Nature Knows and Psionic Success

Serena Poon, CN, CHC, CHN- Chef, Nutritionist, Reiki Master, & Founder of Culinary Alchemy®, which combines functional & spiritual nutrition getty It’s no secret that finding a state of prolonged focus and mental clarity can foster productivity. The challenge is often creating an environment in which this mental state can regularly thrive.

I have worked with some of the greatest minds in Hollywood, from Jerry Bruckheimer to Kerry Washington to Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, to expand their well-being and vitality. Through this work, I have discovered a blend of holistic techniques that effectively support productivity and success. This state can’t be forced, but in my experience, there are certain lifestyle shifts that can lay the foundation for consistent flow, focus and concentration.

1. Avoid inflammatory foods

Food and focus might not seem connected, but research shows that diet can absolutely affect cognitive function. Inflammatory foods, specifically, have been linked to mental sluggishness and brain fog . According to Cleveland Clinic, the five most inflammatory food categories are added sugars, trans fats, red and processed meats, too many omega-6 fatty acids, and refined carbs.

It is also recommended to steer clear of anything processed and fast food. Instead, choose foods that reduce inflammation, such as fresh vegetables and fruit, whole and ancient grains, and plant-based fats and proteins. These types of foods help with increased mental clarity.

2. Meditate

Meditation is an ancient practice that elicits immense benefits that have become widely recognized and respected in corporate circles. Research shows that aside from stress and anxiety relief, improved focus is one of the main benefits of regular meditation practice.

A daily meditation practice can greatly increase concentration. Even sitting for five minutes a day before checking messages and emails can help with mental focus and productivity. I find that after my morning meditation, I gain an innate sense of what needs to be prioritized and am able to concentrate on achieving my big-ticket items without distraction throughout the day.

3. Rest

Allowing time for rest and rejuvenation might not be the first thing to come to mind when thinking about focus and success, but they are, in fact, crucial. Researchers understand that rest is imperative to productivity and that sleep deprivation impairs attention, working memory, decision making and emotional balance, among many other functions.

To improve sleep quality, consider spending time without screens before bed, removing all light from the bedroom and refraining from eating or drinking alcohol for at least three hours prior to going to sleep. Relaxing practices such as meditation, restorative yoga or journaling can enhance the benefits of a nightly wind-down session.

4. Exercise

It is widely known that working out can elicit feelings of happiness and energy, but somewhat less frequently discussed is how it can help boost brain function. Researchers have found that exercise supports and improves cognitive function .

While most exercise will support cognitive function in some capacity, coordinative workouts may increase cognition the most. Head to the basketball court, or try a new dance class to keep your brain working while you move. Taking phone calls while walking around the block can be a creative exercise strategy for people who might feel too busy to workout.

5. Drink more water

Hydration is important to all bodily functions, and brain function is no exception. The human brain is composed of about 73% water and needs proper hydration to create hormones and neurotransmitters. Research has found that just a 2% loss of hydration can affect brain functions such as alertness and cognition.

I recommend drinking at least 100 ounces of filtered water each day and limiting dehydrating beverages, such as coffee, caffeinated teas, sodas and alcohol.

6. Know your medicine

If you are taking medication, it is possible that it might be affecting your ability to concentrate. Medicine prescribed for common ailments, nutrient deficiencies, motion sickness and allergies may cause side effects that affect clear thinking . Some over-the-counter allergy medications may also have deleterious effects on brain function.

Take note of any strange symptoms, such as brain fog, confusion and fatigue, and discuss with your doctor other alternatives that won’t impair cognitive function.

7. Eat foods that support focus

There is evidence that, in addition to a well-balanced diet full of anti-inflammatory foods, phytonutrients and antioxidants, certain foods and supplements can specifically help boost concentration and focus.

Add foods and high-quality supplements such as turmeric , omega-3s, vitamin B12 , ginkgo biloba , phosphatidylserine , citicoline and acetyl-l-carnitine to enhance mental clarity and cognitive function.

8. Spend time in nature

Researchers have found that natural environments have the capacity to improve cognitive function. Interestingly, even exposure to images of restorative environments can restore attention post-burnout.

