Alternative Health
Mental Health Courts: Separate Justice System
Source: Flickr
Patients of mental health require special attention and treatments and on normal circumstances, the prison cell will not give the proper, not even the sufficient treatment. It has been observed that those people who are suffering from certain mental disorders become worse while they are in correctional facilities. They get intimidated by the other inmates, they get abused even and the worst part is, they do not get the right treatment for their disorders. There is simply no possible way for them to get treated inside such facilities. Therefore, their psychological disorders become aggravated.
In the past recent years, it has been observed that offenders with mental illnesses are fastly falling into the jurisdiction of criminal justice system. Added to this are the shocking percentages of people with mental illnesses that are mixed into normal groups of people in correctional facilities. This is due to the lack of mental health facilities or their feeling of intimidation and reluctance to avail the services of such facilities which make them unable to connect to the community support systems that they are entitled to. In the end, people with mental disorders find themselves committing both minor and severe crimes, thus incarceration without receiving the services they require. This brought on the need for a judicial system that would specifically advance the services needed by criminal offenders with mental disorders.
Because of the need to improve the criminal justice system in the country, government officials, policy makers, the Council of State Governments and mental health professionals convened to come up with a solution that will answer the specific needs of criminal offenders with psychological disorders.
Mental health courts are the links between mental health and criminal law. This body combined the specialties of almost all types of people working in both fields to come up with favorable programs that work for the advantage mentally ill offenders. These courts commission court personnel such as judges, prosecutors and attorneys who have expertise and sufficient knowledge on mental health. Up to date, there are about 27 courts around the United States that are promoting treatment methods that are supported by the courts in exchange for incarceration.
These courts are adhering to therapeutic methods for people with mental health needs and they work on two approaches. One is to help prevent the rate of mental illnesses from rising to lessen the frequency of criminal offenses in support of public protection and two, distinguish that the need for criminal sanctions is highly unnecessary when it is proven that the cause of the criminal act is a psychological disorder. With these approaches in mind, there are two goals enveloping this type of courts, namely: a) to lessen the exacerbation of criminal behaviors due to mental health illnesses magnified by insufficient number of services extended to people who need them and b) to find the alternative solution to imprisonment that would restrain the recurrence of the criminal act while providing treatment options for the offenders.
These courts believe that their services could augment the provisions of mental health facilities and may also extend the services of the criminal justice system. This way, such courts are able to give the alternative solutions that help lessen the number of offenses of individuals who are not mentally well.
It cannot be denied though that this program is still at its infancy period- having too little resource and having systems that are still developing. In fact, it was noted on the research conducted by the Bazelon Center Review that each court system has no specific model to which these courts could follow their structures. Also, they are allowed to create their own systems, rules and procedures that will work for the best interests of the facilities.
However, it cannot be discounted that mental health courts are playing the crucial role of separating offenders with mental health needs from normal people to whom criminal justice system applies well.
Aromatherapy – Using Essential Oils For Good Health
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PW0haDoRykE&w=420&h=315]
Even before the term alternative medicine was formally used, aromatherapy was already being practiced 5000 years ago by Egyptians. At that time, oil was extracted from aromatic plants through infusion and used for embalming, cosmetics and medicinal purposes. This knowledge was passed on to the Greeks and served as the basis for more discoveries, including the relaxing and stimulating effects of the fragrance of some flowers. Going back further, ancient man’s dependence on the environment for all his basic needs and survival led him to discover natural ways of food preservation and the treatment of various conditions using herbs and aromatics.
1. Eastern Roots
The use of aromatics is also reflected in a Chinese herbal book by Shen Nung dated 2700 BC, showing specific details on more than 300 plants and their various applications. Ancient Chinese also burned incense and wood as part of religious practices that a good number of their modern counterparts still observe today. Aromatics was also a part of acupressure, massage and other therapies identified with the Chinese.
2. Modern Health Treatment
Today, many individuals place a high premium on health and well-being. The cost of traditional or conventional medicine such as surgery and medicare, however, has made a high number of people turn to aromatherapy, or essential oils therapy, and other forms of alternative medicine.
3. Basics
– Facilitates an equilibrium of physical, mental and spiritual health through natural means
– In some cases, these alternative treatments are now considered as strong and effective complements to regular medicine
– The main component of aromatherapy is essential oils
– Essential Oils are highly concentrated essences known for their healing effects
4. Essential Oils
These aroma-producing oils come from the flower, as in the case of a rose; leaves (basil is an example); twig; bark; fruit rind and other plant parts. Experts say that the extraction process can be time-consuming, complex and require much patience. Recognition and acceptance of these factors is important: getting about 5 teaspoonsful of oil could entail the use more than 220 pounds of rose petals. This process is what makes pure essential oils costly, although their effectiveness is not compromised because a treatment can entail the use of only a few drops to generate the target effect. An option is the less-expensive synthetic oils, although they do not offer the healing properties of their natural counterparts.
