Meditation as a means to protect and promote vital peace and calm is sweeping America. The Chopra Center cites meditation has been around for about 5,000 years in countless forms.
As life on planet earth has evolved, the mind has become a repository for mulling over life and its plethora of choices, interactions, and consequences (if I choose this then that happens). Perhaps the implication for meditation has shifted from its meaning of ‘to ponder’ to ‘release pondering’. Letting your mind clear of constant musing is the beauty of quality meditative time.
Scientists have long acknowledged the Gut-Brain Axis’s vital interplay to create vibrant health. ‘The gut-brain axis (GBA) consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions.’ Experts estimate as much as 85% of immunity resides in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Good digestion is imperative for adequate assimilation and absorption of nutrients from the food you consume and healthy GI tract function.
The autonomic nervous system has two divisions: Sympathetic and Parasympathetic. The sympathetic nervous system is referred to as the ‘fight or flight’ response. When the body perceives danger, cortisol is released by the adrenal glands. Cortisol plays a significant adaptive role for the body to defend itself. The modern condition of being in a frequent state of ‘fight or flight’ excitement causes cortisol to be released more than for which the function was designed. Think stop lights and traffic, hurried schedules, looming deadlines and more stress.
When digestion is compromised, cortisol is also released to aid digestion. Cortisol as designed by intelligent energy is brilliant. Its constant release, however, is catabolic for the body. The chronic release of cortisol disrupts sleep (when the body needs to be rejuvenating and detoxifying itself), healthy stress management, and energetic needs (adrenal depletion). Inflammation is linked to obesity, diabetes, early aging and other health issues.
The parasympathetic nervous system is the state
of being calm and peaceful. Proper
digestion only occurs when the body is in a parasympathetic state.
Photo courtesy of Natalia Figueredo on Unsplash
Mediation and nutrition need not be perfect to be of benefit. When going all in with the most perfect scenario for mediation to the nth degree isn’t feasible, make this a simple consistent practice of letting yourself just be. Optimal nutrition is the same process. You need not source every one of your ingredients personally and banish all cans and packages from your pantry to realize really great sources for protecting the vital energy which is your birthright. Nourishing yourself well can be easy, simple, delicious and satisfying.
Take your foot off the gas pedal of life and receive
nourishment.
· Feel the protective and loving connection of calming your mind.
· Receive the bounty of your spirit and food.
· Slowing your life brings safety.
Tips to restore you:
· Carve out ten minutes of quiet time once or twice daily. Close your door, mute your devices, close your eyes and breathe. If you can’t close a door during the day, schedule to arrive at your next destination 10 minutes earlier. Park away from the ‘main entrance’ or find a sitting spot, set your timer to 10 minutes and close your eyes.
· Be consistent in practice to find detachment from your thoughts.
· Don’t look for solutions. Let the mind chatter fade away. You will receive.
Tam John’s new title A Fresh Wellness Mindset is a guide to help you make healthful choices for calm restoration and vibrant energy. The book is a guide to navigate the modern food supply healthfully and easily. The book is a guide to help you navigate the Gluten Free Movement whatever your health status or personal preference and the needs of your body. It is not about a diet. It is about creating a better feeling life full of vibrant energy at every age. A Fresh Wellness Mindset is written to restore and nourish you for life. Buy the book on Amazon, BarnesandNoble.com or at Tattered Cover Bookstores.
Tam consults 1:1 and provides holistic and Functional Nutritionist services via phone, video or in person. Contact Tam for a complimentary conversation to find out if Tam’s approach is a fit for you.
Cultivating vital energy for a better feeling life
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care Physician or Naturopathic Doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
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