Bonus Section 2 - STRESS
Given that stress is a MAJOR barrier to the flow of love energy, this section is dedicated to overcoming it; or at least being able to deal with it more effectively. You need to significantly lower your level of stress in order to feel more energetic. There is simply no way around it.
When we get stressed out, our bodies release extra cortisol – an important hormone secreted by our adrenal glands to help deal with stress and anxiety. It is important because normal cortisol levels in the body help with the following functions:
• Proper glucose metabolism
• Regulation of blood pressure
• Insulin release for blood sugar maintenance
• Immune function
• Inflammatory response
However, too much stress releases too much cortisol. When our bodies have an excess of cortisol for prolonged periods due to chronic stress, the consequences can be very dangerous:
• depression
• diabetes
• hair loss
• heart disease
• hyperthyroidism
• obesity
• anxiety disorder
• sexual dysfunction
• ulcers
In fact, it is estimated that as many as 90% of all visits to the doctor are for symptoms that are at least partially stress-related! Every day we are exposed to various types of stress: physical, such as an injury, strain, or prolonged bad posture; chemical, such as air pollutants or chemicals in our food; and, of course, mental and emotional stress.
When the body is overloaded with stress it is unable to adapt, and tension becomes stored in physical structures – muscles, joints, and organs. Bodily stress may result in pain, stiffness, numbness or postural distortion. Tense muscles may put pressure on nerves disturbing the body’s communication system and reducing the efficiency of the natural healing process. A person with bodily stress usually feels tense, tired and lacks an overall energy and enthusiasm for life.
Your body also “remembers” every thought you think, every move you make, and pretty much everything you have ever done. It stores all thoughts and experiences, both positive and negative. For that reason, some of the first chains (see section 3) that must be broken are going to be the everyday thoughts we think. Our thoughts have the power to produce greater stress in our bodies. Therefore it follows that our thoughts also have the power to reduce our level of stress. Our thoughts are even more powerful than any amount of physical stress we put our bodies through, such as lifting heavy weights or running marathons. Imagine what we can achieve if we just learn how to control our thoughts! If you can just learn to change the way you think, your energy level and overall physical health will follow suit.
Consequently, every time we are thinking negatively or worrying about something, we are piling on the cortisol and increasing our stress levels. We are essentially creating blocked energy channels in our bodies. Would you like a relatively easy method to feel less stressed out about something?
Try to think something positive about that situation or person that is causing you stress. For example, if your mother in-law is driving you crazy, try to think about how delicious her blueberry pies are, or perhaps the way she keeps her house organized. It can be anything really, but try to find something you admire about her. It will almost instantaneously melt away layers of stress and anxiety you feel towards her. Her nagging will be like water rolling off a duck’s back. You may even feel pity for her and feel sorry for how miserable she must be in her own life. That is usually the case when people are royal pains in the you-know-what; because their own life is ridden with stress and anxiety.
Any time you experience a stressful situation, try looking at the positive side, no matter how difficult that may sometimes be. For example, if you lose your job, try looking upon the situation as an opportunity to move on to bigger and better things; maybe start a business. Again, do not forget that with every adversity lies the seed of greater or equal reward.
The following suggestions will help decrease your stress and cortisol levels, and increase your energy:
Adaptogens
These are often referred to as nature’s answer to handling stress. Adaptogens are plant-based substances which, among numerous other benefits, help the body adapt to stress and improve physical and mental energy. They have the FDA’s GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) status and are available at various health food stores, or on the internet.
Feel free to click on the names of some of the following adaptogens, as they are hyperlinks which take you to a pre-screened website to read additional information or to make a purchase.
I have listed only the highest quality products offered at the best possible value. In addition, I have listed products which you can buy in smaller quantities, so that you may sample the products first without investing in larger quantities.
The most effective way to take adaptogens is through liquid extracts contained within alcohol- based tinctures. Along with preserving the potency and efficacy of the substance, specific types of chemicals are removed from the herb, leaving the desired chemicals in a concentrated, liquid form. Alcohol-based tinctures are even safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women, as the amount of alcohol ingested per dose is the equivalent of eating a very ripe banana.
Herbs have an energy frequency from 15 to 27Hz!!! This is great news for those who wish to vibrate at a higher frequency.
Some of the best adaptogens for reducing stress, increasing stamina, and boosting natural energy levels include American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), and the mushroom Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis). Scientists believe that cordyceps fights fatigue by helping the body use oxygen more efficiently, especially during exercise.
