Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/B5LZDN_t_fc
Thinking about the unbelievable things humanity has achieved over the past century, it becomes almost mind-boggling to realize how far we’ve come.
Not only have technological inventions made people’s lives easier all over the world. But we’ve also managed to significantly improve work conditions for almost all industries. And, perhaps most importantly, we’ve made it much easier to take good care of ourselves.
But while the benefits of standardized medicine are tremendous, I can’t help but think: is it entirely fair to treat our bodies like machines? We go on fixing and upgrading parts the minute they stop performing the way they’re supposed to, taking pills for any condition we can get.
Could it be, perhaps, possible the body has ways of healing on its own, as long as we allow it?
When We Take Things Too Far
One of the most shocking health statistics out there is that as much as 30% of all antibiotic prescriptions aren’t even needed in the first place. In other words, every time we take a pill, it’s entirely possible that our body could do a much better job at healing on its own.
Now, in no way do I think we should just stop taking antibiotics altogether. Or, worse, skipping doctor’s appointments and doing things our own way. But, I do believe that we need to start giving our own bodies the best possible chance of taking care of themselves.
Self-Care, Physical, & Emotional Health
If we look at scientific research, we’ll find that there’s a strong connection between the care we give our bodies and the way our bodies serve us in return.
For example, it’s been proven that sleep deprivation increases our chances of developing an addiction and can lead to poor mental health. So, wouldn’t it be logical to do everything in our power to ensure we get a good night’s sleep? Like creating a relaxing sleeping environment and choosing a comfy hybrid mattress.
Or, we know that eating a Western diet inevitably leads to chronic health issues like obesity and cardiovascular disease. So wouldn’t it be better if we watched what we ate and ensured that the food we consumed actually nourished our bodies?
Ways to Help the Body Heal Itself
Knowing that our lifestyles have a tremendous impact on our overall health, you might be thinking: what can I do to promote self-healing? Well, in addition to paying attention to what you eat, how much you sleep, and whether you get enough exercise, there’s plenty more that you can do.
- Start implementing effective stress-management techniques
Perhaps the most impactful thing you can do to promote self-healing is to start finding stress-management techniques that work best for you.
The thing about stress isn’t just that it comes with a variety of physical and mental health consequences. It’s that it can be so overwhelming that it can cause your body to start fighting its own stress response and miss all the other threats it should be guarding against.
So, to ensure that your body has the best possible fighting chance against viruses, bacteria, and anything else, start by addressing stress. Various techniques have been scientifically proven to work against stress, yoga and meditation included. But, if those are not your thing, you can consider finding a creative outlet, spending more time in nature, or even just adding a bit of physical exercise to your day.
- Seek out human connection
Another great way to allow your body to heal is to understand the impact of human connection.
Scientists have found that the social relationships in our lives have a significant effect on our overall health (positive or negative). And that makes for an excellent reason to find ways to socialize more. Of course, it’s imperative that the connections we make actually make us feel safe and connected. That being said, it’s not a bad idea to start learning how to distinguish between healthy and toxic relationships.
- Focus on listening
Last but not least, we must remember that allowing our body to heal doesn’t just mean treating it well. It also necessitates actively listening to the signals it’s sending so that we can consciously kickstart the healing process and take all the actions needed to ensure it works.
With this in mind, it’s not a bad idea to include some form of mindfulness in your day. It can be anything: meditation, journaling, or even a form of creative outlet that allows time to relax and reflect.
Some Final Thoughts
How successful are you at giving your body the best chance of healing itself? Do you make a conscious effort to practice prevention? Or are you one of the people who tend to rely on the healing effects of medicine?
Whichever group you fall into, do not despair. There’s always something you can do to boost your physical and emotional health. And if you’re only capable of taking things little by little, remember, that’s all right too. After all, as they say:Â
“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.”