5. How It Works
Essential oils work by stimulating the olfactory system and later the brain or limbic system. The fragrance, other properties and effects of the oil determine how these body systems and their parts are stimulated. During a massage, these oils are inhaled and absorbed by the body at the same time, penetrating the skin and eventually reaching the organs and body systems. The absorption can be as short as 20 minutes and possibly extend to 2 hours or more, making some experts advise to avoid a shower or bathing immediately after the massage to maximize the desired effect.
6. Effects Last Days, Not Hours
The longevity of a fragrance also varies from 3-24 hours to 2-3 days and even longer to about a week. Eucalyptus, peppermint
thyme, and bergamot are among oils with a short-lived scent, while the scent of hyssop, lavender, balm, and other oils last between 2-3 days. Jasmine, sandalwood, ginger and cedarwood are among the oils that take as long as one week before completely evaporating.
7. Achieve A Sense Of Calm
The desired health balance of an individual also requires the creation of a balanced perfume, or a combination of the three types of oils based on longevity. These various combinations or aromatherapy blends can be mixed into a warm bath to relax and calm an individual, eliminate stress and depression, energize and sooth the body or aching part. The healing or calming effect of a massage can be enhanced by applying essential oils. However, this would require the use of carrier oils to prevent irritation or any other negative skin reaction. Some of these carrier oils, which help dilute essential oils, include avocado oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, wheatgerm oil, almond oil, soya oil and hazelnut oil.
Safe Alternative Methods to Quit Smoking
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkAYD1qNbJM&w=420&h=315]
With countless individuals hooked to cigarette smoking, it’s no wonder many are overwhelmed with products and programs that would supposedly help smokers quit their addiction. It’s no surprise that many smokers who want to kick the habit are also trying alternative methods to help them achieve their goal. Acupuncture and aromatherapy are some of some forms of alternative medicine that are used by many individuals who want to quit cigarette smoking. Understanding these methods are essential in a smoker’s goal to quit the habit.
Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine which is commonly used to beat addictions which may include smoking. It is said that acupuncturists use thin needles to activate the body’s “qi” or health energy. Nourishing the “qi” which supposedly flows through the body through defined pathways called meridians is the main focus of acupuncture. According to Chinese medicine, addiction like smoking may hamper the flow of the “qi” and lead to illness. Recent medical studies suggest that this form of ancient treatment may indeed help an individual quit smoking. Acupuncture has been shown to increase the levels of endorphins in the body. Endorphins or endogenous morphins are the body’s natural pain killer which may also soothe nicotine cravings. Many medical experts recommend this method for individuals who want to quit cigarette smoking.
Aromatherapy is also an ancient form of medicine that originated from Egyptian and Roman cultures. In those times, plant oils as well as flowers were used for medicinal as well as fragrant purposes. It is said that the scent of essential oils may enable the lymphatic system, nervous system, and circulatory system to work properly. When this is achieved, the mind and the body may function at optimum levels and relieve stress in the process. According to many studies, many individuals smoke to relieve feelings of stress. Relieving stress through alternative means such as aromatherapy may aid individuals who want to cut the habit.
The said benefits of alternative medicine in terms of quitting cigarette smoking are not conclusive and need more studies to be verified. Individuals who want to engage in alternative methods to quit smoking should seek the approval of doctors before taking them. Some so-called alternatives have not been properly tested for safety and effectiveness. Some essential oils used in aromatherapy may cause bleeding in the uterus and cause miscarriage.
Alternative medication cannot do all the work for individuals who want to quit cigarette smoking. The best and effective way to quit smoking involves determination, discipline, and commitment to stop the habit permanently. Engaging in alternative methods can help smokers cut the habit by making them more comfortable and complacent to adjust to life without cigarettes.
If this form of medication does not work, smokers may also use scientifically proven over-the-counter products and prescription drugs that are designed to quit smoking. Quit smoking products are available in pills, patches, gums, and many more. These products, however, should be used with extreme caution because of the side effects that they may bring. The approval of doctors should be sought before taking quit smoking products. With the right tools and attitude, quitting cigarette smoking can be achieved permanently.
