A Few Lifestyle Changes Can Help Prevent Alzheimer's Disease! {With a footnote about Preventing Alzheimer's Homeopathically}

Today is World Alzheimer's Day. I always remember on this day one of my lady patients, age around 65, who always loathed life back then. She was diagnosed by progressive senile dementia by her psychiatrist and she was prescribed nothing but tranquilizers and an anxiolytic drugs that made her drowsy. Slowly but surely she developed Alzheimer’s disease that was hard to handle by her family.

Well, Alzheimer’s sadly is becoming a household name in this twenty first century when more and more elders are falling prey to this cumbersome problem. There are many reasons / causes behind this Alzheimer’s or we can say risk factors. But instead of going into those details, today I would like to bring readers’ attention to some of the best possible preventive factors that can actually take you miles away from this disease.

And let me tell you that very basic lifestyle changes can help you get rid of this problem in your twilight years, which I am sure you want to spend enjoying with your family. Therefore, today, on this day, let’s take a vow to stand true to the lifestyle changes mentioned below and age gracefully!

1) Regular exercise- You will say I always keep on writing about the benefits of exercise is preventing almost all diseases. But the fact is fact and I must stress that. The peculiarity of regular exercise is that more than its benefit to your body, it yields benefit to your mind and intellect. Antioxidants released during exercise are extremely important for normal and optimal brain function. In one observational study, investigators looked at the relationship of physical activity and mental function in about 6,000 women age 65 and older, over an 8 year period. They found that the women who were more physically active were less likely to experience a decline in their mental function than inactive women. This shows you how important regular physical activity is! Also exercise is credited as being a mood enhancer, so that the depression is kept at bay. Less depression during adulthood, less likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s! 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 5 times a week should be sufficient to keep you away from this problem.

2) Active social life- Man is a social animal. More he remains aloof, more troubled is his relation with self. Reach out to your peer group of that age, join a club or community center, make weekly date with friends, call your friends often and enjoy outing in public places. Your brain no doubt will feel rejuvenated and exercised!

3) Protecting your head- People with head injury are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, study says. Therefore, wearing helmets while on drive will not only protect your head but will also enhance your chances of leading a healthy old age!

4) Stress management- More the stress, more burden on your brain. Take a relaxed approach, let the things go and flow the way they want and rejoice in the life you had been bestowed with! Concentrate on your inner peace than the external attributes and you will surely fight the upcoming Alzheimer’s and/or dementia!

5) Healthy diet- A diet rich in whole grains, fresh veggies, fruits etc works marvelously well to keep your brain active and ticking. Never be on empty stomach for more than 4 hours. Remember a golden rule- What’s good for your heart is also good for your brain!

6) Healthy mental stimulus- Solving a puzzle if tires you up, your brain surely needs that tiring! Keep your brain activated, shun the usage of calculator at times, test your quiz ability or just teach Math to your grandson or granddaughter. You will not only stay away from dulled intellect or Alzheimer’s but even stress won’t dare affect you!

7) Sleep- Last but not the least sleep is a priority as you grow old. Well not only for elders, but healthy sleeping habit since adulthood or childhood helps brain get its sufficient resting period. Be smart to nap whenever you get time. Develop a bedtime ritual that will relax and soothe your senses.

I am sure those who will read this post will inculcate the above mentioned tricks to trick your brain and maintain an ideal brain health through the years! Herewith I am also giving how homeopathy can be helpful in preventing Alzheimer’s.

Homeopathic prevention – (a footnote)

I have absolutely no doubt in stating that proper homeopathic treatment for any physical / mental and/or emotional illnesses in childhood and adulthood CAN PREVENT Alzheimer’s. There is also no doubt that for the people with Alzheimer’s, homeopathy offers great relief and I have seen number of cases witnessing improved cognitive faculties after the judicious homeopathic treatment. But as far as the preventing aspects are concerned, I can say assuredly that a person well treated by constitutional homeopathy should never develop something as Alzheimer’s or dementia. It is like meeting the simillimum and slowly but surely all your future problems are minimized and/or prevented!

Homeopathic Aggravation or Real Aggravation?

"Am I having a homeopathic aggravation?" was one of the questions this young lady asked me on email. She was being treated for some skin trouble by a homeopath residing in her area. She was having marked aggravation of the eczematous lesions that she had on the inner aspect of her thighs. After the treatment started, the lesions had grown bigger, itching was enhanced and the redness around the lesions was very troublesome. One of the striking associated symptom was she was having extreme constipation that she never had earlier.

Well, as a homeopath one knows very well about the homeopathic aggravations some of the prescriptions lead to. It s a fact that more sensitive individuals experience bit more aggravation after the medicine. But one must understand what a homeopathic aggravation is. It is not an exaggerated aggravation of symptoms but just a mild to moderate aggravation, which gets better on its own very soon.

