shutterstock_163492337 Appetite Disturbances

See also: anxiety, depression, fear, heart health, high blood pressure, infertility, low blood pressure, pain management, stress, weight loss

Appetite Disturbances, either experiencing loss of appetite, or having difficulty controlling it, several alternative therapies can help. If you experience a notable change in appetite, you should first consult a physician, to rule out any illness or nutritional deficiencies. Whether you want to stimulate your appetite or control it, changing the way you eat may help.

Appetite loss is the body’s defense against ingesting anything that could slow the healing process. Almost any infection can cause a loss of appetite. A passing cold or flu virus could be responsible. So could more serious things like tuberculosis, low thyroid function, diseases of the heart or lungs or liver problems.

   cholesterol, blood pressure and ideal weight. Lower risk factors and prevent early disability, illness or even death from heart disease or stroke.

Bulimia is an illness characterized by uncontrolled episodes of overeating usually followed by self-induced vomiting. Eating binges may occur as often as several times a day. Induced vomiting known as purging allows the eating to continue until interrupted by sleep, abdominal pain, or the presence of another person. The person is usually aware that their eating pattern is abnormal and may experience fear or guilt associated with the binge-purge episodes. The behavior is usually secretive, although clues to this disorder include over activity, peculiar eating habits, eating rituals, and frequent weighing. Body weight is usually normal or low, although the person may perceive themselves as overweight.

The exact cause of bulimia is unknown, but factors thought to contribute to its development are family problems, mal-adaptive behavior, self-identity conflict, and cultural overemphasis on physical appearance. Bulimia may be associated with depression. The disorder is usually not associated with any underlying physical problem although the behavior may be associated with neurological or endocrine diseases. The disorder occurs most often in females of adolescent or young adult age. The incidence is 2 in 10,000 people.

Bulimia is a bit different from anorexia because the person with bulimia doesn’t avoid eating. Instead, he or she eats a large amount of food then gets rid of it quickly by vomiting or taking laxatives. This is commonly known as “binge and purge” behavior.

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder associated with a distorted body image that may be caused by a mental disorder. Inadequate calorie intake results in severe weight loss. The exact cause of this disorder is not known, but social attitudes towards body appearance and family factors play a role in its development. The condition affects females more frequently, usually in adolescence or young adulthood.

Unique features of anorexia are not only the strong desire to be very thin, but also the altered body perception that goes with it. People with anorexia have an intense fear of being fat. When a person has anorexia, he or she hardly eats at all and the small amount of food that is eaten becomes an obsession. A person with anorexia may weigh food before eating it or compulsively count the calories of everything. It is not unusual for a person with anorexia to also exercise excessively in an attempt to lose weight.

Statistics show the risk factors for anorexia are seen most often in Caucasians, having an upper or middle economic background, being female, and having a goal-oriented family or personality. The incidence is 4 out of 100,000 people.

The “Cross Training” Support Program ® was developed by Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac as a multi-layered health system for healing. This great resource is for those looking for a sensible and easy-to-use guide to the best researched alternative therapies. Developed and referenced from the foremost experts on nutrition, herbs, acupuncture, exercise, homeopathy, touch therapies and the metaphysical arts, this program allows one to use an “across the board” method for healing.
The following maladies are all situations that can benefit from a “cross training” of therapies and support. From acupuncture, herbs, exercises and nutrition to such treatments as homeopathy, massage and lifestyle changes are combinations of therapies that have shown to help in many situations.  These “Complementary Therapies” are the ‘cross training program’ of Alternative Medicine and a great place to start on your healing journey.
*Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as diagnosis, treatment, or prescription of any kind. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader.  Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease.
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Other Culprits

According to the American Institute of Gastroenterology, the best strategy to promoting good overall health is to eat a balanced, predominantly plant-based and nutritionally dense diet. Most of your daily calories should come from vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans.

Aging itself can take its toll on the appetite. In older people the metabolism slows down, muscle mass decreases and physical ailments impede activity. On top of all this, taste sensations diminish and stomach secretions don’t flow like they used to. All of these things contribute to appetite loss.  Other culprits of appetite loss include anti-histamines, over the counter drugs, pain killers and prescriptions.

Controlling your appetite, is another matter. We often eat out of habit, not hunger. People who do try to stop an addictive behavior, such as smoking, often find themselves overeating. One reason is habit: They’re used to doing something with their hands and mouth, so they eat. Or they could be battling the misery of nicotine withdrawal with the nurturing pleasure of food. Regardless of the excuse, this lack of control often leads to many health problems.

Best Balancing Tips

 1. Recognize the problem: People with an appetite disturbance often do not recognize or admit that they have a problem. A trusted family members or other individual you believe in can be helpful in making sure that needed care or rehabilitation are received.

2. Determining your needs: Appetite disturbances, eating disorders, depression and anxiety all require a comprehensive diagnosis, in which, the clinician will determine whether the person is in immediate danger and/or requires hospitalization. Nutritional counseling, psychosocial interventions, monitoring, as well as medical care maybe appropriate.

3. Talk Therapies: Individual psychotherapy (especially cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal psychotherapy), group psychotherapy that uses a cognitive-behavioral approach and family or marital therapy can be very effective. Overcome low self-esteem and addressing distorted thought patterns and behaviors are crucial. Families are sometimes included in the therapeutic process.

4. Severe weight loss: requires an inpatient hospital stay, where proper nourishment is given and the person’s medical needs are met. In some cases, intravenous feeding is appropriate.

5. Moderate exercise is crucial: for both successful weight loss or for those suffering from anorexia and bulimia. Not only does it help burn excess calories, but by increasing your physical activity you can modify the way your brain regulates hunger, making you less susceptible to food cravings and can increase hormones in order to stabilize mood or anxiety disorders . If exercise is done excessively, in the case of anorexia and bulimia, encouragement of healthy but not excessive exercise is the specific goal in this strategy.

6. The primary goal of treatment for bulimia: is to reduce or eliminate binge eating and purging behavior.

7. The primary goal of treatment for anorexia: is restoring weight lost due to severe dieting and purging.

8. Vitamin Therapy: is a good way to help your body regulate what you may not be getting through your diet or what you are losing through purging and abuse. A good daily multivitamin is the best start.

9. Drink Plenty of Water: Not only will you loss water as you exercise, drinking water makes you feel full, therefore, not as much room for food.

10. Control blood sugar levels: this is a good way to balance your system by eating 5 small high protein meals a day.

11. Limit Animal-based Foods: such as meat and dairy products, which are loaded with saturated fat and cholesterol. Use olive oil or canola oil instead of butter or margarine to reduce your intake of saturated fat and hydrogenated fat (trans fat). Moderate your consumption of fried, salted and smoked foods.