Time in nature can be enhanced with noticing exercises. Use all five senses to engage with the environment. Listen to the leaves crinkle, notice the colors of flowers and foliage, and feel the sensations of the breeze. All of this can be achieved on a brief stroll around the block. 9. Organize your office Researchers have found that working in a clean and organized environment helps nurture cognitive function, focus, decision making and emotional well-being. They also note that clutter can lead to procrastination, emotional exhaustion, stress and anxiety.I like to think of my environment as reflecting my inner world. If my office is clean and organized, my thoughts will be, too. 10. Improve your gut microbiome Incredibly, the health of the digestive system plays a huge role in brain health. Researchers have found that gut microbiota found in the digestive system sends signals to the brain via a pathway called the gut-brain axis. Signs of an imbalance in the digestive tract may show up as bloating, gas, migraines, anxiety and brain fog.The gut microbiome thrives off prebiotics, probiotics, fermented foods, vegetables, fruit, fiber and omega-3s. Digestive balance also requires proper hydration, stress management, ample sleep and exercise.I find that it is common for successful people to compartmentalize lifestyle and productivity, but the truth is that everything is connected. Seemingly small, daily choices can make a […]

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( Natural News ) Most commonly used medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are known to cause side effects that negatively impact children’s mental health. Ritalin and Adderall, for example, can cause sleep problems, anxiety, irritability and headache.

Therefore, researchers are now looking for alternative treatments for ADHD. In a recent study published in the journal Translational Psychiatry , British and Taiwanese researchers found that fish oil supplements may help treat ADHD in children who are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. Exploring the potential of fish oil supplements to treat ADHD

Omega-3s like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are essential fatty acids that are good for the brain. Supplementation with these healthy fats is linked to enhanced cognitive function and academic performance. Past research has also associated omega-3 deficiency with ADHD. One study showed that children with ADHD have lower blood levels of EPA and total omega-3s than healthy children.

With that in mind, the researchers conducted a study involving 92 Taiwanese ADHD patients aged six to 18 to examine the effect of supplementing with high-dose EPA. They asked the participants to take either EPA supplements or a placebo for four months.

The children with low EPA levels were able to stay focused and vigilant after taking the supplements. On the other hand, those with normal EPA levels at baseline experienced no improvements, while those with high EPA levels became more impulsive.

“Our results suggest that fish oil supplements are at least as effective as conventional pharmacological treatments among those children with ADHD who have omega-3 deficiency,” said lead researcher Jane Chang, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at China Medical University .

Carmine Pariante, a professor of psychiatry at King’s College London and one of the study authors, said that their findings set an important precedent for other nutritional interventions. He noted that physicians can start bringing the benefits of “personalized psychiatry” to children with ADHD .

“For those children with omega-3 deficiency, fish oil supplements could be a preferable option to standard stimulant treatments,” added Pariante.

The researchers noted that parents should consult a healthcare professional first before giving their children fish oil supplements. Those looking to boost their children’s omega-3 intake can turn to fatty fish like salmon and tuna .

“High blood levels of EPA without using supplements can be achieved through a good diet with plenty of fish, which is common in some Asian countries like Taiwan and Japan,” explained Kuan-Pin Su, who was also involved in the study. Why are omega-3s good for the brain?

EPA and DHA are important for normal brain function and development . Found in abundance in the cell membranes of brain cells, these fatty acids facilitate communication between nerve cells. A deficiency in these nutrients can cause numerous problems.

Many studies link lower DHA levels in the blood to a smaller brain size, which is a common sign of accelerated brain aging. Eating a diet lacking in omega-3s is also associated with memory and learning problems and lower DHA levels in the brain.

On the other hand, supplementing with fish oil supplements may improve brain function in people with mild cognitive impairment and age-related cognitive decline. Fish oil has also been found to reduce depression . In one review, researchers found that fish oil supplements helped reduce depression symptoms as effectively as antidepressant medications. The researchers noted that the greatest improvements were seen in people who took higher doses of EPA. (Related: Omega-3 supplementation can improve psychophysiological symptoms of PTSD .)

Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3s that boost brain health. Eat more fatty fish or take fish oil supplements as part of a healthy diet for a healthy brain. For more about the health benefits of omega-3s, visit Omega3.news .

Sources include:

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It’s not getting any easier.

