meditation

Whole health programs at Roseburg VA are centered around what matters to you, not what is the matter with you. Facing your fears can be difficult but this nurse guarantees the process is worth it.

Previous studies have suggested that meditation may have beneficial effects on a number of conditions. A 2017 American Heart Association scientific statement suggests that meditation may be of benefit for cardiovascular risk reduction. Data show that it may help with blood pressure, cholesterol level, quitting smoking, and overall cardiovascular health. However, this connection is far from definitive.

A mindful body scan makes us aware of how our body is feeling and bring us into the present moment. This is a type of mindfulness that connects our breath to the sensations of our body. We acknowledge parts of the body that might be experiencing pain and discomfort and learn to relax areas where we might be holding tension. The body scan can allow us to let go of some of the things causing us stress, even if only temporarily.

Facing adversity is a natural part of the human experience. When situations arise and we find ourselves feeling fear, worry or anxiety, we often focus on those thoughts and lose sight of the people, places and things we are grateful for.

One of the best things we can do for our health is to allot time to rest and relax. Regular periods of relaxation decrease our heart rate and blood pressure, improve our sleep, help maintain normal blood sugar levels, reduce stress hormones, improve our concentration and mood, and so much more.

There are many ways the mind can affect the physical body. Soft Belly Breathing can bring a sense of relaxation and body awareness.

Injuries, inflammation, the passage of time, and lifestyle choices change our bodies. How we think of our bodies can affect how we feel about ourselves.

Tai Chi is a form of gentle movement that can improve muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and stress relief. It involves the coordination of breath, posture, awareness, visualization and focused movements.

The poem, The Guest House, by the 13th century poet, Rumi, is used often in mindfulness practice. In this 5-minute 25-second recording, everyday moments and even annoyances are transformed into something special.

It's important to schedule time for the things you enjoy. Consider neurotransmitters and hormones: they trigger happiness when you experience joy.

Music moves people – in more ways than one. It makes people forget the actual work in a workout and leads to increased exercise enjoyment. Consider the runner wearing earbuds on the trail, or weightlifters in the gym motivated by loud music: it can move us emotionally, motivating us to move physically. 

Practicing yoga in a class is an excellent self-care practice, but sometimes it just isn't possible to grab a mat and head to a studio. Yoga teacher and Whole Health Coach, Katherine Hillgren, from the St. Louis VA Medical Center, suggests that a home practice, like chair yoga, is a suitable replacement in a pinch.