12. Portion Control: Eat portions to satisfy hunger, not to clean the plate. By dinner, if you have complex carbs (potatoes, yams, brown rice) with your meal; it should be no more than a cup full. Half of your plate should be vegetable. The meat, fish, chicken portion should be the size of your fist. Portion control is the secret to a healthy weight! Avoid coffee, sugar, alcohol.

13. Believe: Your belief system has everything to do with the mental and spiritual aspects of any eating disorder. Fight anxiety with relaxation exercises rather than food. Utilize meditation, yoga, stretching. By creating healthy eating habits and regular exercise, you are sure to lose weight without depriving yourself of nourishing food. And if you continue those good habits after you reach your goal, you will have an excellent chance of maintaining your desired weight and see it more as maintaining a lifestyle as opposed to a diet.

11. Sleep Well: Good quality sleep is important, especially when you are trying to loss weight or recover from anorexia or bulimia. It is most important to go to sleep with a “Quiet Mind”. Sleep rejuvenates, detoxes and regulates the body.

12. Overcome Fear: Fear can be an underlining problem in many cases. There are many ways to quiet the mind. Doing 15 to 30 minutes of meditation or yoga can be very helpful. You must allow yourself to be distracted or get into your meditation or yoga and “let go” of the days thoughts…see Meditation. Address your fears or phobias by journaling.

Full Spectrum Diet

 The Full Spectrum Diet is based on the proponents of Chromotherapy and Phytotherapy. This easy to use system monitors healthy weight by the colors of food on your plate! Meals rich with different colored fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, fish and whole grains means you are getting a healthy variety of nutrients that your body needs.

This is a common sense, lifestyle plan! No counting calories, grams of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. No monitoring the foods you eat for a week and then changing to another set of rules. No buying of prepared foods specifically for that diet or charting everything that goes into your mouth!

As a Nationally Certified Herbalist and Licensed practitioner of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. has spent years developing a natural healthcare plan, which incorporates the benefits of fresh, full spectrum foods based on their color and their properties. A balance of attractive colors in the foods we eat, play an instinctual part as to what the body needs in the moment. The color energy of fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals all come into play when furnishing our bodies with the proper nourishment.

The Full Spectrum Diet simply uses The color energy of foods. Included in this diet is a balance of proper exercise, good quality sleep and a lifestyle of moderation.

The Full Spectrum Diet is a common sense, lifestyle plan for those who:

Wish to eat healthier.

* Want to control their weight.

* Desire to transform their bodies.

* Should decrease cortisol levels

* Are diabetic.

* Need to control their blood sugar levels.

* Have allergies.

* Want to improve their aging process.

Transform your body and your life.

* Give you more energy than you ever imagined.

* Help you to shed unwanted pounds.

Allow you to use healthy, natural food as a tool for weight control and anti-aging.

Replace cravings and binging with sensible eating habits.

Educate your mind on the power of fresh, wholesome foods.

Empower you to create positive change in the way you eat and how you look at food.

This easy to use system monitors healthy weight by the colors of food on your plate! Meals rich with different colored fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, fish and whole grains means you are getting a healthy variety of nutrients that your body needs. A balance of attractive colors in the foods we eat, play an instinctual part as to what the body needs in the moment. The color energy of fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals all come into play when furnishing our bodies with the proper nourishment. Want to know more?.

Managing Your Disorder

Sleep allows our body to rejuvenate and repair!

Don’t Smoke: Besides the fact that it can cause lung cancer and is the second leading cause of death for both men and women, nicotine is a stimulant and complicates weight control.

Life to Go: Everyone has a busy lifestyle. You plan your day’s meetings, schedule your kid’s soccer game or know when to pick up the dry cleaning. Do the same with your meals and snacks. Prepare food ahead. Make goody bags with cut veggies, apples, grapes, pears, and bananas. Have some nutrition bars on hand or cook/pack your lunch the night before. Mix a salad or make a large pot of soup or hearty chili.

Shop Ahead: Go natural, go organic or simply go to your local food store, which seems to have fresh produce. The products you choose should be low in sodium and contain wholesome ingredients, and they should be trans-fat free. Plan meal ideas and shop ahead for them. This way, it gives you less of an opportunity to end up at a fast food restaurant.

It is well-documented that one of the consequences of eating disorders is a potentially life-threatening electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are minerals that, when dissolved in the body’s fluid, become electrically charged. They are responsible for controlling heart rate and blood pressure.

Potassium and sodium are the body’s major electrolytes. Although potassium deficiency is not common, rapid weight loss and dehydration can cause potassium to plummet, leaving you at risk for serious heart problems, including heart attack. People with eating disorders need to have these nutrients stabilized as quickly as possible.

Because too much potassium can make you ill, it is best to get the Daily Value of this mineral (3,500 milligrams) by eating fruits and vegetables such as bananas, oranges, spinach and celery. You can get 885 milligrams just by eating half of a cantaloupe. You can also get your daily recommended dose by eating 4 bananas.

Magnesium supplements are available in various forms, but eating seafood and green leafy vegetables can help you easily get your Daily Value of 400 milligrams or for those who are anorexic or bulimic, 500-1000mg. People who have heart or kidney problems or diabetes should check with their doctors before supplementing these minerals.

Calcium, an essential mineral in the development and maintenance of bone health, is one of the nutrients most likely to be deficient in people with eating disorders. Those who treat eating disorders say the impact of severe calcium deficiency, especially when combined with amenorrhea, can be devastating. Consider 1500 mg of calcium in divided doses, (am/pm) with 200 mg Vitamin D and 500 – 1000 mg magnesium).

Experts recommend that people with eating disorders have a physician monitor all of their electrolytes: potassium, magnesium and sodium as well as phosphorus and chloride, which can also become dangerously low.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

According to The Cleveland Clinic, A BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or more indicates morbid obesity, which increases a person’s risk of death from any cause by 50% to 150%. BMI is an indirect measure of your body fat, which is a quick way to see if you are overweight. BMI uses a person’s weight and height to gauge total body fat.

A BMI of 18.5-24.9 is ideal.
A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is overweight.
A BMI of 30 or more indicates obesity.
A BMI of 40 or more indicates morbid obesity, which increases a person’s risk of death.

Calculate your BMI here

“Andrew’s Best Remedies”

Herbal Remedies

Herbs used in the treatment of appetite disturbances are utilized in many different ways. Chickweed, Alfalfa, Parsley, Red Clover, Fennel, Hawthorn Berry, Peppermint, Cinnamon, Slippery Elm, Orange Peel are all wonderful for appetite control.

Siberian Ginseng, Suma (Maca), Korean Ginseng, Panax Ginseng, Oatstraw, Alfalfa, Gota Kola, Schizandra, Ginger are all wonderful for appetite stimulant.