More than a year into the pandemic, Americans say they are more stressed out than at any time since the coronavirus crisis began. [1]

A recent nationwide poll found that 84% of those surveyed reported at least one episode of prolonged stress in the previous two weeks.

Many people are turning to pharmaceutical medications for relief. Prescription tranquilizer sales have spiked since the pandemic began. But that’s trading one problem for another. [2]

Anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and anti-insomnia drugs come with a whole host of side effects, including addiction.

The fact is, there’s a better, healthier way to feel calmer and get better sleep….

For years, researchers have told us about the importance of probiotics. “Good” bacteria have been shown to aid digestion, fight depression, and improve immunity.

Now, a new study has found that pre biotics —the so-called “fertilizer” for pro biotics —have their own unique set of health benefits that may help us get through the pandemic.

Prebiotics are plant fibers that nourish probiotic bacteria. Researchers at the University of Colorado say they’ve discovered strong evidence that prebiotics ease stress and insomnia. [3] The Natural Way to Get Deeper, More Restful Sleep

Scientists split 52 male rats into two groups. One was fed standard rat food. The other ate food fortified with prebiotics. [4]

At the end of the three weeks, the researchers introduced a stressor to both groups. They shocked the animals’ tails at irregular intervals.

Normally, after stressful events, animals and humans suffer loss of good gut bacteria. And the rats in the study not eating prebiotics did see a drop. But the prebiotic group had no reduction of healthy stomach microbes.

What’s more, the prebiotic rats did not experience other stress markers, such as abnormalities in body temperature.

The researchers then tested sleep patterns in both groups using brain scans. They found that animals fed prebiotics had much deeper sleep.

They spent more time in non-REM sleep. This is the kind of sleep that is restorative and makes you feel energized afterward. [5]

Researchers concluded: “These data are the first to show that a diet rich in prebiotics can modulate the sleep-wake cycle both before and after stress.”

Robert Thompson is a post-doctoral researcher at the University of Colorado. He was lead author of the study.

“We found that dietary prebiotics can improve non-REM sleep, as well as REM sleep after a stressful event,” he said. The research was published in the journal Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience . A Healthy Alternative to Sleeping Pills

The study has major implications for the 40 million Americans who suffer serious sleep disorders. Stress is often the cause of their insomnia. [6]

As we mentioned earlier, sleeping pills cause a multitude of side effects. Besides addiction, common ones include balance issues, daytime drowsiness, headaches, attention and memory problems, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

A 2012 study in the journal BMJ Open even linked sleep drugs to cancer and a quadrupled risk of death from any cause. [7

During the coronavirus crisis, lung health is crucial. These drugs also can interfere with your ability to breathe. Particularly if you have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Prebiotics offer a safer, better way to get the rest you need. Top 10 Prebiotic Foods

These foods are among the highest in prebiotics. When you feel stressed or have trouble sleeping, add more of them to your diet. [8] Artichokes

Leeks

Garlic Jicama Onions Carrots Peas Asparagus Bananas Avocado These days, many of us feel more anxiety than ever. Nature provides better solutions than anything that comes in a prescription bottle. Editor’s Note: Have you put on weight during the pandemic? You’re not alone. 76% of American adults have added unwanted pounds during the coronavirus crisis.If you’re one of them, don’t go on a diet. Read our monthly journal Independent Healing to discover science-proven, more effective ways to lose weight. Unlike diets, you won’t go hungry and don’t have to give up your favorite foods. Go HERE to get all the details. Related Articles References [1] https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article248950029.html [2] https://www.marketwatch.com/story/anti-anxiety-medication-prescriptions-have-spiked-34-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic-2020-04-16 [3] https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-02-dietary-prebiotics-buffer-impacts-stress.html [4] http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00240/full [5] https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-02-dietary-prebiotics-buffer-impacts-stress.html [6] https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-Sleep [7] http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/understanding-the-side-effects-of-sleeping-pills#1-3 [8] http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-18746/18-prebiotic-rich-foods-for-a-gut-friendly-diet.html

Read more at www.institutefornaturalhealing.com

Photo Credit: Courtesy of HealthGAINSI don’t know anyone who will admit that they like to feel normal all the time. No one is gunning for one-size-fits-all and even fewer are hoping that the care that they are getting is just like everyone else’s. Given the choice, people almost always choose the option that suits them a little better than others. We do this not because of greed or malice, but because we are intrinsically driven to seek out unique and complementary experiences because of our drive for beneficial results.

