Eastern Meditation stripped of its religious connotations has numerous health benefits but to substitute this type of meditation for Christian meditation in regards to spiritual life is an error. For purposes of physical health, breathing and various positions void of religious intent have health benefits, but for spiritual benefits, one must turn to the classical Christian meditation that looks not for relaxation but spiritual connection with God through the Scripture and Christ.
Christian meditation is Christo-centric and finds its basis in God’s presence through the quiet of Scripture and Christ. Christ leads one to the Father and helps one reflect on one’s spiritual life with God. Deeper contemplation can lead to deeper unions with God but all leads one back to the current world and its current situation instead of attempting to escape it.
Christian meditation is about a closer union with God. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
Meditation is prayer and it is important that Christians remember this and not allow secular definitions of it to water its true nature down. The purpose is not to merely refresh the mind, de-stress, or find calm, but to connect with God.
The article, “Meditation Isn’t Mere Therapy — It’s a Living Relationship With Almighty God” by Anna Abbott reminds us of the true spiritual and prayerful nature of meditation. She states,
“In the case of Christian meditation, it is an active quest to live the life of Christ, which was anything but passive. Our Lord sought baptism from his cousin to begin his life of teaching. He called the Twelve Apostles. He actively healed, preached and performed miracles. He repeatedly told Sts. Peter, James and John that the endpoint of his mission was crucifixion, death and resurrection. He endured heroically, not passively. His mission is the foundational “quest.”
Going beyond this secular definition of meditation and realizing this active quest to find God is key in Christian meditation. Christian meditation is not to escape the world but to understand it with all its suffering and distraught but to Christianize it. Meditation brings the Christian closer to God to deal with the issues of the world. In this way, Christian meditation is far more different than secular notions of meditation that find there roots in Eastern themes.
While these techniques have physical health value they cannot replace spiritual meditation. Also bear in mind as Christians, these techniques themselves need to be utilized carefully since their ultimate design is based to create mental states that are associated with Eastern theology which is far from Christian. The ultimate end of Christian meditation is union with God, not to become a god.
Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it matches one’s academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Christian Counselor.
Losing a dog is a painful life experience. For some it happens multiple times, for others, the pain may be so great, it only happens once and they are unable to open up again. The bond between human and canine is undeniable. It is so strong that the love can be as strong as any love between family. For those who truly understand it, the loss of a dog is the loss of family. A dog is not owned, a dog is not a pet, but a family member that is loved and cherished. Hence the loss of a dog can be a very agonizing loss.
Losing a dog is like losing family for many. Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Certification
The article, “How to Grieve for a Very Good Dog” by Annette McGivney looks closer at the grief experienced over the loss of a dog. She states,
“When my yellow Lab died last spring, I was flattened by an overwhelming sadness that’s with me still. And that’s normal, experts say, because losing a pet is often one of the hardest yet least acknowledged traumas we’ll ever face.”
If you would like to learn more about AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Certification, then please review and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Pet loss Grief Support.
Making disciples of all nations and fulfilling Christ’s mandate involves sometimes more than preaching but also sometimes working with others and helping develop their spirituality. Individuals in positions of authority or experience sometimes find themselves helping others perfect their trade. This is not only true of the professional world, but also within the spiritual world. Numerous pastors, elders and spiritually developed Christians help others find Christ and also to grow in Christ.
Mentorship hence is a vital role within the Church. It involves the Spiritual Works of Mercy that include instructing the ignorant, admonishing the sinful, counseling the doubtful and praying for their development. Spiritual parents play large roles in this development. Whether a pastor, minister, spiritual advisor, mentor or God parent, one is thrust into a spiritual position to help their spiritual children grow in Christ. This spiritual promise is an important one that comes from God. It is a very solemn duty to to not only guide but teach by good example.