Dietary supplements and thermogenesis or “fat-burning herbs” are stimulants that reduce appetite and speed metabolism. Thermogenesis is the process by which the body generates heat or energy, by increasing the metabolic rate above normal. This rise in metabolic rate is referred to as the thermogenic effect, thermogenic response, or specific dynamic action (SDA). Thermogenesis is activated by a few different mechanisms, including supplements, nutrition, exercise, and exposure to cold.

For Appetite Control:

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) Alkalizes and detoxs the body. Can act as a diuretic, balances hormones, eases inflammation, may lower cholesterol. Must be used in fresh raw form to provide vitamins. Contains an antifungal agent. Its high protein and vitamin content make it a good nutritional source. Medicinal uses of alfalfa include treatment of stomach upset, arthritis, bladder and kidney problems, boils, appetite control and irregular menstruation.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) The flowers of this plant are therapeutically used as an antispasmodic, expectorant, sedative, and vulnerary. They are valued for the delicate sweet flavor they impart to herbal teas; and they combine expecially well with dried rose hips, lemon, and mint. In central Europe, clover has been used to regulate digestive functions, to improve the appetite, and to treat liver ailments.

Hawthorn Berry (Fructus Crataegus oxyacantha) is especially popular in a number of herbal tinctures, herbal combinations and teas. The berries effects on the circulatory system have been researched in Europe. Certain chemical constituents in the berries seem to enhance enzyme metabolism, poor digestion, overweight as well as oxygen utilization in the heart muscle. The berries should be taken over a period of time for their full nutritional benefits to be realized. Hawthorn Berries contain vitamins C and B complex, crataegin, carotene, flavonoids and sugars.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus Fulva) is commonly used for colds or fevers and to soothe an irritated digestive system. The ‘Slippery’ part of Slippery Elm refers to the texture of the herb. This is because of the large mucilage content of Slippery Elm, which is also responsible for its wonderful healing and soothing action. In most herbal literature this is termed a ‘demulcent’ or an ’emollient’ agent, which means it is a soothing substance. It not only soothes and heals all that it comes into contact with, but is highly nutritious. Slippery Elm is a wholesome food for the weak and convalescent, from infants to the elderly.

For Appetite Stimulant:

Gota Kola (Centella asiatica) is commonly used to help protect and repair or heal the skin, blood and nervous system. It combats stress and improves reflexes. Antidepressant, improves memory and reduces mental fatigue. The nuts, roots, and seeds of this herb are used in cardiovascular and circulatory disorders, fatigue, kidney stones, poor appetite and sleep disorders.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale recen) is used for the prevention and treatment of various forms of nausea. These include motion sickness, the nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (morning sickness), and post-surgical nausea. Note: If you are pregnant or undergoing surgery, do not self-treat with ginger except under physician supervision. Ginger has been suggested as a treatment for numerous other conditions, including an appetite stimulant, atherosclerosis, migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol, burns, ulcers, depression, impotence, and liver toxicity. Stops cough and stops vomiting. In traditional Chinese medicine, hot ginger tea taken at the first sign of a cold is believed to offer the possibility of averting the infection.

Schizandra (Schizandra chinensis) of the family Schizandraceae, is native to Northern China. As a traditional medicinal herb, Schizandra, called Wu Wei Zi in China, has been used as an astringent for a treatment for dry cough, asthma, night sweats, nocturnal seminal emissions and chronic diarrhea. It is also used traditionally as a tonic for the treatment of chronic fatigue. This adaptogenic property is said to “stimulate immune defenses, balance body function, normalize body systems, boost recovery after surgery, protect against radiation, counteract the effects of sugar, optimize energy in times of stress, increase stamina, protect against motion sickness, normalize blood sugar and blood pressure, reduce high cholesterol, shield against infection, improve the health of the adrenals, energize RNA-DNA molecules to rebuild cells and produces energy. Studies conducted on Schizandra’s effects have noted that the herb has a stimulating effect in low doses, but this effect disappeared with larger doses.

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Herbal Combinations and Formulas

  Herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of the medicinal properties of herbs. Tinctures represent one of many different ways to prepare and use herbs. The terms tincture and extract are often used interchangeably.

Shake the tincture bottle well. As a dietary supplement, place 1 to 3 droppers (under the tongue, or in juice or water as needed, 2-3 times a day.

Blood Purifier: Pau D’ Arco, Red Clover, Yellow Dock, Burdock, Sarsaparilla, Dandelion, Cascara Sagrada & Buckthorn.

Circulation Support Hawthorn berries, Ginger, Angelica, Bayberry Bark, Hyssop, Prickley Ash bark, Cloves, Cayenne.

Mood Support St. Johns Wort, Chamomille, Schizandra, Oatstraw, Avena Sativa.

Digest Aid Peppermint, Dill seed, Chamomille, Gentian, Fennel, Ginger, Parsley.

Ginseng Energy American, Korean, Siberian & Tienchi Ginseng.

Women’s Balance Chaste Tree, Dong Quai, Red Raspberry, Dandelion, Blessed Thistle, Gota Kola, Kelp & Licorice.

Herbal Teas

In a stainless steel pot, boil desired amount of water. The moment it boils turn the heat off. Add the following herbs in an infuser, muslin bag or tea ball for a single cup or add one-three teaspoons of herbs per cup for larger amounts.

Allow the herbs to infuse for up to 5 minutes. Drink 3-4 cups a day. For flavor-add lemon and sweeten with Stevia or organic honey. These herbs are helpful for gently cleanses, purifying, detoxing, anti-inflammatory. This powerful formula will help remove accumulated toxins in the body. Strong antioxidant, cleanses the colon and stimulates circulation.

Digestive Tea – Demulcent herbs especially blended for gas, diarrhea, and ulcers. Helps soothe an upset stomach. Helps in digestion and is good for heartburn, indigestion, circulatory problems, and nausea. Peppermint, Papaya Leaf, Hibiscus, Mint.

Slim Tea – Appetite control. Will flush excess water. Helps to firm and tone. Useful for circulatory problems, acts as a diuretic, eases inflammation and balances hormones. Blackberry Leaf, Myrtle Leaf, Uva Ursi Leaf, Rose Hips, Alfalfa Leaf, Nettle Leaf, Juniper Berry, Psyllium Husk, Licorice Root, Sage Leaf.

Exercise

Exercise is very important on so many levels.

Exercise is crucial to successful weight loss. Not only does it help burn excess calories, but by increasing your physical activity you can modify the way your brain regulates hunger, making you less susceptible to food cravings.

Consider Power walking, Aerobics, Swimming or any cardiovascular exercise that you do consistantly for 20-40 minutes. It is important to keep the heart rate up in your target zone during this time in order for cardio exercise to work effectively.