Alternative Medicine – New Way to Lose Weight
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MO0RrCsmbZ4&w=420&h=315]
Weight loss is one of the big topics-no pun intended-on the late night television circuit. While flipping through the channels after 11p.m., you are likely to come across several advertisements for weight loss pills and diet supplements, each promising to assist you drop those unwanted pounds and remove stubborn belly fat once and for all.
Let’s face it, if these pills really worked, America wouldn’t be the top overweight country in the world.
There are types of alternative medicine, which can help with weight loss, however, and with great results. While no alternative medicine is a magic solution, practicing these principles can help you become more limber, feel more energetic, and the end result-or side effect if you will, is weight loss.
Take yoga for example. The low impact stretching involved with yoga will help you feel less stressed, and as a result less likely to over eat as a result of depression or anger. Acupuncture has exact pressure points in the ear which help reduce cravings, and detoxifying teas and herbs can help you feel healthier, and the side effect would be thinking twice before deciding that you want to “pollute” yourself again with oily and fatty foods. In this regard, alternative medicine is wonderful for loosing weight.
The majority alternative medicines for weight loss come in the form of detoxifying teas, energy supplements, and vitamins. The exercise and diet plans are the basis, as they should be, for safe and effective long-term weight loss. There is no magic potion to lose weight. In fact dropping pounds and keeping them off requires regular daily exercise and a change in eating habits, period.
However, to get you ready for weight loss, here are some alternative medicine detoxifying teas and interesting supplements.
Take turmeric, ginger, and lemon-about a half teaspoon each and the juice of half a lemon, and boil it all in 2 cups of water. Drink every morning as a detoxifier before you start your diet.
All diets should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables, and buying a juicer is a great way to make a habit out of eating healthy. Please see your doctor before starting any kind of diet plan.
Visit your local food co op or herbalist, they can get you set up with all sorts of alternative teas and nutrition advice, and can refer you to a good homeopathic doctor who will evaluate you as to what your individual nutrition needs are.
Bovine and shark cartilage are two dietary supplements to hit the alternative market. Both have been used for years outside of the United States and Britain, but now are big business in the health food stores.
The most popular form of alternative medicine for weight loss isn’t really medicine at all, rather behavior modification through hypnosis. Hypnosis doesn’t make you rely on will power, that’s one of the reasons it’s so popular.
How hypnosis works is that it examines what is subconsciously holding you to the thinking and eating habits that keep you overweight. Hypnotists believe that if the root cause of the obesity can be alleviated, the patient will naturally begin to lose weight. It is actually a very efficient form of alternative medicine, and overall can cost much less than trips to day spas and expensive over the counter weight loss pills. Through hypnosis you can let go of fears that keep you from eating healthy, and begin to allow a positive energy flow through you, causing you to want to stick to the new way of eating and exercising.
Good Tips To Keep Your Arthritis At Bay
Source: Flickr
If you are living with arthritis, you know that this is a chronic condition that becomes more complicated as the disease progresses. It is a challenge to deal with the daily pain, limitations in your range of motion and fatigue that come along with arthritis. The tips in this article can help you to cope.
Do not neglect yourself and your needs, if you are a parent with rheumatoid arthritis. Make sure you make time to stretch and exercise to keep yourself strong and your symptoms under control. It is easy to forget yourself when you are taking care of children, but make sure you set aside some time that is just for you, so that you can take care of your body’s needs.
Watch what you eat – cut down on red meat too. People who follow a Mediterranean diet are less likely to suffer from arthritis. A Mediterranean diet includes fish, cereals, fruits and oils. Make sure you include these important elements in your daily diet and you should see a difference. This will not cure arthritis but should help reduce the pain.
You will never know if alternative treatments for arthritis work for you until you try them. There is a whole world of therapy, exercise and alternative herbal and supplemental treatment to explore. Most forms of alternative therapy are good for your general health as well as your arthritis, so you have nothing to lose.
Rheumatoid arthritis fatigue can be difficult to overcome, but if you’ve tried everything and are still lethargic you should consider other problems you might have. Visit a sleep clinic to get an assessment and you might find you’re actually battling sleep apnea, a condition where you literally stop breathing overnight.
Omega 3s can help reduce the risks of arthritis. Omega 3s can be found in fish and oils. Make sure you include them in your diet, or take a supplement if you need to. This should prevent your arthritis from spreading and perhaps even reduce the pain you currently have.
