Heal Your Body By Training Your Vagus Nerve

Heal Your Body By Training Your Vagus Nerve

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These days it is nearly impossible to avoid stress. Some wear their stress as though it were a badge of honor, while others push through hoping for light at the end of the tunnel.

The majority of the people I talk with do not recognize the damage that prolonged stress causes in their bodies. More than simply moderating your stress, it’s important to know you can heal your body by training your vagus nerve.

Vagus nerve – what’s that? The vagus nerve forms a bi-directional “super highway” between your brain and the majority of your internal organs. Vagus means “wandering” in Latin.

It’s an appropriate name for the longest nerve in the body that meanders around from your head through your chest and abdomen. Surprisingly, about 80% of the information transmitted by the vagus nerve is from the body to the brain.

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What Your Cravings Are Trying To Tell You

What Your Cravings Are Trying To Tell You

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Do you experience cravings? If so, you’re not alone – many of my clients do, too. But what often surprises them is learning that not all cravings are a signal that the body needs food. In fact, cravings can stem from a variety of causes, some of which have nothing to do with hunger. Let’s explore what your cravings are trying to tell you.

Our bodies are incredibly intelligent, constantly working to maintain balance. Your heart beats, your lungs breathe, and your body knows when to sleep and wake – all without conscious effort.

Cravings are another way your body communicates with you, but instead of automatically reaching for a snack, I encourage you to pause and listen. Ask yourself: What does my body really want, and why?

By deconstructing your cravings, you can uncover their true cause and respond in a way that actually meets your body’s needs. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons behind cravings.

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Break Free From Chronic Disease

Break Free From Chronic Disease

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A growing number of people, from young adults to seniors, are being diagnosed with chronic diseases. Unlike acute illnesses, which come on suddenly and resolve fairly quickly, chronic diseases persist for months or even years, often requiring continuous management. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), autoimmune disorders, anxiety, depression, and even cancer can significantly impact daily life. But many are tired of the day-by-day management and want to know how to break free from chronic disease.

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Are You Aging—Or Just Overloaded with Toxins?

Are You Aging – Or Just Overloaded with Toxins?

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Have you ever been told that your fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, or stubborn weight gain are just “signs of aging”? Many people hear this from their doctors when they complain about feeling sluggish, foggy, inflamed, or simply “off.” The underlying message? Accept it. It’s just part of getting older.

But what if it’s not aging at all? What if these symptoms are actually signs that your body is struggling under the burden of accumulated toxins?

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An Important Blood Marker For Your Metabolic Health

An Important Blood Marker For Your Metabolic Health

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If you see your doctor for annual physicals, you likely have lab tests done as well. I’m wondering how often your doctor looks at your lab report and says, “you’re fine.”

But there may be some things that your doctor isn’t seeing. There’s an important blood marker that is often overlooked.

According to experts, over 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy and at risk for chronic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease as they age. The typical labs done with a physical are Complete Blood Count, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, and Lipid Panel, but an important one is missing. Fasting Insulin is a marker that can be beneficial for your preventative care.

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Why Muscle Matters More Than You Think

Why Muscle Matters More Than You Think

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When we think about metabolism, it’s often in the context of how quickly our bodies burn calories or how hard it feels to maintain a healthy weight as we age. But there’s an unsung hero in this equation that doesn’t get enough credit: muscle. Let’s explore why muscle matters more than you think.

Muscle isn’t just about looking toned or being strong. It’s an active tissue that plays a key role in your metabolism, your energy levels, and your overall health as you age. It’s like a hidden engine, quietly working behind the scenes to keep your body running efficiently. And yet, so many of us don’t realize how vital it is until we start to lose it.

Let’s dive into why muscle matters so much and how building and preserving it can transform your health—not just today but for years to come.

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Vital For The Human Body

Vital For The Human Body

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Sodium, or table salt, has a rough history. Food labels trumpet their lack of it. Doctors caution using it. Everyone seems to be avoiding it.

But at what cost? Given the messages touted in the media, you might think that sodium is toxic. But nothing could be further from the truth. Sodium is vital for the human body to survive!

Sodium is a crucial electrolyte stored primarily in the fluid that surrounds all our cells. Our kidneys use electrolytes to regulate the amount of water in the body. This is an important job as our bodies are about 60% water.

When we have high levels of sodium, the kidneys retain water. When we have too little sodium, the kidneys release more water.

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You Can Counter Seasonal Mood Changes Naturally

You Can Counter Seasonal Mood Changes Naturally

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Fall and winter bring shorter days. During this time of year, many people experience periods of sadness or feeling unlike their usual selves. These mood changes often begin and end when the seasons change. You can counter seasonal mood changes naturally, without getting caught up in antidepressant medications.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern. Most people with this challenge report seasonal depression, fatigue, and/or low mood.

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A Life Review Can Help You Redirect

A Life Review Can Help You Redirect

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What has been your practice at year end in recent years? Do you float along on the river wherever it takes you, or use your paddle to direct your path? You can take a different approach this year. Starting with a life review can help you redirect if you aren’t where you want to be.

As we close out one year and begin another, it’s a great opportunity to take some time to reflect on the past twelve months. What have you accomplished, both small and large? What were your highlights and lowlights? What did you learn?

Taking a good, hard look at your life can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly powerful. It allows you to see where you’ve been and where you want to go. It gives perspective on your choices and helps you learn from your mistakes. And perhaps most importantly, it allows you to set realistic goals for the year ahead.

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Moving Past Depression – The Science Behind Exercise

Moving Past Depression – The Science Behind Exercise

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We live in a world where depression affects millions. Many suffer in silence, while others go to their doctors where they are given medication. But there may be a better way. A groundbreaking study has recently revealed that a powerful solution may be as close as your exercise shoes. Lace up those shoes and discover an effective way for moving past depression.

A study published in the British Medical Journal has shed light on the notable effects of exercise in treating depression. The researchers analyzed data from over 14,000 people with major depressive disorder across 218 trials. They found that engaging in movement like walking or jogging two to three times a week showed the best outcomes.

Their symptoms improved by an amazing 63%! In comparison, antidepressant medications alone produced only a 26% improvement along with concerning side effects.

Dr Michael Noetel, the lead author of the study, emphasized the significance of this study, “Exercise may therefore be considered a viable alternative to drug treatment. We also found evidence that exercise increases the effectiveness of SSRIs, so offering exercise may act as an adjuvant for those already taking drugs.” This research has the potential to revolutionize the way depression treatment is approached.

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