Already caught up in the back-to-school spiral? Here are the good reflexes recommended by the naturopath to avoid going into the red immediately.
Extend the benefits of summer
Even in the city we are connected with nature. “Many scientific studies show its physiological and psychological benefits on the body,” explains naturalist Loic Ternissien*. Among the most obvious effects are regulation of heart rate and blood pressure, reduction of sympathetic nervous system activity in favor of parasympathetic, but also cortisol levels (stress hormone) and anxiety. Several times a week we plan a walk in the forest (or at least in the park) and we escape as soon as possible for a weekend in the countryside or by the sea.
Another important summer feature: exposure to natural light, beneficial for the nervous system, sleep/wake rhythm regulation, and vitamin D synthesis needed by the body; “Breakfast on the terrace (or at least by the window) is most effective, supplemented by 15-minute breaks outside during the day,” advises Loic Ternissien. A good idea is to combine everything. Outdoor sports (walking, cycling, etc.).
Create the right tempo
There is no question that you have to endure unstable rates from the beginning. “You need to control your schedule,” advises the therapist. And allow yourself several “buffer” weeks, including a gradual distribution of the resumption of professional, family, cultural, sports activities… And daily “off” moments for yourself and/or to compensate for unforeseen events without stress. “.
Also, be careful to respect the fair trade-off between professional and personal life and disconnect from screens as much as possible. “They deplete our dopamine reserves,” warns Loic Ternissien. We need to impose daily digital blackout gates.” This is especially important in the evening to help you fall asleep more easily and get your sleep rhythm back closer to your natural clock.
Anticipate the change of season
“To manage the onset of fall, the best is a 6-week treatment with adaptogenic plants: rhodiola for dynamically active people, or ginseng for active seniors. They help the body adapt to changing external conditions.”
To address grayness, shortened days and fatigue, the naturopath also recommends supplementing with magnesium and/or nettle, which support vitality. After all, there is no question of ignoring the contents of the plate. we rely on local, fresh and seasonal products (apples, pears, grapes, plums, squash, cabbage, etc.) whose nutritional inputs are very logically adapted to needs. moment.
* Author of End Stress and Anxiety Naturally, Éditions J’ai Lu, 224 p., €7.40.
Source: Le Figaro