Also one must know that this aggravation is mostly centered around the main presenting symptom. If a person has allergic rhinitis, after a dose of say Sabadilla, he will have a very temporary aggravation of his sneezing and soon he will get rid of the sneezing altogether. In this case, the aggravation can be called as the homeopathic aggravation.

If the aggravation after administering a remedy leads to some new symptoms, it is evident that the choice of the remedy is wrong and/or the potency is not proper. Yes, as much as the choice of the remedy matters, more so matters the potency of the medicine to be administered. Especially in the cases of sensitive individuals, choice of potency goes a long way in establishing normal parameters and also to boost the confidence and compliance of the patient.

Therefore, if the aggravation lasts a long time along with some new symptoms and signs, one must think whether the line of treatment is at fault. herewith it would also be wise to state that not all cases lead to even homeopathic aggravation. Rather I would say, people who encounter such homeopathic aggravation are far less than people who directly hit the path of recovery after the initiation of the regime. Therefore, it is totally unwise to generalize that homeopathic treatment initially always leads to aggravation, which has bred a kind of fear among people to seek homeopathic treatment. With proper history taking, proper case evaluation and searching for simillimum, there are high chances that the road to recovery and cure begin as soon as the first dose of remedy is taken!

So, when you seek treatment with any homeopath, you must know whether you are facing a homeopathic aggravation or a real aggravation that may warrant the change of regime altogether!
 

Are You Eating Healthy? Coz, What you Eat, You Become!

We all live in an era where newer diseases are making our life miserable. Still there are a bunch of people who live healthier life despite all odds thrown upon them! What’s the secret? Well, no prize for guessing the answer as “healthy lifestyle”! These two words have captured the attention of all health-conscious people recently. And a recent survey has a positive thing to say that number of such health-oriented people is increasing. J At least some positive vibe out there!

While searching for tips about healthy living, the topmost point comes as “healthy eating”. And when it comes to healthy eating, there are many misconceptions. Rather, many times it makes difficult for us to choose what exactly the right food to eat is.

So, let’s see the top 5 points one should remember while eating “Healthy” food!

1. GO LOCAL- Eating habits vary from place to place. Recently one of my vegan friends went to China and was left with very few choices to fill his tummy. Well, the cause might lie in his lack of knowledge about the availability of good vegan food there but in general we all experience this when we move to places. People who are omni-eaters (eating all types of cuisines) usually have no problems with having what they want in any place. Also certain places are suited for certain type of food for better digestion and absorption. You can have the example of our Southern India where people loathe the thought of paranthas and indulge in rice related items, because that’s what is digestible there. So, especially when it comes to day to day food, don’t think of some extravagant mall food but go for locally grown greens and fruits. They will give you better stability and energy. But it is imperative to know what grows locally! Go for wider options and you will multitude your chances of “Complete Meal”.

2. VARIETY- As said earlier, your meal should include variety of food stuffs having different proportions of all proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, fats, and minerals. If you want to skip taking daily dose of a multivitamin and multi-mineral tablet, go for variety of food. Of course, naturally eaten food vitals will help you bettering your health than gulping the tablet. Try searching for different options for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, so that you don’t get bored of the same stuff every time!

3. PREPARE YOUR FOOD- This is one point you should focus on, especially if you want to have a wholesome eating plan. Even if you are on a particular diet plan, it is always better to stick to what you prepare at home than some canned food from outside. Don’t fall prey to faulty notions that costly packed food item with list of ingredients always gives you good nutritious diet. Many such foods might have hidden artificial ingredients and preservatives. In case you have to have outside food, see the labels clearly and go for standard and natural food items only. Especially set yourself free from the so-called low-fat diets that are mostly deceiving. Never get laid in the trap- “Too Posh to Prepare”! It’s not worth it!

4. DON’T AVOID ANY FOOD INGREDIENT COMPLETELY- This is a vital point in today’s genre of low-fat fads. It is imperative to know that many times, high-carbohydrate or starch diet causes more sugar imbalances in the body than high-fat diets. Now here is a pointer- “If you want healthy skin, hair, and abdominal health, you have to have some amount of fat in your diet.” Definitely go for healthier fat options and avoid trans-fats as far as possible. It is a myth that Only-Protein or Only-Carbohydrate diets work. They don’t! Or if they do, they bring you many side effects along with in your weight loss plan. Only-protein diets are not good for your kidneys and only-carbohydrates might lead to sugar imbalances, even if the carbohydrate is from complex sugars! Therefore, the easier option is “Eat Everything in Moderation!”. Imbibe this mantra especially in your children so that they will stay away from obesity in future and would be able to avoid serious X-Syndromes!

