New Report Calls for Whole Health Innovation to Promote Yoga Therapy and Integrative Health Practices in Mainstream Healthcare

New Report Calls for Whole Health Innovation to Promote Yoga Therapy and Integrative Health Practices in Mainstream Healthcare

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has released a new report stating that the US should expand and promote whole health care through the leadership of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The report recommends creating a Federal Center for Whole Health Innovation to advance the use of evidence-based complementary and integrative health approaches, including yoga therapy, in mainstream healthcare.

This report highlights the growing importance of incorporating complementary and integrative health practices into traditional healthcare systems. Yoga therapy has been increasingly recognized as an effective tool for promoting physical, mental, and emotional health. Yoga teacher training programs are becoming more popular as more people are seeking yoga therapy to manage stress, anxiety, and other health issues.

Incorporating yoga therapy and other complementary and integrative health practices into mainstream healthcare can provide patients with more holistic care options. This can lead to better health outcomes and a reduction in healthcare costs. The report emphasizes the need for leadership from the VA and HHS to make this shift towards whole health care.

In summary, this report emphasizes the importance of expanding and promoting whole health care through the integration of complementary and integrative health practices, including yoga therapy. It recommends the creation of a Federal Center for Whole Health Innovation to advance the use of these evidence-based approaches in mainstream healthcare. This highlights the growing demand for yoga teacher training programs and other complementary and integrative health practices as people seek more holistic healthcare options.

Read the full report here.

 

 

 

Yoga and healthcare

I am so thrilled to invite you to join our transformative Yoga Therapy and Healthcare program. It’s a space where compassion, integrity, and healing converge to create profound changes in your life and the lives of those you serve. If you’re a yoga teacher, healthcare provider, or massage therapist, this is an opportunity to deepen your practice and enrich your skill set. In today’s world, where holistic well-being is gaining increasing importance, the demand for skilled professionals in yoga therapy, healthcare, and holistic healing practices is on the rise. Our program can help you seize these opportunities and better support those you love and serve. Ready to embark on this journey of growth together?

A Journey to Inner Bliss: Yoga Therapy, Vedanta, and Tantra Unveiled

A Journey to Inner Bliss: Yoga Therapy, Vedanta, and Tantra Unveiled

Embarking on the journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, we encounter the profound teachings of Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra. Each of these ancient disciplines offers unique insights and practices that guide us toward self-realization and awakening. Today, we delve into the depths of these three streams, exploring their essence and significance in our quest for enlightenment.

 

Yoga Therapy: Healing and Wholeness Through Mind-Body Integration

Let’s start with Yoga, as expounded in the timeless Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. At its core, Yoga aims to stabilize and clear the clouded mind through various practices, foremost among them being meditation. By cultivating attitudes of lovingness, compassion, supportiveness, and acceptance, we begin the process of calming our restless thoughts and finding inner peace.

In addition, Yoga encourages the cultivation of virtues and qualities such as non-harming, truthfulness, non-stealing, purity, contentment, self-study, and surrender. Through meditation, we can gradually reduce the colorings known as kleshas, which include ignorance, ego, attachment, aversions, and fear. This process of self-reflection and introspection allows us to develop razor-sharp discrimination and move inward toward deeper states of concentration, meditation, and absorption.

Yoga is a highly systematic practice that encompasses the levels of the body, breath, mind, and beyond. By setting aside the kleshas and relinquishing false identities rooted in attraction, aversion, fear, and attachment, we create space for our true selves to emerge. The key skill of Yoga is attention, the ability to simply observe without judgment or attachment. Remember, Yoga starts wherever you are in your current daily life.

Vedanta: The Quest for Self-Realization and Transcendence

Moving on to Vedanta, we enter the realm of contemplative meditation and philosophical inquiry. Vedanta invites us to explore the nature of consciousness and the distinction between Purusha (pure consciousness) and Prakriti (the subtlest material and its evolutes). Through deep introspection, we bear witness to the four functions of mind: manas, the coordinator of actions and sensation; chitta, the storage bank of experiences; ahamkara, the interface through which “I” interacts with objects; and buddhi, the higher faculty of knowing, deciding, adjudging, and discriminating.

