Have alternative therapies worked for you when dealing with stress?

2017-03-20T13:37:53-04:00

There are so many alternative therapy options out there, I'm looking for advice on what has worked for you or someone you know?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2017 1:43 PM

2017-03-20T13:43:50-04:00

If you're a service member, Behavioral Health has a new method called "Alpha Stim." It's a pair of diodes that send a current through your ears to stimulate Beta waves in your brain. Beta waves decrease stress, especially when your eyes are closed or you're listening to ambient music, and have so far proven effective. Once the metrics come out, I'll provide more data.

Also on the alternative medicine side, I find that spending time completely alone in the woods helps, reconnecting with nature is vital if you spend most of your time indoors.

I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any more questions ma'am.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Mar 20 at 2017 1:54 PM

2017-03-20T13:54:45-04:00

Honestly, I've never sought out therapy for stress, but in regards to advice, I think the best advice I can give is identifying what causes stress in your life and trying to eliminate it from your life.

For example, the news stresses me out. I can't read or watch the news without getting angry in some manner. Because I know that is what sets me off, I forbid the news in my house. Now that doesn't mean we can't sit down and have a good conversation regarding current events, but I will not turn on the news in my house. My home time is for relaxing and enjoying time with my family.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 20 at 2017 2:09 PM

2017-03-20T14:09:39-04:00

CPT Kalen Arreola A way to deal with stress is to do something that you enjoy. I like to read, so I will read a good book, and that will refocus my mind on the book. Going out and doing yard work also helps to refocus your mind on something else that what bothers you.

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Mar 20 at 2017 3:03 PM

2017-03-20T15:03:13-04:00

Swimming 3000 yards at a time. Yoga. Acupuncture.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Mar 21 at 2017 12:22 AM

2017-03-21T00:22:18-04:00

I was inclined to say beer... but that would be bad advice.. CPT Kalen Arreola ... It really comes down to what works for you... What healthy activities take your mind off of what is causing stress... For me it is exercise, alone time, reading, gaming, and some (some) beer too.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made Mar 21 at 2017 9:01 AM

2017-03-21T09:01:47-04:00

Taking your motorcycle out for a drive and some wind in your face therapy no matter how long is the best therapy of all. You won't see a motorcycle in front of a therapists office........at least you won't find mine there!

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2017 11:49 AM

2017-03-21T11:49:25-04:00

Yoga and meditation are my go-to stress relief, Ma'am. I am a practicing Yogi and find immense tranquility from it. I am also a huge fan of acupuncture and reiki, as well as EFT and Energy-cleansing. They have all been successful for me.

Yet, one may ask, "what is your definition of 'success'?". If I put on clown shoes and sang the entire soundtrack to "Annie" and it makes me joyful... SUCCESS!! :) :)

Response by SFC Andrew Miller made Mar 21 at 2017 1:32 PM

2017-03-21T13:32:35-04:00

I have not needed myself, but I refer my veterans to a variety of different options.

We have an excellent VAMC here and they have even sent veterans for acupuncture and chiropractic care in the community.

I have a local art therapist who does bi-monthly sessions at no cost for veterans. it is not so much about creating great art, but about using your hands and a medium as a way to put your emotions into something else instead of yourself.

I've referred a few to Warrior Expeditions. They provide the route, all gear, supplies, and support at no cost for extended hikes and canoe trips for veterans.

There are several obstacle runs held near here and many veterans I work with, my wife and I included, find a therapeutic effect in training for and the teamwork involved in some of these.

I also know a few who have found volunteering and working with Team Rubicon as the only thing that helps them feel centered like they have a purpose in life again.

Response by PO2 Rev. Frederick C. Mullis, AFI, CFM made Mar 21 at 2017 1:48 PM

2017-03-21T13:48:23-04:00

Does chopping on downed trees in the back on my property with a hatchet while screaming at the top of my lung power count as therapy?