5. EAT AT THE RIGHT TIME- This is one crucial point many of us miss while taking care of our diets and eventually health. Especially in Indian settings, I have seen people, especially women not eating anything at all till the early noon. This makes things worse for them. They eat their night meals at around 9 or 10 and have the next meal (or breakfast) at around 11 or 11.30 am the next day. Such a huge gap in your meals! Obviously if you follow such regime, you are responsible for your hyperacidity. Where should the acid go that is produced for proper digestion of the food in the body? If you don’t eat in time, this acid bothers you with heartburn, belching, indigestion, abdominal cramps, and at times vomiting. Also, having your first meal (breakfast) early in the morning helps you sail through the day more confidently and energetically. Also time eating certain food aptly. For example, it is a wasteful practice to have fruits after lunch or dinner. Have them when you have appetite or when you get up in the morning. This makes the fruit better absorbed, better assimilated, and your body gets better supply of vitamins and minerals from it. Also it avoids layering of calories and thus your weight is kept in check!

Thus, the above 5 points are the beginning pointers towards healthier eating. And healthy eating is the pioneer of healthy lifestyle! Think about it! 

Is the Indulgence in Cosmetics a major risk factor for Growing Incidence of Thyroid Disease?

Today’s corporate world demands everyone to be on their toes as far as their looks is concerned. Almost every woman that steps out of the house for work today seems to have draped herself well while being cosmetically posh. Hoards of new cosmetics daily hit markets and women keep on buying and using them without realizing if they affect them health-wise. That does not mean top-brands are safe, certainly not when the incidence of thyroid disease is alarmingly rising in urban women. No doubt there are many other risk factors as well but the chemicals in the cosmetics need to be checked before one buys and uses them for sure.

PFCs-

Perfluorooctane sulphonate, PFHxS, PFOA, PFCs etc are termed the PFC compounds that are very persistent chemicals. It means that they take long time to break down in the environment. They are associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in women. Though long term effects of PFCs are yet to be ascertained, some studies have shown them to be linked with developmental problems in children, cancer & decreased fertility in animals, etc.

Of course there are many other risk factors for the thyroid disease. Various medical treatments, including Interferon Beta-1b, Interleukin-4, immunosuppressants, antiretrovirals, monoclonal antibody (Campath-1H), bone marrow transplant, Lithium, amiodarone (Cordarone), and other medications may result in thyroid problems. Not only medicines but smoking, highly stressed life, overconsumption of soy products, unnecessary radiation exposure, etc are some other risk factors of thyroid disease.

It is true that homeopathic treatment offers sigh of relief for thyroid patients, whether they are hypothyroid or hyperthyroid. Obviously the symptomatic approach works the best as always in every individual. However, along with the homeopathic treatment, one must stay away from the risk factors that might form the maintaining factors for the disease.

I am sure after knowing the risk factors of the cosmetics, women and girls will be more vigilant about the use of varied products they use on day to day basis. You certainly do not want to look good at the cost of your thyroid!

How to Cultivate Optimism?

If you ask me, I would say optimism is a habit and it is hard-earned habit that the earner would hardly like to lose. It is hard-earned for a reason. Most of us go through the life without actually knowing what we want out of it. If we know what we want, not necessarily life gives us the things that we need. There comes a point when we do not realize what to do and how to cope up with the challenges life throws at us at every juncture. In this negativism actually lies the seed of optimism.

You will see that people who have been born with golden spoon in their mouth rarely speak of optimism and keep complaining about life; or they don’t come across a time when they think whether to be optimistic or pessimistic. On the other hand, common people like us that come across many hurdles, at some point of time, stand above all odds and tell the odds- “Do what you want; I will stand tall!” This is a very crucial juncture. This ‘standing tall’ attitude many times proves fragile; attributable to our weakness of mind, body and emotions. If you hold on to some indestructible governing body at this juncture (I call this God), you go undeterred in this beautiful path of success and happiness.  

Ancient Indian knowledge states that when you do all your deeds in the name of almighty, you escape from the positive as well as negative burdens of its results. Unknowingly, this trick saves you from the burden of the stress your work / act brings you. Even if we leave this age-old wisdom unnoticed, we can say that not being bothered by the results lets us free.  

Thus, through your journey of life, if you keep reminding yourself about the positive facets of life every day and night, you save yourself from the stress- the culprit of a peaceful life.

Top 3 Means to Cultivate Optimism--

1.   Out of all possible means to cultivate optimism, “Living in the moment” is of highest importance. It not only sheds stress of the work but also enables you to work more constructively and efficiently. Whether it is your laborious work or an evening with friends, give your 100% there. But once it is over, do not think about it the whole day and brood on the pros and cons of that time. It is over and will not come back anyway. Why not focus on what you are up to at present? Many people will say, this is easier said than done and it’s not untrue. But the rewards such an attitude gets you are unbeatable. You feel calmer, focused and relaxed in your approach.

2.   Give at least some time of your “every day” to something that you love to do. It may be half an hour or mere 15-20 minutes. But during that time, do not be bogged down by any professional commitments or personal problems. Just keep yourself focused onto the hobby in hand and reap the relaxation it brings you. It can be reading a favorite genre of book, talking to a buddy, observing the nature surrounding your home, catering to the young plants in your backyard or mere playing with your son! Remember that this is the most awaited time of your day; so cherish every moment! Imbibe in your mind and psyche that the time spent now is going to nullify the entire negativism of the day and be sure that it will do so.

