What a Naturopath does to stay healthy...
Being a Naturopath is not a career for me, it's a passion, dedication and way of life. And as cliché as it sounds to best be of service to my clients I must practise what I preach. However, you may be surprised to learn that I'm not a purist, for me health is a journey not a destination and like most people I get off track from time to time. Instead of feeling guilty I use it as an opportunity to better understand the difference in how my body & mind reacts to whatever it is I've consumed or perhaps not done (ie: missing yoga practise, not going for my morning walk, not taking time out to enjoy a hobby etc). I find this invaluable learning, helping me develop a sense of compassion and understanding for my clients, who need help and support in changing their diet & lifestyle habits.
If you've ever wondered what a Naturopath does to stay healthy, this is my personal list:-
Stay well hydrated - I always have a water bottle, or tall glass of filtered water at hand and ocassionally will add a few slices of lemon &/or lime. I drink 2-3 L daily (however, this should depend on your weight ie: 1Litre per 25kg is a starting point).
Healthy food mindset - before I eat anything, I'm aware of the choice I'm making.. is it a healthy one?
My diet consists predominately of colourful, fresh, in season & local (when possible) plant food. I do eat meat, however small portions and from organic, grass fed produce.
I LOVE FRUIT!! - I have 3 servings of fruit daily and if I feel my immune system is low I make an immune boosting juice: beetroot, carrot, apple, pineapple, ginger and lemon.
At the first sign of a cold or flu I take a dose of Martin & Pleasance Combination T (1st Stage of Illness). This lives by my bed with homeopathic Drosera 30c which I would take if I have a scratchy throat and dry persistent cough. (I rarely get sick thanks to getting in early with these remedies)
I aim to go to sleep at 9.30pm and like to rise early 5.30am, (good deep sleep is essential). Before sleep each night I practise creative visualisation, conjuring up my visions for whatever my goals are at the time.
I drink coffee and tea sparingly, perhaps 2 times weekly at most. Throughout winter and autumn I like to have my herbal teas.
Alcohol - red wine is probably my choice and I would have say 4 glasses a month at most.
Variety is my mantra - I do my best not to over-do anything, whether that's juicing, brothing, taking remedies, fermenting, eating certain foods, drinking herbal teas. A balanced approach I believe is best, so too much of a good thing does not turn into a bad thing!
I take my remedies up to 4-5 x weekly, I also listen to my body as to what it may need. I take a practitioner range Multi-vitamin that I know has low excipients, fish oil or sea buckthorn capsules (from an ethical source) for brain food and anti-inflammatory, Ubiquionol (or CoQ10) for cellular health and brain food, Magnesium - is necessary for up to 300 enzyme functions, for me is helpful for muscle tension and pre-menstrual tension.
My favourite herbs that work for me:- Brain boosting herbs, Ginkgo, Korean Ginseng, Rhodiola. For physical stamina and stress supporting herbs Echinacea, Siberian Ginseng, Withania. For pain and inflammation Boswellia and Turmeric. Immune supporting herbs, Echinacea, Astragalus, Withania, Shiitake mushroom.
To help look after my musculoskeletal and nervous system I visit a trusted Chiropractor every 6-8 weeks and am working on (this year!!) committing to daily yoga practise upon rising.
My exercise regime is quite modest at the moment consisting of morning walks as often as I can and bushwalking with the family on the weekends. However, I'm nearly 40!! so this year I'm planning to start weight bearing exercises.
I spend at least 30 minutes in the garden each day getting a good dose of vitamin D, and an extra dose hanging out the washing (which I actually enjoy, it's my peaceful time).
My housecleaning products are low-toxic and natural, my skin care products are also natural and free of harmful chemicals. I wear minimal toxic free make-up.
And finally regular catch-up time with my loved ones - family and friends, enjoying their company and most importantly having a good laugh!!
As a Naturopath health is holistic - body, mind and spirit, so I strive personally (and for my clients) to encompass a health plan that ensures all of these areas are well nurtured and nourished. And remember health like life is a journey not a destination, so make the most of each day, as best you can caring for your mind, body and spirit.
Blessings for good health & happiness,
Jaunita xo
For a personalised approach to help you optimise your health and wellbeing contact:
Jaunita May ~ Your Family Naturopath
0423 866 959 : jaunita.may@gmail.com