Some studies have also shown that Rhodiola can improve exercise performance, as well as reduce stress-induced fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Most recently, the Mayo Clinic reported that cancer patients who took 1,000 mg of American Ginseng daily for 8 weeks reported energy levels that were twice as high as those on a placebo.
There are several other adaptogens which are also very effective, especially at reducing stress. They include Ashwagandha, Eleuthero, Schizandra, Astragalus and Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Gralensis).
You may wish to combine these natural remedies, or try them one at a time for at least 6 to 8 weeks. If you still feel fatigued and stressed, see your doctor to rule out a more serious health condition.
Meditation
Studies have shown that meditation can significantly decrease your stress and cortisol levels. It can help you become more relaxed and focused. Your anxiety will decrease and you will have more natural energy. It creates a widening, deepening capacity for love and brings your body, mind, and spirit into blissful harmony.
Yoga, although not for some people, is one way that releases negative energy while simultaneously calming the mind and spirit. Not only does this practice constantly renew your energy, it also benefits your physical health and wellbeing in a major way. Yoga has the added benefit of increasing your levels of GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid – a neurotransmitter associated with happy, calm feelings).
Regardless of the type of meditation you choose, you will lower your levels of cortisol and allow energy to flow through you more freely.
Here is an excellent beginner's guide to yoga and meditation which you easily download to your computer.
Here is a superb meditation program which is very simple, yet very effective.
See Bonus Section 6 for additional resources on meditation, energy stress relief and more.
Download some music (legally, that is)
Music has a very calming and soothing effect on the brain. Create a nice mix of music for your iPod or other listening device and bring it with you wherever you go. The energy it can give you is priceless. Music can instantly put us in a better mood. If you wish to wind down faster at bedtime, listen to some soothing music instead of watching TV.
Sleep
Most people I know do not get enough quality rest. A good sleeping habit is important for energy renewal. Your mind-body connection functions a lot more efficiently, and you recover much easier from the previous day’s stresses. If you have trouble sleeping, try these products:
• VALERIAN ROOT
• CHAMOMILE
• PASSIONFLOWER
• MELATONIN
Click Here for an extremely effective program to cure insomnia and finally get a good night's rest. It is definitely worth checking out if you need help falling asleep.
Hang out with a funny friend
Friends who make you laugh can do wonders for your hormonal stress response. Even the very act of anticipating laughter can reduce cortisol levels by nearly half, according to researchers at Loma Linda University in California.
Get a massage
A good massage will have an immediate and significant impact on your level of stress. According to studies, including one at the University of Miami School of Medicine, after several weeks of massage therapy the cortisol levels of the subjects decreased by nearly one-third on average. Massage reduces stress by promoting the production of dopamine and serotonin; the same "feel good" hormones released when we socialize with friends or do something fun.
Feed your spiritual side
Millions of people claim that reading verses from the Bible and other spiritual resources gives them an increased fortitude and sense of happiness. According to researchers at the University of Mississippi, reading Scriptures can offer significant relief against the everyday pressures of life, and can also lower the secretion of cortisol. In addition, study subjects who attended church had, on average, lower levels of the stress hormone than those who did not attend services at all. If organized religion does not appeal to you, try developing your spiritual side by taking a walk in nature's "cathedral"… in the woods or along a beach, or even volunteer for a charity. When you do something kind for others, you in turn raise your own spirits.
Move your body
Exercising is an effective and instant stress reliever. It helps to circulate your blood more rapidly, transporting the cortisol to your kidneys and flushing it out of your system. Of course, an added benefit to exercise is that it helps you have more (you guessed it) ENERGY. In a study published in Psychological Bulletin, researchers analyzed 70 different studies on exercise and fatigue which involved more than 6,800 people.
More than 90% of the results revealed that sedentary people who completed a regular exercise program reported less fatigue and an increased energy level compared to groups that did not exercise. Researchers also mentioned that nearly every group studied - from healthy adults, to cancer patients, and those with chronic conditions including diabetes and heart disease - benefited from exercise.
Eat slowly
When we are stressed, we tend to eat very fast. Among other problems, eating fast promotes belly fat. Take it slow and enjoy each bite. Chew your food thoroughly and think about how the food tastes. Mindful eating is actually a form of meditation and can reduce cortisol levels. Your body will absorb the nutrients of the food more efficiently by eating slowly.
Also, try not to speak with your mouth full of food. Swallow your food before you speak. The person you are eating with will appreciate it!