Stimulate your metabolism. Adding weight training and/or cardiovascular exercise to your routine will boost your metabolsim. Cardio will burn extra calories while you’re doing it. Resistance training will actually increase the rate at which your body uses calories.

Exercise during the day to exhaust the muscles and the mind. The moving is good when we are depressed too! Aerobics, power walking, weight training, swimming are all great for working the muscles and the mind. Exercise gets the blood flowing and makes us move past many issues.

Exercise early in the day. Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise every day can help you sleep, but be sure to exercise in the morning or afternoon. Exercise stimulates the body and aerobic activity before bedtime may make falling asleep more difficult.

Anorexia and bulimia patients must moderate their exercise. Too much of anything is not a good thing. In fact it can be very dangerous to those with poor body image or obsessive personality.

See a doctor before starting any kind of exercise program if you have never exercised before or have any other illnesses.

Increases HDL (the good cholesterol)
Improves function of the immune system
Burns fat
Mobilizes fat
Assist in digestion of foods
Increases energy level
Decreases fatigue
Builds and maintains lean body mass
Helps control appetite
Improves oxygen delivery to the cells
Increases blood supply
Improves exercise endurance and recovery
Improves sleep
Improves ability to cope with stress
Helps relieve depression, tension, and anxiety
Increases muscle strength
Increases muscle and joint flexibility
Increases strength of bones and connective tissues

Exercise should include cardiovascular aerobic activity 3- 4 times weekly. Weight baring exercise for 30 minutes to strengthen and maintain bone and muscle mass.

Exercise that promotes endurance (aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, bicycling, and jogging) or muscle strength (resistance training with free weights or weight machines) helps prevent coronary artery disease. People who are out of shape or who have not exercised in a long time should consult their doctor before they start an exercise program.

Aromatherapy Remedies

 Aromatherapy can help regulate your appetite. Aromatherapy can help with loss of appetite due to stress or depression or disorders such as anorexia. Oils such as basil, black pepper, ginger…stimulate appetite, while bergamot, fennel, and patchouli can suppress it.

Digestive enzymes can help the stomach breakdown food. The stomach juices are loaded with enzymes that facilitate the digestion of the food we eat. As we age, we produce less of these. Supplementation can support the stomach. Bromelain and papain come from pineapple and papaya, and are useful in aiding protein digestion.

Black Pepper (Piper nigrum). This essential oil is a tonic and rubefacient, stimulates circulation, a tonic muscles. It balances digestive functions, treating constipation, sluggish bowels, diarrhea and flatulence. The herb/pepper is irritating to the bowel while the essential oil applied by massage is not.

Cinnamon Leaf (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) A muscular and circulatory stimulant, digestive, carminative, stomachic. Best for constipation due to debility, nervous exhaustion and stress-related conditions.

Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) A circulatory stimulant, tonic and stomachic, depurative. It treats constipation, anorexia, colic and dyspepsia. It should be avoided in pregnancy.

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) a digestive and circulatory stimulant and tonic, laxative and carminative. Can be used for loss of appetite.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) A lymphatic and digestive stimulant, tonic. It treats muscle fatigue, nervous exhaustion and performance stress. Grapefruit enhances the digestive, circulatory, glandular, urinary, and nervous systems. It is an overall relaxer. A stimulating lymphatic massage of Grapefruit can promote the appearance of smooth, smooth skin, enhance circulation, and help regulate healthy body fluid levels. In addition, the aromatic influence of Grapefruit helps decrease appetite and balance emotional extremes.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) A digestive and circulatory tonic, treats colic and indigestion. Can be used for emotional factors like, anxiety, fatigue and nervous tension. It should be avoided during pregnancy.

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia triphylla) A digestive tonic, specific for colitis. The essential oil is expensive and should be reserved for inhalation or application by massage, the hydrosol can be taken internally as a tonic, several times a day from 4 p.m. on to bedtime. It is also relaxing.

Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana) A laxative, stomachic, tonic, hypotensive. It can treat constipation, colic, and flatulence. It is also a sedative, and can reduce anxiety, tension, and panic and childhood hyperactivity.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) stimulates circulation, a digestive, and stomachic and general tonic. It can treat debility and nervous exhaustion.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) A laxative, stomachic, tonic and digestive. Avoid during pregnancy.

 Improving Circulation

Blend these wonderful oils together to create a special bath for improving over all circulation.  You can also create a massage blend to massage over the stomach, lower intestine and solar plexus to increase circulation, improve movement and stimulate your mind.

3 drops Geranium essential oil
2 drops Ginger essential oil
3 drops Black Pepper essential oil

Directions:

Mix these together and use 5 to 10 drops of this combination in a bath.

OR

Increase Ginger to 11 drops, Black Pepper to 8 drops and Geranium to 11 drops and add to 4 ounces of carrier oil. Massage over the abdomen area as well as your arms and legs.

Not a DIY (do it yourself-er) try Andrew’s Aroma Remedy Blends:
~ 3 times a day, morning, noon and night, utilize these blends of essential oils:

Angel’s Mist Stomach/Circulation Rub Remedy Blend

Angel’s Mist Digestive Massage Remedy Blend

Angel’s Mist Appetite Inhalant Remedy Blend

Nutritional Advise

Water should be a very important part of any nutritional program. Pure water is best. 6-8 8 ounces per day. Water allows for the cleansing and hydrating of the system. It is also filling and a good substitute for soda or sugar-laden drinks. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, drinking water helps you burn fat. Studies have shown that a decrease in water intake, will cause fat deposits to increase. Without water, the kidneys cannot effectively filter out the waste products and other chemicals which build up in the bloodstream and interfere with the liver’s ability to metabolize fat. As a result, you become more likely to store fat and less likely to burn it.

Ironically, drinking more water is the BEST remedy for water retention. When your body is low in water, you retain pockets of salt and water under the skin, as a defense mechanism. For your body does not know when it will get its next drink. This stored water and salt under the skin will create a puffiness and looks like fat. Drink plenty of distilled water or low sodium water and avoid high- sodium foods.

Appetite Loss:

Try eating small meals. Practice good nutrition. One should not view food as an enemy. Eating a balanced, proper diet won’t make you fat. It will make you healthy. If you eat right and exercise sensibly, this will stimulate appetite and serve as energy.

Supplements in a multivitamin/mineral that provides 100 percent of the Daily Values of all essential nutrients while people are relearning to eat real foods is recommended. Supplements of certain individual nutrients, particularly potassium, calcium (1500 mg in divided doses with 200 mg Vitamin D and 500 – 1000 mg magnesium), chromium (200 mcg), iron, zinc, vitamin E (200-400 IU) and the B vitamin comples (25 mg of each B vitamin). Experts warn that supplements cannot take the place of food. The body will not properly absorb and use vitamins and minerals without also receiving adequate calories.