In contemplative meditation, we delve into the three levels of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, as well as the conscious, unconscious, and subconscious realms. Through direct contemplation on the center of consciousness, we embark on the profound inquiry, “Who am I?” This quest leads us to the realization that our true self, the Atman, is qualitatively the same essence as Brahman, the Absolute.

 

Tantra: Balancing Energies and Awakening the Sacred

Lastly, we immerse ourselves in the transformative practices of Tantra. Tantra emphasizes the balance and harmonization of internal energies, symbolized by the chakras and the flows on the two sides of the body— Ida and Pingala, sun and moon, ha and tha of hatha yoga. By opening the central stream of energy, known as sushumna, which corresponds to the subtle counterpart of the physical spine, we awaken latent energy and allow it to flow upward.

In Tantra, deep reflection and meditation focus on Tripura Sundari, the one who resides in the three cities of conscious, unconscious, and subconscious, as well as waking, dreaming, and sleeping. Furthermore, Tantra seeks to understand the pre-existing union of Shiva and Shakti, representing the latent and active aspects of manifestation, often referred to as masculine and feminine energies.

Ultimately, the pinnacle of our spiritual journey transcends the boundaries of these individual practices. We yearn to experience the ineffable reality that lies beyond words, names, and forms. It is the convergence of all these systems into one pre-existing whole, known as sat-chit-ananda—existence-knowing.

In Conclusion

In our quest for inner peace, self-realization, and transcendence, the practices of Yoga Therapy, Vedanta, and Tantra hold immense wisdom and transformative power. Yoga Therapy empowers us to integrate mind and body, promoting healing and wholeness. Vedanta offers profound insights into the nature of consciousness, guiding us towards self-realization and transcendence. Tantra, with its sacred practices, harmonizes energies and awakens our divine potential. By embracing the teachings and practices of these three streams, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, profound transformation, and ultimate bliss. May these ancient disciplines illuminate your path and lead you to a state of profound well-being and spiritual awakening.

Remember, as you engage in these practices, it is essential to seek guidance from experienced teachers and honor your own unique journey. May the wisdom of Yoga Therapy, Vedanta, and Tantra guide you towards a life of profound peace, harmony, and self-realization.

Ayurvedic Rose Petal Jam (Gulkand) Recipe

Ayurvedic Rose Petal Jam (Gulkand) Recipe

 

🌹 Rose Petal Jam:

 

A Summer Ayurvedic Recipe to Cool and Soothe

 

Experience the soothing and cooling properties of our favorite Ayurvedic recipe, Rose Petal Jam.

As we embrace the warmth of summer, this divine creation helps balance Pitta dosha and provides a refreshing respite from the heat.

 

Ayurvedic Rose Petal Jam Ingredients:

 

  • 2 cups fresh organic rose petals (make sure they are pesticide-free)
  • 1 cup raw honey (use locally sourced, organic honey if possible)
  • Sunlight (for the natural sun-infusion process)

 

 

Instructions:

 

  1. Gather fresh rose petals from organic, pesticide-free roses. Ensure that the petals are clean and free from any dirt or insects. Choose roses with a strong, fragrant aroma for the best results.
  2. Rinse the rose petals gently under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat them dry with a clean towel or let them air dry naturally.
  3. Place the rose petals in a glass jar or a clean, sterilized glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the jar is completely dry to prevent any moisture from causing spoilage.
  4. Slowly pour the raw honey over the rose petals, ensuring that they are completely covered. Use a spoon to gently mix the rose petals and honey together.
  5. Secure the lid tightly and place the jar in direct sunlight. Choose a spot where the jar will receive ample sunlight throughout the day. The sun’s warmth will help infuse the flavors of the rose petals into the honey.
  6. Allow the jar to sit in the sunlight for at least 2 weeks. During this time, the sun will work its magic, infusing the honey with the delicate fragrance and therapeutic properties of the roses.
  7. After the infusion period, open the jar and give the rose petal jam a gentle stir. You will notice the rich color and enticing aroma of the gulkand.
  8. Transfer the rose petal jam into smaller, airtight jars for storage. Keep the jars in a cool, dark place to preserve the flavors and medicinal properties. The gulkand will remain fresh for several months when stored properly.

