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Dealing With Emotional Distress
When stress turns to distress, our emotional equilibrium can also get out of balance and cause us more stress. There are many ways to restore emotional stability, whether we are feeling lonely, sad, anxious, depressed or simply burnt out. Let's consider nutritional, herbal, and homeopathic ways to strengthen and restore emotional well being.
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Nutritional status has a big impact on emotional health. A deficiency in almost any of the B vitamins is a major cause - and our diets of starches, sweets, soft drinks and canned foods is a big factor. B complex, and B12 especially, along with a wholefood diet of plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, essential fatty acids, and proteins, will go a long way. The tryptophan we need to keep our brain seratonin high (and us happy) comes from a variety of protein sources: fish, eggs, nuts, turkey and certain types of whey protein, among others. And we must not underestimate the importance of our omega 3 fatty acids and evening primrose oil, because they are precursor prostaglandins which are key to many chemical processes including those responsible for depression. One broad-spectrum nutritional tonic, Biostrath, has demonstrated a remarkable ability to ease school stress and enhance well being for all ages. Calcium and magnesium are also important.
Many excellent herbs have long histories of use. Avena sativa, whole oat tincture, is nourishing and soothing for the nervous system - like an "oatmeal bath" for your nerves! Hops eases restlessness and promotes sleep. St. John's Wort, one of Germany's most prescribed herbs, has calming, andtidepressant, and sleep-inducing effects. It helps to boost seratonin levels, and is safe to use with children, too. It is useful for mild to moderate depression instead of (not with) MAO inhibiting drugs. Lavender is a boost for restlessness, sleeping disturbances, and nervous stomach or intestinal disorders; use it in a bath, diffused in a room, or massaged on the skin.
Homeopathy's role is balancing, and single remedies must be chosen with an eye to the individual's characteristics. Some remedies to consider include pulsatilla, if craving sympathy; kali phos, for a nervous disposition; nat mur for low spirits; ignatia for grief or great disappointment; and lycopodium fir irritability with low self confidence and anticipatory fears. If you are uncertain about the correct remedy, several combination homeopathics are available to help.
Bach flower remedies are excellent for all emotional needs, and may be used alone or with any drugs or other treatments. They are safe and effective, tasteless and restorative. Look at walnut if you've experienced change (such as moving, marriage, divorce...); star of Bethlehem, for bereavement or loss. Others address loneliness, anxiety, low self esteem, or overcare for others. There's sure to be a Bach flower remedy to address your needs.
Don't let your emotions distress or overwhelm you. Take action today to restore and strengthen. Our knowledgeable staff will be glad to answer your questions.
Suggested reads from Goodness Me!'s book department:
Dealing with Depression Naturally
Depression and Natural Medecine
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