Mental Wellbeing Plan
Overwhelm is a familiar feeling for many of us. The starting point for this feeling may have come in the form of a specific traumatic event or often as a result of a build up of many things that has put both body and mind under great stress over a number of years. Sometimes the exact cause can be very difficult to pinpoint or the traumatic event may have been many years before the onset of the anxiety, depression or other symptoms arose.
Mind and body are inextricably linked and totally inseparable from each other. Essentially mood disorder symptoms are a biochemical distress call.
The body recognises stress, anxiety or worry in the same way and activates the 'fight and flight response' which faciltates the release of energy for muscles for the impending danger. Stress hormones are also released and the cardiovascular and respiratory system is activated. This physiological mechanism is okay for short bursts however if the activation is ongoing it causes an overproduction of stress hormones which depletes essential function and causes a hyperarousal of the stress regulating axis of the body; the HPA axis. Prolonged overactivation of this axis may lead to the many and varied symptoms and expressions involved in mental health disorders. This pattern may express in individuals as any of the following; anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar, PTSD, depression, phobias, sleep problems, social avoidance, stress and trauma.
Feelings of hopelessness are often experienced with mood disorders and are an obstacle to practical action. Nutritional and lifestyle therapy offers hugely beneficial interventions which are backed by extensive scientific research.
I invite you to book a free 15 minute phone call with me to discuss this further!
Many people feel very alone and shameful over the feelings of suffering they are experiencing. These feelings and sensations are very far from being 'all in the mind'. They indicate there is a imbalance in the body that needs addressing.
How Nutritional Therapy can help?
Regular meals and food choices that balance blood sugar levels. Fluctuating blood sugar encourages HPA axis activation which will exacerbate symptoms and inflammation.
Promote a healthy appetite. Eating enough food is fundamental to promoting good mood.
Good quality protein from a variety of sources provides amino acids which nourish the brain and make neurotransmitters such as serotonin which are essential for body and brain communication. Eating foods rich in the amino acid Tryptophan supports the production of serotonin.
Gut support. The gut produces a large proportion of neurotransmitters and good bacteria are important for the process. Specific gut supportive nutrition including fibre and antioxidants is essential to promote mental wellbeing.
Healthy fats are vital to moderate inflammation and they too create neurotransmitters.
Essential vitamins and minerals such as Zinc, B Vitamins and Vitamin D support the nervous system and regulate the stress response.
Lifestyle techniques including mindfulness, meditation and journalling. Promoting relaxation, sleep and good self care.
Mental Wellbeing Plan £345
(This is available to purchase following an Initial consultation).
A support package for 1 month that ensures you are fully assisted to embrace nutrition/ lifestyle changes. You will be equipped with advice and support to keep you motivated and help you make time for you and approach each day with positivity.
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Email support everyday. Including tips and further explanations of the reasons / mechanisms behind how specific food types support your symptoms.
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Detailed meal plans, recipe ideas and shopping lists.
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A series of videos and handouts covering self-care, how to promote a good nights sleep, gratitude journalling, breath-work, the power of affirmations and vision boarding will be provided including email / telephone support on how to incorporate these techniques.
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2 x 30 minute mindfulness sessions with highly experienced meditation and mindfulness coach Jo Bentley MBSR, MBCT.
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Facebook Support Group. An opportunity to interact with others who are / have experienced mental health challenges.
Face to Face at Neal's Yard - Shrewsbury or online via Zoom / Microsoft Teams
"70% of your serotonin is made in your gut. What's going on in your gut is going to affect your mood - anxiety, depression and focus"
Dr. Frank Lipman