Christ selected 12 Apostles to proclaim the Gospel. Spiritual Mentorship follows the paradigm of Christ in selecting and cultivating spiritual growth
This is why it is so scandalous when Church authority is abused. When trust in authority is broken, many can be lost to the faith. Many lash out against the faith. Sexual abuse, corruption and bad example are all great sins before God and those in authority who mentor and teach the young, will answer in the most harsh ways. It is important to shower one’s spiritual children with guidance and charity of the Holy Spirit through example and teaching.
Many look to the Paul Timothy relationship. In it, St Paul guides St Timothy through the process of instruction and guidance. St Paul educates but also encourages St Timothy in his spiritual formation. Like St Paul, spiritual mentors are called to help cultivate religious vocations through example, teaching and encouragement. A spiritual mentor is a teacher, a coach, and a counselor to his spiritual child and can help cultivate vocation through these positions of authority.
In doing so, like Christ, they give to their disciples a service of servanthood, as Christ did to the twelve but also an accountability. An accountability to be spiritually present in their lives. Also in any relationship their must be boundaries. Overt dependency upon each other can cause damage to the growth of the spiritual child, as well as the spiritual parent. The spiritual parent may also fear to let their spiritual child go. So it is important to have important boundaries that are rooted firmly in Christ and faith. It is hence important to discuss spiritual expectations and moral behavior in life, and when needed, the acknowledgement to seek outside help when needed.
It is also important to follow the Jesus Model. Larry Kreider speaks about this model as a key way to help mentor and spiritually form young Christians.
Jesus just did not send out his disciples to the world without training or knowledge. He chose them intentionally and took time to know them and cultivate their talents. He taught not only by His words, but also by example. The disciples learned the power of Christ on earth through His miracles and sermons. In turn, Christ prepared them to proclaim the Gospel, but it was only until the Holy Spirit came upon them were they truly prepared.
He chose simply individuals. He did not choose the rich or powerful but simple fisherman, Peter, James and John. He chose a tax collector in Matthew, as well as numerous other outcasts. He chose Andrew, Philip, James the Less, Simon, Bartholomew, and knowing those who would doubt Him, in Thomas, and those who would deny Him, in Judas. Yet Christ, still accepted them all in their imperfections and status. He gave them His full attention and charity and took them in as His own spiritual children.
Spiritual Mentors will also follow this model of Christ. They will look to help develop the spirituality of the least of their brethren and allow their spiritual talents to become tools for the Church. Like Christ, mentors need to initiate and take the first steps to help develop their spiritual children’s gifts. They can reveal to them the good news of the Gospel and inspire in them a sense of awe regarding God. Through example and good deeds, they can inspire them.
They must also continue to build and cultivate the seed of faith within their spiritual children. They must encourage spiritual life, reading of scripture, attendance of Church, and working within it. They must cultivate that potential and push the faith into action.
Finally, eventually as Christ released the twelve, a mentor must be ready to release their spiritual children. This does not mean, he or she abandons them or no longer offers his or her ear, but it does mean they trust in the abilities and faith of their children to spread the Gospel and themselves become spiritual parents. The apostles went to the corners of the world and carried out their Master’s command even unto death.
We can help our spiritual children and help them grow in faith. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification
If God is calling one to spiritual parenthood or to be a spiritual advisor, it is important to allow the Holy Spirit to guide it. Prayer and fasting and discernment are extremely important. One should not let insecurities or fear prevent one from fulfilling one’s duty to the Church. The call to spiritual mentoring dismisses fear and insecurities, as well as ignorance, or apathy, or even impatience when one does not meet one’s standards. It is a vocational call and it is a special relationship.
If you would like to learn more about AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification or would like to become a certified Christian Counselor to aid in your own spiritual mentorship of others, then please review the program and see if it meets your professional academic and spiritual goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Christian Counseling.
Mindfulness and awareness are key in life. We are not living in the present and at ease, then mistakes can occur and stress can find ways to creep into one’s life. Mindfulness meditation teaches one to focus on the present through mental visualization and breathing. It helps tune the mind to the senses and to partake in the moment itself. This type of mindset is perfect for work. Employers should encourage mindfulness training for employees to increase productivity.