Appetite Control:

Reducing fat in the diet is an important component of weight loss efforts. Foods with a high proportion of calories from fat, which should be eliminated or limited in the diet, include red meat, poultry skins and dark meat, fried food, butter, margarine, cheese, milk (except skim milk), junk food, and most processed food. Vegetable oils should also be restricted. So should nuts, seeds, and avocados (although these foods are healthy for people who have no weight problem). Instead, the diet should be based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and non-fat dairy (and low-fat fish for non-vegetarians).

Eating more fiber can be an important component to weight maintenance. Fiber fills people up, so they eat less; some studies find that soluble fibers work best. While soluble fiber can be found in beans and fruit, it is also available as a supplement. Glucomannan and psyllium contain soluble fiber and have been reported to help appetite control efforts in some studies. Some researchers add 10 or more grams per day to the diet. Although the relationship between food sensitivities and body weight remains uncertain, according to one researcher, chronic food allergy may lead to overeating, resulting in obesity.

The FDA recommends limiting your intake of fat to 65 grams per day. By safely and carefully selecting your foods so that your fat consumption is about 30 grams per day, you can see a significant amount of weight loss, depending on your body mass index.

Your body expends a certain amount of calories upon digestion. Proteins are burned at the highest rate-20-25%, Carbohydrates 8-10%, and Fats only about 2%. This is known as the Thermic Effect of Food.

This fact cannot be stressed enough: EAT five or six small meals a day will prevent hunger pangs, provide constant energy, increase your metabolic effeciency, improving your fat lossing abilities and decrease your risk of heart attack.

Consme lean sources of protein such as skinless white meat poultry or fish, with fibrous water rich vegatables such as string beans, tomatoes, cucumbers. Protein shakes or meal replacement bars work well as one of your small meals. Be aware of the carbohydrates in most bars and shakes for they can be extemely high. Medium to low amounts of carbs 2-14 grams a bar is sufficient.

Reducing fat in the diet is an important component of weight loss. Foods with a high proportion of calories from fat should be eliminated or limited in the diet; these include red meat, poultry skins, dark poultry meat, fried foods, butter, margarine, cheese, milk (except skim milk), junk foods, and most processed foods. Vegetable oils should also be restricted, as should nuts, seeds, and avocados (although these foods are healthful for people who have no weight problem). Instead, the diet should be based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and non-fat dairy products (and low-fat fish for non-vegetarians).

Hydrogenated oils are very bad, for two reasons. First reason is that hydrogenated fats are saturated fats, and saturated fats raise total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Second reason is that hydrogenation also produces what are called “trans” fatty acids. Although these are unsaturated, with one double bond, they act the same as saturated fats. Some margarines are now available without trans fatty acids, these are better. a lot of convenience foods are made with hydrogenated fat, like cookies, crackers, etc. This increases the shelf life of the product but is bad for human life. Good question. We need labels that show amounts of trans fat as well as amount of hydrogenated fat.

A reduction of 25% of total calories will usually promote slow, steady weight loss. For some, weight loss is easier by changing the dietary content. By this, I mean reducing carbohydrates by 25%-30%. In my opinion, for the long-term, it is important not to increase fat when decreasing carbs. Most people who restrict carbohydrates tend to maintain the same total daily calories by increasing dietary fat. Avoid all breads and pastas (flour-containing carbs) and unprocessed sugars.

Avoid artificial sweeteners and synthetic fat substitutes and the foods made with them. They are unhealthy and not conducive to the kind of good eating habits you need to form in order to slim down and stay that way. Stevia is a natural sweetener that is 300 times sweeter than sugar but contain NO calories. It is also safe for people with diabetes and hypoglycemics.

Eating adequate amounts of fiber is believed to be important for individuals wishing to lose weight. Fiber contains bulk and tends to produce a sense of fullness, which allows people to consume fewer calories. However, research on the effect of fiber intake on weight loss is conflicting. Some studies have shown that supplementation with a source of fiber accelerated weight loss in individuals who were following a low-calorie diet. In another study, supplementation with a bulking agent called glucomannan (1.5 grams before breakfast and dinner) promoted weight loss in overweight individuals who were not following a special diet. However, other researchers found that increasing fiber intake had no effect on body weight, even though it resulted in a reduction in food intake. Different types of dietary fiber are available from a variety of sources, and the amount recommended depends on the kind being used. Individuals wishing to use a fiber supplement should consult with a nutritionist.

Homeopathy

This medical system uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances to stimulate a person’s immune system and body’s natural defenses. Homeopathic remedies are named for the plant or animal ingredients they are made from. Homeopathy not only offers relief from temporary disorders but, can provide long term healing of a person due to its individual and “holistic” approach. This type of healing makes it easier and possible to avoid recurrence or relapses in the future and homeopathy stimulates the body’s natural defense system by reestablishing normal immune system and cell functioning.

As an Adjunct Therapy:

Because of the multiplicity of underlying causes of weight gain and/or control, homeopathy is particularly valuable. Because it addresses contributory and connecting causes, the problem can be attacked at the roots, rather than on a superficial (and frequently temporary) level, affecting the common core causes of weight gain and control:

*appetite aberrations;
*peculiar cravings for certain foods
*inherited/genetic/constitutional causes of obesity
*a low-functioning thyroid, causing weight gain and sluggishness
*mental and emotional factors behind excessive appetite or weight gain
*aversions to work, exertion or exercise leading to sedentary lifestyle
*digestive disorders or weakened GI tracts from chronic overeating.

Diminishing the desire to overeat can be accomplished by taking the appropriate homeopathic formula approximately 10 minutes before eating. Many patients respond by craving healthier foods or being satisfied without overeating. When cravings between meals arise, patients should immediately take a dose. Usually, the unnecessary cravings or hunger feelings are gone within one to four minutes after taking a dose. Dosages may be administered as frequently as once every 10 minutes until cravings have subsided.

Appetite Disturbances

Calcarea carb – 12x – Hunger after eating; overeating and inactive digestive system; indigestion.

Cinchona off – 12x – Ravenous appetite; craving for sweets; diarrhea; flatulence.

Lycopodium – 6x – Acts on liver and digestive functions; craves sweets; loss of appetite; digestive difficulties; very hungry but feels full after a few bites.

Natrum mur – 12x – Edema; constipation; craves salt and highly seasoned food; continual thirst.

Sulphur – 12x – Loss of or excessive appetite; dislike or craving for sweet and acid foods.

Thyroidinum – 6C – Obesity; always wants something more interesting to eat.

Graphite is the remedy of choice for the perimenopausal woman fighting weight gain.

Antimonium crudum is indicated if you become irritable when someone warns you not to overeat.

