Alternative Healing

Photo by Microsoft Designer

After I graduated in 2006, from the University of Texas at El Paso, I was determined to find answers and did research on my own time for five years. I utilized hospital libraries, public libraries, databases, online material and integrative medicine books.

I knew since I was a child that something was not right and later, over and over I was diagnosed with Major Depression. So I set out and I wanted to give each person who was suffering, depression, anxiety and PTSD to be able to take back a sense of control and have --- inexpensive, practical techniques to use on their own---

(by all means, i am not licensed and seeking a doctor is always best)

----Here is a simple list of practical, holistic techniques---

* say or think positive affirmations

* imagine and describe in detail, a beautiful location * being mindful of this exact moment * being mindful of your body * walk in a safe, green area * exercise at least 20 min a day

* eat healthy meals * take a short nap * get a good night sleep * make a short-to-do list * review your short and long term goals

* talk with a trusted friend * do a hobby you enjoy * listen to relaxing music * ask a friend for a hug * write down all your accomplishments * practice smiling

* volunteer, help someone * do victory poses * inhale and exhale deeply * get a neck and back massage * take a hot bath with pure Epson salt * enjoy a sauna and Jacuzzi * use calming herbs like lavender Jasmine, rose, ylang ylang,

geranium and sandalwood

* watch a comedy or inspirational film * read something funny, read jokes * enjoy relaxing caffeine free teas like chamomile, seven herb tea, or sleepy time tea * increase omega 3's found in salmon and tuna * eat sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds

* avoid or limit alcohol and recreational drugs * limit caffeine and sugar * eat more fruits and vegetables * spray your room with you favorite scent * read a good book * work on a craft project * take photos and organize them * look at beautiful online photos

* read article topics you enjoy * eat more spinach, increase folic acid * take B-complex vitamins * take more vitamin C * get at least 15 min of sunlight * journal at least one page a day * do aerobic excercise * enjoy sexual pleasure

* surround yourself with positive people * make music or sing your favorite song * play a board game or video game * stay busy * go for a brisk walk * do basic yoga stretches

* practice tai chi

* detoxify your body * enjoy pure water * use Tap Technique * use a rubber band on wrist * create a goal poster with text and pictures

Many of these techniques are either Cognitive (using the mind only), Behavioral ( things you do everyday) and Bio-Chemical (how the body uses food intake and vitamins and how they affect one's body from the inside) Again, I am not a licensed doctor, only a student of knowledge.