Mindfulness meditation can improve workplace productivity. Please also review AIHCP’s Meditation Instructor Program
The article, “What is mindfulness and why is it important in a workplace” by Kristin Finkbeiner takes a closer look at how mindfulness helps in the workplace. She states,
“Organisations are becoming more invested in the wellbeing of employees due to an increased awareness of the costs associated with an unhealthy workforce. Absenteeism, presenteeism, turnover, and a lack of productivity are all very costly issues that are closely tied to employee stress and mental health. The number of sick days lost to serious mental health issues has doubled in the past decade and mental health is the leading cause of sickness-related absences.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Meditation Instructor Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Meditation Instructor.
Medical malpractice is everyone’s nightmare but the law gives every patient the right to recover damages if a health care professional fails to supply the proper care. However, states differ in a variety of ways from statutes of limitations to what can be legally won back.
Malpractices laws have minor differences from state to state. Please also review AIHCP’s Legal Nurse Consulting Program
The article, “Do Medical Malpractice Laws Differ from State to State?” by Vivian Evans looks at a few differences and the definition of standard of care. She states,
“In the United States, medical malpractice law has traditionally been under the authority of individual states and not the federal government (in contrast to many other countries). State laws dictate how courts determine whether a physician failed to exercise the degree of care, skill, and learning expected of a professional doctor.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Legal Nurse Consulting Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals and nurses looking to earn a four year certification as a Legal Nurse Consultant.
Herbs are important to over all in health. In Asia, older herbs are consistently used to help aid, and in Europe, they have found their way into mainline medicine. Many herbs are prescribed before synthetic drugs. This change recognizes the value of herbal medicine when used in concert with Western medicine.
Just because an herb is natural does not mean it is safe though and this is why it is imperative to have professional guidance in use of herbs for daily life and issues. Some herbs can be toxic if used in excess or long duration and some herbs can also have bad counter reactions with synthetic drugs. A Holistic Integrative Specialist trained in healthcare is the best person to guide you through the multitude of herbs.
While there are many acute diseases such as cancer that individuals have and lead them to alternative treatments, many look to herbs for basic cures for everyday issues. Herbs when used properly can help alleviate issues without the negative side effects. However, this is usually best for mild cases. When more severe issues arise, doctors and physicians or mental health experts usually turn to synthetic drugs.
Eastern Medicine looks for overall healthy balance. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
Herbs also prove to be excellent for overall health. They can help the body over time be stronger and more resistant to certain conditions as well as treat the entirety of the body. Instead of treating one symptom, herbs can look for the cause and help the overall body from a holistic view.
A holistic view that looks at the overall function does not need to be at odds with Western medicine but can be interwoven with each other. Both are equally important in what they bring to the table. Western Medication utilizes a variety of synthetic drugs and procedures that sometimes can be evasive and produce side effects but in many extreme cases, these more severe responses are key, but this does not mean, less evasive and more holistic practices can be utilized.
Chinese medicine sees health as balance. Yin and Yang when mismatched or imbalanced causes illness. Balancing the inner body’s energy and functions is key. This can be accomplished via herbs, or other alternative practices, including acupuncture or massage. In addition, Ayurvedic medicine of India looks not just to eliminate symptoms but to restore balance to the body and treat the entirety of mind body and spirit. This philosophy is indeed correct. Balance of body systems and finding root causes of issues is critical for long term health.
With these things in mind, this blog will look at a few herbs that can help with basic issues. Again, these herbs are best used for mild conditions and always under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Self treating and utilizing herbs without direction can be dangerous and lead to side effects if on other medications. It can also cause issues if uses too much or too little over a certain period of time. Some herbs require strict adherence to when to take it and how long to take it , as well as if to take it with food or not. Hence it is important to remember that when utilizing herbs, one listen and follow directions to achieve maximum results and safety.
