Seasonal Symptoms? Check in with Nature’s Doctors

Hopefully, Colorado has seen the last of winter. I’m ready for Spring . . . how about you?

With the coming spring, many of us notice lingering “symptoms” of winter: a few extra pounds around the middle; lethargy from being indoors; seasonal allergies or dry skin.

I’ve become acquainted with Nature’s Doctors for my springtime remedy to restore my vitality. May I introduce you, so you too might take advantage of their benefits?

I consider these natural elements as my go-to solutions to reviving my health and well-being:

Fresh Air

The air in springtime is clean and fresh, especially following seasonal rain showers, winds, and yes, even a late snowfall. Take a few minutes each day to breathe in the freshness and restore your lung-power from the dry, recycled, heated air inhaled all fall and winter.

Deep breathing provides an excellent detoxifying benefit for the entire body. Open up your torso, stretch your arms overhead or out to your sides and breathe in––deeply. Exhale completely to fully circulate the fresh oxygen to invigorate your respiratory system.

Sunlight

The sun’s rays in spring are gently warming and soothing. This is the best season to soak up those rays without UV damage. Just remember to increase your sun exposure gradually for the best benefits.

The sun’s warmth heats the earth’s soil so seeds may germinate. It provides photosynthesis for plants to absorb its energy to produce food (carbohydrates, proteins and fats). This process feeds animals and humans.

Something about that sunshine, just makes us feel good! After the gray, snowy, rainy days in Colorado, I’m overjoyed that the warming sun has returned!

Sound

Nature provides us with many sounds that often get tuned out from the numerous man-made sounds (sirens, vehicle noise, jackhammer noise in road construction, etc.) surrounding us. The soothing sounds of robins, hawks, and even bluejays and woodpeckers counter the harsh manufactured noises. The gurgling sounds of a stream certainly soothe the senses and calm an anxious mind.

The health benefits of nature’s sounds have such a profound effect on our overall health, that those sounds are frequently reproduced on relaxing music cd’s.

Deepak Chopra of the Chopra Center, says this about Sound Therapy:

“Every sound has a physiological effect. When you listen to a beautiful piece of music or inspirational words, a cascade of pleasure-producing chemicals course through your body, supporting health and wholeness. In contrast, studies of urban environments show that people subjected to ongoing noise pollution are more likely to suffer from stress and lowered immune function.

Ayurveda recognizes that music is a valuable therapeutic tool for balance and healing. It is also important to simply tune in to your body and discover which sounds are healing and inspiring for you. If you feel refreshed, joyful, and alert, the music is working.”

Wholesome & Fresh Food/Nutrition

Spring and Summer provide great opportunities to “eat local” and in season. Farmer’s Markets offer fresh, nutrient-rich produce to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

Some of the benefits of shopping the Farmer’s Markets include:

• Better tasting produce that is fresher and higher in nutrients and enzymes

• An opportunity to meet the growers and learn where your food comes from

• A more economical and environmentally sound choice

• Supporting your community and local businesses

• A treat for your senses!

It’s perfectly OK to ask the growers about their crops. You may want to know if their produce is pesticide free, non-GMO or pasture raised as well as learning new recipes and cooking suggestions.

Join me next week for the continuation of Nature’s Doctors and how your health may benefit from spending time with them.