To manage your symptoms effectively, try a Mediterranean diet. Studies have shown that arthritis sufferers who change to this diet see their symptoms quickly decrease, and have a better feeling overall. The Mediterranean diet is high in healthy fats and grains, which your body needs to increase your flexibility and overall health.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight causes stress on the joints especially in the knees and hips. This added stress leads to flare-ups of arthritis. This is in addition to the well-known health dangers of being overweight and the detrimental effects it has on your mood and energy levels. Speak with your doctor about a safe weight loss plan.
The longer you live with arthritis, the more you are going to have to find new ways to accommodate your condition. In order to continue doing as many of the things you love to do as possible, some changes may become necessary. If you apply some of the pointers you learned in this article, it will make your journey a lot easier.
Manage Your Arthritis With Helpful Information To Ease The Pain (4)
Manage Your Arthritis With Helpful Information To Ease The Pain
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDeTdPPHe3c&w=420&h=315]
Did you know that arthritis can occur with not only the elderly, but also with people at any stage of their life, including infancy? This fact, along with many others will be covered in this article. If you need to know the best advice for how to deal with arthritis, then read on.
Store items on your countertop that you would normally place in your pantry to help avoid straining yourself in the kitchen. Make sure that you use lids that are lightweight and easy to remove. Simple changes like this can make your time in the kitchen more bearable.
You will never know if alternative treatments for arthritis work for you until you try them. There is a whole world of therapy, exercise and alternative herbal and supplemental treatment to explore. Most forms of alternative therapy are good for your general health as well as your arthritis, so you have nothing to lose.
Do not neglect yourself and your needs, if you are a parent with rheumatoid arthritis. Make sure you make time to stretch and exercise to keep yourself strong and your symptoms under control. It is easy to forget yourself when you are taking care of children, but make sure you set aside some time that is just for you, so that you can take care of your body’s needs.
Double check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out if any of the arthritis drugs you’re taking have adverse reactions with food or other drugs. For example, many prescriptions become longer lasting in the blood stream if you ingest grapefruit, leading to higher levels of the medicine in your body than your doctor prescribed.
Never wear high heels. Women who suffer from arthritis should stay far away from these shoes, as they put extra stress on the ankles and knees. Wearing these can actually cause tears in the tendons surrounding joints, which will only worsen any inflammation and pain that already exists in the area.
Make an effort to regularly take fish oil supplements. These supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are important in helping to control inflammation in the body. They can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, giving arthritis patients a wide variety of different health benefits when they consume them.
Don’t give up on finding a way to manage your arthritis pain. Dealing with a debilitating condition can leave you feeling frustrated and hopeless – particularly if you are having trouble finding any treatment options that work. If what you are doing is not working, talk to your doctor about other treatment options or explore alternative treatments such as acupuncture, nutrition or holistic medicine until you find something that helps.
There is quite a bit to learn about arthritis. Not only did you learn many important facts, but hopefully, the advice provided will be more than enough to either use for your own purpose or to share with others that need it. Go out, and use these tips today to reduce the effects of this condition.
Simple Sources Of Alternative Energy
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbtFvMcsqxc&w=420&h=315]
There is a lot of talk in the world today about the energy crisis and about ways that we can contribute to the solution. I don’t know about you, but I get overwhelmed and tired when I hear about the nearly endless amount of problems that threaten our environment each day. I am tired of hearing about global solutions that are aimed at making massive changes. Instead, I want to hear about the small changes that I as an individual can make that will help our energy crisis. So I’ve done a little research for your sake and mine, and I’ve come up with a few basic methods of alternative energy that almost anyone can follow.
First, and rather obvious, is to drive your car as little as possible. I hate hearing about solutions that are so unrealistic that they will never happen. You know as well as I do that we cannot all stop driving our cars every day. But maybe, just maybe, we can all look for small and simple ways to carpool and to cut down on the amount that we need to drive. Do you have a neighbor that works with you? If so, then contribute to alternative energy by carpooling and leaving one of the cars at home. Or even better, look for every chance to walk or ride a bike. I think we get caught up in all of the scientific terms about energy resourcing that we forget the most true source of alternative energy: ourselves. The more we can use our physical bodies, the better health we will be in and the more we will be contributing to the international effort to save energy.
Other simple methods of going for alternative energy are to shut off lights during the day and let the natural light of the sun brighten up your room or office. I cannot tell you how many homes and offices I have entered in the middle of the day that had lights blaring while the sun was beating in from outisde. So take a good look around you and see what extra lights and other appliances you have plugged in that you really don’t need to use. The chances are high that everyone reading this has a few small ways that they could save energy each day.