Various herbs with time held success are sometimes under valued by Western medicine. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification
Anxiety is one of the most common mental issues. Anxiety is due to stress but is an over reaction to stress. It can exist also when the stressor is no longer present and cause worry and fear when no issues exist. Most Western doctors may prescribe a variety anti depressants such as Luvox, Prozac or Zoloft. Others may prescribe benzodiazepines. Overprescription of these drugs for mild anxiety is unfortunate when herbs that are more holistic and mild on the body exist.
Kava is the natural anxiety reliever. Kava reduces anxiety, improves functioning and has no addictive properties. Most take 100 to 250 mg three times daily to deal with anxiety, however long term use of Kava can is not good for the body. Kava should not be combined with any benzodiazepines. This natural remedy derived from the Pepper Trees of Fiji and South Pacific Islands should be the first choice for mild anxiety before any hard synthetic medications.
Hypericum or St John’s Wort is another effective herb against anxiety and as well as depression. Again, when utilized for mild episodes, this herb can prove to be beneficial but should only be applied under professional supervision. This herb possesses at its very substance extracts that can enhance three neurotransmitters in the brain, namely serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. It also lowers cortisol. The herb takes 4 to 6 weeks to start to take effect and any lowering of doses on synthetic drugs should be withdrawn only at the supervision of a healthcare professional as one looks to replace synthetic with herbal treatment.
Anxiety creates a tense state. It causes the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline and cortisol which in turns increases blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension. These reactions are necessary during fight or flight but can cause long term issues. Activating a calmer state, or the para sympathetic nervous system is key. Hence, many look to sedative to find a more relaxed state. The herb Valerian plays a key role in helping people find that natural relaxed states without the synthetic side effects. Valerian Can help one sleep, reduce anxiety and nightmares and reduce the need of sleeping pills. Chamomile also like Valerian can help one find relaxation and sleep and is commonly used as a tea.
Chronic stress kills and those seeking a better life style against stress look to a variety of ways to negate its negative effects. Meditation and other stress management strategies are important but also herbs can play a key role in helping manage stress and strengthening the body. Adaptogens are types of herbs that can help the body fight chronic stress and maintain overall health that stress eventually deteriorates. As an Adaptogens, herbs must meet three requirements. First, they must be harmless over long term use. Second, they must increase resistance to stress and third, it increases mental and physical performance. It helps balance give overall holistic health.
Fitting this description is Ginseng. Ginseng has a long time reputation for anti aging. Ginseng is also key in improving oxygen and blood sugar metabolism and immune function. Ginseng also helps lower cholesterol and can help prevent heart attacks. It helps stimulate the adrenal gland and cortisol functions that are burned out due to stress. Ginseng hence is not good for those suffering from anxiety. Asian Ginseng is the strongest of the Ginsengs are recommended for older individuals, while American Ginseng is meant for younger individuals who are over worked or burned out. American Ginseng is considered “cooler” on the body.
Aging is an issue for everyone. Organs and physical functions cease to work as well as we get older but herbs can play a key role. Ginseng as shown plays a role in helping one age, but also in Chinese medicine, Ginkgo. Ginkgo is derived from some of the oldest trees on earth remaining unchanged in China for thousands of years. Ginkgo helps blood flow to the brain and has many properties that help the restore functions to the nervous system. Studies have shown it help minimize effects of Alzheimer Disease. Ginkgo hence is great for the mind and memory.
Herbs are can play a key role in one’s long term health if used properly. Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Nursing Program
A holistic view on life with herbs and other alternative practices is becoming more mainstream everyday. Double blind studies have been done with all the herbs discussed above with promising conclusions. The history of these herbs have never been doubted but when tested via empirical scientific methods, they still prove the test of time. They, as in Europe, should be utilized more in the United States. Western medicine should not feel threatened by alternative health views or application of other herbs or strategies. They can only complement Western medicine and help for a better fullness of life for all.
