Why are doctors so quick to prescribe medication and why do they never ask you this?

I have a friend who is struggling right now.

I am not her therapist. But when I ask her about what she is doing to help herself, she has this strange way of just handing all of her power to her doctors. 

She says things like "I'm just waiting for my next appointment and then we will probably adjust my medication".

It's evident that those in the medical field genuinely aim to help, and many do an amazing job, yet the reliance on pharmaceutical solutions often overshadows the importance of holistic care.

I've frequently had clients sharing their encounters with medical professionals. What often strikes me is the lack of inquiry into their lifestyle, habits, diet, or overall well-being. 

Instead, they're swiftly labeled with conditions like depression or anxiety, with medication being the primary recourse. But are we truly addressing the root causes of their distress, or merely numbing their symptoms?

When did we abandon the practice of asking fundamental questions to understand what might be missing from people's lives? Could it be that these symptoms are signals from our bodies, urging us to make vital changes?

In our rush towards modern medicine, we've neglected the timeless wisdom passed down through generations. Our ancestors understood the intrinsic connection between mind, body, and spirit, prioritising holistic well-being over quick fixes. They embraced natural remedies and rituals that nurtured every facet of their existence.

They encouraged us to sing, to dance, to connect with nature and connect with one another.

Historically, our ancestors thrived in tribes and communities where singing, dancing, and storytelling were integral parts of daily life. These practices weren't luxuries; they were essential for communal bonding and individual well-being.

But as society evolved, we've drifted away from these traditions. Singing, dancing, laughter, and storytelling have been relegated to the sidelines, deemed non-essential in our fast-paced lives. Yet, these are precisely the remedies we need to reclaim.

Another person I know (she came on our recent Reconnect-to-Self retreat) had a similar story. But since the retreat she has started engaging in a few simple daily activities. 

1. She does a beach walk most mornings
2. She does a simple breathwork session most days
3. She has started listening to some new podcasts that I introduced her to

That's it! And she now has a new, more positive outlook of her life.

Now I want to be clear: I am NOT telling you to stop your medication. I am simply telling you not to rely solely on it. There are other things you can do to help yourself.

So, here's my tip for you today:

• Share a joke with a friend (either in person or via a message)

• Sing out loud in the car

• Go into your bedroom, find your favourite song on Spotify and dance like nobody's watching (please trust me, this helps)

• Take your shoes off and stand barefoot on the earth (and enjoy the clouds, sunlight or whatever else natural that you can see)

Why do you think soldiers sing when they are marching through the mud and rain? 

This is not rocket science. Your brain will believe what you tell it. By singing, the soldiers are telling their brains they are in a good mood.

I know all of this sounds so basic, but if you are not feeling great it is worth a try isn't it?

Let me know if you give any of these ideas a try. If you read this far then I think you are committed enough to give it a go!