Alternative Practices That (May) Shock, Stimulate and Soothe You!

Dec 4

You might be one of those yogis who has people in your life that are simply flabbergasted by the fact you even practice yoga, let alone when you mention you're working to target a specific organ or energetic system in your body through some "weird" alternative approach. Many healing practices can be seen as a "fad" or even unsafe, which is all the more reason to do your own research, start small and ask for support when you need it.

One of the biggest jobs we have as a human is learning the fine art of taking care of ourselves. There are so many avenues to try, some more daunting than others; we are sitting in an ideal time to dive in and find the best resources, teachers and practices to create our personal health regime. Yoga is an ancient system of mental, physical and spiritual practices - many complimentary health practices follow this same rounded approach. How does this affect my mind? My body? My spirit? What is my intention and how deep am I diving?

When it comes to these "alternative health practices", it can be a hard path to not only navigate but to engage others in, regardless of scientific proof, testimonials and support. Personally, I like to try things out on my own before I canvass the masses to enlist.

What works for me certainly won't be the answer for the next person, though there is something comforting and inspiring in reaching out to those who have tried the practices you're interested in. Really, nothing is gospel until you've experienced it yourself, within proper and safe guidelines.

So here's a look at some alternative health practices that are on my radar. May they shock, stimulate and soothe you - and perhaps land a permanent residency in your health practice!

I SWEAR BY...

DRY SKIN BRUSHING

EXFOLIATE, STIMULATE, REGENERATE

One of my mains areas of health opportunity has always been my skin. I had eczema for years (and years and years) and tried basically everything to rid myself of it. Though the most potent solution turned out to be a colon cleanse (which I have revisited when I felt the itch), I have found a simple routine to keep my skin (and stress levels) mostly happy in the interim. Dry skin brushing is quick, inexpensive and effective in cleansing your bodies' largest organ: the skin! This health practice stimulates circulation and helps to cleanse the body inside and out through the elimination of toxins through the pores.

Make sure your skin brush has organic, natural bristles and a nice long handle to reach your entire body.
Strip down, hop in the tub and begin brushing your body with the dry brush, starting with the extremities and working towards the heart.
You may do this a few times, overlapping areas as you go.
Shower off (using hot and cold water alternating, if you like) and apply a thin layer of oil when you hop out.

ONE DAY I'LL TRY...

YONI EGGS

The best kept secret of China’s Royal Palace

First thing's first - let's get some terminology down. "'Yoni' is a Sanskrit word for the female genitalia that means “sacred space.” Its symbol has been worshiped in Eastern cultures since ancient times for bestowing life, creativity and love." A Yoni Egg (also called a Jade Egg or Love Egg) is carved from semiprecious stone, polished, and made to be held in your vagina. Hello! This ancient practice is said to have existed for over 5000 years by Chinese empresses and concubines in the Royal Palace, and was held secret by select Taoist practitioners and the royal family until only recently. There seems to be a wealth of health benefits that accompany this alternative health practice, including the following:

Increased libido and awakened sensuality.
Increased natural lubrication, even after menopause. Balanced estrogen levels.
Tightening of the vaginal walls; awakening of the tissues, organs, and muscles; promotion of new nerve growth, and increased overall sensitivity.
Overcoming issues with infertility.
Reduced PMS, menstrual cramps and the duration of your menses.

This seems to be an intimate way to learn more about yourself and perhaps a partner that you are exploring with. You can learn more about this practice h ere.

LEARNING ABOUT AND LOVING...

GREEN COFFEE ENEMAS

HEALING AND HYDRATION FROM THE INSIDE OUT

I have always been intrigued with gut/organ cleansing so when Green Coffee came onto my radar I was all ears. Much of my health regime throughout my life has focused on cleansing my colon and other organs to support the cleanest elimination and the happiest skin. I have also yo-yo'd with ever really feeling properly hydrated, absorption of nutrients, and neutralizing an acidic, fiery system. These are all the reasons and more that I decided to give this practice a try. There is TONS of information on Green Coffee Enemas, and I really encourage you to do your own research on this one as it may not be for everyone. In general, you can generally expect to feel relief from constipation and an increase in energy, along with any of the following.

Health benefits that coffee enema supporters have noted:

Boosts immunity
Increases energy
Stops yeast overgrowth
Treats autoimmune diseases
Removes parasites from the digestive tract
Removes heavy metals from the body
Treats depression
Treats cancer

The best thing we can do is approach alternative health practices as an amazing opportunity to learn about ourselves and what works in our individual systems. Keep an open mind and reach out to professionals in the community who can guide you. Support others that are nurturing their own health and ask constructive questions, free of judgement. What an amazing gift it is to be in control of your own health or taking the steps to get there.

Wishing you so much love and support as you adventure through your health journey!

Caitlin Varrin