Shouldn’t We Give Our Bodies Nutrition Instead of Psych Meds?

“Those with psychiatric symptoms aren’t missing certain chemicals. They are missing certain nutrients that make those chemicals.” – Healing Without Hurting

body machineJennifer Giustra-Kozek, LPC, NBC – Our bodies are amazing machines. When we provide our cells with nutrient-dense whole food nutrition free of chemicals, additives, pesticides, and herbicides, our bodies flourish. If our body is nutrient deficient or full of toxins, it can lead to cell death,  immunodeficiency, and physical and mental health illness.

According to the July 2017 edition of Nutrients, thirty-one to forty-five percent of the United States population has some nutritional deficiency. Before a psychiatrist prescribes a psychiatric medication, testing for levels of nutrients in the body is essential. Continue reading

6 Good Reasons To Laugh More Every Day

Sarah Gibson – Laughter really is the best medicine. I mean, we can see it all around us. We see children in the play area, running around laughing and smiling and living in the moment, while their parents sit on the side, full of the stresses of day-to-day life and only the occasional smile breaking their otherwise serious faces. People on their death beds often say they wish they had laughed more. Don’t be that person! We could all do with a bit more laughter… And you’re about to find out why! Here’s the 4-1-1.

laughterWhy Do We Laugh, Biologically?

Research suggests that laughter and humor help the human brain process conflict around us. The dopamine that is released in our brains when we find something funny makes us feel good. It releases tension, increases motivation, memory and attention and helps us process pain management.

So How, Exactly, Is Laughing Good For You?

Okay, so we all know that it feels good to laugh. When it comes down to the physical changes that occur in our brains, dopamine is released and can dissolve stress, relax and recharge us, and help relieve pain – a golden triangle of good feelings! Continue reading

Deane Alban ~ How To Increase Dopamine, The Motivation Molecule

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter for motivation, focus and productivity. Learn the symptoms of dopamine deficiency and natural ways to increase dopamine levels.

dopamine
Dopamine molecule

There are about 100 billion neurons in the human brain — about as many stars as there are in the Milky Way. These cells communicate with each other via brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for providing motivation, drive, and focus. It plays a role in many mental disorders including depression, addictions, ADHD, and schizophrenia.

Let’s take a closer look at dopamine — what it does, symptoms of deficiency, and how to increase it naturally.

Dopamine: The Motivation Molecule

Dopamine has been called our “motivation molecule.” It boosts our drive, focus, and concentration. It enables us to plan ahead and resist impulses so we can achieve our goals. It gives us that “I did it!” lift when we accomplish what we set out to do. It makes us competitive and provides the thrill of the chase in all aspects of life — business, sports, and love.

Dopamine is in charge of our pleasure-reward system. (1) It allows us to have feelings of enjoyment, bliss, and even euphoria. But too little dopamine can leave you unfocused, unmotivated, lethargic, and even depressed. Continue reading