Health

medical marijuana

About Makin Wellness

Disclaimer:

Getting an evaluation at Makin Wellness does not guarantee you will have or be diagnosed with PTSD or Opioid Use Disorder . We are able to provide ongoing treatment in all of our offices and via telepsych. For those struggling with Opiate Use Disorder, you may qualify if conventional therapeutic interventions are contraindicated or ineffective, or for which adjunctive therapy is indicated in combination with primary therapeutic interventions. We are not certifying physicians for medical marijuana in the State of PA. We are able to evaluate, diagnose and provide treatment for mental health and addiction conditions. If you fit criteria for PTSD or Opioid Use Disorder , you would still need to see a certifying physician after the evaluation in order to get your medical marijuana card. Cannabis is still considered illegal under federal law. Please refer to the Pennsylvania Department of Health or contact us if you have any additional questions.

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

Herbal Remedies for Cognitive Function

Cognitive decline and neurocognitive disorders may be the result of aging, head injury, or other medical conditions. Alzheimer’s and dementia have been associated with high cholesterol, inflammation, hypertension, high body mass index, and diabetes.

Anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have also been reported as risk factors of dementia and cognitive decline. The hippocampus (the memory center of the brain) can shrink from high blood pressure. And since higher blood pressure is linked to cognitive decline, taking measures to eat well and reduce stress is essential.

Poor nutrition, head injuries, and vitamin B12 deficiency may also cause memory and other cognitive issues. Foods such as grapes, blueberries, and beets support brain cell connection and function. Spinach, broccoli, and other cruceferous vegetables are beneficial for reducing inflammation and improved arterial function.

Stress-reducing activities, adequate sleep, and exercise are all necessary in preventing cognitive decline. In today’s busy world, it can at times be difficult to find the time to get all the nutrients and exercise our bodies need. Simple herbal remedies and supplementation can be a helpful aid.

Best Brain Boosting Herbs and Supplements

Aromatherapy – a 2009 study was done with Alzheimer’s patients, consistently administering rosemary and lemon essential oils in the morning, and lavender and orange in the evening. The oils showed a positive effect on psychological and behavioral symptoms, as well as improved cognitive function. Rosemary oil has clinically shown to improve cognition and memory. Melissa oil has also been used in patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia to aid in anxiety and insomnia. cognitive function

Sage – Sage has been identified as one of several herbs that may aid Alzheimer’s patients. A study published in 2003 in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior indicated sage to possess memory boosting properties. Sage can be added to chicken, soups, or taken in tea form.

Turmeric – Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests it may prevent break down of nerve cells in the brain boost overall brain function.

B Vitamins – In a study of elderly men and women, it was found that a B-complex supplement prevented decline in participants ability to plan, prioritize, and organize. Those taking B-complex with Omega-3 supplements had the best results. Taking a high potency supplement is best.

Ginkgo – Two recent medical journals confirmed extracts of Ginkgo biloba can improve cognitive function and memory in people with dementia.

MMJ and CBD oil – Medical marijuana and CBD oil have shown to be beneficial in patients with alzheimer’s and dementia, improving cognitive function, symptoms of aggression, improving sleep, and other physical and emotional benefits. cognitive function

Makin Wellness offers a holistic approach to wellness with holistic treatment options including stress relief techniques, aromatherapy, supplementation, and nutritional counseling. Contact us today for a free consultation!

About Makin Wellness

Disclaimer:

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

Gardening for the Mind

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn

Spending time in nature is like a gift that keeps on giving. Whether in your own backyard, or visiting a local public garden, you’re sure to experience nature’s countless benefits to the mind and body. The healing power of nature has proven to aid in mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

The warmth of the sunlight, the fresh smell of plants and flowers, and a gentle breeze, all provide a sensory experience that brings us back in tune with our minds and bodies. We feel grounded and part of something larger than ourselves.

Gardening provides a unique therapeutic experience in its positive affect on the brain. The physical activity of gardening boosts neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, helping reduce anxiety and depression. Spending time in green spaces has shown to be a healing aid in attention deficit disorders, grief, and even chronic illness. Nature offers a hope, giving new perspective through the anticipation of change and growth. gardening

Sunlight exposure stimulates serotonin, which is responsible for regulating mood, memory, and impulse control. Simply taking a walk outside may reduce levels of depression and fatigue, boost mood, and improve self-esteem.

The Science of Gardening

May gardening, or “horticultural therapy,” be a good option for mental health interventions? Grounding techniques are used as a way to detach from emotional pain by becoming more in tune with the senses. Doctors and therapists have noted how gardening promotes both a grounding and sensory experience, encouraging mindfulness, and helping to reduce stress by decreasing cortisol levels (the hormone released when under stress). gardening

Scientists proved the positive affects of gardening on our state of mind in a 2016 study, comparing gardeners to non-gardeners. Outcomes of those who had their own garden or helped in community gardens showed these results:

Less anxiety

Reduced depression

Increased quality of life

Improved sense of community

Another study showed positive effects of soil bacteria and the brain. Mice who were inoculated with soil bacteria had an increase in serotonin (the happy hormone). With the brain and gut being in constant communication, the state of our gut microbiome is largely related to the state of our mental health. In short, spending a little time in the dirt (with its beneficial bacteria), may positively impact our state of mind!

Gardening also provides a feeling satisfaction through cultivating and preparing our own food. This gives a rewarding sense of accomplishment and connection to the world around us.

Try visiting a local Pittsburgh garden, or start your own and experience the healing power of nature! Phipps Conservatory offers gardening classes and its partnered with Grow Pittsburgh, which offers gardening resources and workshops. In the words of William Shakespeare, “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” gardening

About Makin Wellness

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

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

Laura Stewart, BA, CHN Makin Wellness

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

Laura Stewart anxiety stress therapy makin wellness

Laura Stewart, B.A., CHN

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