Breathe deeply
Deep breathing lowers anxiety levels, relaxes and loosens muscles and generates a feeling of inner peace and calm. It also provides oxygen to the bodily tissues, stimulates brain cells, enhances memory capacity and gives you more energy.
Other Products
In addition to adaptogens, there are some very effective products on the market today which can help decrease stress, promote relaxation and a positive mindset, plus increase your energy. A few have been mentioned already. Regardless, the following are just some of the products which have been proven to be safe and effective for many people. There are others, but all one needs to do to find them is to type some key words into a good search engine such as Google.
You should always consult your physician before trying any products recommended in this eBook.
* GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid) – An inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain which enhances mental focus, balance and clarity. It helps increase production of calming alpha brain waves and decrease beta brain waves, which are linked to nervousness and scattered thoughts.
* SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine) – A synthetic form of a compound formed naturally in the body from the essential amino acid methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy-producing compound found in all cells in the body. There have been a number of studies on the use of SAMe for depression. It has been hypothesized that SAMe increases the availability of neurotransmitter serotonin and dopamine
*.L-TYROSINE – a nonessential amino acid which is a precursor of several important neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Through its effect on neurotransmitters, it may affect several health conditions, including, depression and other mood disorders. It may also ease the adverse effects of environmental, psychosocial, and physical stress.
*.TAURINE – Contrary to popular belief, taurine is not a stimulant. It is an amino acid that is considered to be the second most abundant in the body's muscle after glutamine. Dairy products, meat, poultry, eggs, and fish all contain taurine. In addition to having antioxidant properties, it has been known to increase muscle mass, strength and power, reduce muscle damage caused by exercise, accelerate recovery between workouts, and may also have an insulin-like effect in the body.
*.ST. JOHN'S WORT – is a long-living plant with yellow flowers whose medicinal uses were first recorded in ancient Greece. It has been used over the centuries for mental conditions, nerve pain, and a wide variety of other health conditions. Today, St. John's Wort is used for anxiety, mild to moderate depression, and sleep disorders.
*.VALERIAN ROOT – is a perennial flowering plant with sweet-smelling pink or white flowers. It is derived from a plant native to Europe and Asia. The root of this plant has been used for thousands of years as a remedy for various ailments including sleep problems, digestive problems, disorders of the nervous system, headaches, and arthritis. It is believed that valerian root has an impact on the availability of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.
*.CHAMOMILE – Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family, native to Europe and Asia. The herb acts medicinally as a tonic, anodyne, antispasmodic, anti- inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and sedative. It is also effective in relieving acid indigestion and abdominal pain.
*.PASSIONFLOWER – Passionflower was used historically in South America and later in Europe as a calming herb for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. It is still used today to treat anxiety and insomnia. Scientists believe that passionflower works by increasing levels of GABA in the brain. GABA lowers the activity of some brain cells, resulting in relaxation.
*.DL-PHENYLALANINE – Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. It is essential to human health but cannot be manufactured by the body. DL-Phenylalanine contains both the essential amino acid L-phenylalanine and D-phenylalanine. The body converts phenylalanine into tyrosine, another amino acid essential for making proteins, brain chemicals including dopamine and norepinephrine, and thyroid hormones. Symptoms of phenylalanine deficiency include confusion, lack of energy, depression, decreased alertness, decreased memory, and diminished appetite.
*.B-VITAMINS – Supplementing your diet with essential B-vitamins can have a direct effect on important neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. B’s cannot be stored in our bodies, so our daily diet should contain as many B’s as possible. Research shows that unhealthy levels of essential B- vitamins like B6, B9 and B12 may contribute to poor mood and feelings related to anxiety and depression. B-vitamins are destroyed by alcohol, refined sugars, nicotine, and caffeine so it is no surprise that many people may be deficient in these.
*.GINKGO BILOBA – Ginkgo leaves are believed to contain compounds that thin blood and help to improve muscle tone in the walls of blood vessels. Ginkgo has been used for improving blood circulation, memory loss due to certain brain problems (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, stroke), macular degeneration, sexual dysfunction, as well as for relieving dizziness, and for ringing in the ears.
*.LUVV ENERGY DRINK – Contains a delicious blend of 10 high-quality adaptogens designed specifically to reduce stress while simultaneously giving you a boost of natural, feel-good energy. This product was developed exclusively for LUVV Energy products, LLC (owned by the author of this eBook). It is still being developed at the time of the writing of this eBook, but check back periodically with the website to see where you can find this revolutionary new product!