 

Usage:

 

Ayurvedic Rose Petal Jam (Gulkand) can be enjoyed in various ways to cool and soothe the body and mind. Here are a few suggestions:

 

  • Take 1 teaspoon of gulkand in the morning on an empty stomach to help balance Pitta dosha and promote digestion.
  • Mix a spoonful of gulkand into a glass of chilled milk or yogurt for a delicious and refreshing treat.
  • Use it as a spread on toast, chapati, or crackers for a hint of floral sweetness.
  • Add a dollop of gulkand to your herbal tea or warm water for a calming and aromatic beverage.

Note: As with any Ayurvedic remedy, it is always best to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or healthcare provider before incorporating gulkand into your diet, especially if you have any specific health concerns or conditions.

Enjoy the soothing and cooling benefits of this Ayurvedic rose petal jam, lovingly infused with the warmth and energy of the sun. May it bring you moments of tranquility and delight.

Bon appétit!

Aroma Acupoint Therapy | Restoring Trust and Nourishing the Heart with Jasmine and Rose

Aroma Acupoint Therapy | Restoring Trust and Nourishing the Heart with Jasmine and Rose

a beautiful peach rose with a honeybee

Aroma Acupoint Therapy

 

If you’re seeking a holistic and rejuvenating therapy for restoring emotional balance, aroma acupoint therapy could be the answer. This ancient healing technique combines the power of essential oils with acupuncture principles to promote overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the incredible benefits of aroma acupoint therapy, specifically focusing on the use of jasmine and rose essential oils for restoring trust and nourishing the heart.

Understanding Aroma Acupoint Therapy

Aroma acupoint therapy is a unique healing approach that targets specific acupoints in the body using essential oils. These acupoints, located along energy channels called meridians, are associated with various organs, emotions, and physiological functions. By applying jasmine and rose essential oils to these acupoints, practitioners aim to restore balance and harmony in the body’s energy system.

The Power of Jasmine and Rose

Jasmine and rose essential oils are renowned for their exquisite fragrances and therapeutic properties. In aroma acupoint therapy, jasmine oil is used to promote trust and emotional stability, while rose oil enhances love, compassion, and emotional nourishment. The combination of these two oils creates a synergistic effect, amplifying their individual benefits.

Aroma Acupoint Therapy Process

During an aroma acupoint therapy session, a skilled practitioner will apply diluted jasmine oil to specific acupoints associated with trust and rose oil to acupoints linked to the heart. These oils are gently massaged into the acupoints, facilitating absorption and stimulating the body’s natural healing response. The process is relaxing, creating a tranquil atmosphere for rejuvenation.

Benefits of Aroma Acupoint Therapy

Aroma acupoint therapy with jasmine and rose offers numerous benefits for overall well-being. It helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and emotional imbalances, promoting trust, openness, and love. Additionally, it can improve sleep quality, enhance mood, and boost energy levels. This therapy also supports heart health, strengthens the immune system, and provides relief from physical discomforts.

Restoring Trust and Nourishing the Heart

One of the remarkable effects of aroma acupoint therapy with jasmine and rose is its ability to restore trust and nourish the heart. By targeting specific acupoints associated with trust and love, this therapy helps release emotional blockages, allowing individuals to rebuild trust in relationships and themselves. It cultivates feelings of love, compassion, and self-care, nourishing the heart and promoting emotional well-being.

Scientific Evidence and Research

While aroma acupoint therapy has an undefined history of traditional use, scientific research is beginning to explore its benefits. Preliminary studies indicate positive effects on stress reduction, emotional well-being, and various physiological parameters. Ongoing research is shedding light on the mechanisms behind this integrative healing approach.