Argentum nitricum reduces cravings for sweets.

Calcarea carbonica is useful if you have difficulty controlling your appetite and eat to calm your nerves.

Coffea cruda is indicated if you are excitable and nervous, and eat primarily to calm down.

Staphysagria is indicated if you tend to eat out of repressed anger.

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the oldest, continually practiced, and professionally administered health care system in the world. It is a documented medical system spanning over 2,500 years based on comprehensive philosophies, rational theories, clinically tested and empirically verified by over 100 generations of highly educated practitioners.

Chinese Medicine is a total system of internal medicine, which is comprised of a diagnostic procedure based on signs, symptoms and treatment styles including acupuncture, herbal medicine, exercise, diet and meditation. It’s foundation is based on the principles of balance; the interdependent relationship of Yin and Yang. Through this balance, health is achieved and maintained.

 The spleen transforms the ingested food and drink to extract the Qi. The function of transformation and transportation is crucial in the process of digestion and the formation of Qi and blood. If this function is impaired there may be a poor appetite, poor digestion, abdominal distention and loose stools. The spleen separates the usable part of fluids from the unusable. If this process is impaired there can be an accumulation of dampness, phlegm, and/or edema. The Spleens ability to transform and transport can be adversely affected by the excessive consumption of cold drinks and raw foods. The action of chewing prepares food for the Spleen to transform and transport. If Spleen-Qi is abnormal, there may be an impairment of the sense of taste or the presence of an abnormal taste , lack of appetite and the lips may be pale and dry. If the Spleen has heat a person may complain of a sweet taste in the mouth and have dry lips.

The stomach transforms food and drink by the process of fermentation. This prepares the ground for the Spleen to separate and extract the refined essence from food. After transformation in the Stomach the food is passed down to the Small Intestine for further separation and absorption.

The Stomach together with the spleen is responsible for transporting food essences to the whole body, especially the limbs. If Stomach Qi is strong a person will feel strong and full of energy. Stomach Qi also ensures that the Qi of the organs reaches the pulse. A pulse with good stomach Qi is said to be neither weak or strong with yin and yang harmonized and it has a regular, slow beat.

The stomach is responsible for the coating on the tongue. A thin white coating on the tongue indicates the Stomach is functioning properly. The absence of coating indicates that the stomach’s function of digestion is impaired. A thick white coating reflects either cold or dampness and a thick yellow coating indicates heat.

Chinese Medicine takes a unique approach to weight loss! Diet, exercise and good quality sleep are the proponents of weight loss. Along with acupuncture and herbal medicine ~ loosing from 10-16 lbs the first month is a very common outcome. Of course, results depend on your body type and the effort you put into it. A gradual reduction method approach teaches you to reprogram your eating habits and helps you learn how to significantly improve your condition!

Acupuncture is used primarily to strengthen the endocrine and digestive systems.

Herbal medicine is an important component for working at the root of the problem. The theory behind this is simple. When stimulating the digestive system, the stomach and spleen can become more efficient at transforming and transporting the energy of the food we consume. This decreases appetite.

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Acupuncture and Weight Loss

There is no substitute for diet, exercise and good sleep. Acupuncture has a great reputations for helping the body to stimulate circulation and assist the body in regulating appetite, cravings, and circulation, which are all keys to weight loss.

OBJECTIVE:
Many overweight people are aware that diets can help with weight loss but have difficulty in suppressing their appetite. Acupuncture stimulates the auricular branch of the vagal nerve and raises serotonin levels, both of which have been shown to increase tone in the smooth muscle of the stomach, thus suppressing appetite. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (e-stim) of specific auricular acupuncture points on appetite suppression, which has a direct benefit on maintaining a healthy heart.
METHODS:
Sixty overweight subjects, randomly divided into an active and a control group, used the e-stim device twice daily for four weeks. The active group attached the e-stim to the acupuncture ear points Shenmen and Stomach, whereas the control group attached the device to their thumb where there are no acupuncture points. The goal of a 2 kg weight loss was set and changes in appetite and weight were reported after four weeks.
RESULTS:
Of those who responded, 95% of the active group noticed suppression of appetite, whereas none of the control group noticed such a change. None of the control group lost the required 2 kg, with only 4 subjects losing any weight at all. Both the number of subjects who lost weight and the mean weight loss were significantly higher in the active group (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
Frequent stimulation of specific auricular acupuncture points is an effective method of appetite suppression which leads to weight loss.

Source of study: (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9679359)

Increasing Appetite

Acupuncture can help to increase your appetite:

Below are points you can stimulate yourself by using your fingers, a massage tool or trigger point stone or crystal. Start gently by applying light pressure on the point location. Little by little, apply a firmer pressure as you hold the point for about a minute or two.
You can do this twice a day, early morning and early evening.

1. STOMACH 36: The acupoint known as Stomach 36 (ST-36) is also called Zu San Li, which means “leg three miles”. The name refers to the ability of this point to greatly strengthen energy, so that a person can walk another three miles, even when exhausted.

To locate: Slightly bend your leg and place four fingers just below the kneecap. Begin with the index finger at the base of the kneecap. The point is where the little finger rests, on the outside aspect of the hard shinbone. Feel around for the tender spot.
This acupoint can boost the immune system, and it can also strengthen overall energy. It is often used to strengthen weak digestion and improve digestive disorders, ranging from constipation to diarrhea, gas, bloating, vomiting, and nausea.

2. REN 12: Ren is a channel where all the yin fluids of the body collect. Ren 12, also called Zhong Wan or “middle cavity,” is specifically where the energy of the stomach gathers and collects. In Chinese medicine, the stomach is called the “sea of water and grain”. One of its principle functions is to transform water and grain into usable nutrients.

To locate: Find your belly button and locate the point where your ribs come together, where there will be a soft depression. If you draw a line from the point where your ribs meet to your belly button, Ren 12 is in the center of this line. In the Chakra system, this relates to the solar plexus. This acupoint is used for lack of appetite and indigestion. Excess emotion while eating, especially anger, can damage the function of the stomach. This acupoint relieves stomach upset that is related to emotions. It can also alleviate fullness from overeating, gas, bloating, and acid regurgitation.

3. STOMACH 25: Even though this acupoint is located on the stomach meridian, it is where all the energy of the large intestine gathers and concentrates. The name for Stomach 25 (ST-25) is Tian Shu, which means “heaven’s pivot”. This acupoint is where the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract meet and relate to each other.

To locate: Place three fingers parallel and alongside the center of the bellybutton. The point is at the edge of the last finger, three fingers away from the center of the bellybutton. Stomach 25 is especially useful in alleviating constipation, diarrhea, and any other kind of intestinal disorder. Stimulating ST-25 also moves abdominal blood and can alleviate menstrual irregularities.