Looking for various alternative energy sources is what will save the world. Like candlelight? Then consider using candles to light your room at night while you read. The world may not be changed by one more order from the government, but it just might be changed as individuals do their part in helping find and use methods of alternative energy.
How To Find A Qualified Homeopath Expert
How To Find A Qualified Homeopath Expert
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVVMCRGFE90&w=420&h=315]
The field of homeopathy is still a field of medical treatment that was just recently introduced to the general public. However, it is also gaining a lot of following due to positive feedback from patients who have experienced positive and effective results from their homeopathic treatment and have the answers to what is homeopathy. The principle behind homeopathy works by stimulating the body to heal itself. Just like any type of treatment methods, the remedy should be given only by a qualified practitioner. Thus, when it comes to finding a homeopath, you should also search for a qualified and registered expert.
In the United States and Canada, qualified homeopaths who have established their career in this field can be found in the directory listing that you can request from the National Center for Homeopathy. Apart from the individual practitioners, the listing also includes study groups which focus on this field of medical treatment. If you are keen to know what is homeopathy, the different remedies, and how homeopathy works, then joining a study group will invariably prove to be the best resource for you. The study groups can also recommend other homeopath practitioners which are within your vicinity. Apart from the directory listing, there are also a bevy of other sources that you might want to consider checking out.
• Health and medical facilities. If you are undergoing treatment in a traditional medical facility, ask your physician if he/she is an advocate of homeopathic treatment. These professionals are also seeking other ways to provide remedy to their patients and homeopathy might be one of their alternative methods. If they do, they might recommend you to a qualified and licensed homeopaths that they have established contact with.
• Pharmacies with alternative treatments. Specialty pharmacies which retail homeopathic remedies and medicines are still quite limited in number, but if you find one within your city, it would help if you can ask them if they can recommend a licensed homeopath practitioner. These places can be a great resource since most homeopath experts would prescribe medicines that patients can avail from these specialty pharmacies.
• Healthy option stores. Local health stores which supplies organic food products and alternative health supplements might also have established networks with other homeopath experts so make sure to talk to their personnel.
• Online sources. From internet directories to online forums, the virtual world is bursting with recommendations for qualified and great homeopath practitioners. When you check out forums, now only can you acquire the details for the homeopaths, you can also get real testimonials from past patients of these experts.
• Friends and families. Although not everyone is really familiar and might still be asking the questions of what is homeopathy, it would still help if you open the topic during conversations. Who knows, maybe a few of your friends and relatives have actually tried receiving homeopathic treatments themselves and they can recommend a few experts for you to consider.
While searching for a homeopathic expert, you might want to include several criteria so you can trim down the qualified ones to those who might just have been practicing the method but are not professionals. Homeopathy requires a specialized type of education and most physicians obtain a doctorate in Homeotherapeutics or a certification in Homeopathy. The homeopath expert should also have acquired a certification in an accredited certifying agency in the country.
Apart from knowing what is homeopathy and how to find a qualified homeopathy expert, it is essential that you seek one that you deem to be a perfect match for you. Homeopathy is a very broad term used for different kinds of alternative treatment, and it would actually help if you can seek one who has a specialization in one field of homeopathy.
Improve Overall Health with Tomatoes
Source: Flickr
Tomatoes have countless health benefits that have made it a significant addition of diets throughout the medical world. It is low in calories, and are considered as an excellent food for people who want to lose weight and improve their overall health. Because of its nutritional benefits, tomatoes are considered by many as a medicinal food. Lycopene, one of the most potent antioxidants in nature are found it tomatoes. Antioxidants are important in both humans and plants and may help prevent cell damage that can be caused by oxidative stress. Lycopene is vital antioxidant that helps fight cancerous cell formation and other kinds of health ailments. This component is responsible for the tomatoes’ red color and also contains its disease-fighting properties. Lycopene is essential in preventing the development of many cancers and other health ailments.
Examples of cancers that can be prevented by tomatoes are:
Breast cancer
Cervical cancer
Colon cancer
Esophagus cancer
Pharynx cancer
Prostate cancer
Mouth cancer
Rectum cancer
Stomach cancer
In addition to lycopene, tomatoes are also high in vitamins A and C, this fruit is also cholesterol free. The vitamin content of this fruit is adequate for keeping individuals healthy, many health studies show that one tomato is enough to supply the human body’s daily vitamin C requirement. These high levels of vitamin C help the body increase its immune system naturally. This fruit also contains folic acid, which is considered by many health specialists as a necessary component for the recovery of human body cells. Other nutrients like sodium phosporus, calcium, magnesium, oxalic acid, and sulfur can be found in a single tomato. Tomatoes are beneficial to the heart and its juice is used by many to treat high blood pressure. Unlike several vegetables and fruits, some of the health benefits of tomatoes seem to be boosted whenever they are cooked, especially when it comes to prostate cancer prevention. This kind of cancer is the most frequent cancer experienced by many men.