Precautions and Considerations

Although aroma acupoint therapy with jasmine and rose is generally safe, it’s essential to consult a qualified practitioner. They will consider your specific medical conditions, allergies, and sensitivities to ensure safety and effectiveness. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should seek professional guidance before undergoing this therapy.

Conclusion

Aroma acupoint therapy with jasmine and rose brings a holistic approach to healing and emotional wellness. By combining the wisdom of ancient healing traditions with the therapeutic properties of essential oils, this therapy restores trust and nourishes the heart. Experience the profound benefits of this integrative therapy and embark on a journey towards emotional well-being and balance.

 

Book A Session Here

In-person Aroma Acupoint Therapy Treatments in our Point Pleasant, NJ Shala

Frequently Asked Questions about Aroma Acupoint Therapy (FAQs)

What is aroma acupoint therapy?

Aroma acupoint therapy is a healing technique that combines essential oils with acupuncture principles to restore balance and promote well-being. It involves the strategic application of oils to specific acupoints on the body.

How long does an aroma acupoint therapy session last?

The duration of a session can vary, typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. The practitioner will customize the treatment based on your needs and goals.

Is aroma acupoint therapy safe?

Aroma acupoint therapy with jasmine and rose is generally safe. However, it’s important to consult a qualified practitioner, especially if you have specific medical conditions or allergies.

Can aroma acupoint therapy help with emotional imbalances?

Yes, aroma acupoint therapy is known to help alleviate emotional imbalances by promoting trust, openness, and love. It can provide relief from stress, anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.

Where can I experience aroma acupoint therapy in NJ?

To experience the benefits of aroma acupoint therapy, reach out to me, Jeanette Sealy in Point Pleasant, NJ. I can guide you through the process and provide personalized treatments according to your needs.

Yoga Ayurveda and Grief: 10 Self-Care Tips to Lighten Your Heart

Yoga Ayurveda and Grief: 10 Self-Care Tips to Lighten Your Heart

a long boardwalk overlooking the sea

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Ten Ways Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda can help with Grief and Loss

 

Grief is a natural response to loss, and it affects us all at some point in our lives. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers valuable insights and self-care practices to help us navigate the difficult journey of grief. In this article, we will explore five Ayurvedic self-care tips that can assist in easing the burden of grief, allowing our hearts to feel lighter and find solace.

1. Honor Your Emotions:

In the face of loss, it is essential to acknowledge and honor your emotions. Ayurveda recognizes that grief is a transformative process, and suppressing emotions can hinder healing. Allow yourself to express your feelings through writing, talking with loved ones, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music. By giving yourself permission to grieve, you pave the way for emotional release and eventual healing.

2. Create a Nurturing Routine:

Establishing a nurturing routine can provide stability during times of grief. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle, including regular sleep, nutritious meals, and exercise. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring you get enough rest to support your emotional well-being. Nourish your body with wholesome, Ayurvedic meals that include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas. Engage in gentle exercises like yoga or walking, which can promote physical and mental harmony.

3. Practice Meditation:

Meditation is a powerful tool to calm the mind and find inner peace amidst grief. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. As thoughts and emotions arise, observe them without judgment, and let them pass. Bring your attention back to your breath, cultivating a sense of stillness and acceptance. Consistent meditation practice can help soothe the pain of grief, allowing you to find solace in the present moment. Incorporate restorative yoga and Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) practices to support deep relaxation and rejuvenation. Restorative poses, supported by props, allow for complete surrender and release of physical and emotional tension. Yoga Nidra, a guided meditation practice, promotes profound relaxation and can help process and integrate the emotions associated with grief.

4. Seek Support from Nature:

Nature has a profound healing effect on the mind and heart. Spend time outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Take a leisurely walk in a park, sit by a serene lake, or hike in the mountains. Engage your senses in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature, allowing its tranquility to soothe your soul. Ayurveda suggests that connecting with the natural world can help restore balance and provide a sense of connection during times of grief.

