how to discern which wellness tools to turn to

in times of information overload…

There is a lot of information floating around about health and wellness – sometimes it’s even conflicting and contradicting based on different studies and theories. It can often feel really discombobulating to figure out what feels right for you personally.

I struggled with this for years and was (maybe still am a bit?) constantly seeking the best answers for the best ways to take care of myself, without really knowing how to give myself the space to discern that information on my own.

My aim now is not to necessarily tell anyone (myself included) a “right” way to do wellness or sustainability or mindfulness, but rather to offer accessible tools that we can all explore on our own to uncover the best options for us as individuals.

Experts and teachers are, of course, always worth consulting for extra support. As a teacher and coach myself, I also get a lot of valuable ongoing support, inspiration, and wisdom from my own network of doctors, teachers, mentors, and healers.

*Scroll to the bottom of my community page for a personal list of special professionals.

That being said, I think one of the most valuable tools I’m still learning is how to know, understand, and really trust myself based on what is or isn’t supporting my physical and mental wellbeing – even if I don’t get it quite right 100% of the time (making occasional mistakes is normal and part of the process).

It is also becoming increasingly clear to me that what works well for others may not work well for me, but that doesn’t mean I can’t reap the same benefits in other ways.

For example: generally speaking, inverted yoga asana postures – when thoughtfully executed – can be incredibly nourishing and therapeutic for the body, nervous system, and mind. All of this can be supportive for physical and mental longevity.

However, if the practitioner is A. unaware of preparatory postures to activate supportive muscle groups and B. has contraindications for inverting, then they can adapt with variations and modifications to receive the same perks.

Similarly: modifications can be made within our diets and lifestyles if a food or a certain daily ritual isn’t working for us. We’re all unique beings with unique needs, so it is important not to get discouraged if cutting out gluten doesn’t solve all of our problems (it might, in fact, even solve some of them… or at least bring great joy).

This type of acute awareness comes with not only trial and error (things don’t always work out the way we planned, or the way Instagram ads promise they would). It also comes with the same continual practice and dedication that the Yoga Sutras introduce when discussing how to achieve success in yoga asana : practicing for a long period of time; without interruption; with respect.

This internal investigative work can enable us to perceive and better understand both the obvious and more subtle results of our wellness practices and routines within the body before, during, and after our experience – whether we are training to build strength, meditating to cultivate peace, or taking herbs to aid in digestion.

*Use code SASHA25 for 25% off quality herbal supplements and support from hey freya.

Remember, too, that these practices and routines can shift based on our circumstances (health, location and surroundings, time of year, relationships, etc).

Click here to read the full post on Substack, including suggestions to help you to connect with yourself and uncover that which might be supportive for you – whether foods or habits; whether now or later.