Some medical studies suggest that regular tomato consumption may promote proper prostate function, In addition to cancer prevention, tomato can also reduce excessive prostate enlargement, which is very common in men beyond 50 years of age.
Tomatoes are used as a skin care alternative because of the antioxidants it contains. It brightens dull skin and other skin imperfections because of the vitamin C it contains. The calorie content of tomatoes makes it a favorite alternative for skin care. It also contains vitamin A, C, E, K, B1, B6, B3, B2, iron, manganese, and potassium. These components are necessary for building healthy skin. These natural acidic properties of tomato rids the skin of excessive oil and also takes off the natural dead cells, shrunk pores, and also tones skin.
One of the primary reasons for adding fruits and vegetables like tomatoes in one’s diet is they contain many phytochemicals. Because of these phytochemicals, vegetables may prevent the body from getting various ailments that is the reason why it is very important to consume plenty of vegetables in one’s food regimen because of the mineral content.
Insomnia – Trouble sleeping?
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUix2G6QLSs&w=420&h=315]
The English proverb says: ‘Six hours sleep for a man, seven for a woman and eight for a fool.’ but even a fool is better off than someone who cannot sleep at all. An insomniac may have difficulty in falling asleep or in staying asleep, both of which can increase daytime fatigue and irritability.
What causes insomnia? There are many reasons why you may have insomnia, chronic insomnia can itself be a symptom of another condition; some include receiving bad news, running out of time in an over burdened busy schedule; there are physical disorders such as ‘sleep apnoea’, restless legs, heart disease, lung disease, hot flashes, or diabetes, therefore it is wise to consult with your doctor if you are having trouble sleeping; the environment may also be a factor, like noise and light or lack of exercise during the day, lifestyle or the miss use of sleeping drugs can be another factor for having insomnia, or it can just occur for no apparent reason.
Insomnia can also be a symptom of psychiatric illnesses like depression and anxiety attacks. In all, we should be sensitive to those who spend the night trying to count all of the sheep in the world and never getting to sleep.
Alternative medicine or the use of alternative medicine types and natural remedies can be a very successful way in treating those suffering with insomnia – when administered properly by a qualified health specialist and therapist, they encompass a wide variety of disciplines that include everything from diet and exercise to mental conditioning and lifestyle changes. You may find one or more of the following alternative medicine types helpful to you.
The learning of relaxation techniques can help you to fall asleep faster and increase your sleep time, there are lots of things that you can do to improve your relaxation such as visualization which helps you relax by imagining a relaxing scene for you to sleep on.
Another alternative medicine type is meditation which essentially involves you focusing your mind on the present.
Some have found Yoga to be very relaxing and to encourage sleeping, Yoga develops the relationship between deep breathing, meditation, and stretching; There are many gentle styles of Yoga available that maybe helpful.
Acupuncture is often used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating cases of insomnia and is becoming a more popular practise in the western world.
A careful look and adjustment to your diet can make a huge difference too, particularly if you can cut out caffeine from your diet which can have a pronounced effect on sleep, in addition eliminating the drinking of tea and soft drinks at night time, can be beneficial.
Avoiding sweets or high sugar foods at night time that give you a short burst of energy will also help; because these type of high sugar foods can often cause uneven blood sugar levels, they can disturb your sleep in the middle of the night as the blood sugar level falls.
Apparently, it is proven that regular exercise deepens sleep in young adults with or without sleep disorders, therefore, increasing your personal exercise plan may also be an advantage in getting a better night sleep.
Alternative remedies such as using the root of valerian (Valeriana officinalis), and using herbs such as chamomile, passionflower, hops, ginseng, lemon balm and skullcap are all alternative medicine types that have been successfully used in treating people with sleep disorders. It is to be remembered that natural remedies are not always benign, some herbal therapies can interact with other medications you may be taking, therefore is it good practice to always consult with your doctor or health care provider before you change or adjust your current medication.
Many have found that taking a warm bath with appropriate aromatherapy oils added can relax the body and reduce a stressful mind to help you enjoy a comfortable rest through the night.