5. Seek Ayurvedic Support:

Ayurveda offers various natural remedies and therapies to support emotional healing during grief. Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can recommend specific herbs, essential oils, or Ayurvedic treatments to address your unique needs. Some herbs like ashwagandha and brahmi have calming properties that can aid in reducing anxiety and promoting emotional well-being. Ayurvedic therapies such as Abhyanga (self-massage), Nasya (medicated oil in the nasal passages), and Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead) are known to alleviate stress and restore balance to the mind and body. You can schedule a free consult with Jeanette Sealy, Yoga Therapist and AyurDoula here

6. Cultivate Compassion for Yourself:

During times of grief, it’s crucial to be gentle and compassionate with yourself. Understand that the grieving process is unique to each individual, and there is no set timeline for healing. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your pain and offering yourself kind and loving words. Treat yourself with patience and understanding, allowing yourself to experience the ups and downs that come with grief. By cultivating self-compassion, you create a safe and supportive space for healing.

7. Engage in Healing Rituals:

Yoga and Ayurveda recognize the power of ritual in promoting healing and finding closure. Create personalized rituals that honor your loss and facilitate emotional healing. Light a candle or incense in remembrance of your loved one, create a sacred space in your home where you can reflect and find solace, or perform a simple ceremony that symbolizes letting go. Engaging in these rituals can provide a sense of closure, allowing you to process your emotions and begin the journey of healing.

8. Connect with a Supportive Community:

Grief can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Seek out a supportive community of friends, family, or support groups who understand and empathize with your experience. Share your feelings and stories, listen to others’ journeys, and find comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Being part of a compassionate community can provide a sense of belonging and offer valuable support during the grieving process.

9. Practice Pranayama:

In Yoga and Ayurveda, the breath is considered a vital life force that can help restore balance and calm the mind. Incorporate pranayama, or breathwork, into your self-care routine. Sit in a comfortable position and focus on your breath. Practice deep, slow inhales and exhales, allowing your breath to become a source of grounding and tranquility. Breathwork can help release emotional tension, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of inner calm amidst grief. Meet with a qualified Yoga Therapist for individualized practices most supportive to you. 

10. Embrace Healing Sound Therapy:

Sound has a profound impact on our emotions and well-being. Explore the therapeutic benefits of sound to aid in your healing journey. Listen to soothing music, chants, or nature sounds that bring comfort and relaxation. Consider incorporating sound therapy practices such as singing bowls, gong baths, or chanting mantras. These vibrations can help release stagnant emotions, restore harmony, and create a sense of peace within.

 

In conclusion, as you embark on your journey of working with grief, it is essential to approach yourself with deep emotional compassion. Grief can be a complex and challenging experience, and incorporating yoga therapy into your healing process can offer support and solace along the way.

Remember to be gentle with yourself, allowing space for the full range of emotions that arise. Yoga therapy serves as a compassionate companion, guiding you towards healing, acceptance, and inner peace. Through gentle asanas, heart-opening poses, breathwork, meditation, and restorative practices, you can create a sacred space within yourself where grief can be acknowledged, expressed, and ultimately transformed.

Each person’s path through grief is unique, and it is crucial to honor your individual process. Seek support from qualified healthcare professionals who can offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs.

As you engage in yoga therapy for grief, may you find comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Allow yourself to lean on the practices, your community, and the compassionate presence within you. Embrace the opportunity to nurture yourself, to heal, and to emerge from grief with renewed strength and resilience.

Remember, healing takes time, and the journey may have its ups and downs. Embrace the moments of lightness and joy, as well as the moments of sadness and reflection. Each step you take is a testament to your courage and willingness to embrace the transformative power of yoga therapy in your process of healing from grief.

May the practices of yoga therapy be a source of comfort, solace, and emotional support as you navigate the path of grief. May you find healing, peace, and a deep sense of compassion within yourself as you honor your unique journey of healing and transformation.