3.   Prioritize well. Most rubbish things on professional as well as personal front happen due to lack of the skill to prioritize. Good news is that we all can acquire this skill. Procrastination or the habit of postponing takes us nowhere. Discipline actually lessens the stress. You can actually rule over the laziness by getting your body to move! More you are physically active, lesser are your chances of pessimism. Thus physical exercise coupled with prioritizing frees you of the stress and also gets you where you always want to be- to the land of peace, satisfaction and success!

Try it and let me know your comments at contact@drshreya.com! I would love to learn more from you! 

There are No Favorite Remedies in Homeopathy!

Recently I came across a student who told me that one of his friends gives Natrum mur to all the patients with headache and some of them actually feel better. So, are there such ‘favorite’ remedies for every doctor that he or she uses frequently? In the first place I thought about our Master – Dr Samuel Hahnemann who fiercely propounded the Theory of Individualization in homeopathy.

When we study homeopathic therapeutics, we study a group of remedies suitable in certain conditions. For example- If we study headache, here is the article that gives us top remedies used for headache. However, that NEVER means that these are the only remedies used. However, these are the remedies that have marked symptoms of headache that need to be differentiated and matched to the symptoms of the patient. One might need an altogether different remedy for his headache, especially if he is a chronic sufferer and his totality of symptoms must be studied in depth. So, a question like “Can Glonoine help me?” cannot be answered till a homeopath studies his entire constitution and totality of symptoms.

Frankly speaking, it would be quackery if a homeopath starts prescribing on single symptom. The prescription thus formed wouldn’t be “homeopathic” at all. Such practices must be curtailed, if you believe in classical homeopathy.

We must not therefore fall to the tricks of so-called favoritisms when it comes to homeopathy. Study wisely, judiciously and without any prejudice. Never think of your past case if you don’t want to fall to favoritism. Past successful case was successful because you studied individually and the remedy matched the disease symptoms of the patient; not because that remedy was the remedy for hat problem. It is actually one of the basic rules of homeopathy many fail to understand and get bowled over by the remedies that succeeded them in particular cases. Then those remedies are used in every case without realizing the futility to do so. (Recently came across a messed up case of autism that was given Carcinocin because the doctor thought this remedy treats all autistic cases).

It is imperative to understand that we must be responsible enough to understand the after effects of the ‘wrong’ selection of remedies. Especially in chronic and critical cases, individualistic attitude on part of the homeopath saves the patient from all future complications during homeopathic regime. As it is rightly said by Kent, a case messed up homeopathically is the hardest to treat!

Importance of an Expert Guidance in Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy as we all know is more of an art to treat diseases. The well-grounded natural principle governs homeopathy and this law is applied to each and every case before prescribing homeopathic medicine. Many homeopathic medicines are used by lay people too, after reading certain text books and material medicas available. Well, it’s not bad to learn any science and apply it in your day to day practice; no doubt about it! I feel extremely proud to see certain people applying this art wonderfully in some cases even without learning it in colleges or institutes. But these are the ‘few’ people devoted to this science stream and they have spent years learning homeopathy.

There are certain reasons why everyone should not attempt to prescribe or take homeopathic medicines without expert supervision, unless they master the art. Let’s see the important reasons —

(1) Homeopathic medicines are very deep acting. Therefore, unless the similarity of symptoms is exactly matched, one cannot get desired results. Moreover, in chronic cases, a single wrong prescription at times can lead the entire case in wrong direction, making it difficult to harmonize the case presentation later.

(2) It is certainly not child’s play to match the disease symptoms to the symptoms of the medicine through the vast material medicas and repertory. Obtaining the apt remedy is utmost important for eliciting desired results and recovery in patient. In acute cases, it is comparatively easier but in chronic cases, when only an expert case-taking can reveal the exact constitution of the patient, it is further difficult for a person who is not well-versed with this art.

(3) Homeopathy is a science of individualization. No two cases are same, just like the various personalities around us. And individualization is an art to be learnt after professional expertise exposes you to hundreds of patients. It is aptly said that for a homeopath too, a lifetime is less to study his science!

(4) Even the same case with same cold may require different medicine the next time he or she catches cold. We often see in our practice that ignorantly and unknowingly, if a patient takes his medicine (given last time when he had caught cold) when he gets cold (because the earlier was remaining as he felt better soon), he may not feel better. This is because the symptom complex earlier was different than that during this time.

(5) We always have to warn the patient not to give his medicine to any other person in his household, even if the person suffers from apparently similar illness. In most cases, such self-prescriptions fail, unless the patient has good command over homeopathy.