In the U.S., Human Growth Hormone , or HGH, came to the forefront in the ’50s where it was used to help children with natural deficiencies capping their growth. More contemporarily, starting in the mid-1980s, the prevalence and access to synthetic HGH made its use more widespread, offering teens and adults many of the same benefits children had experienced while on therapy. Under medical supervision, HGH has exploded in use to treat a wide variety of diseases and age-related symptoms related to dysfunction.

Often prescribed by doctors hoping to offer relief to their patients, HGH has become a boon for many suffering the effects of aging. Beginning with its regenerative properties, HGH has been able to help build and repair tissue within the organs of the body, including the brain. It has also become widely used to help those in pain to heal and recover faster.

In otherwise healthy adults, the use of HGH can be instrumental in reshaping the body, helping to melt away stubborn fat, and improving the body’s metabolism. Because HGH therapy also boosts the production of collagen throughout the body, one of the most noticeable benefits of this therapy is the improvement in hair and skin quality that often accompanies the precise regulation of hormones. The Benefits of HGH

One of the most impressive benefits associated with therapy is the greater availability and higher levels of HGH throughout the body, often making it easier to burn fat and grow muscles. That’s because HGH is often responsible for the burning of fatty acids called lipids, and it induces the release of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1). IGF-1 is a hormone that helps the body get rid of glucose rather than store it as fat.

In addition, HGH prompts collagen production, which tends to wane as a person ages, which can help the body to build muscle. Moreover, it can make the skin suppler in feeling and appearance as well as make it more flexible and youthful. The body also uses collagen to strengthen hair follicles which then leads to a fuller head of hair and reduces graying.

After the body becomes more accustomed to the higher levels of HGH in the body, the increased presence allows the improvement of metabolism within the cells, which in turn allows people to exercise for longer periods of time. In addition to the boons granted from this organic process, the work itself also rewards the body as they increase in exercise typically means a decrease in fat. HGH makes it easier for the body to repair itself, faster which can lead to better recovery and performance.

Within the cardiovascular system, HGH can help you avoid complications that can lead to organ failure and other such complications. Specifically, HGH works by helping the body burn lipids at a faster rate, causing less buildup of arterial plaque, and can reduce your risk of heart disease over time.

Over time, the use of HGH can have other important benefits for aging. One of the more important of which is the improvement in bone density and mineral content. Osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders can all benefit from the regular use of HGH. For those suffering from breaks or brittle bones, this can be an important part of maintaining their quality of life.

Other long-term benefits of growth hormone use include improvements to mood and anxiety. Improved concentration and memory also frequently accompany HGH use, which has been well documented in addition to its antidepressant and mood-boosting abilities. But their benefit can extend beyond the bones and the moods, it’s been a key factor for many others for their other long-term effects on the body.
When the body acclimates to the new levels of HGH within the body, it’s inevitable that they will also begin to notice the improvement in their day-to-day lives as well. HGH has long been known to improve sleep quality, and recent studies point to improved digestion and energy consumption, often helping patients feel like they’ve turned back the clock. Photo Credit: ShutterstockThe Importance of Personalized Care

No one likes feeling like just another number, especially not when it comes to their health. What’s going on in my body is likely very different in yours, and similar conditions can frequently have completely different symptoms from patient to patient. That’s why with personalized care, your doctor will consider all of the health concerns you have, allowing her to avoid therapies or treatments which may exacerbate or prolong your symptoms.

Your specific medical issues will affect how long and how often you’ll take HGH and what your dosages will be. Other concerns include family history, other health issues, and conflicting prescriptions which may cause complications. These are only some of the issues a person can avoid by undergoing care with a professional over examples found on the internet.

Because everyone’s body and personal chemistry are a little different, what may be beneficial for one person may have completely unintended consequences for another. Finding and working with a doctor and team you trust can help you to avoid these complications and guide you on a faster, more efficient path towards your goals. Bloodwork and HGH

After your doctor suggests HGH therapy, you might find yourself preparing for a blood test. That’s because she or he needs to accurately calibrate your HGH treatment by matching your results with the correct therapy.

