Embrace your healing

We all need healing from time to time and many believe that prevention is always better than cure. However, we don’t all choose the route of modern 'Western' medicine, which is where alternative therapies step in to balance the ups and downs of life.

Whether emotional, physical or spiritual, Christine Allen looks at how we can go from bankrupt to balanced

The days of popping pills and ignoring the root cause of our illness, stress or spiritual unease has passed as more and more people are coming to the realisation that many physical pains and conditions have an emotional source.

Our bodies speak to us every day, telling us about the areas that are in pain and reminding us that body, mind and spirit are connected when dealing with our wellbeing.

From Acupuncture to Zen therapies, there is now a mass of alternative therapies to keep us in tiptop condition and many are now based in Cork.

According to a host of professional practitioners, healing physical ailments such as colds, headaches and backaches, as well as debilitating and embarrassing stomach problems, can be resolved with simple, non-invasive alternative healing therapies.

Healing techniques such as Reiki and Reflexology can aid recovery and there are a host of other alternative and complimentary techniques to suit every need such as Kinesiology, Feng Shui or Shiatsu.

Sometimes a change in diet, improving breathing techniques or stilling an over-active mind can create a sense of wellbeing again.

While professional help is always encouraged in cases of anxiety, nervousness, anger or grief, the majority of daily stresses benefit greatly from many therapies such as yoga, Pilates, chiropractic and Ayurvedic medicine.

Giving your mind a time out with meditation, pampering yourself with aromatherapy, creating boundaries against harmful people through visualisation while ignoring mental negativity will ensure that your moods are boosted, which in turn reflects as good health and wellbeing.

Holistic therapies are now available in abundance through many professional locations in Cork, from herbal remedies to breathing and bodywork, such as massage and fitness programmes.

A range of stores also supplies those seeking health with healthy foods and supplements as well as complimentary and alternative medicines.

You don’t always need to feel frazzled and frustrated to get your chores or work done. A peaceful, grounded mind is more productive and a sure path to happiness.

Those seeking healing also need to consider their spirituality.

Not to be confused with religion, which is described as your relationship with God, spirituality is often defined as your relationship with yourself.

Knowing that our lives are in sync with a greater scheme of life will help keep minds focused on the bigger picture.

While many alternative therapies will differ in their application, their principles will ultimately remain the same, and include these simple tips to refresh and invigorate your life.

Ten ways to grow spiritually

Embrace your talents

These are the qualities that make you unique and special. Everyone has something that they can do which can make their world a more pleasant place to be. Embracing your talents, and sharing them with the world, will not only unlock the essence of who you are but will bring great joy to those around you.

Tie up loose ends

A never ending list of chores is never a good recipe for peace of mind. Clear up any unfinished business in your life, you’ll feel free and more in control.

Be responsible for your behaviour

Your environment dictates your attitude, and your attitude dictates your behaviour. Stay around positivity and consider the consequences of all your actions.

Let go of damaging relationships

Sometimes we are better off without the negative effects that certain people have on us. Create a boundary and protect yourself from the damage that some people can cause, consciously or unconsciously.

Let go of useless attachments

Our lives are cluttered enough without having to cope with useless attachments. Whether they are activities, commitments or belongings, let them go and feel the freedom.

Confront inner demons

These guys are tough but it’s worth doing. There is nothing as damaging as unresolved emotions and unchecked behaviour.

Accept change

Life runs in cycles. Sometimes it’s pleasant, sometimes it’s not. However, it will change and if you embrace change, you will not only survive, but you will enjoy your life and continue to push yourself outside your comfort zone.

Accept delays

One of the most beautiful qualities of humans is our vulnerability and imperfection. However, tell that to someone waiting in a queue. Sadly, sometimes other people’s imperfections create delays. Before you give out, take a deep breath and consider that this delay could just be just one affected player in a chain reaction of delays. Basically, it might not be the person’s fault.

Honour yourself and your principles

These are your boundaries. Our social and emotional conditioning makes us who we are. Our principles are those things that we will not move on. When you let someone walk across your boundaries, you will not only resent them, but will resent yourself.

Deal with past and present hurts

Face your future by embracing your past. Everyone has a battle to fight but if you want to live in the moment, consider turning your head away from your past. However, you can only do this after giving your past its dedicated time.