(6) In homeopathic academic courses (especially bachelor and post-graduate courses), one learns homeopathy along with Human Anatomy, Physiology, General Medicine, Surgery, Preventive and Social Medicine, Homeopathic Pharmacy, etc. This clinical knowledge is of utmost importance for any homeopath to correlate all his findings clinically in every patient. Obviously this knowledge is lacking in people who use homeopathy just because they love the science and have got some cures to their credit.

Thus, with all due respect to the lovers of homeopathy, it is stressed that he or she should get acquainted with this wonderful science in all its depth and only then should utilize these medicinal gems in day to day practice. Because it is aptly said, a homeopathic failure is really a bad failure! One must exercise great caution!

Top 10 Precautions to be Taken While on a Homeopathic Treatment-

As homeopathy cannot be generalized, the precautions taken while on the homeopathic regime cannot be generalized either. Every condition needs specific precautions to be taken that vary with the constitution of the patient, his/her physical / mental problems and the medicines taken at that time. That’s why along with our all prescriptions, we give certain auxiliary regimen to follow for different patients, which help them immensely along with the main course.

However, there are some guidelines that go with almost all the patients that seek homeopathic treatment. Herewith you can see some of the important pointers in this regard—

1. Take your homeopathic medicines exactly on the suggested time. As far as possible, maintain the same timing if you have been asked to take medicines daily.

2. If the doctor has suggested you to take “Single Dose”, NEVER take more than one dose, thinking what single dose is going to do. High potencies or even medium potencies when taken in excess of what is required have enough potential to harm you in the long run, if not immediately.

3. Never go beyond the suggested deadline before you visit or write to your doctor. If the doctor has asked you to take the medicine for 15 days and report later, you must do it soon. If you cannot report after 15 days, you may stop your medicine before you report to him but do not continue the same medicine beyond stipulated time period.

4. If a dose of medicine is suggested in the morning immediately after you get up, do not brush your teeth before you take the dose. Just rinse your mouth with PLAIN water and take the dose, as strong smelling toothpaste or mouthwash may interfere with the action of the remedy.

5. As far as possible, leave gap of at least 20 minutes before and after taking the medicine and have your eatables / meals.

6. In most of our patients, we do not suggest abstinence from coffee garlic etc, unless the indicated medicine demands it. See article for details. But try to avoid all strong smelling eatables before or after taking the medicines immediately.

7. Chew the medicated pills slowly. Longer they remain on your tongue, better is their action through the sentient nerve endings on the tongue.  

8. The homeopathic globules should not be touched with hand as far as possible. Take them directly in the cap of the bottle and put on the clean tongue.

9. If you forget to take the DOSE of the medicine suggested to be taken tonight for some chronic condition, you can take it the next day at the suggested time. But do not take it the in the morning the next day. The timing of the medicine is suggested depending upon the medicine’s miasmatic background and the ‘best time to administer’; so maintain the time.

10. NEVER give the entire bottle of the medicine in your kids’ hands. Most of the kids love the sweet homeopathic globules and have the habit of taking more globules than required, which is no doubt a very harmful practice. Beware of the guidelines suggested by your doctor and give the medicine to your child yourself. If the child takes some extra doses of the medicine unknowingly, inform your doctor and do as he suggests.

Which food items should be avoided when on homeopathic medicines?

Most people that come to me for homeopathic treatment often ask me, "Doctor, why don't you tell us not to eat onion or garlic when on medication?" "Why don't you ask us to abstain from coffee?" Most of the times my answer is same. Homeopathic medicines are far more potent than we think, when chosen wisely. One need not avoid all this stuff altogether unless a certain medicine demands for such an abstinence.

For the effect of the medicine to be optimal, one should avoid any strong smelling substance 15-20 minutes before and after taking the medicine. This includes not only onion, garlic and coffee but also the use of toothpaste, perfume, mouthwash, etc. Being very minute dose of medicine, such strong smell may sabotage its action. However, total avoidance is not warranted.

Having said that, we also should know that certain substances in food should be avoided with specific medicines. It is wise to have such selective abstinence. Herewith is given the list, which can be helpful to many.

FOOD STUFFS TO BE AVOIDED:

1. Acet.Ac--------------------------------Lime water
2. Aconite--------------------------------Vegetable oils, Wine
3. Ant.Tart-------------------------------Milk
4. Apis------------------------------------Onions
5. Arg.Nit---------------------------------Milk
6. Amm.Carb----------------------------Vegetable oils
7. Ars.------------------------------------Cane juice, honey
8. Arum-Tr------------------------------Whey
9. Bell.------------------------------------Coffee, Vinegar
10.Bor.-----------------------------------Acid, Wine
11.Bov.----------------------------------Coffee
12.Bry.-----------------------------------Acid, Lemon
13.Canth.--------------------------------Oil
14.Caul.----------------------------------Coffee
15.Caust.--------------------------------Coffee
16.Cham.--------------------------------Coffee
17.Chel.----------------------------------Acid, Coffee, Wine
18.Cist.-----------------------------------Tea
19.Coll.-----------------------------------Vinegar
20.Coloc.--------------------------------Coffee
21.Cupr.---------------------------------Sugar
22.Ferr.----------------------------------Beer, Tea
23.Ign.-----------------------------------Coffee, Sweets
24.Kali Br.--------------------------------Salt
25.Lyco.---------------------------------Coffee
26.Nux Vom.----------------------------Coffee
27.Phyto.--------------------------------Milk, Salt
28.Psor.----------------------------------Coffee
29.Ran. Bul.-----------------------------Vinegar, Wine
30.Sol Lycop.---------------------------Tomato
31.Sel.------------------------------------Wine
32.Sulph.--------------------------------Tea
33.Thuj.---------------------------------Onions

34.Zinc Met.-----------------------------Wine 

Don’t be Depressed! Homeopathy Can Help you Overcome the Blues!

Depression and its Homeopathic Management

Happiness and sadness are the parts of life. Rather one can state clearly that both of these are the states of mind and as we know MIND is the major culprit in all the disorders whether mental or physical. Therefore, the person who governs over his mind views the life as a game and comes out of the depressive spells with ease. However if the person has a brooding tendency with typical burrowing deep into the pit, he never knows when the life has entered the phase of depression.

Today, however, the word depression is used almost by all, who do not know how to handle day to day stress. Stress-related depression has become synonymous with modern day lifestyle. But actual depression is much severe condition where the person sinks into the pits of sadness while losing interest in everything that is related to him. That emptiness and despair do not go away easily. There are some variations of depression as well. Some people reach to the point of indifference, loathe life or may even feel angry, aggressive and abusive.

Signs and symptoms of depression-

·         The person cannot sleep well or sleeps too much through the day

·         The ability to concentrate on the day to day work is gone. The tasks that were performed easily previously now seem elephantine jobs.

·         How much he tries, he cannot control negative emotions; more he tries to do so, more he sinks deep into the pit.

·         Either absolute lack of appetite or he may resort to binge eating; therefore, most depressed people are either anorexic or overweight

·         Increase in the irritability, anxiety and at times aggressiveness

·         Some kind of reckless behavior is apparent in the initial phases

·         The person may consume much more alcohol and/or smoke vigorously

·         Suicidal thoughts and attempts

·         Socially withdrawn attitude – one does not want to mix with the society and wants to keep aloof

·         Sudden drained out feeling is also quite common.

There can be many variations of this depression and one has to have individualized approach to deal with the cases of depression for the very reason.

Age differences are also quite common. Usually the depressive spells seem to start during the teenage years. If careful attention is given at this age, one can ward off this depressive spell from the life of this individual. Rather in homeopathy, we say that if we happen to trace the depressive traits in younger age, we can help PREVENT depression in this child in future. We will see this in details later on.

Depression is commoner in women than in men. Perhaps the various life-changing milestones that a woman goes through can be considered as the possible causes behind this.  

Depression is also observed in many aged people living alone, which are fed up of life. Compassionate surroundings reduce the impact of age-related depression.

Homeopathic Approach to the Patients with Depression—

As stated above, every depressed individual’s needs are different. Each one has unique life and the circumstances that are unique to them in their life. Though genetic predisposition governs many patients with depression, acquired life influences have great role to play in these people. Lack of positive atmosphere at home is one of the most important factors that causes mental and emotional hazard to people.

As we know, homeopathy believes in holistic approach to every case. Therefore, a patient with depression is looked at in a similar manner. Study of Mind is again the basis of prescription. Delving deep into the patient’s mind is an art and a good homeopath can do that through observation and apt questioning. The study of behavior, talking and/or writing style of the patient, his way of emailing, his approach to life, his likes and dislikes, etc prove vital in the constitutional prescribing.

However, herewith I would also like to stress on the point that we usually do not jump to the constitutional prescription upon first interaction with the patient. If we need to sow a seed, first we make sure that the soil is perfect for sowing so that we get a good crop. Similarly, in order to give the rightly chosen constitutional prescription, the patient should be in a position to receive the dose of medicine positively so that it will act favorably. This point is extremely important. Wrong timing of the medicine is the reason why most well chosen constitutional medicines do not act favorably.

Also many patients come to us after some kind of allopathic medication, some anti-depressants or other medicines, which might have hampered their healthy susceptibility to receive the homeopathic constitutional medicine with open arms. Also they might have some kind of acute symptomatology that needs quick attention and quick relief. For example- If a person is so depressed that he wants to attempt suicide and his constitutional remedy is Phosphorus. A high dose of Phosphorus at this juncture perhaps will not be useful. We must cater his acute needs first and try to change his mind set with an appropriate acute remedy, of course along with the psychological counseling. Once the patient is out of that spell, we can think of his or her constitutional make up and choose the remedy accordingly.