If you would like to learn more about holistic medicine or would like to earn a Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification, then please review the program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as Holistic Integrative Specialist. Most who enter are nurses or healthcare professionals who look to harmonize Eastern and Western ideals in medicine and help others make wise choices in utilizing the benefits of Holistic Medicine.
It is extremely important to find trained healthcare professionals in this field to help guide individuals who are seeking cures or better ways of life through herbs or other alternative therapies. Guidance is key to protect the patient and give them the proper and professional guidance in understanding how these herbs work in unison with Western methods.
Autism is a difficult life for many individuals and families. Many look for additional ways to help Autistic children relax and find peace. Hypnosis is a possible way to help autistic children.
Can hypnosis help Autistic children find relaxation? Please also review AIHCP’s Clinical Hypnotherapy Program
The article, “Hypnosis for Autism: Is it Beneficial?” by Lucinda Herbert looks at some benefits of hypnosis for Autistic children. She states,
“Hypnosis has been widely used for decades to help people to overcome addictive behaviors, anxiety, and depression. These are all issues that people on the autistic spectrum are more prone to and there is increasing evidence to show that hypnotherapy is particularly useful for us. Antidepressant drugs, including SSRIs and MAOIs, are commonly prescribed to children with ASD, but they have been found to be less effective than in non-autistic children (2021). This leaves us seeking non-pharmaceutical, alternative treatments in the hope they will be of more benefit.”
Hypnosis may not be the best for everyone but it can help some with Autism on an individual basis. For some it can help relaxation and peace become more accessible.
Please also review AIHCP’s Clinical Hypnotherpy Program and see if it meets your needs and goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Hypnotherapy.
One of the saddest things is losing a dog. Losing a dog is painful because over the 10 to 15 years the dog in our life, he or she becomes an everyday staple. Many wish dogs could live longer. This is one of the things to consider when owning a dog that one will not have them for a life time but a series of them. This may be sad but also gives one a chance to share life with many more.
Unfortunately for dog lovers, dogs live a very short life. Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Support Program
In novels, we see individuals who live almost like immortal lives. Our lives are almost immortal like when compared to a dog’s life and it teaches us to appreciate them while they are here. We need to smile on the bad days they misbehave or tear up a shoe and we need to appreciate the love and energy they show us. We are their entire world and we need to enjoy everyday they are with us.
The article, “It’s not fair that a dog’s life is so short” by Linda Smith states,
“Over the years, friends had warned me that the decision to let a cherished pet go was one of the most difficult they had ever made. At the time, I would nod and agree and move on with my day. As my dog got older, however, and this reality neared for me, I listened more closely to those stories of pet loss from friends.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Program and see if it matches your academic and professional programs. The program is online and independent study and open to professionals seeking a four year certification to help others deal with the loss of a pet.
Losing weight is difficult. It takes determination and effort. Diet and exercise are fundamental but herbs can help but one needs to understand the reality of herbs. Holistic care encompasses overall health. It is preventative in nature and accepts a life style change. Utilizing herbs though can be dangerous without professional guidance for weight loss.
Weight Loss and Herbs can work if used properly and under guidance. Please also review AIHCPs’ Holistic Integrative Specialist Program
The article, “Is It Safe To Use Herbal Weight Loss Supplements?” from the Cleveland Clinic reviews the use of some herbs for weight loss. The article states,
“While many products out there suggest that they can help you lose weight fast, they can also come with a slew of health concerns. If you need help with starting your weight loss journey, talk to your provider. They can steer you in the right direction and help you find a program that is safe and effective.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Integrative Specialist Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Holistic Nursing or Holistic Care.
There are a variety of depressions that set in. Not all are a result of a direct loss. Major Depressive order is an example of an on going cloud of sadness with no direct correlation to any loss. It can be chronic or acute. Another type of depression is Bi-Polar disorder which has highs or manic states and lows or depressive states. Some states are not as severe such as hypomania, which help distinguish between Bi Polar 1 or Bi Polar 2.