Ayurveda

The principle medical system of India is known as Ayurveda and is over 5,000 years old. This “Science of Life” is considered the art of living in harmony with nature. Developed from the ancient text of The Vedas, Ayurveda views the human body as a “homunculus” of our cosmic Universe, regulated by the balance between three primordial humours, call Dosha.

Your dosha are your Ayurveda mind and body type. There are three doshas in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. We each have all three of the doshas in our physiology, just in different proportions, so your dosha is unique and personal; it is like your fingerprint.

From the Ayurvedic perspective,  Agni-Mandya (loss of appetite) has several causes.  It may be due to anorexia nervosa or insufficient secretion of gastric juice in the stomach, which also result in malabsorption. Liver malfunction or other chronic or acute diseases, can affect the digestive tract and its functions.  Depending on your dosha, different signs and symptoms emerge.

In the Ayurveda paradigm, being overweight tends to point toward an excess in kapha dosha. While kapha may not be the only factor at play in your struggle with excess weight, it is certainly an important player. One of the principles of Ayurveda is that like increases like and that opposites balance. Kapha and excess weight share many of the same qualities; they are both heavy, slow, cool, oily, smooth, dense, soft, stable, and gross. Therefore, being overweight can provoke kapha in the body, and excess kapha in the body can lead to being overweight. Conversely, a return to balance requires an increase in opposing influences—those that are light, sharp, hot, dry, rough, liquid, mobile, and subtle.

Vata dosha
Gurgling sound in the abdomen
Intestinal gas
Abdominal distension
Bloating
Burping
Cramps or abdominal pain
Constipation
Stiffness in the body
Body aches
Dryness in the mouth
Weakness
Fatigue

Find a vata specific diet here...

Pitta dosha
Burning sensation in abdomen
Heartburn
Sour taste
Vomiting with sour vomitus
Excessive thirst
Vertigo
Sour burp
Excessive sweating
Anorexia

Find a pitta specific diet here…

Kapha dosha
Heaviness in abdomen
Feeling Fullness in the abdomen
Feeling heaviness in whole body
White coating on tongue
Dull pain in the abdomen – may be associated
Sweet taste in the mouth
Fatigue with feeling of heaviness in the body
Laziness

Find a kapha specific diet here…

“Trikatu Powder” ~ Appetite Stimulant

Trikatu is an excellent digestive stimulant used in Ayurveda to treat loss of appetite. This is a very clean and simple combination of 3 of the most stimulating herbs in the Herbal Materica Medica.
~ Ginger root powder (Zingiber officinale) is warming and a wonderful herb to help stimulate the appetite and digestions.
~ Black Pepper fruit (Piper nigrum) is used worldwide to increase gastic juices and saliva stimulation. It is also a working herb (fruit) that helps to stimulate digestive fire (agni)
~ Pippali fruit (Piper longum) which is usually dried and used as a spice and seasoning. Long pepper has a taste similar to, but hotter than, that of its close relative Piper nigrum – from which black, green and white pepper are obtained. Useful in indigestion, asthma, and coughs. but it is also a very good aphrodisiac and anti aging spice.

Want to know more?

Triphala ~ Appetite Regulator

Triphala is recommended and used more than any other Ayurvedic herbal formulation. Popular for its unique ability to gently cleanse and detoxify the system while simultaneously replenishing and nourishing it, this traditional formula supports the proper functions of the digestive, circulatory, respiratory and genitourinary systems. Translated as “three fruits”, it is composed of the dried fruits of amalaki, bibhitaki and haritaki. Containing five of the six tastes (all but salty), Triphala readily removes excess vata, pitta and kapha from the body, bringing balance and proper functioning to the system. It is commonly taken as a daily supplement to help maintain balance of the doshas.

Want to know more?

Emotional Aspect:

There is an emotional aspect to every illness. Often times, it is the emotional thoughts or “excess emotions” that will lead to illness. The following therapies are utilized for calming the mind, help with stress relief and focuses on our mental powers over any situation. The ability to balance your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual self are exceptional tools on your healing journey.  Here are some suggestions:

  • What I have learned at home…family factors play a role in our mental development about food and how we eat.
When the compulsion to eat exists… the psychology and brain waves reflect this “drive state”.
distinguish and continue to reproduce a non-compulsive state.

 

Inner Controversy – Family problems, poor adaptive behavior, self-identity conflict can all be a cause of appetite problems.
… overemphasis on physical appearance and social attitudes towards body appearance seem to promote food aversions..
Program thought to be positive and your energy will reflect it! Put your intention into taking care of your body (awareness) and results will follow!

 

Improving Self-Esteem

One of the biggest culprits in weight control issues is how we look at ourselves. Our distortion of our body image is one of the most destructive behaviors we can harbor and must be conquered in order to win over this self abuse! Whether we feel we are “too fat” or not “skinny enough”, we run the risk of causing long term mental anguish because of our beliefs.  Consider these great tips:

Journal It!

Make a Self Awareness or Confidence Journal where by for two weeks, make notations whenever you have a mood swing, emotional upheaval or change in energy (such as hyperactivity or lethargy).  Note the date and time of the event. Note what actions you take to bring yourself back to balance. Do you sit down, do yoga, stretch, meditate, recite an affirmation? Do you binge eat, purge?

Hypnotherapy

Appetite disturbances cross-over the mind/body border. There is no question about its physical reality, since you can die from an anorexia or being overweight, but you can also make it vanish by changing your mental and emotional state. One way to take advantage of the mind/body connection is to experiment with hypnotherapy. Contact Andrew for a local Hypnotherapist.

Guided Imagery

Do Visualization: See yourself in a comfortable and balanced state, by changing your mental behavior.

Reward Yourself Differently: Reprogram your brain to find comfort in people and positive social actions.

Use Imagery To Obtain Self Awareness: Become in tune with your feeling. Discover who YOU are and what satisfies you or dissatisfies you.

The power of visualization and guided imagery is one of our most powerful gifts! A healing tool we all have with in us – the “power of the mind!” Learning how to do Guided Imagery has many benefits.

Guided Imagery helps us to develop our imagination as a healing tool. The premise is to use “Mind Medicine” to connect the mind and body in order to free ourselves from pain due to ANY Medical Condition.

This concept allows us to deepen our abilities to fully relax, quiet the mental chatter, create restful sleep and invite a positive and productive thought process. Learn more about how guided imagery can work for you!

Metaphysical Thoughts

The power of your mind and your belief system has everything to do with the condition, the speed and the way that you heal.

* Our Belief System is one of the major factors that can get us through situations or can cause our life to crumble around us! I do believe that there is a lot of innate goodness and balancing our minds do subconsciously to get us through hard times. The other portion of this is how we “program” ourselves to deal with any given situation.