Having said that, it also needs to be stressed that there is no alternative to the constitutional study in any such chronic depression case! Only that constitutional dose can hit at the deepest of motives and instincts of man, which can prevent dangers in future.

There are many constitutions in homeopathic materia medica that are prone to depression. These remedies include Natrum mur, Sepia, Arsenicum album, Lycopodium, Phosphorus, Aurum metallicum, Lilium tigrinum, Phosphoric acid, Ignatia, Staphysagria, etc and many more. It is a fascinating journey for a patient of depression to find CURE through homeopathy. A keen observer can actually witness the patient’s changing states in a step-wise manner from depression to normalcy.

A Note on Childhood Homeopathic Treatment—

We have always stressed upon the homeopathic treatment of children. Here you can read the detailed article on it. If we tap the miasmatic overload in childhood, we can prevent later damages in a skillful manner with homeopathy. Especially it is important for we can prevent such mind-related disorders in children if an apt constitutional prescription is given in the childhood. This helps them tap their fullest possible potential without falling prey to the pitfalls on the way. And wonderfully enough, this can lead to a mature and happy society in the future!

Now Homeopathic Medicine Kits are Available at DrShreya.com!

It is our pleasure to announce that due to heavy demand from our patients at drshreya.com, we have started dispensing “Homeopathic Medicine Kits”. Therefore, now people all over the world as well as the patients that are already seeking consultation services at drshreya.com can get Ready-made homeopathic remedy kits couriered to their doorstep.

We have 30 or 50 remedy kits available, which contain most commonly used homeopathic remedies for day to day ailments. However, if you need, we can make available Customized Homeopathic Kits too, tailor-made to suit your requirement.

For more details, please write to contact@drshreya.com.

Yoga Simplified!

With the health-awareness increasing globally, Yoga has become a household word. Many people have opened up their Yoga Fitness Centers and flocks of people are religiously following their routines there. But many people still don’t know what exactly yoga is and why it is to be followed.

To understand this, one has to first know what Yoga is not or what it shouldn’t be. So, let’s see-

(1)  Yoga is not attached to any religion

(2)  Yoga is not just the Yogasanas (the stretching exercises)

(3)  Yoga is not just general exercise (though it provides good one) that one can do any time of the day when free

(4)  Yoga is not a time-stipulated exercise that one can perform in hurry

(5)  Yoga is not just a ritual

Then what it is?

• The shortest possible definition of Yoga is- “It is the way of life!”
• It is something that is connected to your inner peace and subconscious.
• “Yogaschitravrutti Nirodhah” says Patanjali. It is the power to control your indriyas (senses) and gain mastery over your own health.
• The yogic asanas are the postures that give good flexibility to your joints and better massage to your internal organs, thus keeping you fit and fine.
• It is something that connects you with the supreme universal power (You may call it God, Nature, or just Supreme Being)
• Yoga is the state of mind that gives you the ultimate serenity despite being at the height of your consciousness.
• Yoga is the method by which you make yourself aware of your purpose of existence and gain supreme confidence in your righteous ways.
• It is a combination of dhyaan (meditation), yogic postures, breathing techniques, Pranayam, and the righteous modes of living.

Who can perform Yoga?

Certainly the yogic postures can be performed by all who want to earn better flexibility. But if they want to attain higher possibilities as mentioned above with Yoga, they should follow the below-mentioned things-

(1)  Be yourself

(2)  Be on the right path

(3)  Do not earn bad money

(4)  Always help others

(5)  Believe in the Supreme Being

(6)  Do not think bad about others

(7)  Shed that ego ( with practice, we can)

The above mentioned points may sound little weird to a person who has recently joined the Yoga Class. But the real expert gurus in Yoga say that these things will help you attain the highest benefits from Yoga. And certainly we do want that, isn’t it?

Know About First Aid Homeopathic Kit!

For any queries, please write to- contact@drshreya.com

First aid homeopathic kits are available at many homeopathic pharmacies across the globe including at our pharmacy outlet at drshreya.com. However, it is important to know if the remedies that the kit contains are actually beneficial. You must have come across certain kits that have remedies in a single potency. There are kits that contain mostly rare remedies. Such kits may not be of much use if you want to prescribe for the day to day ailments to your near and dear ones. That is why an apt knowledge of the basic requirements for the first aid is important. Also use varied potencies most widely used of that particular remedy for different health problems.

Therefore, it is wiser to seek professional homeopathic help to design your basic homeopathic kit. Especially if you have a homeopathic doctor treating you or your family members, he or she can judge very well which homeopathic medicines you will need primarily at your home. Thus a family homeopathic physician can do this job well.

Secondly, make sure you learn the art of medicating the globules properly if you intend to purchase the liquids or the dilutions. You can also go for readymade medicated globules of different remedies. Also it is wiser to go for polychrest remedies in homeopathy when you buy a kit instead of going for smaller medicines with fewer symptoms, unless you need a specific remedy. As we always say, the basic remedies proved by Hahnemann help a great deal while treating many acute as well as chronic health problems and when you buy a kit, obviously you are intending to treat acute maladies; so broader the remedies, better!