Bonus Section 3 – INSTANT ENERGY BOOSTS
Suggestions:
1) Aromatherapy oils – There is sufficient research to support the fact that pleasant scents have a calming effect and can decrease our levels of anxiety and stress. Furthermore, essential aromatherapy oils have a very high energy frequency. They start at 52Hz and go to 320Hz. Since rose oil is 320Hz, try placing a scented rose oil lamp in your home or office and notice the difference in your energy.
2) Look through some old photos – When you’re feeling down, break out your kids’ baby albums or pictures from your favorite vacation.
3) Eat some Nuts – They have lots of omega-3 fats, which have a positive effect on your mood and cognitive energy.
4) Let there be light – When you wake up in the morning, let in some nice sunlight.
It has been proven that natural light from the sun has beneficial effects on mood, sleep and alertness.
5) Take a brief walk – If you are inside most of the day, try to get out for a short 5 or 10 minute walk-break if possible. It is not necessarily the walk that promotes a positive mood as much as it is the light. Again, recent studies show that people who get more light exposure during the day have fewer sleep problems and less depression.
6) Exercise, even if just a little - Studies have shown that even mild exercise can elevate your mood. If you feel down, just do a few sets of pushups and jumping jacks. You will be amazed at how that little amount of exercise puts you in a better mood.
7) Organize – whether at home or the office, clearing away clutter has a wonderful effect on your ability to feel more positive and more successful.
8) Think fast – Researchers believe that rapid thinking releases feel-good brain chemicals. For example, when your mother-in-law is driving you crazy, give yourself 30 seconds to make a list of all the ways she’s been helpful to you in the past. You’ll feel better than you did a minute ago!
9) Laugh – Even if you have to watch a funny YouTube video, go ahead and do it.
Studies show that a good belly laugh produces a chemical reaction that instantly elevates your mood, reduces pain and stress, and boosts immunity.
10) Have an experience – Sorry, shopping does not count! When you actually experience something, like a concert, exploring a new area, going out for a meal, or some other kind of stimulating experience. Your mind and body remember it as a positive experience, and the effects can last for long periods of time. Try to have feel-good experiences as often as you can. Your whole outlook and mood can change fairly quickly, and you will have that experience to reflect on and smile about at any time. I suppose now and then it’s also fun to go shopping if you can afford to!
11) Take a time-out – During the day, take a couple of minutes to just zone out. If you’re lucky enough to have a door to your office at work, close it for just a couple of minutes; perhaps when everybody else is at lunch. Kick back and relax; open up a good internet radio station like Pandora.com. Many people I know listen to online radio and get to choose whatever music they want to listen to at any given moment. Close your eyes and take a brief mental vacation. This little exercise can leave you feeling refreshed and positive for the rest of the day. I personally listen to classic reggae music during the day. The smooth sounding rhythms put my mind at ease, and actually make me feel like I am on a fabulous Jamaican vacation!
12) Socialize – Try to do this with a cheerful person if possible. Socializing with negative thinkers will only bring you down. The energy from positive people will transfer to you and lift your spirits. You can engage a neighbor in conversation for a few minutes. Or, stop by a coworker’s desk and have a chit-chat session. Even if it is a brief conversation over the phone; whatever you can do to socialize will elevate your mood as well as your outlook on life.
13) Cook a meal – We’re not talking about microwaving hot dogs! When you actually spend time chopping up vegetables, grilling some fish, and being creative in the kitchen, the whole process can change your outlook and give you a very satisfying feeling, not to mention decrease your level of stress.
14) Volunteer – This is the perfect way to send good energy out into the Universe.
Researchers believe that volunteering boosts happiness because it increases empathy, which helps you appreciate the blessings in your own life.
15) Make new friends – Change the people you associate with if necessary. Do not spend too much time with people who steal your energy with their negative thinking. You may want to try making new friends through church groups, book clubs, the gym, personal ads, etc. Hang around people with good energy and you will begin to absorb this energy yourself. The key is to try and raise your own potential energy.
16) Lower your standards – Sometimes it is ok to just leave the dishes unwashed or the bed unmade. Do something you want to do, like gardening, walking in the woods, or listening to some music. When you do things you like to do, you will have a lot more energy. You do not always have to do things that sap your strength and erode your delight in life. So when necessary, leave the dishes in the sink and go out for a walk!
17) Buy some flowers – Flowers give us energy much like a daily vitamin gives us that extra boost. In a recent study conducted