* Our self-confidence and self-love are often the key to opening and strengthening this portion of our thoughts which in turn emanates from ourselves!

* Energy follows thought. Program thought to be positive and your energy will reflect it!

* Really appreciating what we DO have as opposed to what we would like to have, sometimes makes a significant difference. This is always an important element in healing that is often neglected.

Yoga Therapy

Yoga poses can be good alternatives to “traditional” health remedies because they relax the body and mind, improve circulation and respiration, reduce tension and help the body through it’s healing process.

Breath Work:

The Yogic breath exercise can be done without instruction, without danger, and with a good chance that your discomfort and stressful feelings will be reduced. Relaxation Breath is the most powerful tool for stress management.

Sit up, with your back straight in any position. Place your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth and keep it there throughout the exercise. Exhale completely through your mouth.

Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven. Exhale completely through your mouth, to a count of eight. Repeat this cycle three more times for a total of four breaths. Try to do this breathing exercise at least twice a day. You can repeat the whole sequence as often as you wish, but don’t do it more than four breaths at one time for the first month of practice. This exercise is fairly intense and has a profound effect on the nervous system.

Deep Diaphragm Breath

Sit with your legs crossed in a comfortable position. Breathe slowly and evenly from your diaphragm, through your nose. Fill your lower abdomen, lungs, then chest with air. Hold for a four count then slowly exhale the air out from your chest, lungs, then lower abdomen. Repeat 3 or 4 times. That’s it! Just allow your shoulders to drop and your face relax as you breath, deep.

Also consider Breath Exercises, Child’s Pose, Cat, Head to Knee, Knee to Chest, Laying Down Twist, Standing and Seated Forward Bends, Standing Back Bends..

Color Therapy

When you are balanced, you can more effectively fight dis-ease, rid your system of toxins, as well as, negative patterns. You can achieve balance through the vibrational remedy and application of color. Color interacts with the human energy system in a unique way to stabilize physical, emotional, mental and spiritual conditions.

Mood Food:

Excessive Appetite, consider: Pink, Indigo and Violet. Pink: used in diet therapy as an appetite suppressant, relaxes muscles, relieves tension, is soothing and and helps with stress related snacking. Violet: suppresses appetite, provides a peaceful environment.

Appetite Loss, consider: Red, Orange and Yellow . Bright colors such as red, orange and yellow have been proven to stimulate the nervous system and increase your appetite.

Orange: energizes, stimulates appetite and digestive system.

Red: stimulates brain wave activity, increases heart rate, respiration and blood pressure.

Yellow: energizes, relieves depression, improves memory, stimulates appetite.

Determine what color you need. Learn more about your personal Color Therapy Analysis.

Crystal Reference

Crystals Associated with the Appetite

For meditation and contemplative purposes, these gems have a long standing association with the energy centers of the body associated with food and how we process our “thoughts about food”.  They also focus on healing emotional matters of the heart.

Weight Control

Allowing emotions to be expressed is the goal with crystal therapy. Crystals to consider for emotional expression include: Amethyst, Apatite, Fluorite, Iolite, Picasso Stone, Sandstone, Green Tourmaline. .

Excessive Appetite: Chrysoprase, Rutilated Quartz, Tiger’s Eye

Appetite Loss: Geodes

Pink Tourmaline is used for emotional and spiritual love, healing loss, emotional pain, fear and self-gentleness. Best in combination with counseling. Most powerful together with Kunzite or Rhodocrosite. This stone helps us with discovering self-love, compassion and releasing of old hurt. Use for trust.

Unakite is a fulfilling stone. We often think of the emotions as originating and residing in the heart, but another place where they live, often imprisoned, is in the solar plexus. As young children, discouraged away from the full expression of our emotions, we learn that shallow breathing helps us not to feel as much. The repression of feeling can become automatic, and life, while perhaps less painful, also has less joy. Unakite can soothe the Heart Chakra issues, along with issues of repression.

The Sacral Spleen Chakra, and Solar Plexus Chakra both deal with digestion and how we “choose to digest life”  The Chakra are a vast network of energies centered in the body. The Complete Chakra Kit  stimulates the seven main energy sources which govern all the major organs and psychologically alters and clears the body’s energy in order to allow healing to take place. A great stress relieving meditation tool!

Peacefulmind Remedy Bags are our fantastic prescription remedies for a multi-layered approach to treating specific disorders. These very special bags are a plan of care for treating problems such as arthritis, anxiety, stress or pain – just to name a few.  These bags features 3 of the crystals for treating a disorder, a sample herbal remedy, a meditation, an essential oil blend and acu-point self-massage techniques. Also with great tips and remedies for recovery. Choose from over 80 disorders.

Meditation & Crystals

Meditation can help boost our “mental confidence and positive beliefs”.  It can help to soothe and perhaps (over time) alleviate much of the angst and anxiety associated with it!  Calming the mind and central nervous system have a direct affect on how our body “vibrates” and how we choose to handle stress as it comes at us.  The more you meditate, the more able you become in handling difficult situations!

~ Use a crystal of your choice or one mentioned. Sit comfortable on the floor and hold your stone or lie down and place the crystal on your Heart Chakra, Throat Chakra or Sacral Spleen Chakra.

~ Close your eyes. Take several deep breaths. Feel the crystal rise and fall as you slowly inhale/exhale. Allow your body to melt into the floor at each breath. Take this time to find your center. Let go of those things which hold you back. With each inhale, take in that which you deserve. With each exhale, release all that tension.

~ When you feel more calm and connected, slowly open your eyes. Give yourself some time to recover. You may even want to journal about your experience.

 

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 Study Energy Medicine at Home

The Peacefulmind.com Homestudy Courses make it possible for anyone to study energy medicine at home, on your time!  These certifications programs are offered by the National Association of Holistic Wellness

*Transitions: The Transformational Guide and Workbook for Creating Great Health This is the culmination of years of Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. clinical work. This is a manual you can use, whether you are healthy or ill or somewhere in between and you want to re-balance your mind, body and spirit to become the whole person you can be! This workbook gives you a plan to take care of yourself. It can be used over and over to find balance and keep yourself as healthy as possible. It gives you “tools” to use when and where you need them. It helps to evaluate where you are in your journey and offers ways to get you exactly where you want to be! Want to know more?

*The “Color Elite” Color Therapy Certification Course Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. has finally published his most complete healing course using the power of color and light therapy. This ultimate guide to chromotherapy teaches you about color and every aspect of it, how it is used in different therapeutic settings and how it has become such a great healing modality, no matter what profession you are in you will learn how to incorporate color into your daily life! Want to know more?

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  What are your experiences with appetite disturbances?

Sharing your own experiences often helps others. We’d love to know in the Peacefulmind Community.

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