Top 25 Homeopathic Remedies That Must be Included in the Kit —

Here I must say that choosing the right potency for a particular condition is an art and depends upon a variety of factors. However, for the sake of ease, here I have mentioned the most chosen potencies of the respective medicines for different acute conditions.

1.   Aconite 200C

2.   Belladona 200C/30C

3.   Hepar sulph 200C

4.   Pulsatilla 200C

5.   Bryonia 200C

6.   Colocynth 200C

7.   Gelsemium 30C/200C

8.   Rhus tox 200C

9.   Nux vomica 200C

10.                Ruta 200C

11.                Arnica Montana 200C/1M

12.                Arsenicum album 30C

13.                Apis mellifica 30C

14.                Cantharis 30C

15.                Hypericum 200C

16.                Dulcamara 30C

17.                Ipecac 30C

18.                Chamomilla 200C

19.                Silicea 200C

20.                Mag phos 200C/1M

21.                Carbo veg 30C

22.                Sepia 200C

23.                Natrum mur 200C

24.                Euphrasia 30C

25.                Bellis perennis 200C

  

Now you can study / read the symptomatology of these important homeopathic remedies, ask an expert and have the right remedy at the bed-side at the right time.  Apart from these remedies, you can insist for the other required remedies to make your customized homeopathic kit. After all, having the needed medicines at the right time saves lot of time and makes you feel safer at the same time! 

Eye Exercises that Help Improve Your Vision!

We have seen in our earlier blogs that homeopathy is the suitable mode of therapy for a variety of eye troubles. You can see the detailed article here. However, along with the homeopathic regime, in many of our patients, we suggest different eye exercises that help them improve their vision while minimizing the trouble.

Please make sure to consult us or your doctor before you start with these exercises, especially if you have some eye problem; for others who want to improve their vision, these exercises are quite safe to do regularly. Most importantly, many of these exercises prevent future eye troubles, if coupled with appropriate diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Especially today when lot of people suffer from eye strain due to long hours on the computers, these eye exercises help them retain the normal eye power while diminishing the effect of that strain. Blurred vision, photophobia, headaches, excessive blinking, squinting of eyes due to muscular weakness etc are also helped by these exercises. One should also know that prescribing these exercises from childhood is very important in order to have a secured vision in future and also to avoid hoards of eye problems today’s kids are suffering from.

Benefits of eye exercises-

The regular eye exercises-

1.   Strengthen the eye muscles

2.   Improve focusing

3.   Improve eye movements

4.   Eases the stress

5.   Improves control over your eye muscles

6.   Stimulates the vision center in the brain, which in turn improves short-distance as well as long-distance vision.

Some Important Eye Exercises-

1. Sit comfortably on the ground or a chair. Using cups of your both palms close your eyes without inflicting pressure on to the eyeballs for some time. Now open your eyes inside your palms and blink repeatedly, while holding your palms in the same position. Now remove the palms and again blink several times. Again put your palms on the eyes and do the same blinking exercises. Repeat this cycle 4-5 times. At the end, again place the palms on the eyes and let the eyes relax behind the closed eyelids.

2. While inhaling and exhaling consciously and deeply, rotate your eyes in all the directions 4-5 times.

3. Sit straight and try to look with both the eyes at the center of your eyebrows. Hold for a few seconds and again bring them back to original position. Repeat for 3-4 times.

4. Now focus on your tip of the nose with both the eyes. Again get them back to normal position. Repeat 3-4 times.

5. Close your eyes. Now squeeze the eyes tightly shut. Again open them and relax. Repeat this squeezing and relaxing technique 4-5 times.

6. Close your eyes. Gently touch your eyelids and massage your eyes with circular movements. Press lightly. Don’t try to press too hard. Make 10 circular movements, first clockwise then counterclockwise.

7. Trataka- This is one of the very useful yogic technique that we suggest to many of our patients at drshreya.com with various eye complaints. This exercise not only helps cleanse the eyes but also helps improve concentration and focusing. Sit straight. Now focus on any small object at a distance of about 2 feet without blinking (Many people suggest to look at a candle or a lamp, which is fine too). Keep the gaze steady till your eyes begin to water. Now close your eyes and try to visualize that object mentally. You may put the palms of your hands on both the eyes too.

8. A variation of Trataka is also suggested as follows- Sit straight. Now bring your right arm in straight line of your shoulders in front of you and extend the thumb in thumbs-up position. Now slowly move your arm in a straight line away from center towards the right side. While doing this, do not move your neck but follow the thumb with your eyes rotating along with it. Now, again get the thumb back to the original position while rolling the eyes in with it. Repeat the entire exercise using left arm and thumb too.