Bi-Polar disorder however is sometimes harder to pin point than other types of depression especially in teens due to natural ups and downs. It also leaves teens and those in their early 20s very confused why they are fine sometimes and not fine other times. It is very important to diagnose this disorder to help individuals find balance again in life.
The article, “Bipolar disorder” from Mayo Clinic gives an detail description of Bi Polar Disorder and helps educate individuals who feel they may have it and need help. It definitely a good place to start looking for information. The article states,
“Despite the mood extremes, people with bipolar disorder often don’t recognize how much their emotional instability disrupts their lives and the lives of their loved ones and don’t get the treatment they need. And if you’re like some people with bipolar disorder, you may enjoy the feelings of euphoria and cycles of being more productive. However, this euphoria is always followed by an emotional crash that can leave you depressed, worn out — and perhaps in financial, legal or relationship trouble.”
It is hence important to find treatment for this difficult condition. So many relationships are ruined because of Bi Polar. A partner becomes confused by the flip flop personality and can find themselves one day on another’s good side then later their bad side. Having to deal with manic energy and desire to do things for a week only to be confused with depressive lack of energy the next can leave a partner confused and ready to even leave a relationship. The individual may also be confused and not fully understand.
In turn, they may look to spending binges, or even drugs and alcohol to help cope with depression or ride the mania. The individual may find themselves locked with a variety of financial issues, eating disorders or drug addictions due to the multiple swings in mood.
Bi Polar Disorder can be a cruel roller coaster ride for many. The manic and depressive states can cause destruction to emotional well being as well as relationships
Like any type of depression with no true cause due to loss, some may wonder how or why someone is Bi Polar. Most is genetic. If a direct relative had it, then there is a good chance it was passed on to the child. Many though when reviewing family histories choose to hide mental disorders. So if grandma or grandpa had it, is sometimes harder to recall. Only those who lived with them will truly know if they were manic or depressed. With such a stigma, family histories sometimes cannot find the source.
If you think you may be Bi Polar, Mayo Clinic lists a few conditions during both Manic and Depressive episodes
Bi Polar 1 is diagnosed with at least one manic and depressive episode. Unlike Bi Polar 2, the mania is more severe and can lead to even psychosis. Within the mania period, one experiences more energy to the point of exaggeration. More wild thoughts and impulses may present themselves and lead for some into dangerous and risky activities via sex or drugs. One can also experience a state of invincibility and euphoria not tied to reality.
Unfortunately, while some may enjoy this phase and feel empowered, it is followed by a crash of depression. Like all depression, it can last 2 weeks or longer but also possesses the same characteristics of boredom, fatigue, disinterest, or insomnia.
If one is experiencing these issues of back and forth manic and depressive episodes it may be time to talk to a trained licensed professional. Grief Counselors who are licensed can help diagnose and find treatment through a doctor, but if only certified, if someone illustrates these characteristics, it is time to refer a client to someone that is licensed. Most grief counselors are certified but can only deal with basic grief to loss, but once grief becomes more insidious and pathological, it is important that those who are not licensed counselors help their clients receive the help they need through a licensed professional. Again, many certified Grief Counselors are also licensed Counselors and can supply the help needed on the spot but bear in mind, most cases of Bi Polar do require some type of pharmaceutical response. Physicians and Psychiatrists can provide the needed prescriptions to help individuals. Herbal remedies can also play a role in helping stabilize but should not never be utilized without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Only a licensed health care professional can diagnose and help treat Bi Polar Disorder. Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification Program
If you would like to learn more about Grief Counseling or would like to become a certified Grief Counselor, then please review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Grief Counselor.
Grief Counselors can play an important role in identifying pathological grief, and if licensed can provide even more assistance to those suffering from mental disorders such as Bi Polar Disorder.
Again you feel you are suffering from Bi Polar Disorder, do not wait for disaster in life, or continue to roll with the waves, but find the help you need to stabilize your life and the family around you.
