Lifestyle Counselling
Chronic health issues can be created or worsened by chronic stressors. Stress itself does not cause disease, but our response to stress does. Lifestyle counselling takes a detailed look into eating patterns, sleep habits, water intake, energy levels, body hygiene, and overall organization of the house and office. Stress can also come in the form of a mental and/or emotional toxin.
Lifestyle counseling occurs during each visit to Brio. It evaluates and discusses a patient's lifestyle at a pace that is comfortable to the patient. General lifestyle guidelines are provided during the first visit and throughout the duration of the River of Health Program. Lifestyle changes are encouraged when the patient is ready to make the change.
Sleep habits are evaluated. For example, a patient reports 7 to 8hrs of restful sleep per night. This may seem adequate at first glance, however, upon further evaluation it is discovered that the sleep is from 4am to 11am. Though it is seven hours, this sleep pattern does not follow the natural circadian rhythm of the body, so it can be a contributing factor towards health issues. All aspects of day-to-day life must be taken into consideration for a person to begin the healing journey.
Meal timing is discussed. When are meals consumed, what are the portion sizes? What types of food?
Exercise and activity levels are evaluated. Levels are tailored to the individual. Exploring how much or how little is performed.
Work environment is evaluated. Is there exposure to toxins? What is the commute time? Does a patient experience career satisfaction? Does that person take vacations?
Stressors can be found in a home environment, a work environment, or in a something as specific as a toxic environment in the bathroom.
All aspects of lifestyle-from cooking methods to body products used on a daily basis-are discussed.
Lifestyle counseling is a cornerstone of healing, and the lessons patients learn from it empower them to take control of their health, and know know the specific lifestyle factors that make their bodies feel best.