There are a variety of tests that are typically run with your blood. Among them include serum tests which check your current hormone levels as well as […]

Read more at hauteliving.com

( Natural News ) When it comes to the brain’s chemical messengers (neurotransmitters), nothing compares to dopamine.

A neurotransmitter that activates the brain’s pleasure and reward centers , dopamine plays an important role in stimulating motivation, mental energy and drive. Because of its effects on the brain’s pleasure centers, it’s not surprising that many unhealthy and even dangerous habits, such as drug use and gambling, is somewhat associated with dopamine. (Related: What is the link between dopamine and mental health? )

But according to experts, there are safe and natural ways to increase your dopamine levels , most of which involve taking natural plant compounds and herbal supplements. Here are some of them: Velvet bean ( Mucuna pruriens )

Velvet bean, also known as cowage, is a tropical legume that contains L-dopa, a dopamine precursor . It is said to enhance mood, memory, overall brain health and even libido. It is also looked at as a potential treatment option for Parkinson’s, a disease characterized by low dopamine levels. Maidenhair tree ( Ginkgo biloba )

Ginkgo is one of the most widely-used herbal supplements in the world. It is used for a wide variety of brain-related disorders , such as memory loss, brain fog, depression and anxiety. According to studies, ginkgo’s brain-supporting properties are linked to its ability to increase the turnover of dopamine and serotonin.

In addition, ginkgo also helps reduce stress and anxiety by lowering the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body. Water hyssop ( Bacopa monnieri )

Bacopa is traditionally used in Ayurveda as a brain tonic. Research suggests it has the ability to enhance memory, learning and concentration in individuals . Bacopa is classified as an adaptogen, a substance that moderates and even negates the effects of stress on the body.

According to experts, this herb works by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels while reducing cortisol levels in the body. Ginger ( Zingiber officinale )

One of the world’s most popular spices, ginger possesses powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to its rich stores of shogaols and gingerols. These compounds have the ability to protect the brain from free radical damage.

More importantly, ginger is known to regulate the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain , which explains the calming and soothing properties of ginger tea. Turmeric ( Curcuma longa )

Just like its cousin ginger, the brilliantly-colored turmeric is a potent supplement that you can take if you want to maintain optimal brain health. This is because turmeric contains high amounts of the antioxidant curcumin, which is known for its impressive ability to increase dopamine and serotonin levels.

Because of its strong, earthy and bitter taste, turmeric is normally used either as a spice in cooking or taken as a supplement in capsule form. Should you decide to take turmeric capsules, make sure to look for one that has added piperine. Piperine is a compound found in black pepper that is known to increase curcumin absorption by up to 2,000 percent. Ginseng ( Panax ginseng )

One of the most well-known Chinese medicinal herbs, the ginseng plant is popular for being particularly helpful when it comes to addressing mental and cognitive issues . This is mainly because of its ability to regulate the levels of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.

Aside from that, ginseng also protects the brain cells that create dopamine from apoptosis, or cell death. This ability, according to experts, is more evident in substance abusers and individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Oregano Oil ( Origanum vulgare )

Aside from being well-regarded as a delicious culinary herb, oregano also doubles as a dopamine supplement. According to experts, this is because of its high levels of carvacrol and thymoquinone, two potent antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

A potent neuroprotective compound, carvacrol is also known to help increase dopamine and serotonin levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Meanwhile, thymoquinone is linked to reductions in brain tissue inflammation . Resveratrol

If you’ve read articles touting the health benefits of red wine, chances are, those effects are linked to resveratrol, an incredibly potent polyphenol known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Aside from being an antioxidant, resveratrol is also known for its ability to protect the brain cells that create dopamine in Parkinson’s patients.

Boosting your dopamine levels need not involve dangerous and life-threatening practices — most of the time, adding healthy foods to your diet and taking natural supplements is enough.

To read more about the benefits of healthy foods, visit Superfoods.news .

Sources include:

VeryWellMind.com

Hindawi.com

MDPI.com

Nature.com

CellAndBioScience.BioMedCentral.com

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