Sleep
We all know getting enough quality sleep makes a world of difference in how we feel the next day. Did you know that your brain actually uses deep sleep as a time to clean itself out, recover and restore vital functions? Lack of quality sleep can lead to not only metabolic problems like diabetes and weight gain, but also degenerative conditions like Alzheimer's. Sleep disorders such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea are often undiagnosed and can contribute to hormone dysfunction, fatigue and depression. My advanced training in sleep disorders and experience treating insomnia has taught me what a difference it can really make. I want all of my patients to get the best possible sleep they can.
Exercise
Daily movement is essential for the prevention of a host of diseases. Exercise also helps to improve mood, sleep, and bowel movement regularity. Even though we all know being sedentary is bad for us, it can be hard to know how to start, and not all exercise types are best for everyone. Dr. Catalina is trained in physical medicine modalities and can help treat musculoskeletal problems from the inside out.
Stress Resilience
Our bodies weren't designed to be in the constant "fight-or-flight" (or "freeze") mode that today's modern world can encourage. Even if we don't feel psychological stress, physiologically stressful conditions such as chronic infection, intense exercise or surgery can cause the same detrimental effects like weight gain, fatigue, insomnia, hair loss and more. The use of mindfulness strategies allows you to recognize and address the effects of stress on your body - and take back control. I'll help you find easy, doable ways to react to stress differently. Some examples are meditation, breath work, heart math, Emotional Freedom Technique, enjoyable exercise, and affirmations.
Time in Nature
Spending time outside has many benefits to our mental and physical health. Just going for a walk when you're upset can change your whole outlook. Paying attention to the rhythm of the ocean's waves can slow a racing heart. A deep breath of fresh air detoxifies instantly. Standing barefoot in the ground ("grounding") after a rainstorm can discharge excess negative ions. Standing atop a mountain and contemplating the view can bring us a sense of perspective on our troubles. The Japanese term shinrin-yoku, meaning "forest bathing" or "absorbing the forest atmosphere" is all about immersing your senses in the sights and sounds of a natural setting to live in the present moment. Being in nature has a way of distracting us from our own constant negative ruminating headspace and "resets" us in a powerful way.
